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Playstation 3D Display hits shelves November 13, Sony answers your burning questions

Joe Pollicino — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST

We'd imagine come November 13th, the above will be the scene inside many a PS3 owner's house. That's when Sony's hot little 24-inch PlayStation 3D display will officially be available in the US, Canada, Europe and parts of Asia. Sony took to its US PlayStation Blog today with the news, along with a lengthy FAQ to keep your GAS at bay in the meantime. If you'll recall, the 240Hz 1080p display packs a single set of component inputs, two HDMI 1.4 ports, stereo RCA outputs, a headphone jack, an integrated subwoofer, and of course, 3D-capability with supported titles. For five hundred bucks you'll get the PS 3D Display, one pair of USB-rechargeable 3D Glasses ($70 for each additional pair), a copy of Motorstorm: Apocalypse and even an HDMI cable. Notably, its fancy (and exclusive) SimulView feature will let two sets of 3D shades grab either the left or right side feed in supported 3D games for a private 2D view. Disappointingly, this puppy isn't wall-mountable, but hey, that 24-inch panel surely makes it ideal for a desktop setup, no? Full details at the links below, along with a refresher shot of those 3D specs just past the break.

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Playstation 3D Display hits shelves November 13, Sony answers your burning questions originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Motorola Droid Bionic specs revealed: TI OMAP 4430 dual-core CPU, Android 2.3.4 on board (update: wrong model number)

Brad Molen — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 19:17:00 EST

Can't wait to get those mitts on a Droid Bionic, but still wondering what lies beneath? Seems as though the Motorola mobile of mystery can't hold its secrets forever, since the specs of the Bionic are now up for perusal on Motorola's developer site. Here's the skinny: it's got a TI OMAP 4430 1GHz dual-core CPU bundled with 1GB RAM (twice the amount in the Droid 3), a 4.3-inch qHD display with 960 x 540 resolution, HDMI 1.4, 8 megapixel rear camera accompanied by a VGA front-facing shooter and 1080p HD video capture, webtop capabilities, and the obvious LTE radio. Unfortunately, the specs confirm the Bionic's lack of GSM / EDGE -- essentially turning it into a fancy PMP when traveling abroad -- and doesn't bother mentioning battery size (or life, for that matter), the most confounding question still lingering aside from the release date. C'mon, Motorola, can we at least get a hint?

Update: A keen-eyed tipster alerted us to one minor snafu in the above image: it shows the Motorola XT865 -- the original Droid Bionic unveiled at CES 2011 last January -- instead of the XT875, which belongs to the new and redesigned model. We can't be sure if this is an typo on the site or if it really is the old version. Either way, we'll keep a close eye on the story and update if we hear anything else.

Motorola Droid Bionic specs revealed: TI OMAP 4430 dual-core CPU, Android 2.3.4 on board (update: wrong model number) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 19:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xtreamer's Prodigy media streamer gets upgraded internals, shoots 3D video to your screen for €149

Michael Gorman — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 22:01:00 EST

Last time we saw the Xtreamer Prodigy, it was shaping up to be quite the slick little media streamer with a Realtek 1185 chipset running at 500MHz, a plethora of supported codecs, and a fancy flash-based GUI with Android underpinnings. In the months since, the Prodigy hit the gym and now packs Realtek's 1186 silicon clocked at 750MHz and HDMI 1.4 for pumping out video in three dee. There's also Gigabit Ethernet, 802.11n WiFi, and support for up to a 3TB HDD in its 3.5-inch bay, so you can source your videos from home or abroad with the greatest of ease. Currently up for pre-order, this digital media distributing dandy will cost €149 (that's $213 here in the States), but won't ship until September.

