This car motorcycle chair, $6,950, is the custom work of First Impressions. You might not know the company, but they've created the custom home theaters of celebrities like Don Johnson, Chris Kirkpatrick, Michael Winslow and Vanilla Ice—to name a few.

They're also responsible for the home theaters in both Graceland and Neverland.

More than an average La-Z-Boy, this bad boy features headlights, taillights, sideview mirrors and flames. But the best part? When you kick out the footrest, speakers in the chair go vroom for like 10 seconds. It's immeasurably manly.

If one chair isn't enough, they'll build your fantasy theme home theater from nothing but your and their imaginations, starting at $150,000. [First Impressions]

Spewing a 10 megapixel, 4,096 x 2,400, 12 to 21-foot image onto your wall, the DLA-RS4000 LCD projector could never live up to its cost, but then again, it manages to produce a bright, 3500-lumen image while still maintaining a 10,000:1 contrast ratio (granted, those specs still might be mutually exclusive, each appearing only during optimal adjustments...but at this price, we're going to give JVC the benefit of the doubt).

So you can watch movies at 4K, assuming you can make a deal with the devil and acquire digital cinema files that hover in the resolution range (good luck, even JVC could only show us a 2K Hellboy clip). Or you could allow your 1080P Blu-rays to be unconverted. Or—and JVC actually endorses this use—you could watch four 1080P signals at once. (4K is 4x the quality of 1080P, after all).

But hey, if you have this much to spend on a home theater projector, no one is questioning your judgment. They've already deemed you crazy.

JVC INTRODUCES DLA-RS4000 HIGH-END 4K
HOME CINEMA PROJECTOR AT CEDIA EXPO 2009
WAYNE, NJ (September 10, 2009) – JVC Visual Systems Division introduces its new DLA-RS4000 Reference Series 4K home cinema projector at CEDIA Expo, September. 10-13 at the Georgia World Conference Center in Atlanta. The system is being showcased in the JVC D-ILA Theater in the Omni Hotel North Tower throughout the duration of the CEDIA Expo. Based on the same projection engine used in advanced simulation systems, it provides the superior imagery as well as installation flexibility required by uncompromising home theater consumers. This system is ISF and THX* certified.
Three newly developed ultra high definition 4K2K D-ILA devices allow the DLA-RS4000 to deliver a 10 megapixel image with a native resolution of 4,096 x 2,400—more than four times the resolution of HD. Up to four screens with full HD or WUXGA resolution images can be displayed simultaneously .
A new optical design provides 3500 ANSI lumens from a Xenon lamp and delivers excellent color rendering. Lamp power can be adjusted in eight steps for the ideal brightness for a variety of home theater settings and screen sizes. In addition, new Wire Grid polarizers in the optical engine that minimize light leakage are combined with new liquid crystal technology and a novel liquid crystal orientation to significantly reduce off-state light, resulting in a 10,000:1 native contrast ratio.

The RSVP4 custom digital video processing unit serves as a signal switching, scaling and processing hub for virtually any video source, including Blu-ray and gaming systems, cable and satellite receivers, and DVD players. The RSVP4 has a special feature enabling certified calibration specialists to calibrate either of two custom gamut memories based on the installation's specific requirements. This enables each system to achieve an accurate color space for the source material being shown. Other features include audio delay compensation, and three separate gamma tables for customization of various image sources and viewing environments. The DLA-RS4000 is shipped complete with a JVC high quality projection zoom lens to maximize performance in almost any home theater setting.

Despite its advanced performance, the 110-pound DLA-RS4000 achieves a 65 percent reduction in size compared to conventional projectors in the same class. Generous horizontal and vertical lens shift capabilities permit flexible projector positioning, and its stackable design allows for applications such as 3D. Ethernet and RS-232C interfaces allow projector installation and adjustment from a PC-based Web browser for multiple units, plus an e-mail function can send out status messages and lamp replacement reminders.

"The DLA-RS4000 4K projector is the ultimate projector for discerning home theater enthusiasts," said Jack Faiman, vice president, Visual Systems Division, JVC U.S.A.. "Not only does it produce amazing images for movies, sports, and video games, but its smaller footprint and incredible flexibility make it the ideal premium home theater projector for custom installations. Plus, despite all its high-end features, its user-friendly interface makes it easy to sit back and enjoy the view."

The DLA-RS-4000 projector has a suggested list price of $175,000 and will be available October 2009 .

And with a 4000:1 contrast ratio along with a 90 percent of Adobe RGB color gamut, the picture should be pretty great, too, fed into 2 HDMI inputs along with a VGA if you'd prefer.

Of course, there's always a catch.

For one, we don't know the resolution beyond that it's "exceptionally high." That could mean 1080P. That could mean 4-bajillion-K. That could mean...you know, it's not defined. Plus, it's $3,000 this November. I'm can't know the precise amount of satisfaction you receive after inviting friends into your office only to turn your monitor on its side so that your guests can pretend to ooh and ahh at your extravagance, but it can't be better than what $3,000 can buy you in the recreational chemical and escort industries. Trust me.

JVC Announces Super Slim & Light Flat Panel Monitor

32-inch LED backlit monitor measures just ¼-inch deep

ATLANTA, September 10, 2009 – JVC today announced a super slim LCD monitor for home theater use that measures a mere ¼-inch (6.4mm) deep across most of the panel and weighs just 12.5 pounds (5.7kg). The new 32-inch class LT-32WX50 will be available in the U.S. in November.

The new monitor's super slim profile is made possible by the use of JVC's edge LED backlighting system.
It offers a 4000:1 contrast ratio and wide color gamut for exceptionally high resolution of both video and still images.

