FedEx says they are delivering it this monday. Oh. Yes. [Think Geek]

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)

Lighting:

The first thing you need to do is set an erotic mood. This giant bustier lamp should do the trick. [Japanese Bustier Lamp]

We all know that kids tend to wander back to the nest when the food and money runs out. That means you need a backup plan to protect your privacy. The "Sex in Progress" lamp will ensure that you kid will be running back to the dorm as fast as possible. Available for $25. [Baron Bob via Link]

The Bed:

Now it is time to focus on the most important part of the room—the bed. One option is to go with the Private Cloud—a patented rocking bed by German designer Manuel Kloker. Legend has it that a couple was so intense that they managed to complete one full revolution. Think of the possibilities. [Manuel Kloker via Link]

Prefer something a little...rougher? No problem. Try Master R's Dungeon quality BDSM play frame. To the naked eye it looks like an innocent four-poster frame, but it features special fittings for slings, mirrors, stocks and other restraints for weird, painful fun. Available for $2655. [Master R's]

No matter what bed you choose, the Karmasheetra is a good accessory. It's like an even more perverted version of Twister. Available for about $35. [Shiny Shack]

Furniture:

No room would be complete without a few pieces of furniture, and the Adult Fun Stool is a must-have for any adult hideaway. The chair is spring loaded, so it will bounce up and down with you as you make good use of the attachment on top. Speaking of that, it is fully removable so you can use it like a traditional stool when not "in use." Just make sure to keep plenty of bleach on hand. Available for $315. [AFB]

Unfortunately, the legendary Vagina Couch was an art project sold on Craigslist earlier this year, so you may not be able to get your hands on the version pictured here. However, it could give you some good ideas if you are handy with a sewing machine. [Craigslist]

Accessories:

Now that you have the major components of the room down, it is time to start adding some finishing touches. If you simply must have a landline phone in the room, the Bona Phone is the only way to go with its patented "touch bone dialing" and orgasm ringtone. What you choose to do with it beyond making phone calls is your business. Available for $27. [Sensual Universe via Link]

If you and the Mrs. enjoy a game of chess now and then, this erotic version is sure to satisfy on multiple levels—especially if you are into some weird stuff. The pieces in this set get really freaky. [Russian Mammoth]

The last thing you need when you finally have the house to yourself is another kid cramping your style. It's always safety first with the condom-dispensing panic button. [Link]

Bonus: Finally, what intimate evening would be complete without taking a drag on that after-sex cigarette? Therefore, it is only fitting that we conclude this journey into the nether regions of the soul with what is undoubtedly the most offensive ashtray ever conceived of by man. [Link]

Normally dust clouds between our solar system and the galaxy core get in the way of observing the region near the center. The team achieved the feat not through a Wayne's World-style camera trick, but by observing at 1.3 mm radio wavelengths (which can traverse the dust) and using a Very Long Baseline Interferometry telescope. This links up radio telescopes in Hawaii, Arizona and California to make an effective compound radio telescope that's about 2,800 miles wide. As a result they could make images with a resolution about 1,000 times greater than the Hubble telescope.

But even that's not quite enough. Imaging SgrA* has supported the theory that a supermassive black hole is right there at the galactic central point ("our results are more evidence that we are looking at a black hole," as the team puts it), but despite being among the highest resolution astronomical observations ever made, the data's not quite good enough to image the shape of the glowing cloud. That data would reveal whether it's a true disc, with or without jets, and whether there's a dimmer region in the middle as gas is sucked into the black hole. We'll have to wait for a few years until future shorter-wavelength telescopes come online. Maybe then we'll be able to see if there's a huge robot-populated spaceship hovering just outside the hole. [New Scientist via Physorg]

This will require two cameras, one for video chat and the other for the "hand reading," but it opens a lot of possibilities. To start with, the entire keyboard can become a gesture control pad without even having to touch the surface. In addition to that, it can be combined with actual touch technology to identify single fingers on the surface, with the possibility of assigning specific functions to them.

The system even contemplates combining all this with accelerometers and force sensors, so the touch action can generate secondary data. One example of this may be applying a deformation effect to an image or a sound effect to a music track, giving it more or less strength depending on the force you use in your action. [USPTO via Unwired View]

The D65U/D85U lineup:

And releases for all three:

DENVER, September 3, 2008 – Sharp Electronics unveils, for the first time in the U.S., a next-
generation LCD TV Series that combines unprecedented image quality, the ultimate in thin
design and advanced environmental performance. This Full-HD 1080p Limited Edition LCD TV
Series, available in 65- (LC-65XS1U-S) and 52-inch (LC-52XS1U-S) screen class sizes (64
33/64” and 52 1/32” diagonals respectively), utilizes a newly-developed 10-bit Advanced Super
View (ASV) LCD panel that enables an extremely slim profile of only one inch at its thinnest
part, to achieve unmatched design and picture quality.
The Limited Edition series also includes Sharp’s AQUOS Net capability, a service that is
able to give users instant access to customized Web-based content as well as real-time
customer support.
“Since the introduction of the first AQUOS LCD TV in 2001, Sharp has continuously
achieved the highest levels of image quality and screen size,” said Bob Scaglione, senior vice
president and group manager, Product and Marketing Group, Sharp. “With the introduction of
the new flagship Limited Edition Series, we offer consumers a new audio-visual lifestyle, with a
superior picture in large screen sizes, as well as excellent sound quality, a striking design and
environmental performance befitting a truly ‘next generation’ LCD TV.”