Xtreamer's Prodigy media streamer gets upgraded internals, shoots 3D video to your screen for €149 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 22:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alienware's M18x: a beautiful beast for the gamer on the go

Michael Gorman — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:49:00 EST

A sneak peek from the Great White North showed us Alienware's new mobile gaming flagship, but now we've got the real specs and a whole gaggle of pretty pics for you to drool over. It turns out the M18x has a massive 18.4-inch 1920 x 1080 Full HD display, an Intel Core i7 Extreme chip overclocked to a frag-tastic 4GHz, your choice of AMD CrossFireX or NVIDIA SLI graphics, up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM, a 3D-capable HDMI 1.4 port, WirelessHD for the cable-averse crowd, and five macro-programmable keys wrapped in a otherworldly anodized aluminum shell. We're still not sure when you'll be able to get your hands on one, but we do know it can't get here soon enough. Would-be alien abductees can catch a glimpse of their new overlord in the gallery below -- not to worry, no neuralizer's included.

[Thanks, Thatoe]

Gallery: Alienware M18x

Alienware's M18x: a beautiful beast for the gamer on the go originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony rolls out four more 3D-ready receivers

Richard Lawler — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 11:54:00 EST

Sony just refreshed its lineup of non-ES AV receivers, adding four models available for less than $500 that all include 3D HDMI pass-through this time around and have at least six HD inputs each. All feature the BRAVIA Widget on-screen interface, while some include iPod docks, Faroudja DCDi Edge video upscaling, Sony Media Remote iOS / Android app control and other features. The top model is the DLNA-certified STR-DN1020 pictured above, it has all the checkboxes ticked, an MSRP of $500, and is due to arrive in May. Check out the details on the rest after the break.

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Sony rolls out four more 3D-ready receivers originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ask Engadget HD: What's the best AV receiver for around $600?

Richard Lawler — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST

It's been quite a while since we checked in on the midrange receiver market, but our friend Simon's query has brought this crucial home theater component back to the forefront:

"It's way past time for me to get a new receiver, my old one doesn't even have HDMI and I'm ready for a full audio upgrade. I don't want to break the bank and I figure I should be able to get something good for $500 - $600, but which one's the best? I do use my iPod so compatibility with that would be nice, and since I plan to have this one as long as I did the old one, it should probably be 3D ready and all of that stuff too. Any ideas?"

Simple and to the point, there's plenty of brands and models out there to choose from and the 2010 market has been full of selections that meet his criteria. Let us know which one you prefer in the comments below.

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Ask Engadget HD: What's the best AV receiver for around $600? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LG's LW6500 Cinema 3D TV is certified flicker-free, launching at CES

Vlad Savov — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 07:06:00 EST

Oh LG, you infernal tease. Instead of politely revealing its full set of plans for CES 2011, the Korean company keeps gently peeling away the layers of ignorance, with today marking its pre-announcement of a new Cinema 3D TV set. The LW6500 opts for passive 3D glasses, in place of the currently popular active shutter goggles, which has garnered it a couple of industry certifications to say that its 3D is guaranteed, definitely, totally flicker-free. Aside from that, you get a neat brightness booster to ensure that switching on the third dimension doesn't dim the picture unduly, while the rest of the specs and extras on this 200Hz panel seem mostly unremarkable. We'll be casting our eyeballs over it at CES next week, which will be followed, we're told, by a rollout in select markets shortly thereafter.

Continue reading LG's LW6500 Cinema 3D TV is certified flicker-free, launching at CES

LG's LW6500 Cinema 3D TV is certified flicker-free, launching at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 07:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yamaha's $1,000 YSP-2200 Digital Sound Projector debuts with HDMI 1.4a

Darren Murph — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:01:00 EST

It's been a hot minute since Yamaha served up a new Digital Sound Projector, but with 3D doing its darnedest to take over the home entertainment universe, there's hardly a better time for the YSP range to make a comeback. Debuting shortly before CES, the YSP-2200 is one of the outfits sleeker soundbars at 3.5-inches tall, touting 16 speaker beam drivers, faux 7.1 surround sound, 11 Cinema DSP programs and full internal decoding of DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD. You'll also find a foursome of HDMI 1.4a inputs alongside a single output, all of which are fully capable of handling 3D Blu-ray content. We've been ardent supporters of the YSP range ever since we first heard one at CEDIA 2008, but even for a loyalist, the $999.95 retail price is tough to swallow. But hey, at least that nets you a 100-watt subwoofer and a bucket of bragging rights!