The monitor's shallow depth makes it ideal for consumers who want the design flexibility such a slim design allows. It also lends itself to a variety of commercial applications. Another attribute is that fewer material resources are used in making the monitor, reducing the product's environmental impact.

Key features of the LT-32WX50 are:
• Taking advantage of JVC's unique LCD panel edged-light LED backlight system, the LT-32WX50 is stunningly thin - just 1/4-inch* (6.4mm) deep at its thinnest point, with a slim module inset along the bottom third that houses the monitor's inputs and other connections;
• Six picture settings: home, retail, movie, monitor, SLR photo mode, game;
• It covers a wide color gamut – 100 percent of sRGB and 90 percent of Adobe RGB;
• It uses approximately 50 percent fewer material resources and eliminates the use of mercury;
• JVC's high definition picture engine is designed for reproducing both video and still images;
• It includes two HDMI connections along with analog RGB (D-Dub, 15-pin); the display can be controlled externally via RS-232C;

* When measured from the front surface of LCD panel to the rear surface of the cabinet.
The JVC LT-32WX50 will be available in November for less than $3,000.00.

Adding in the $100 for the dongle, it's about as much as LG's packed-to-the-gills BD390 Wi-Fi player (which now has 1080p Vudu streaming), though not nearly as explosive feature-wise. Still, a Sony Blu-ray player with a $250 MSRP that streams video is something we've been waiting to hear for a while.

NEW SONY BLU-RAY PLAYER Integrates STREAMING INTERNET VIDEO

FOR ULTIMATE HOME ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE

Device to Stream Netflix, YouTube, Slacker, and Other BRAVIA Internet Video Content

ATLANTA (CEDIA Booth # 1409), Sept. 9, 2009 – Offering the best of full HD 1080p and streaming Internet video, Sony today introduced the BDP-N460 networked Blu-ray Disc™ player.

Beside playing Blu-ray Discs and DVDs, the device instantly streams one of the largest collections of premium and free on-demand entertainment from the BRAVIA™ Internet Video platform including thousands of movies, TV programs, and music from YouTube, Slacker, and, later this fall, Netflix.

"Whether its Full HD 1080p or streaming video and audio from the Internet, entertainment comes in so many flavors that consumers want choice," said Chris Fawcett, vice president of Sony Electronics' home audio and video business. "Leading the entertainment experience, Sony brings the best of both worlds together in one player that offers more content than other stand-alone devices on the market."

The BDP-N460 Blu-ray Disc/DVD/CD player delivers full HD 1080/60p and 24p True Cinema™ output, decodes the latest advanced audio codecs, and is BD-LIVE™ capable with your broadband internet connection and purchase of external memory.

The BDP-N460 also features built-in software specially designed for use with the Linksys by Cisco Wireless-N Ethernet Bridge with Dual-Band (WET610N, sold separately). The bridge helps ease the connection between the Ethernet–enabled player and a wireless router in either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz radio band for optimal streaming.

The model also features a cross search function to make finding Internet content on the BRAVIA Internet Video platform easier.

Since many consumers own extensive DVD movie libraries, the BDP-N460 incorporates Sony's Precision Cinema HD Upscale technology that converts standard-definition signals (480i) to near HD quality.

Additionally, the model features Sony's Precision Drive™ technology, which helps to detect and correct wobbling discs from three directions, supporting stabilization of warped or scratched Blu-ray Discs and DVDs during playback.

The BDP-N460 can decode the latest advanced audio codecs including 7.1 channel Dolby® TrueHD and Dolby® Digital Plus, DTS®-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Master Audio. The model can also output 7.1 channel L-PCM via HDMI after decoding.

It supports Deep Color video output and x.v.Color™ (xvYCC) technology. The model is compatible with an array of video formats, including BD-R/RE (BDMV and BDAV modes), AVCHD, DVD+R/+RW, DVD-R/-RW, CD, CD-R/RW (CD-DA format), and JPEG on BD/DVD/CD recordable media.

The model features an external port for local storage so users can add a USB flash storage device required for BD-LIVE content. A front USB port can be used to display digital photos.

Available in October, the BDP-N460 will be offered at Sony Style stores, online at www.sonystyle.com, at military base exchanges, and at authorized retailers nationwide for about $250.

[Sony]

Though the existing 40-inch ZX1 is just 9.9mm thin, it only supports 1080i wireless video and 120Hz.

Almost all the ZX5's inputs (4x HDMI, 2xD5/Component, S-Video, VGA) are built-into the wireless hub, which also has an Ethernet port for Internet streaming and DLNA media sharing.

The ZX5s are expected to hit Japan in November, and there's every chance we'll see them pop up at the CEDIA show in Atlanta this week. Hopefully we'll find out U.S. pricing at that point, but given last year's 40-inch ZX1 was about $4500, you know they ain't gonna be cheap. [Sony Japan via Impress (translated)]

Though I see hints of a protruding buttocks, as is the main issue with the GD-32X1, the set is admirably wispy. And aside from its svelteness and light source, the 1080p TV boasts a few notable features—namely, its 100Hz refresh rate, 4000:1 contrast ratio and apparent support for some kind of direct digital media playback, as evidenced by its built-in SD slot and USB ports. Since it was shown at a British event, pricing and availability are UK-only, but a helpful indicator: £1900 (about $3000) is the retail target, and it's landing in October or November. [TechRadar]

Apple's cited reason for the withdrawal of Steve Jobs from the Macworld keynote, and the subsequent withdrawal of Apple from Macworld altogether, was that:

Apple is reaching more people in more ways than ever before, so like many companies, trade shows have become a very minor part of how Apple reaches its customers....Apple has been steadily scaling back on trade shows in recent years, including NAB, Macworld New York, Macworld Tokyo and Apple Expo in Paris.