Superior Picture and Sound Quality
Using the latest version of Sharp’s proprietary 10-bit Advanced Super View LCD panel,
this next-generation series incorporates a new RGB-LED backlight system for an
unprecedented 150 percent NTSC color gamut and extremely high Dynamic Contrast Ratio of
more than 1,000,000:1 for extremely deep blacks and crisp picture quality. The strong color
reproduction scale significantly improves color accuracy for dark scenes and delivers a brighter,
more vivid array of colors.
CEDIA EXPO 2008 • BOOTH #722 • COLORADO CONVENTION CENTER

SHARP® MAKES GROUNDBREAKING INTRODUCTION WITH
NEXT-GENERATION ULTRA-THIN AQUOS® LCD TV SERIES

Achieves amazing levels of image quality, environmental performance, and thinness

To deliver clear, natural sound to match the high quality of the picture, Sharp joined with
Pioneer Corporation to develop a thin-design speaker system that combines with Sharp’s
unique 1-bit digital amplifier.

Dramatic, Space-Saving Design
With a depth of only one inch at its thinnest part, the new Limited Edition Series TVs
provide an extremely small footprint, establishing a new design standard for LCD TV and
allowing for an even greater variety of installation styles, such as unobtrusive wall mounting.
These TVs offer a metallic edge around the frame for a stylish, sophisticated look, giving
consumers more freedom to incorporate the new models into the design of modern interiors.
Contributing to the slim frame of the screen, the Limited Edition Series has a separate
AVC system set-top box for all input terminals, which can be connected to the screen via the
included HDMI® cable or with an optional wireless connection to eliminate cable clutter.
Additionally, the units include five HDMI inputs as well as dual HD component terminals, all of
which are compatible with 1080p signals. For the ultimate in convenience, one HDMI and one
component terminal are located on the front of the AVC system, enabling easy connections. An
RS-232C port for custom installations and a dedicated PC input are also included.

Environmental Performance
Sharp has incorporated environmentally conscious, energy-saving technology into the
Limited Edition LCD TVs by equipping them with a new system designed to lower power
consumption during use by adjusting the screen brightness based on the level of brightness in
the area of installation.

For more information on Sharp’s full line of Liquid Crystal Televisions, contact Sharp
Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J., 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP. For
online product information, visit Sharp’s Web site at sharpusa.com.

DENVER, September 3, 2008 – Strengthening its position as a worldwide leader in flat-panel
Liquid Crystal Display Televisions (LCD TV), Sharp today introduces the AQUOS D85U series,
bringing more consumers a paramount high-definition viewing experience with premium
features and high-style design. The D85U series, available in 52- (52-1/32” diagonal), 46- (45-
63/64” diagonal) and 42-inch (42-1/64” diagonal) screen class sizes, uses 120Hz Fine Motion
Enhanced technology for an exceptionally clear and crisp picture. Additionally, these Full HD
1080p sets feature a sophisticated new design with angled edges that reflect the surrounding
décor, allowing it to blend fluidly into the ambiance of any room.
In addition to stellar specs and a new design, the D85U series keeps consumers’
electricity bill top-of-mind by employing a new energy-saving function. The “Power Saving
Mode,” available through the unit’s on-screen display menu, enables active contrast and active
backlight to reduce the energy of the television while in use. These models are also compliant
with the most recent Energy Star® standards.
“The new AQUOS D85 series is our latest 120Hz series and offers a price-competitive
home theater option, giving consumers an excellent viewing experience at a more attainable
cost,” said Bob Scaglione, senior vice president and group manager, Product and Marketing
Group, Sharp Electronics Corporation. “This series not only offers an elite high-definition
viewing experience, but also incorporates energy saving functions that allow users to lower their
TV’s power consumption.”
With Fine Motion Enhanced technology for 120Hz Frame Rate Conversion and a fast
pixel response time of 4ms, these new AQUOS models provide the ultimate medium for high-
definition viewing, ensuring viewers never miss a detail. Additionally, this series uses the next
generation of Sharp’s proprietary 10-bit Advanced Super View (ASV) / Black TFT Panel with
Spectral Contrast Engine UD (Ultra Dark), providing high Dynamic Contrast for deep blacks and
SHARP® DEBUTS NEW AQUOS® WIDESCREEN HIGH-DEFINITION LCD TV
SERIES WITH UNIQUE DESIGN AND CUTTING-EDGE FEATURES

Large-screen models feature advanced 120Hz panel with new energy-saving functions

crisp picture quality. Rounding out a top-of-the-line home theater experience, viewing angles on
this model are an impressive 176 degrees, enabling the color reproduction to appear bright and
vivid from virtually anywhere in a room.
These Full-HD 1080p models also boast an array of connection options, including an
unprecedented five HDMI™ (version 1.3 with Deep Color) and two component video inputs, all
of which are 1080p compatible, accepting signals from Blu-ray and advanced gaming devices.
A true high-definition TV, the model houses a built-in ATSC, QAM and NTSC tuner for access to
DTV and analog TV channels. The unit also features an RS-232C input for custom installations
and a PC input so the TV serves a dual purpose as a PC monitor. Additionally, Sharp’s AQUOS
LINK™ feature allows users to seamlessly control compatible, HDMI-connected products using
a single remote control.
Building on Sharp’s reputation for outstanding design, the D85U series features a sleek
piano black cabinet with a reflective, titanium outer frame. The recessed bottom-mounted
speakers are concealed within the cabinet, for a subtle, elegant look. The included table stand
removes easily for wall mounting applications.