Continue reading Yamaha's $1,000 YSP-2200 Digital Sound Projector debuts with HDMI 1.4a

Yamaha's $1,000 YSP-2200 Digital Sound Projector debuts with HDMI 1.4a originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Major tech manufacturers to drop VGA by 2015, Apple wonders what took 'em so long

Ben Bowers — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 10:58:00 EST

A syndicate of consumer electronics titans including AMD, Dell, Intel, Lenovo, Samsung and LG announced this week that its products will collectively drop support for VGA by 2015. Saying sayonara to the 20+ year-old analog technology is pretty self explanatory to us in this day and age, but the council of doom apparently felt compelled to cite DisplayPort's and HDMI's benefits of increased energy efficiency, smaller size and support for higher-resolutions as proof the move wasn't personal -- just business. AMD plans to lead the charge by starting the VGA removal process in 2013 and even intends to go the extra mile by stripping DVI-I and low voltage differential signaling technology (LVDS) support too. We definitely side with AMD's desire to focus on cutting edge standards like Displayport 1.2 and HDMI 1.4a sooner, but if plenty of lead time and "going green" excuses help everyone else involved in the sentencing sleep better at night, then so be it.

Continue reading Major tech manufacturers to drop VGA by 2015, Apple wonders what took 'em so long

Major tech manufacturers to drop VGA by 2015, Apple wonders what took 'em so long originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mitsubishi updates 2010 3D-ready HDTVs for full 3D video support

Richard Lawler — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 13:37:00 EST

While its older 3DTVs will still absolutely require an adapter, Mitsubishi is rolling out a software update for its 2010 line of 3D-ready HDTVs that will allow them to process additional forms of 3D video supported by HDMI 1.4 devices. The TVs shipped with only support for checkerboard or side-by-side format 3D, while the new update adds top-bottom (ESPN 3D) and frame packing (Blu-ray 3D) support without requiring an adapter passthrough. Owners of 738 and 838 TVs that are hooked to the internet should start seeing the update soon automatically, or it will be available for download from the website. You'll probably still want to grab a starter kit with IR sync and glasses if you want the Samsung-compatible specs, but DLP-link active shutter 3D glasses should work without any additional hardware at all.

Update: Mitsubishi informed us the automatic update and the website should go live tomorrow, 11/16.

Continue reading Mitsubishi updates 2010 3D-ready HDTVs for full 3D video support

Mitsubishi updates 2010 3D-ready HDTVs for full 3D video support originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 13:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mitsubishi America offers up two new 3D projectors

Ben Drawbaugh — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EST

The first new projector for the US is the HC4000 (pictured) which is touted as a great price for the performance DIY HT projector and features the 1080p DarkChip 3 DLP light engine. It is capable of 1300 lumens and provides up to 750:1 ANSI contrast ratio. It has support for an optional anamorphic lens for those 2.35:1 movies and is rated at a very quiet 25dBA in low mode. The estimated price is $1495 and should be available immediately. The bigger brother is the Diamond 3D which evidently has no price, but does use the 120hz Sony SXRD light engine, has an auto-iris function for easy setup, only musters 19dBa of noise while it is running and features two HDMI 1.4 inputs and an RS232 port for control.

Continue reading Mitsubishi America offers up two new 3D projectors

Mitsubishi America offers up two new 3D projectors originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Runco's first 3Dimension projector uses passive glasses

Ben Drawbaugh — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:42:00 EST

The Ferrari of the projector world kicks off its version of 3D at CEDIA with the 3Dimension Series projectors which surprisingly use passive glasses instead of the battery operated active ones. The big catch of course is the price of $49,995 for the D-73 pictured above, and the fact that the glasses are proprietary and not the standard RealD glasses you've used at your local cinema. Obviously there are a wide range of inputs and controls including HDMI 1.4 (no 1.4a?) and RS-232 for the home automation fans. The D-73 starts shipping in the fourth quarter for those lucky enough to afford such luxuries and the full press release is available after the break while you wait.