This is true, but I don't think anyone really considers Macworld a "trade show" like CES, CEDIA or IFA.

It's a show, sure, but it's one where Stevie J is the main attraction. Maybe there are a few retail buyers here and there who need to hit up Macworld to see what's hot for Macs, but Apple doesn't really do this stuff for the attention of retail buyers anyway. When was the last time Macworld was a serious forum for independent software and accessories? Macworld will probably die without Apple, but I think it's because Macworld is Apple.

These other trade shows are buckling for different reasons. I can't speak to NAB or AES, which primarily foment business-to-business dealings, and which Apple did in the past support. I can speak to the myriad consumer electronics and computer shows that occur throughout the year, none of which have featured Apple at any time in my memory.

The easiest rationale for the decline of these shows is the current credit crunch and global economic downturn. A crappy economy means fewer awesome toys, one supposes. But even before the current crisis, a few factors were choking trade shows where it matters:

A true trade show is where retailers go to buy their year's inventory. But consolidation of the country's retailers into Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart and some other guys makes it easy for companies like Sony, Samsung, Mitsubishi and more to just set up shop in some sunny beachy spot and fly in the likeliest buyers. (Or, in Walmart's case, for makers to truck a bunch of crap to Bentonville, AR and see what sticks.)

Since showing up at a trade show doesn't threaten that big ole Best Buy order, it becomes optional at best, and an unneeded expense at worst.

The same goes for the media—a large side effect of the show. Companies don't need Macworld and CES to launch product. Sure, it's nice to see devices in person, but they're often mockups, and useless for making real judgment calls.

As fun as it is to rush off after the holidays to some convention center to eat crappy food, lose sleep and swap cold virus strains, the January time frame for Macworld and CES makes no sense for readers of blogs and other media, since they're not looking for new gadgets at that time. Again, retail buyers need to plan ahead, but for reviewers and consumers in the middle of the retail cycle's buying slump, this is more candy than sustenance.

Before the internet was a viable medium, or the CE space was big enough where many companies could spend in the hundreds of millions for mainstream TV/radio marketing, centralized marketing though trade shows was a cheap and easy way to get the news out. Echoing Apple's statement, now that they can get the word out online—and through retail locations and other more innovative outreach programs—spending money on PR and marketing not just to reporters but to millions of actual consumers, the tradeshow take the role of an opportunistic middleman rather than a needed facilitator.

One big threat to US trade shows is the declining value of the dollar. This year and last, we saw more and more stuff debut at IFA in Berlin than we did at NY's summer shows and CEDIA in September, in part because Asian electronics makers are encouraged to sell more to people who pay in stronger currency. CEDIA this past year was fun, but nearly every hot product we went to cover had already been announced in some form or another in Germany.

CEDIA's bread and butter isn't gadgetry, though, like IFA's is. It's really about home-theater components and systems engineered for custom installation inside rich people's homes. In this country, that's still dominated by an association of independent installers (known as, surprise surprise, CEDIA). And those guys have rich customers who don't actually suffer through depressions as much as you'd like them to think.

My guess is that while CEDIA and IFA are safe (for different reasons mentioned above), CES will change and probably shrink, and Macworld will likely die. Soon.

First, we can tell it's going to be a step up from the bottom rung due to the presence of Ethernet port—signifying BD-Live (Blu-ray Profile 2.0) capability—and analog 7.1 outputs. But what takes it beyond other players are the SACD and DVD-Audio logos on there. No current Blu-ray player can handle both of those formats as well as BD, DVD and CD.

OK, yes, we're thinking what you're thinking: The number of people who have collections of SACD and DVD-Audio is surely smaller than the number of people with HD DVD libraries—perhaps Oppo should have gone the full distance and put in HD DVD reading capability too. (We'll be sure to ask them when they start talking about this product.)

Given the visible feature set and Oppo's reputation in the upscaling world, we assume this will be one damn fine BD player. But I'll just say right now that it won't be cheap. [AVS Forum via Electronista]

UPDATE: Here's what Oppo confirms—no HD DVD of course, just as we suspected:

The BDP-83 will be a Profile 2.0 that features the ABT 2010 de-interlacing and scaling solution for both DVD and Blu-Ray media. The product as currently implemented supports SACD. We are investigating the possibility of DVD-Audio support.

The player will support the transportation and decoding of the Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital TrueHD, DTS High Resolution, and DTS HD-Master. In the current implementation only the core DD and DTS are supported, but the hardware will support the transportation and decoding of these formats in the future.

No price has been established, but we are throwing around $499~699 as the possible price points. Anticipated release is Winter (November through February)

During the review he broke down some of the technology behind the eye popping specs, as well as taking note of a feature set that is high on performance and low on ordinary TV functions. Being a monitor, the 65VX100U does not feature a built-in HDTV or analog tuner and standard definition source imputs like composite and S-video. However, it does include 4 HDMI jacks, one component video, one PC input (VGA), and a RS-232 jack.

As far as performance is concerned, Gary compared it side by side with the 50-inch Kuro and found that Pioneer won on ultimate black level and in the effectiveness of its anti-reflective screen, but the latter results in an purple-reddish tint that can be clearly seen when compared side by side with the 65VX100U. The Kuro also requires a higher level signal to come out of black, which obscured details that the Panasonic did not. All in all, it seems that if you have $10,000 to plunk down on a 65-inch flat panel, the 65VX100U should be at the top of your list. [HD Guru]

We didn't give a single one of these speakers any kind of field test, and we're not going to pretend for a second that that matters. Thankfully, you and I are not the folks who have to view these speakers as anything more than absolutely beautiful monuments to silly rich audio fetishists. So let's ogle: take the Sonnance "Threewheeler" donught-y Bluetooth outdoor speaker shown above as only the beginning. It costs $21,000.