Pricing and availability
• LC-52D85U will be available in October for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price
(MSRP) of $2,599.99
• LC-46D85U will be available in October for an MSRP of $2,199.99
• LC-42D85U will be available in November for an MSRP of $1,899.99

1
DENVER, September 3, 2008 – Sharp, a worldwide leader in flat-panel Liquid Crystal Display
Televisions (LCD TV), expands its widescreen, Full HD 1080p line of AQUOS® LCD TVs with the
stylish D65U series. Featuring a slim design and breathtaking picture quality that is second to
none, this line of AQUOS LCD TVs provides the ultimate home entertainment experience with the
perfect balance of style and function. The series, including the LC-52D65U 52-inch class (52
1/32” diagonal), LC-46D65U 46-inch class (45 63/64” diagonal) and LC-42D65U 42-inch class (42
1/64” diagonal) reinforces Sharp’s LCD leadership and innovation.
The D65U models also reflect Sharp’s efforts to be an environmentally advanced
company. The series is Energy Star®-compliant, with very low power consumption and offers a
new “Power Saving Mode” available through the unit’s on-screen display menu, which enables
active contrast and active backlight to reduce the energy consumption of the television while in
use.
“The AQUOS LCD TV line continues to set new standards in technology, offering
improved picture quality coupled with new ways to reduce power consumption,” said Bob
Scaglione, senior vice president and group manager, Product and Marketing Group, Sharp
Electronics Corporation. “With an outstanding balance between price and performance, Sharp’s
AQUOS D65U series raises the bar for home entertainment, offering a well-rounded,
environmentally-advanced home theater solution.”
The D65U AQUOS series provides a superior Full HD 1080p picture with outstanding
performance, utilizing Sharp’s proprietary Advanced Super View (ASV) / Black TFT Panel* with
multi-pixel technology. The ASV/Black TFT Panel with Spectral Contrast Engine UD (Ultra Dark)
provides high Dynamic Contrast Ratio and a pixel response time of 6 ms, providing stunning
picture quality even on fast-moving action scenes. Black levels have also been enhanced on
these models for the deepest, most accurate levels of any LCD TV. Viewing angles are an
SHARP® BROADENS AQUOS® HIGH-DEFINITION LCD TV SERIES
WITH SUPERIOR PICTURE PERFORMANCE AND MODERN DESIGN

D65U line combines advanced feature set with increased connectivity and energy-saving mode

impressive 176 degrees, enabling the color reproduction to appear vivid from virtually anywhere
in a room, for a top-of-the-line total home theater package.
The D65U line comes equipped with a host of connectivity options for the utmost
convenience. The series includes an impressive five HDMI® inputs for current and future
connection with 1080p signals from Blu-ray and advanced gaming devices, as well as two HD
component video inputs. The D65U series also includes two composite video inputs, one S-
video, a dedicated PC input and RS-232C for system control. The HDMI inputs feature version
1.3 with deep color**, which adds compatibility with many high-end features such as enhanced
colors and audio, and they are compatible with AQUOS Link, which enables convenient control of
compatible devices.
The D65U series features an elegant and sophisticated new design, with a stunning piano
black inner bezel and a matching black outer frame, along with subtle recessed, bottom-mounted
speakers that don’t take away from the stylish frame. The included table stand removes easily for
wall mounting applications.

Pricing and availability
• LC-52D65U will be available in October for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price
(MSRP) of $2,399.99
• LC-46D65U will be available in October for an MSRP of $1,899.99
• LC-42D65U is available now for an MSRP of $1,599.99

The Sony competes well with the Pioneer. Both are BD-Live capable with Ethernet, and have isolated audio circuitry for crazy-good sound. The Sony jacks the color depth up to 14 bits, while the Pioneer goes all the way to 16 bits. (Since no TV can display better than 10-bit color at this point, it's a funny spec race, but hey, one day your 20-bit TV will be laughing at both of them.) But like its gaming-system relative, the Sony also has a six-second startup and the famous don't-say-it-out-loud "XrossMediaBar," aka XMB, even better known as the menu system for PS3s. There's a lot more going on inside the player, as you can see below. But it's probably still not a match for the Pioneer, and it definitely won't play Resistance 2 no matter how loudly you scream at it.

SONY DELIVERS ULTIMATE A/V EXPERIENCE WITH NEW ES BLU-RAY DISC PLAYER
BD-Live Enabled Model Features New Technologies for Unsurpassed Picture Quality

DENVER, Sept. 3, 2008 (CEDIA Booth #600) – Sony today announced the new BDP-S5000ES Blu-ray Disc™ player, featuring the company’s newly developed HD Reality Enhancer and Super Bit Mapping technologies that deliver even sharper and more vibrant images from today’s Blu-ray Disc movies.

The model, which is fully BD-Live™ capable, features an Ethernet connection that allows users to connect to the Internet via their existing service provider to access BD-Live features and easy firmware updates. It also is equipped with an external flash memory port and includes a 1GB Sony Micro Vault™ Tiny flash storage device.

The BDP-S5000ES also features Quick Start mode, improving boot-up times to approximately six seconds, which is seven times faster than previous models.

“Sony’s Elevated Standard, or ‘ES’ products stand for the very best Sony has to offer, and the BDP-S5000ES is no exception,” said Chris Fawcett, vice president of marketing for Sony Electronics' Home Video Division. “Featuring the incredible build quality found on all Sony ES products, the S5000ES goes above and beyond traditional Blu-ray Disc players to deliver the ultimate home theater experience.”