Continue reading Runco's first 3Dimension projector uses passive glasses

Runco's first 3Dimension projector uses passive glasses originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ASUS upgrades G53 and G73 gaming laptops with 1.5GB NVIDIA GTX 460 grunt

Vlad Savov — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 05:02:00 EST

Ready to splash the cash on NVIDIA's fresh new mobile Fermi graphics cards? ASUS is the first company to take the veils off its GTX 460M offering, which it has seasoned with a most welcome addition: 1.5GB of dedicated GDDR5 graphics memory. The ROG G53JW and G73JW machines are the beneficiaries of this upgrade, with both capable of 3D work should you ask them nicely, and offering such tasty options as quad-core Core i7 CPUs, up to 8GB of DDR3 RAM, 750GB of storage, 16:9 displays (1,366 x 768 on the 15.6-inch G53 and up to 1,920 x 1,080 on the 17.3-inch G73), Blu-ray-writing optical drives, and 8-cell 5,200mAh batteries. The lighter of the two laptops weighs in at 3.6kg, but if that doesn't put you off, both are available right now at online retailers.

[Thanks, LifeBringer]

Continue reading ASUS upgrades G53 and G73 gaming laptops with 1.5GB NVIDIA GTX 460 grunt

ASUS upgrades G53 and G73 gaming laptops with 1.5GB NVIDIA GTX 460 grunt originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 05:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A first hand look at NVIDIA 3DTV Play and PowerDVD 3D

Ben Drawbaugh — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 17:29:00 EST

Home theater PC fans will tell you that one of the reasons they do what they do is because of the flexibility that comes along with a roll your own home theater PC. And so of course the latest HTPCs need to be able to play 3D movies, games and broadcast content. Now NVIDIA has been bringing 3D to PCs for years but the latest 3DTVs don't share as much in common with 3D PC displays as you might think. Some think this is as simple as getting a video card with an HDMI 1.4 port, but in regards to 3D it is just a spec and your existing video card you've had for years might just work. In fact what HDMI 1.4 means to 3D is simply that a device is capable of outputting specific 3D formats (all common 3D formats used less bandwidth than 1080p60 2D). Sure the hardware must be physically capable of transmitting the signal, but what we're really talking about here is software, not hardware. That's where NVIDIA 3DTV Play comes in. This little piece of magic will be free for those who already own an NVIDIA 3D Vision kit, but for the rest of us with NVIDIA video cards, it'll be $40. What's interesting is that 3DTV Play doesn't really help those with the 3D Vision kits, because it is specifically for 3DTVs; which require their own 3D glasses. Now if you really want to know exactly what 3DTV Play does help with, and how well it works, well you'll just have to click on through for that part.

Continue reading A first hand look at NVIDIA 3DTV Play and PowerDVD 3D

A first hand look at NVIDIA 3DTV Play and PowerDVD 3D originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony to start rolling out promised 3D update for latest A/V receivers

Ben Drawbaugh — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:05:00 EST

As promised, Sony will begin rolling out updates for its latest A/V receivers to enable the latest 3D signals to pass through them. Obviously this is only for the STR-DH710 and STR-DH810 that were released a few months ago, and can be performed by the user so no trip to the shop is required. If you happened to have picked one of these guys up more recently, then the download links below (that go live the night of July 23rd) are of no use to you because Sony has already been shipping updated receivers for the past month or so.