Plenty more where that came from in our captioned gallery:

Though the first buyers will likely be rich dudes, the movie business is also going to be interested in it as a monitor, since it can handle 120% of the HDTV color gamut, enough to maybe get a good looking movie on a TV for one damn time. And let's not forget that Pioneer has shut down its own panel production lines and plans to go with Panasonic's. I asked if Pioneer would get a shot at the sweet new one—though there wasn't a straight answer, the sense I got was "probably not, at least not at first." Go Panasonic, kicking some TV ass!

Denver, CO – CEDIA EXPO 2008 – September 4 – 7, 2008 – Booth #410 – When you take the best possible options for high definition entertainment and combine them into one seriously powerful media server, you’re going to need a new name for the experience you create. Life|ware™, makers of whole home automation and entertainment solutions, have done just that, unveiling a new “High Density Television™” initiative that brings in more high definition entertainment and distributes it around the home more effectively than ever before.

“High Density TV reinvents how we will move and/or view high definition entertainment around the home,” said Seale Moorer, Life|ware’s Chief Executive Officer. “This is the first solution to provide a whole house entertainment server that provides unparalleled capability in terms of HDTV tuners, HDTV streaming and Digital Media management for consumers.”

Life|media™ 810: 8 TV tuners, 10 Extenders, 12 TB of Storage
Several new Life|media units highlight the effort, headed by the company’s new Life|media LMS-810, which has 8 HDTV CableCARD™ tuners and can support up to 10 Media Center Extender devices.

“The 810 is a very powerful Media Server,” said Moorer. “It deftly handles the high-definition feeds from eight CableCARD tuners and provides HD streaming to ten extenders over the existing home network.”
The 810 provides an incredible 12 terabytes of RAID 5 storage which provide the disk space for a huge digital library of recorded TV, movies, music, photos and videos.

“The Life|media LMS 810 is the centerpiece of a digital entertainment solution as we all envision it,” said Pat King, senior vice president of Seagate’s Consumer Solution Division. “Seagate’s Pipeline HD hard drives are designed specifically for this type of scenario. With HD video optimization, exceptionally quiet acoustics and power management, Pipeline HD drives enable the LMS 810 to provide a reliable way to enjoy digital entertainment.”

Life|tuner™ provides more video options
Also being unveiled at CEDIA is the Life|tuner series of HDTV CableCARD tuner devices that work with Life|ware’s Life|media media servers, allowing the addition of up to six additional HDTV tuners to the Life|media experience.

“Life|tuner is another product that makes life easier for our dealers,” said Moorer. “Obviously, TV tuners themselves are nothing new, but this product allows the easy addition of two, four or six CableCARD tuners to our Life|media servers.”

Life|media media servers feature two CableCARD TV tuners. By adding the six-tuner Life|tuner unit to a high-end Life|media, a consumer has a remarkable 8-tuner DVR solution.

You can stack two to increase the light output, though it generates 3500 ANSI Lumens already. It's also got an ethernet port, so you can control multiple projectors from your PC, and receive error reports by email. Price isn't mentioned, but the Meridian setup was $185,000, so you can use your imagination.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JVC UNVEILS 10 MEGAPIXEL ULTRA HIGH DEFINITION PROJECTOR
4K2K D-ILA Projector Provides Four Times the Resolution of Full HD

Denver, CO (September 3, 2008) – JVC unveils the world's smallest 4K2K ultra high definition projector, the DLA-SH4K. Based on the company's new proprietary 1.27-inch 10 megapixel D-ILA devices, the DLA-SH4K projects images at greater than 4 times the resolution and clarity of the industry's latest full high definition projectors. The higher resolution will bring a new level of reality to aircraft simulators, medical analysis, 3D display, command and control, museums, theme parks, and ultra high-end home theaters.

The DLA-SH4K will be unveiled at CEDIA September 3 – 6, 2008 and will be on display throughout the show in the JVC Theater located at The Denver Center for the Performing Arts next to the Denver convention center.

The projector's chassis achieves a remarkable 65% reduction in size compared with conventional projectors in its class. This was achieved in part by using JVC's latest 1.27-inch Direct Drive Image Light Amplifier (D-ILA) devices and a new optical system. D-ILA is a proprietary form of Liquid Crystal on Silicone (LCOS), a reflective technology that offers far greater pixel density than competing devices.

The D-ILA devices used in the DLA-SH4K provide a native 4096 x 2400 resolution—multi-screen display modes that allow users to view up to four Full HD screens at a time. A new optical design featuring an 825 Watt Xenon lamp generates a light output of 3500 ANSI Lumens and features adjustable lamp power that ranges from 825 to 660 watts.

Two DLA-SH4Ks can be stacked for increased light output. In addition, the projector can be inclined up to a ± 90-degree tilt angle and has a horizontal lens shift of ±25% and vertical shift of ±50%, which enables flexible installation.

The DLA-SH4K includes DVI-D (dual-link) x 4 input terminals that accept a wide variety of input resolutions. In addition to the RS-232C and USB connections, an Ethernet interface makes adjustment and installation from web browsers on PCs possible. Furthermore, networking allows multiple projectors to be operated with a single PC and an email function also enables the sending out of error messages and lamp replacement reminders.