Unique to the model is Sony’s new 14-bit HD video processor, which improves standard definition and high-definition picture quality with the help of HD Reality Enhancer and Super Bit Mapping technologies. HD Reality Enhancer continually analyzes bit by bit of the original source, sharpening edges and reproducing detail, while reducing the effects of film grain. Super Bit Mapping delivers smoother color gradation realizing true 14-bit equivalent color tone from 8-bit sources connected via HDMI.

Holding true to Sony’s ES standard, the BDP-S5000ES was designed to match pristine video performance with exceptional audio. The model’s analog audio circuit board is isolated from the video board to avoid interference. Additionally, the unit’s rigid frame and beam chassis helps to reduce vibration and a low-leakage R-core transformer minimizes the interference of digital noise.

Since many consumers own extensive DVD movie libraries, the BDP-S5000ES incorporates Sony’s new Precision Cinema HD Upscale technology that converts standard-definition signals (480i) to 1080p and outputs a full HD equivalent resolution signal to 1080p TVs via HDMI. The model even improves analog component video output thanks to 14-bit/297MHz video D/A conversion.

Additionally, the model adds Sony’s new Precision Drive™ HD, which helps to detect and correct wobbling discs from three directions, stabilizing playback of bent or scratched Blu-ray Discs and DVDs.
The model offers 7.1 channel Dolby® TrueHD, Dolby® Digital Plus, DTS® -HD Master Audio, and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio decoding and bit-stream output, as well as analog 7.1 channel output with Advanced Current Segment Audio D/A converters for legacy AV receivers and decoders.

The BDP-S5000ES supports Deep Color video output and AVCHD discs encoded with x.v.Color™ (xvYCC) technology. The players also feature compatibility with an array of video formats, including BD-R/RE (BDMV and BDAV modes), DVD+R/+RW, DVD-R/-RW, CD, CD-R/RW (CD-DA format), and JPEG on BD/DVD/CD recordable media.

The player also features Sony’s XrossMediaBar™ (XMB) inspired graphic user interface for easy menu navigation, Sony’s BRAVIA Sync™ for Theatre that connects select Sony home theater and television products for easy operation and a backlit remote control. For custom installation, the model also features RS-232C and IR input.

The new BDP-S5000ES will be available in November for about $2,000 at Sony Style stores, online at sonystyle.com, and at authorized retailers nationwide. ###

But more importantly, Alan's skills and imagination show one of the countless possible themes for our Go Miniman Go Challenge video contest.

In case you missed it, Gizmodo and Lego are celebrating the Go Miniman Go Challenge video contest to mark the 30th anniversary of the Lego minifig. By sending your short video centered around Lego's most famous icon you will be able to win a lot of prizes, including two priceless Lego vintage sets. And if you are into photography, remember that Brothers Brick is running a photography contest too.

Talking about which, we have got our first entry in the mail yesterday, so hurry up with yours. You can read the rules here. [Go Miniman Go]

The Good: Very good quality. The interface is simple, straightforward, and so is the device itself. They really nailed this one. As they told me, they are looking into the past to get some inspiration for their products, bypassing the whole let's-copy-Apple theme that dominates the MP3 industry. Good move, because they nailed it with this one.

The Bad: The AMOLED screen didn't seem to me like the best thing ever.

Bottom line: Great digital audio and movie player. While I couldn't try the synching with the computer—which it's crucial to get a good overall experience with this type of devices—it feels like a winner.

According to iRiver, it will arrive to the US in September, but they couldn't tell me the price. In the European market, it will arrive in October for 220 euros. [More IFA 2008 Coverage]

The Good: It has Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional, if that's your thing.

The Bad: All the rest. It felt slow and buggy. I found the stuttering interface particularly bad. The side bar widgets, which need to be dragged and dropped onto the screen to make them appear as tiny little programs, is an atrocious, gimmicky interface design. Wastes space and requires a motion that is simply not needed. Samsung designers should learn that a telephone is not a desktop computer, and replicating the Mac OS X Dashboard doesn't work in a tiny screen at all.

Bottom line: After 45 minutes poking and getting frustrated by it, my verdict is to avoid it like the pest. As a consumer, my first impression is clearly one of horror and frustration. I would rather get an HTC. Or a Sony. Or a Nokia.

Quarantine Trailer:

And they are right. Miss Samsung Biker Girl, we love you (but not more than we love Miss IFA). Too bad the cameras are nothing to write home about, just mid-year updates to their existing models. No amount of hot chicks on a bike will change that, I'm afraid. OK, maybe six of them will do it. [More IFA 2008 coverage]

The good: light, very thin (7.5mm thick), good finish in brushed aluminum for the faces and plastic for the rim. High quality earphones included, which actually sound very good unlike those other headphones included in you-know-who's MP3 players. Good battery life, in theory: 40 hours of audio playback, 10 of video in its 2-inch screen. The mood sensing technology analyzes the music and makes a playlist on the fly. In theory, it sounds good.

The bad: If it does it using only the beat per minute rate, we are in for a problem, because I can think of quite a bit of pretty sad and depressing songs with high bpm, and happy ones with low bpm rates. I don't like the menu system, which makes the whole thing look and act as a Sony Ericsson phone.