Sony to start rolling out promised 3D update for latest A/V receivers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Onkyo's HT-S7300 and HT-S6300 HTIB bundles are totally ready for 3D, man

Darren Murph — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:32:00 EST

Shocker of shockers -- Onkyo has outed a pair of home-theater-in-box bundles, and both of 'em are 3D ready. Crazy, ain't it? The HT-S6300 and HT-S7300 both have 3D-ready HDMI-1.4a inputs, 1080p video upscaling, lossless Dolby and DTS high definition audio, Dolby height processing, Audyssey automatic room equalization and seven total loudspeakers (plus a subwoofer). The primary difference between the two is the pair of 41-inch tall floorstanders that come with the S7300, as both systems ship with a 7 x 130W amplifier and a 290W subbie. As expected, there's also an outboard dock for iPod and iPhone, and the Faroudja DCDi Cinema processor should keep upscaled content looking its very best. The duo is available now for $749 and $899, respectively, and the full presser awaits just past the break should you find yourself interested.

Continue reading Onkyo's HT-S7300 and HT-S6300 HTIB bundles are totally ready for 3D, man

Onkyo's HT-S7300 and HT-S6300 HTIB bundles are totally ready for 3D, man originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DVDO iScan Duo to get an update to pass 3D signal

Ben Drawbaugh — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:44:00 EST

This is the kind of support we wish all hardware manufacturers provided -- Anchor Bay will release an update for its video processor and HDMI switch in the third quarter which, among other things, enables said device to pass 3D signals. We know we're not alone when we say that we really wish more consumer electronics manufacturers would release such an update to their HDMI 1.3 devices -- Blu-ray's full 1080p 3D actually requires less bandwidth than 1080p60. No, of course most companies would rather add the feature to new hardware so we'll be compelled to replace a perfectly capable audio video receiver.

DVDO iScan Duo to get an update to pass 3D signal originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Insignia's new 5.1 surround sound offers plenty at a great price

Ben Drawbaugh — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 22:22:00 EST

We love us some high end equipment, but we also know everyone has to start somewhere and when you're starting from scratch, any surround sound system is better than no surround sound at all. The Insignia 5.1 system pictured above is available now from Best Buy at $399 and is hard to beat at that price. The specs claim it pumps out 110 watts per channel and includes a 120 watt powered sub. Best of all is it features the Audyssey audio technology, which makes proper calibration a real breeze. And in case you been eyeing a 3DTV, it has three HDMI inputs that are 1.4 compatible and will pass all the latest 3D formats.

Continue reading Insignia's new 5.1 surround sound offers plenty at a great price

Insignia's new 5.1 surround sound offers plenty at a great price originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 22:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LG's BX580 network 3D Blu-ray player now shipping for $100 less than expected

Tim Stevens — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:11:00 EST

Is there an HDMI 1.4-compatible Blu-ray player in your future? LG's BX580 wants to be your player of today. The device is now shipping, more or less falling in line with the "month or two" estimate we got back in May, but clocking in at $100 less than the $400 we'd expected it at. Sure it's listed on Amazon's page at $399, but add it to your shopping cart and (spoiler alert) it's actually just $299.86. That's a relative bargain -- though we'd still have a hard time choosing this over an equally 3D-ready PS3.

LG's BX580 network 3D Blu-ray player now shipping for $100 less than expected originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 08:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Panasonic's new sound bar and surround sound system are 3D ready

Ben Drawbaugh — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 14:18:00 EST

If you've been waiting for new audio gear that features HDMI 1.4 and leverages its new features like the ability to pass Full 3D HD and an auto return channel, here are two new ones. The most interesting of the new lineup is the SC-ZT2 wireless audio system (pictured above) which uses two wireless speakers to render the same surround sound as a 7.1 system -- or so Panasonic says, but we'll have to take their word on the sound quality, but no doubt it looks cool. It is available now and retails for $999. Also new to the lineup is the SC-HTB10 and SC-HTB500 sound bars. The 500 features a separate subwoofer and will be available in August for $349, while the 10 has an integrated sub and will be available this month for $199. More pictures and the full releases after the jump.