JVC will offer two lenses for the projector, the GL-MS4015SZG 1.22x zoom lens for screens up to 300 inches, and the GL-MS4011SG short throw lens for screens up to 250 inches. The DLA-SH4K is available immediately. For more information and photos on the DLA- SH4K D-ILA projector, please visit JVC's Web site at http://referenceseries.com.

ABOUT JVC PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS COMPANY
JVC Professional Products Company, located in Wayne, New Jersey, is a leading manufacturer of home theater products and security products in addition to a complete line of broadcast and professional video systems. For more information about this, or any other JVC Professional Products product, contact Candace Vadnais at PFS Marketwyse 973-812-8883, ext. 430 or visit JVC's Web site at http://pro.jvc.com

[JVC]

SONY INTRODUCES TWO NEW 1080p SXRD FRONT HOME THEATER PROJECTORS

DENVER, Sept. 3, 2008 (CEDIA Booth #600) – Sony Electronics today unveiled two full high-definition 1080p BRAVIA® projectors (models VPL-VW70 and VPL-HW10) offering more choices for customers looking for the ultimate home theater viewing experience.

The new 1920 x 1080 progressive Silicon X-tal Reflective Display (SXRD™) projectors feature 24p True Cinema™ technology, delivering film-like performance.

Built for the home theater enthusiast, the VPL-VW70 features 60,000:1 dynamic contrast, brightness of 800 ANSI lumens.

The model can accept an external anamorphic lens (sold separately) that, when paired with Sony’s Anamorphic Zoom Mode, allows users to take full advantage of panel resolution and screen size while watching a movie with native aspect ratio of 2:32:1. When Anamorphic Zoom is selected through the remote, the VPL-VW70 will output a trigger signal that can be used to activate the optional lens and screen transition to maximize the theater experience with a 2.35:1 movie.

For customers looking to enter the full HD home theater at a value, Sony’s VPL-HW10 model features a 30,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 1000 ANSI lumens for brighter room applications.

Specifically designed with the custom installation market in mind, the projectors are also equipped with a panel alignment adjustment function that aligns each red, green and blue pixel for precise images. The adjustment range is +/-1 pixel in 1/10 pixel steps. The VPL-VW70 takes it a step further with panel zone alignment allowing users to further calibrate the picture. The model also adds a unique automatic lens cover that helps protect the lens from dust.

Both models feature the BRAVIA Engine™ all-digital video signal processing engine with unique algorithms for noise reduction and color enhancement to deliver sharp, vibrant images.

The VPL-VW70 projector will be available in November for about $8,000, while the VPL-HW10 unit will be available in September for about $3,500. Both models will be offered direct at Sony Style® retail stores nationwide and authorized dealers around the country.

SONY DEBUTS LCD TELEVISION WITH 240HZ FRAME RATE
Also Introduces Super-Slim 40-inch LCD Monitor With a Depth of a Blu-ray Disc Jewel Case

DENVER, Sept. 3, 2008 (CEDIA Booth #600) – Sony continues to push the limits of display innovation and technology with today’s introduction of two new BRAVIA® flat-panel LCD high-definition televisions appealing to the hard-core home theater enthusiast and design-conscious consumer alike.
The BRAVIA KDL-52XBR7 LCD TV features 240Hz high frame rate technology, delivering exceptional motion detail in movies, sports and video games. Meanwhile, the BRAVIA KDL-52XBR7 LCD monitor features a revolutionary slim design measuring just 9.9mm, or about the thickness of a Compact Disc jewel case.
“Sony continually pushes performance and design innovation beyond any other television manufacturer,” said Jeff Goldstein, vice president of marketing for Sony Electronics’ Home Product Division. “From the top to the bottom of our TV line, Sony offers unmatched performance and design.”
The full HD 1080p 52-inch diagonal KDL-52XBR7 incorporates Sony’s new Motionflow™ 240Hz technology delivering an exceptionally crisp and detailed image with natural motion.
The Motionflow algorithm goes beyond traditional 120Hz technology by quadrupling the frame rate of conventional LCD TVs and interpolating three new frames, producing remarkably crisp and natural motion.
Other picture enhancements include Sony’s Advanced Contrast Enhancer (ACE), which helps deliver a dynamic contrast ratio of 80,000:1 and BRAVIA Engine™ 2, Sony’s digital video processor that enhances all incoming signals to match the TV’s 1080p resolution.
The model also is compatible with Sony’s BRAVIA Link modules providing the ability to seamlessly add new features. Optional expansion modules include the BRAVIA DVD Link, the BRAVIA Wireless link, the BRAVIA Input Link, which will ship later this year, and the currently available BRAVIA Internet Video Link.
The BRAVIA Internet Video Link module attaches to the back of a selection of Sony’s 2007 and 2008 BRAVIA LCD flat-panel television models. The service seamlessly streams on-demand entertainment including movies, TV programs, your favorite YouTube videos and a variety of other content not found on network or cable/satellite TV. The service connects to the Internet via your existing broadband Ethernet connection and streams content, much of which is avaialble at no additional charge Content is easily navigated with Sony’s Technical 2007 Emmy® award-winning Xross Media Bar (XMB)™ user interface.
Rounding out the feature set is Digital Media Port (DMP) compatibility, which provides access to video and music from portable media devices like compatible Walkman® and iPod® players and other DMP accessories, which are sold separately. The models also can display digital photos and play digital music using a creative multi-plane 3D graphics slideshows from USB devices, as well as access photos from your PC in another room using Digital Living Network Alliance® (DLNA)® compliant devices via your home network.
Sony’s new 3D Favorites Menu complements the XMB graphical user interface, which has also been enhanced with Sony-unique integration of TV Guide providing easy access and navigation of content and menus through colorful thumbnails and logically placed icons.
Inputs found on the KDL-52XBR7 include four 1080/60 24p HDMI™ connections (HDCP), two 1080/60p HD component inputs, a 1080/60p-capable PC input, and an Ethernet (RJ-45) port.
Sony is also introducing the 40-inch diagonal 1920 x 1080p KLV-40ZX1M flat panel LCD monitor. The revolutionary super-slim display measures just approximately 9.9mm deep – about the depth of a Blu-ray Disc jewel case – and weighs about 26 pounds.