Bottom line: It feels like a good competitor for the iPod nano. The quality is good, the form factor is better than Apple's offer, and it the mood sensing feature may make this a winner for those people obsessed with music and moods (that would be me). If it works. By the way, for those of you looking for the same package, but only a bit smaller and without the mood sensing and customization options of the S Series, there's the E series. [More IFA 2008 Coverage]

The S-series has a 2-inch QVGA screen, that not only plays back WMA, AAC and MP3 audio formats, but also WMV and MP4 video. SensMe is featured on a Walkman player for the first time, previously only on Sony Ericsson Walkman-branded phones. For those unfamiliar, the SensMe engine analyzes a song for various qualities and maps it on an X-Y chart. From there you can select what type of music you want to listen to according to "mood". The S-series is only 7.5mm thick, has 40 hours of audio playback and 10 hours of video playback on a single charge.

The E-series is Sony's mid-range Walkman offering, which features the same audio and video playback the S-series offers, but lacks the noise cancellation and SensMe features. Unlike the S-series, the E comes in multiple colors, including black, red, blue and pink. It has 45 hours of audio playback and 8 hours of video playback. The E-series is also available in 4 GB and 8 GB sizes.

The B-series is Sony's no-nonsense line of Walkman players that only play music. But in addition to audio playback, the B-series also serves as a voice recorder and FM radio. It has 16 hours of battery life and also comes in multiple colors like the E-series. The B-series plugs directly into your USB port for drag and drop file transfer and comes in 1 GB and 2 GB sizes.

All the players above are expected to be available in September. The 4 GB S-series will cost $150, while the 8 GB will cost $180. The 4 GB E-series will cost $100 and the 8 GB $140. Lastly, the 1 GB B-series will sell for $45 and the 2 GB will be $60. [Sony]

SONY RAISES THE CURTAIN ON NEW WALKMAN PLAYERS THAT DELIVER HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO AND VIDEO

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 28, 2008 – From noise-cancellation for frequent travelers to affordability for customers on a budget, Sony today unveiled three new Walkman® players (series S, E and B) that have something to offer nearly every customer segment.

“Whether the fit and finish, the engineering or the integration of unique technologies, each of these new series has different points of appeal,” said Mitch Li, product manager for Walkman players in the Digital Imaging and Audio Division at Sony Electronics. “These new Walkman players satisfy the need of consumers who don’t want to sacrifice sound quality for the digital music and MP3 experience.”

S-Series Walkman Players

The top-end, format-friendly Walkman S-series broadens options for enjoying tunes from multiple sources, including many download stores and personal music collections. The supplied Content Transfer software even simplifies “drag and drop” transfer of non-DRM music, videos, podcasts and playlists from online music services to Walkman players. If you’re migrating your personal collection of ripped tracks from another MP3 player, there’s no need to re-rip all your tunes from your CDs.

Support for popular audio and video codecs is enhanced because the S-series Walkman devices play Windows Media Video (WMV) files with DRM, allowing you to enjoy rights-protected movies and video clips from other media collections.

Additionally, the S-series Walkman players are the first MP3 players with Sony’s SensMe™ Channels function, which automatically creates channels that can align with a user’s preferences. Based on Sony’s SensMe Channels function, the S-series players analyze a user’s music collection and suggest channels based on each song’s speed, mood and rhythm. They create a choice of 11 themed channels from upbeat pop to emotional ballads.

In-Flight Noise Cancellation

Whether commuting, flying high or just listening to music at home, the new S-series Walkman players help diminish background noise while improving your overall listening experience. The top-end S-series Walkman players feature integrated active noise cancellation with supplied 13.5mm EX noise canceling headphones and an accessory cable that extends the noise canceling functionality of the device. On airplanes, travellers can – for the first time – connect the S-series player directly to a plane’s audio video system with the included accessory cable and enjoy regular in-flight entertainment with the bonus of high-quality noise cancellation.

Just 7.5mm thin, the super-light S-series is the slimmest Walkman player in any of the new series. It has a bright, high-contrast 2-inch QVGA LCD screen (measured diagonally) that has an ultra-quick response time, with smooth playback at up to 30 frames per second and selectable horizontal/vertical viewing. The interface can be personalized with the user’s choice of 10 pre-installed wallpaper images or their favorite digital photo.

E-Series Walkman Players

The E-series combines high-quality video and audio performance to create the perfect device for enjoying favorite photos and video clips. Like the S-series, all E-series models are format friendly, easily playing back ripped tracks from your personal music collection, music store downloads and rights-managed video clips. Non-DRM files can be transferred by “drag and drop” from online music services to Walkman players.

Support for popular audio and video codecs is enhanced because the E-series Walkman players can also support Windows Media Video (WMV) with DRM, allowing rights-protected movies and video clips from other media collections.

B-Series Walkman Players

The affordable entry-level Walkman B-series player offers the high-quality sound that users have come to expect from Sony. The ultra-portable devices can connect to your PC’s USB port for easy “drag and drop” file transfers. Like all other Walkman models, open support for Windows Media Audio (WMA) and MP3 codecs enables users to buy, copy and manage music to fit their needs.

The stylish design is enhanced by an illuminator that pulses in time with the music when the bass button is pressed. The device has an FM radio for enjoying favorite stations and a voice recorder that’s great for capturing memos, shopping lists or random thoughts while you’re on the move.

Battery Life

The battery life is up to 40 hours of music playback for S-series, up to 45 hours for the E-series and up to 16 hours for the B-series. The battery life is up to 10 hours of video playback for S-series, up to 8 hours for the E-series. The battery life is also up to 30 hours of audio playback for the S-series when the noise-cancellation feature is activated. Actual battery life may vary upon usage patterns, product settings, battery and environmental conditions.