Continue reading Panasonic's new sound bar and surround sound system are 3D ready

Panasonic's new sound bar and surround sound system are 3D ready originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 05 Jun 2010 14:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ASUS debuts 15.6-inch ROG G53 3D gaming laptop at Computex

Darren Murph — Mon, 31 May 2010 06:44:00 EST

Hope you're not burned out on ASUS introductions yet, 'cause they're far from over. During the outfit's Computex press conference, a new multimedia monster was unveiled in the ROG G53. ASUS didn't bother sharing too many specifications, but that didn't stop us from hunting down a placard with the deets we were craving. Whenever the company decides to ship it, it'll be available with Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7 options, up to 16GB of DDR3 memory on the quad-core machines (8GB of DDR3 on the dual-core rigs), a LED-backlit "HD" display, NVIDIA "Enthusiast" graphics, room for a pair of hard drives (or an SSD / HDD combo system), an optional Blu-ray drive, USB 3.0 ports and an HDMI 1.4 port for piping those 3D signals to your 3D HDTV. Per usual, there's no mention of a price tag, but hopefully we'll be clued in sooner rather than later.

Update: Two other gaming lappies were slipped in today by ASUS: the 17.3-inch G73Jw and G51 3D, neither of which have their specs sheets in public view.

Gallery: ASUS ROG G53 at Computex 2010

ASUS debuts 15.6-inch ROG G53 3D gaming laptop at Computex originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 May 2010 06:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HTC EVO 4G will have a HDMI dock, sold through Best Buy

Vlad Savov — Wed, 26 May 2010 03:58:00 EST

One of the things we bemoaned in our EVO 4G review was the lack of an included Micro HDMI cable in the box, mostly because they're still somewhat hard to find, but that worry can now be allayed thanks to this newly uncovered HDMI dock from HTC. It will work with the microUSB port at the bottom of your EVO for data and power transfers, but the main attraction will obviously be its compatibility with the phone's Type D connector and HDMI 1.4 connectivity. Before you rush to your nearest Best Buy to get one, though, there are a couple of caveats. PC Mag's testing of the HDMI output found some TVs only recognized a 480p signal when the EVO was sending out 1080p, and a number of apps, including Sprint TV, refused to send their goods out over the High-Definition Multimedia Interface at all. Might be worth trying before buying in this case, as in most others.

HTC EVO 4G will have a HDMI dock, sold through Best Buy originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 May 2010 03:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LG's $400 BX580 network 3D Blu-ray player ships in a month or two

Darren Murph — Fri, 14 May 2010 11:11:00 EST

Staying on that cutting edge, are we LG? In a world starstruck by HDMI 1.4, internet connectivity, DLNA, 3D and 1080p, LG's latest deck has it all, and now we know precisely -- er, almost precisely -- when she'll ship. The BX580 has just found itself a slot on Amazon's website, priced at $399.99 and proudly listed as the company's first network 3D Blu-ray player. Aside from having the ability to handle forthcoming 3D Blu-ray titles, it also ships with NetCast Entertainment Access, giving users the ability to enjoy web connected content without bothering with an HTPC. 'Course, that "usually ships in one to two months" could stand to be a little more precise, but we'll take what we can get at this point.

LG's $400 BX580 network 3D Blu-ray player ships in a month or two originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 May 2010 11:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Onkyo's first 3D-ready receivers are slowly trickling into retail channels

Richard Lawler — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 09:10:00 EST

Whether you're shopping with an eye peeled for that HDMI 1.4a 3D-ready sticker or not, Onkyo's rolled the features out across its entire line of HDMI-equipped receivers for 2010, and the first of those have begun showing up at a few online retailers. So far the TX-SR308, a 5.1-channel receiver and the HT-S3300, a 5.1 HTIB system, are the first to arrive proudly sporting $299 and $379 MSRPs, respectively. Now that spring has officially sprung around these parts, more powerful systems with extra features like front mounted HDMI ports, more speakers, more powerful amplifiers and video scalers including the TX-22HDX 2.1 HTIB (pictured after the break) and TX-SR608 7.1 receiver (above) should start arriving shortly. Check the press release after the break for full details of what is available and what is yet to come, or click the read links if you just have to buy one today -- we won't think any less of you.