The model features an edge-lit wide color gamut LED backlight delivering exceptional color reproduction and detailed contrast and Sony’s Motionflow 120 Hz technology for exceptional clarity and resolution when viewing film or video content with motion.
Other features include Sony’s BRAVIA Engine 2, a single HDMI input and compatibility with Sony’s BRAVIA Wireless Link allowing users to stream high-definition content wirelessly to the monitor from high-definition sources such as a set-top cable or satellite tuner or Blu-ray Disc™ player.
Other optional accessories include a flat-matching speaker bar with four full-range speakers and two tweeters and a wall-hugging bracket that completes the stunning package.
Both the BRAVIA KDL-52XBR7 and KLV-40ZX1M will ship this December. They will be offered at sonystyle.com and at Sony Style retail stores nationwide, as well as at authorized Sony dealers across the country.

When we pressed Sony for details on the video file formats capable of being streamed to the 6400ES, they said that it could handle MPEG-2 files of any resolution, but limited by 10Mbps bandwidth. It could also support 2-megabit WMV. The jury is still out on MPEG-4 files, though they say that sometimes it works.

Sony claims that these are "affordable," starting at $1,500, which, when judged against their direct competition, I guess they are; if you're looking at building a system that would even necessitate this type of hardware, $1,500 isn't too much. The iPod dock and Bluetooth connection give it a bit of mainstream cred as well, but just a little. For the A/V diehards, a full press release below. [Sony]

DENVER, Sept. 3, 2008 (CEDIA Booth #600) – Sony today introduced two new ES A/V receivers with a CAT5e port, allowing them to provide high-definition video to a second room.

The STR-DA6400ES and STR-DA5400ES models offer second room high-definition video and audio distribution via CAT5e wiring. The CAT5e output shared by both models provides an inexpensive option in sharing HD video in a second room.

Additionally, the STR-DA6400ES features an extra CAT5e input and is Digital Life Network Alliance (DLNA) compliant. The combination makes the STR-DA6400ES Sony’s first network A/V receiver. Now there is a Sony A/V receiver that can stream music, photos and video from a DLNA-compliant PC plus it can access online music content from Rhapsody® and Shoutcast® Internet Radio without a PC.

“High-definition and other digital content is no longer limited to the living room and Sony’s new ES receivers have been designed to be the hub of this change in entertainment options,” said Tyler Ishida, director of marketing for Sony Electronics' Digital Imaging and Audio Division. “Backed by 25 years of expertise, Sony’s new ES products not only deliver high quality audio and video, but offer the ability to connect new types of entertainment while distributing them throughout the home.”

Designed to provide the highest audio and video performance, the new receivers are fully compatible with Blu-ray Disc™ format by supporting 1080/24p video signals and the latest audio formats (Dolby® Digital Plus, Dolby® TrueHD, DTS® High Resolution Audio and DTS® HD Master Audio).

Both receivers add a second Faroudja DCDi Cinema® chip allowing standard definition video sources to be up-scaled to 1080p in the main room (zone 1) when connected via HDMI™. The second Faroudja DCDi chip upscales standard definition video content in a second room (zone 2) to 1080i. This latest chassis innovation insures an outstanding picture no matter where you are watching your content. Both receivers also support x.v.Color and Deep Color enabled sources.

The dual Faroudja DCDi Cinema chips also allow Sony’s xross media bar™ -inspired graphical user interface to be shared in both the main plus a second room for easy navigation and control of content. The Faroudja chip can also blend the onscreen GUI over 1080p sources via HDMI and provide picture-in-picture monitoring of another room or second room (zone 2) source.

The models decode Direct Stream Digital (DSD) audio sources such as that from Super Audio CD players, and feature Sony’s D.L.L. (Digital Legato Linear) audio scaler. The proprietary technology works much like a video scaler, analyzing standard definition (compressed) audio signals like MP3 audio files and upscales them to 192 KHz resulting in higher quality audio.

Dual Digital Media Ports adds control and connectivity options for music playback through more than one accessory, including a cradle for iPod®, a Network Walkman™ cradle, a PC client device and a Bluetooth® adapter (each is sold separately). The models are also Sirius® and XM Connect-and-Play™ ready and offers RS-232C, 12 volt triggers and IR repeaters for custom installation solutions.

Other features include Sony’s Digital Cinema Auto Calibration™ for simple surround sound setup and BRAVIA® Sync™ for Theatre for easy synchronization of compatible home theater components.
The STR-DA6400ES 7.1 channel receiver has a 120-watt power amplifier x 7 (8 ohms, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.09 percent THD), six HDMI inputs (five rear, one front) with Direct Stream Digital and two HDMI outputs.

The model’s Ethernet port allows it to connect DLNA-compliant PCs via CAT5e wiring. Not only does this connection allow users to stream photos music and video, it provides access to Shoutcast® Internet Radio and Rhapsody Music Service. Additionally, the Ethernet connection provides easy access to firmware upgrades and service.