Sony’s Open Platform Means More Choice

The E- and S-series Walkman players support an open platform, providing more choices for downloading and managing music and video collections online. The devices can support security-enhanced Windows Media Audio (WMA), as well as non-secure AAC, linear PCM and MP3 music formats plus JPEG files for photos, in addition to the WMV with DRM, AVC (H.264/AVC) Baseline Profile and MPEG-4 video codecs.

Pricing and Availability

The S-series of Walkman noise canceling video MP3 players come in two different storage capacities in black:

* The NWZ-S736F has approximately 4GB of internal storage and will cost about $150.
* The NWZ-S738F has approximately 8GB of internal storage and will cost about $180.

The E-series of Walkman video MP3 players will be available in the following configurations:

* The NWZ-E436F comes in black, red, pink, blue, has approximately 4GB of internal storage and costs about $100.
* The NWZ-E438F comes in black, red, pink, has approximately 8GB of internal storage, and costs about $140.

The B-series of Walkman MP3 players come in two different capacities and four colors:

* The NWZ-B133F player has approximately 1GB of internal storage; comes in black, red and blue and will cost about $45.
* The NWZ-B135F player has approximately 2GB of internal storage; comes in black, red and pink and will cost about $60.

Presales have begun for the new Walkman models online at www.sonystyle.com/walkman and at Sony Style stores. The players will be available in September across the country at military base exchanges and at authorized dealers nationwide.

He concludes from the experiments that it should work really well as a fire retardant or insulation, as well as pulling moisture out of pretty much anything (including his finger!). Aerogel weighs only three times as much as air, but is even more effective than your everyday pink insulation. It may only be the world's coolest insulation material, but are you the world's coolest anything? Didn't think so. [Jason Wells via Crunchgear]

Size: 116.3 x 43.4 x 16.3 mm
Weight: 140g with battery
Networks: WCDMA/HSDPA: 900/2100 MHz for EU and Asia
GSM/GPRS/EDGE: 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
Maximum speed: UL = 384 kbps; DL = 3.6/7.2 Mbps**
Operating system: Windows Mobile® 6.1 Standard
Display: 2.4-inch QVGA screen
Camera: 3.2 megapixel with fixed focus
Internal memory: 256 MB flash; 256 MB RAM
Memory card: microSD™
WLAN: 802.11b/g
Bluetooth®: 2.0 with EDR
GPS: GPS/AGPS
Interface: HTC ExtUSB™ (mini-USB and audio jack in one; USB 2.0 High-Speed)
Battery: 1000 mAh
Talk time: WCDMA: Up to 320 minutes*** / GSM: Up to 380 minutes***
Standby time: WCDMA: Up to 400 hours*** / GSM: Up to 280 hours***
Special features: Sliding QWERTY keyboard, FM radio, Google Maps, RSS Hub
Chipset: Qualcomm® MSM7225, 528 MHz

YAMAHA’S NEW BD-S2900 BLU-RAY DISC PLAYER FEATURES INDUSTRY-LEADING HD AND MULTIMEDIA CAPABILITIES

— Model Offers RS-232C Interface and IR In/Out Ports for Seamless CI Integration,
12-Bit Deep Color, HD Audio Bitstream Output, Picture-in-Picture and Virtual Package Multimedia Features —

BUENA PARK, Calif.—Yamaha, the innovator in home theater and digital audio and video reproduction, today introduced the BD-S2900, an innovative Blu-ray Disc player that gives home theater enthusiasts a front-row seat at the leading-edge of high-definition entertainment. Featuring performance enhancements such as 12-bit Deep Color and HD Audio Bitstream output, engaging BONUSVIEW Functions that leverage the Blu-ray format’s next-generation multimedia capabilities and a stylish design to match the company’s high-end receiver line, the BD-S2900 ($1199.95 MSRP) delivers on the promise of all the excitement the home theater experience can offer.
Delivering the highest picture quality, the BD-S2900 can output 1080p via HDMI. Although these signals are generally sent at 50 or 60 frames per second (fps), the BD-S2900 can output them at 24fps, the same frame rate at which movies are shot. This results in a much sharper picture with smooth motion, truer to the original motion picture production. With 12-bit Deep Color compatibility, the BD-S2900 can deliver 4096 shades of each of three primary colors for an astronomical total of 68.7 billion possible colors. This gives viewers inspiringly rich and deep color experiences with incredible color fidelity, smooth tonal transitions and ultra-fine gradations between colors. It also enables many times more shades of gray for a higher contrast ratio.