The model also distributes HD video to a second zone via CAT5e wiring and offers audio distribution to three zones and picture-in-picture for monitoring of multi-zone output or an external video source.
The STR-DA6400ES also features Sony’s High Quality Audio Transmission System (H.A.T.S.) that efficiently manages the robust digital signal insuring a consistent, high quality exchange.
The model will be available in October for $2,500.

The STR-DA5400ES 7.1 channel receiver has a 120-watt amplifier x 7 (8 ohms, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.09 percent THD), six HDMI inputs with Direct Stream Digital and two HDMI outputs. The model’s CAT5e port allows it to distribute high-definition video to a second zone. It also offers audio distribution to three zones and picture-in-picture for monitoring of multi-zone output or an external video source.
The model will be available in September for about $2,000.

Sony also announced a new Super Audio CD and compact disc player complementing the new ES receivers. The single-disc SCD-XA5400ES incorporates an uncompressed digital output for DSD signal via HDMI. Leaning on Sony’s ES heritage, the model incorporates audiophile-grade discrete components such as twin R-Core power transformers and gold-plated outputs to maintain the utmost performance.
The SCD-XA5400ES will be available in October for about $1,500.

Both ES receivers and the SCD-XA5400ES are supported by a five-year limited manufacturer warranty and will be available online through HYPERLINK "http://www.sonystyle.com/" www.sonystyle.com, at Sony Style stores nationwide and at authorized Sony dealers across the country.

PANASONIC LAUNCHES NEW 1080p FULL HIGH-DEFINTION LCD HOME THEATER PROJECTOR

New PT-AE3000 Provides A Bright and Dynamic Widescreen Home Viewing Experience with Crisp Motion Images Via Frame Creation Technology

DENVER – CEDIA Expo – Sept. 3, 2008 – Panasonic Projector Systems Company, Unit of Panasonic Corporation of North America, announced today the debut of its newest LCD home theater projector, the PT-AE3000. With full high-definition 1080p (1,920 x 1,080 pixel) native resolution, the PT-AE3000 gives home theater enthusiasts a higher level of picture quality entertainment, producing crisp and clear images through new state-of-the-art projection technology.

As an evolution of its award winning predecessor the PT-AE2000, the PT-AE3000 delivers a captivating 1,600 lumen brightness and powerful 60,000:1 contrast ratio. To achieve sharp and detailed reproduction of fast moving motion images, Panasonic has developed and equipped the PT-AE3000 with new Frame Creation Technology optimized for large screen viewing. And for easy adjustment to different widescreen movie formats like 21:9 or 16:9, the projector is also upgraded with a Lens Memory Load feature which is capable of memorizing and restoring zoom/focus positions for multiple aspect ratio flexibility.

Higher Picture Quality with Brightness Upgrade
The dramatic increase in the contrast-ratio and dynamic range was made possible by the newly engineered Pure Contrast Plate technology that effectively blocks unwanted light from the path of projection. In addition, the polarization filter system surrounding the Pure Contrast Plates has been redesigned to achieve the PT-AE3000’s higher level of brightness.

Together with a host of carefully engineered Panasonic technologies including the high precision optical lens unit, Dynamic Iris and Smooth Screen technology, the PT-AE3000 truly distinguishes itself against its competition and as a projector solution that home theater enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy.

“Each year with advances in our AE Home Theater series, we continue to strive for the best ‘real theater’ environment for our customers,” said Rena Yotsu, home theater specialist, Panasonic Projector Systems Company. “To reach this goal, Panasonic Projector Systems Company engineers have designed many innovative technologies and have collaborated side-by-side with Hollywood colorists and image experts to manufacture our outstanding, upgraded PT-AE3000 home theater projector.”

Crisp and Clear Details for In-Motion Images
The PT-AE3000 now incorporates a Frame Creation technology that interpolates an additional frame by analyzing the characteristics of two adjacent frames, creating sharp and clear images of fast moving scenes in sports and action movies, especially for large screen viewing. For crisp motion images with high resolution, users may set their frame count preference to 120 frames/1 sec from 60 frames/1 sec for 60Hz video signal input, while 24frames/sec (24p) signals are quadrupled to 96frames/1sec by interpolating three additional frames to allow natural frame-to-frame transitions.

The new and advanced Detail Clarity Processor V2.0 allows the projectors’ digital processing engine to extract information of the low, mid, high, and even the super-high frequency components. The ability to apply these different degrees of sharpness permits the PT-AE3000 to reproduce natural, lifelike images with exceptional clarity and three-dimensionality to the smallest details.

The PT-AE3000 comes equipped with professional-level features that let users personalize the images they see on the screen. First, the projector’s Split Adjust mode allows users to split the screen into two halves; one to make picture adjustments and one to see those adjustments as a baseline reference. Second, the PT-AE3000’s waveform monitor—seen mostly on professional video and film equipment—measures the level of brightness output from a given video signal source. This feature also automatically verifies that the source device is outputting at full dynamic range, and quickly makes adjustments to optimize it for the home theater setting. Users can easily see a graphical representation of any changes made to the unit’s color settings.

Ease of Set-up and Use
Many movies come in aspects that are even wider than the projector’s 16:9 aspect ratio to match the image size 21:9 seen at movie theaters. More and more projector customers are using the 21:9 wide screens to mirror the movie theater experience. The PT-AE3000 enables users to pre-set three different zoom/focus positions and enables easy recall of those positions with the Lens Memory Load function.

Initial set-up and installation are quick and simple, as the 2.0x zoom can cast a 120-inch diagonal image from as short as 3.6 meters (about 11 feet) to 7 meters (24 feet) from the screen. The projector’s lens shift capability enables 100 percent vertical adjustment and 40 percent horizontal adjustment so that viewers can suspend the projector either close to the ceiling or on wall mounts. The lens-centered design and maintenance features such as the replaceable side filter and top lamp, make the projector easy to install and maintain.

The projector is also equipped with an abundant selection of connections; including three HDMI 1.3 inputs and two component input terminals. The three HDMI 1.3 inputs are all Deep Color and x.v.Color compliant. The Deep Color supports 10 bit (over 1.07 billion) and 12 bit (over 68.7 billion) color depths for smooth tonal transitions and subtle gradations between colors, while the x.v.Color compliance realizes accurate reproduction of actual, true-to-life images.

Eco-Friendly Intelligence
In addition to its outstanding features, the new PT-AE3000 is also an ecologically conscious product. The intelligent power management system within the projector reduces the lamp power to the exact required level of brightness depending on what content is displayed. Other than in scenes where full brightness is required, the lamp intelligently determines the necessary power output by analyzing more than 3 billion different image patterns. This advanced analysis process reduces the main power consumption by as much as 10 percent when the dynamic iris function is in operation, thus saving energy.

Other ecological considerations include an off-timer that reduces wasteful power consumption, as well as an extremely low standby power consumption of 0.08 W , which is the lowest in its class.

The Panasonic PT-AE3000 LCD home theater projector will be made in Japan, available starting in October 2008 to authorized presentation systems dealers with an MSRP of $3,499. To learn more about this projector, please visit http://www.panasonic.com/projectors or http://panasonic.net/pavc/projector/.

PANASONIC PREVIEWS LARGER SIZE INTERNET ENABLED VIERA PLASMAS AT 2008 CEDIA CONVENTION

Industry Leader Panasonic Premieres 58-inch And 65-inch VIERA Plasma Displays to Custom Installers

Denver, CO (September 3, 2008) – Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal U.S. subsidiary of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. (NYSE:MC), the industry leader in high definition and Plasma televison, today introduced attendees to the 2008 CEDIA convention to the latest additions in the company’s already acclaimed internet enabled Plasma line, the PZ850 series. Joining the TH-50PZ850 and the TH-46PZ850, the industry’s first internet enabled TVs, are the 58-inch class (58-inches measured diagonally) and the TH-65PZ850 class (64.7-inches measured diagonally), giving Panasonic a wide breadth of screen sizes in the flagship series of high performance Plasma TVs. Building upon the market and critical success of Panasonic’s previous Plasma models, the 2008 PZ850 series includes a number of step-up features that will further strengthen Panasonic’s leadership position.

The introduction of the IP enabled televisions, a technology that provides access to on-line content directly from the televison with VIERA CAST™ technology, is one of many advances found in the PZ850 line. VIERA CAST is a revolutionary new feature that streams web content directly to your VIERA HDTV without the need for an external box or a PC. The consumer can access the unlimited YouTube™ library, share digital photos from Picasa™ Web Albums with friends and family, get local weather updates and gain access to financial data from Bloomberg. There is no fee for VIERA Cast and the feature automatically updates itself as new web content becomes available.

“We’re very excited about the technological advances that have been incorporated into VIERA’s PZ850 series and the bigger screen sizes should prove extremely beneficial to both Panasonic and the CEDIA membership.,” said Bob Perry, Senior Vice President, Panasonic Display Products Company. “The 58-inch and 65-inch now stand beside their smaller brethren to provide the installer with a number of screen size options. IPTV in particular is a technology that by providing access to on-line content directly from the TV, allows the consumer to optimize his or her options and use the VIERA Plasma for more than entertainment. Now the consumer has a large screen TV that is also the source of an endless stream of internet information.”

The state-of-the-art technology that is inherent in the PZ850 series provides the consumer with detailed images, high moving-picture resolution, advanced networking and excellent compatibility with other AV devices. The PZ850 series features a Pro Setting Menu, allowing the user to access professional calibration software; an improved native resolution contrast ratio of 30,000:1 and a dynamic ratio of 1,000,000:1; Digital Cinema Color Re-Mastering; 24p native reproduction; Game Mode; an SD memory Card slot; RS-232C connection; four HDMI connections; increased luminous efficiency; lead free panels; 100,000 hours to half brightness and a PC input. The 850 series further expands the capabilities of the SD Card feature by utilizing the H.264 codec to display high definition video recorded on a HD camcorder equipped with the H.264 codec.

Recognizing the growing use of Plasma HD televisions in the gaming world, Panasonic created the Game Mode, which minimizes the time lag when displaying game images on the Plasma screen. The Mode synchronizes the response of the game image to the player’s operation, thereby producing an extremely clear image with no motion artifacts.

Digital Cinema Color Re-Mastering is a value added technology that creates a wide color gamut covering 120% of the conventional HDTV color standard , enabling VIERA displays to reproduce the essential colors for viewing movies. 24p native reproduction, which negates the need for 3:2 pulldown, resulting in a smoother picture, is another feature that provides the best possible viewing experience.

Also: The quick-glance spec sheet we ran in May still appears to be valid.

Sony's Motionflow wall which was in the process of being powered up had a 240Hz set like the 200Hz Bravia we saw at IFA (240Hz NTSC = 200Hz PAL), which indicates Sony is bringing some or all of its Euro IFA goods (including, hopefully, the super-thin ZX1) stateside. We also spied a Sharp X-Series Aquos all fired up in their booth (shown in the image above), which very well may be the WHDI wireless set announced in Asia a few months back, which indicates Sharp is pushing their thin LCDs even harder, and in larger sizes. We also learned that it must really suck to have to vacuum tradeshow floors after setup. Hit the gallery for more shots of the majors' booths.