The unit’s high-quality video processing offers Chroma Upsampling, precise pixel detection and 16-step motion video detection. In addition to providing 1080p output from Blu-ray Discs, the BD-S2900 also offers 1080p output for DVD discs, photos and personal video data, delivering an HD experience from a broad range of today’s popular content sources.
The BD-S2900’s magnificent audio performance is achieved through the incorporation of the latest HD technologies. High bit-rate audio signals (Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio) are output directly from the player to the receiver (via an HDMI cable) without conversion to PCM. With the BD-S2900 and an appropriately equipped AV receiver, users can experience pure, direct and unadulterated audio exactly as it was intended to be heard. The device also offers superb analog audio output with a 192kHz, 24-bit converter.
With the incorporation of BONUSVIEW features, the BD-S2900 delivers next-generation capabilities for the Blu-ray format. Home theater aficionados can take full advantage of the latest features, such as Picture-in-Picture and Virtual Package. Using the BD-S2900’s remote control, users can instantly view a secondary picture inside the main picture, with compatible Blu-ray Discs. In addition, the BD-S2900 can output the secondary audio, giving viewers truly multi-dimensional experiences. Virtual Package lets viewers combine information from a Blu-ray Disc with content on an SD card to enjoy additional multimedia and interactive possibilities as they become available.
The BD-S2900 features a full complement of connections including an HDMI output, component, S-Video and composite video outputs, as well as optical digital, coaxial digital and 5.1-channel analog audio outputs.
The BD-S2900 is designed to perfectly complement high-end home theater installations. The unit has an RS-232C interface that can be used for touch controllers, as well as IR in/out ports that make it easy to integrate into any environment. The BD-S2900 also has a well-designed graphical user interface for menu and feature display on your HDTV. Its front panel design is not only clean and uncluttered, but also matches Yamaha’s top-class receivers to give your system a neat, uniform appearance. Bright, dim and auto display brightness modes minimize viewing distractions.

And if those prizes weren't enough to run to get your camera out, we have asked the best Lego movie directors—Nathan Wells, David Pagano, and Nate Burr—to create three exclusive movies to inspire you. Even if you are not participating, you really have to watch these.

30 Years of Music, by Nathan Wells

Go Miniman Go, by David Pagano

Living in Meatspace, by Nate Burr

Nate, David, and Nathan will be the three judges in this contest along with Lego's director of Marketing Communications Keith Malone, and myself. Here are the rules for the contest:

Theme
The videos don't have to be about the 30th anniversary itself, like the two great odes to the minifig that David and Nathan have created. They just have to use the Lego minifig. Nate's, for example, is a good example of an alternative theme: just one funny skit, like the famous Death Star canteen short that uses Eddie Izzard's monologue.

One good line of work could be a 30-second fun short on any moment of technology history. Like Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak making the original Apple in the garage, the first astronauts arriving to the moon, Bill Gates retiring, a scene from a tech movie like Tron or War Games, or some famous advertising.

But don't be constrained by that. The bottom line is that, as long as it is original, creative, and revolves around the Lego minifig, you are in.

Technique
Remember that your videos don't have to use stop-motion techniques—although obviously these give the best results to tell a story—and we all are partial to stop-motion because it's just cool. However, keep your mind open and explore other possibilities.

Duration
A 20- to 30-second short—the duration of a typical TV ad—will be the minimum to enter the contest.

Due date
October 15th will be the limit.

Format
No need to go High Definition. A 520-pixel-wide video in crystal-clear MPEG-4 format will be enough.

How to send it
To send your video, we recommend you to use the free delivery service YouSendIt.com. Address it to jesus at gizmodo.com

Prizes
• First and second place: Galaxy Explorer or the Yellow Castle. Whoever wins first place picks the set he or she wants. The remaining set will go to the second place winner.
• Third price: A special set designed by Lego owner Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen.
• Runners-up: a ton of smaller vintage space and town sets, new vintage minifigure series, and newer sets.

Do you have any questions? Write them in the comments and we will answer them. Standard Gawker contest rules apply. [Go Miniman Go]

It has been quite an Olympics hasn't it? From the spectacular opening ceremonies, to the amazing performances by Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt (not to mention all of the controversy stirred up by the Chinese government). In years past I can't say that I was all that excited about the Olympics—but I will be kind of sad to see this one go. The good news is that just because the games are over doesn't mean you can't carry the torch...literally. So, check out the following ten gadgets to learn how to play like an Olympian.

Torch Relay:

Usually, physically fit / important individuals are chosen to be a part of the Olympic torch relay—which is why you were passed over this time around. Screw the IOC! You can have your own torch relay around the neighborhood with this official replica version. Only 200,000 were authorized—each featuring steel leftover from the "Birds Nest" stadium and a base of laser cut crystal illustrating the route of the controversial Beijing torch relay. Available for $500. [Product Page]

Avoiding the Health Hazards of Pollution:

A big to-do was made out of the poor quality of the air in Beijing. In fact, it was such an issue that many athletes were issued smog masks before they arrived—and the US cycling team was forced to apologize for wearing them at the airport. If airborne pollutants concern you, and you don't mind looking like a Michael Jackson-esque hypochondriac, you can pick up a filtered pollution mask for around $25 (sport version available on 8/25). [I Can Breathe]

Swimming:

Obviously the big story of this year's Olympics was Michael Phelps' amazing 8 gold medal effort. He is a machine, there is no doubt about it, but he did have some help. The LZR Racer swimsuit from Speedo had a hand in a race or two with its space age fabrics and snug Hydro Form compression system. Available for $550 starting in October. [Speedo via Link]

Another secret to Phelps' success was his trusty iPod. We saw him sporting earbuds and getting pumped up with music before every race. But what the hell was he listening to exactly? The only song we know for sure was Lil Wayne's "I'm Me," but he has professed affinity for Young Jeezy, Twista, Eminem, Usher and Outkast in the past. So what does that mean for you? Rap wins gold medals folks. It's a fact. [ZDNet]

Volleyball:

Besides the mystery of Phelps' iPod, another question on everyone's mind was that black junk on the shoulder of Volleyball phenom and hottie extraordinaire Kerri Walsh. The answer was Kinesio athletic tape, and it helps support muscles without inhibiting the athlete's range of motion. Available for about $15 a roll. [AllegroMedical and Link]

Fencing:

Those bizarre blinking helmets you see on the heads of fencing athletes in the Olympics are actually based on the same technology the sport has been relying on for years. LEDs on the mask are set off when the open-closed circuit system detects a charge from the weapon, indicating a hit. Forget fencing, these would make great accessories to a Halloween costume. [Link]

Cycling:

Unless you have a million bucks to burn on a bike, you will not be getting your hands on this custom Koga bike designed for Dutch cyclist Theo Bos. Apparently, it has the lowest air resistance of any bike in the world, and its super stiff frame makes it an extremely difficult ride—unless you are a finely tuned athlete, that is. [Link]

Track and Field:

Staying cool is essential if you are training on a track outside in the heat. The Nike PreCool vest helps athletes lower their core temperature and keep muscles working optimally. The vest features two layers: the innermost layer is filled with frozen water and the outermost layer is made from aluminum to help trap the cold in. [Link]

If you saw Usain Bolt capture the 100 and the 200 meter golds, you probably know that he could have won the race in flip-flops. However, he was wearing custom gold-colored Puma Theseus II Croc track spikes on both occasions, and you can pick them up at Foot Locker for $100. [Foot Locker]

Okay, So You Are Not The Athletic Type:

No worries, you can still sit on your ass and smoke like an Olympian with this Bird's Nest ashtray and lighter combo. There is even an LED in the lighter to give it the same stylish vibe as the real thing. Available for $23. [sourcingmap]

The S-Airplay has a transmitting range of 164 feet, alarm clock functions and an AM/FM tuner. Each speaker has the option of playing audio from the radio or iPod (or nothing), and each can control playback options remotely. The central dock can connect to your home theater system, allowing another method of playback.

The S-Airplay is available for pre-order now, and will begin shipping in September. For $400 you can get a bundle including one docking station and two wireless speakers. Additional speakers cost $130. [Sony]

SONY UNVEILS WIRELESS MULTI-ROOM
AUDIO SYSTEM FOR IPOD PLAYERS

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 21, 2008 – Sony today took the wraps off its new wireless, multi-room audio system for listening to iPod® players.
The new S-AIRPLAY™ system features Sony’s S-Air™ technology, which provides a practical, wireless multi-room solution without complicated setup requirements. Wireless audio can be transmitted from the system’s main docking station in one room to various rooms throughout the home — up to nearly 164 feet—simply by plugging a separate S-Air wireless speaker into a power outlet.
“This technology makes it easy to listen to music from a compatible iPod without carrying it from room to room,” said Andrew Sivori, director of marketing in the personal audio group at Sony Electronics’ Digital Imaging and Audio Division. “It’s an easy, inexpensive way to get multi-room audio without professional installation.”
S-Air technology delivers audio wirelessly to the included speakers without interfering with other household devices. The system comes with one docking station and two S-Air wireless speakers, but it can transmit to up to 10 speakers simultaneously (additional speakers sold separately).
Equipped with an AM/FM tuner, the S-AIRPLAY system’s dual source feature lets users listen to music from the iPod player or from a radio station. Listeners in one room can hear their favorite radio station, while listeners in another room can enjoy music from the iPod at the same time.
The S-Air wireless speakers include remote control capability for the iPod player’s music tracks so you can advance or go back to previously played songs. The speakers also incorporate sleep timers and an alarm clock function, making them perfect for bedside placement.
To connect to an existing home theater system or television set, the docking station includes composite A/V outputs. It also charges the iPod while it is docked.
Pricing and Availability
Pre-orders for the S-AIRPLAY audio system are now being accepted online at www.sonystyle.com. The system (model AIR-SA20PK) will be available in September for about $400 at Sony Style® retail stores and select retailers nationwide. Additional S-Air wireless speakers will also be available next month for about $130 direct from Sony.

Even better, the X10 has an improved GPS reception for tracking in difficult locations, like under heavy foliage in the rainforest. It's also got a track-back function so you can retrace your steps if you're lost, and 33% more battery life than the previous X9i generation. It also live-records routes and waypoints, so you can pinpoint on your PC later where that ancient undiscovered ruined temple really was, and it charges/connects over USB.

Available in two colors in September, though there's no info on price. [Navigadget]

Click here and drop in the code GizmodoAUG. Let us know how it goes, 'specially the NBC Olympics stuff since Skyfire is pimping it pretty hard.

Skyfire Mobile Browser Satisfying Hunger for the Olympics with Live Access to Olympic Footage from NBC's PC Website

NBC-Universal is offering an unprecedented amount of video footage of the summer Olympics from Beijing on its website NBColympics.com. While Google, Yahoo and even NBC have limited mobile offerings, the Skyfire mobile browser, currently in private beta, has full access to all of NBC's full-PC site including access to full video. Skyfire users can not only see highlights of Michael Phelps' first medal-garnering performances, they can watch live as he swims toward his next gold.

In addition to being the only mobile browser that allows full access to the NBColympics.com site, Skyfire has also added a widget on its launching page, linking to video and picture slideshows of the latest from Beijing. This custom blend of images and video is updated through RSS several times a day, making Skyfire the best way to follow the Olympics from a mobile device.

Skyfire is the only mobile browser which supports full Flash, which is the most popular online video codec. Fans of the Olympics who watch the games at home on their desktop PCs, probably had to download the Silverlight plug-in in order to view the video. Skyfire added Silverlight support seamlessly, without its users having to install a new plug-in or even update the browser version.

The Skyfire browser is currently in private beta on the WindowsMobile and Symbian platforms.

[Skyfire]