Continue reading Onkyo's first 3D-ready receivers are slowly trickling into retail channels

Onkyo's first 3D-ready receivers are slowly trickling into retail channels originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 03 Apr 2010 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Samsung puts price tags on its next receivers, soundbars and Blu-ray HTIB systems

Richard Lawler — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:20:00 EST

There's more than just HDTVs on the way from Samsung this year, it's also picked today to reveal the price and ship dates for its Samsung Apps-equipped Blu-ray HTIB systems (HT-C7530W pictured above and all due in March or April) and HDMI 1.4-equipped 3D passthrough compatible receivers. Even though the cool kids are already on to HDMI 1.4a, that should be good enough to pass through 3D video and handle audio all in one cable so if you're planning a whole home theater revamp before Avatar comes home in 3D (whenever that is) you'll probably want to grab one with the feature. Other than the 7.1 channel HW-C770BS for $549 shipping this month, there's also a $499 HW-C900 model with multi-zone and video upscaling features for $499, though when it will arrive is still TBD.

Samsung puts price tags on its next receivers, soundbars and Blu-ray HTIB systems originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pioneer brings Bluetooth streaming, 3D-readiness to VSX-520-K and VSX-820-K receivers

Darren Murph — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 23:26:00 EST

It's not like your two ears really need 7.1 channels of audio, but what your home theater does need is simplicity and an eagerness to support the third dimension. In truth, we can only safely say that those beliefs are shared by Pioneer, who has today introduced a new pair of 5.1 AV receivers that offer Bluetooth streaming, HDMI 1.4 and an unmistakable "3D ready" label. There's also the obligatory Works with iPhone certification on the VSX-820-K, which enables it to transfer iPod navigation control and on-screen graphics from the remote back to the Apple device. Outside of that, most everything else is identical between the two, as they each offer five channels of 110 watts, at least 3 HDMI sockets and rather reasonable price tags. Speaking of, you'll be asked to pay $229 for the 520 and $299 for the 820 when they splash down later this month.

Pioneer brings Bluetooth streaming, 3D-readiness to VSX-520-K and VSX-820-K receivers originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 23:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony intros 3D-capable STR-DN1010 A/V receiver

Donald Melanson — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:31:00 EST

Sony's already introduced 3D TVs and 3D Blu-ray players, and it's now finally followed those up with a 3D-capable receiver for those who need to pass through 3D video while internally decoding high res audio. That model, the STR-DN1010, is naturally a 7.1 A/V receiver, and boasts 110 watts of power per channel, along with four HDMI ports (including one with Audio Return Channel plus three component), support for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, upscaling of any video source to 1080p, support for Sony's S-AIR wireless system, and a Digital Media Port to accommodate iPod docks and other accessories, among other standard fare. Look for this one to land in June for $500, along with three other new non-3D models (the STR-DH810, STR-DH710 and STR-DH510) that will run you $400, $300 and $230.

Sony intros 3D-capable STR-DN1010 A/V receiver originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HDMI 1.4's 3D spec publicly released

Nilay Patel — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 10:04:00 EST

3D's happening whether you like it or not -- but the good news is that there won't be any format war to go with the adoption of the new tech. At least that's the sense we've been getting, as most manufacturers are adopting active shutter glasses, delivery will happen on cable, satellite, and Blu -ray, and now the HDMI Licensing group has opened up the 3D portion of the HDMI 1.4 spec so non-licensees can make their gear compatible. There'll be some changes coming down the pike in HDMI 1.4a, but that's also due for public release, so really we'll all be one big dorky family in 3D glasses when this is all over.

HDMI 1.4's 3D spec publicly released originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Sony Bravia 3D HDTVs coming this Summer with WiFi and local dimming

Ben Drawbaugh — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:30:00 EST

LG isn't the only one with more new LCD HDTVs then you can shake a stick at, in fact Sony just announced 38 new models of its own. The most interesting is the LX900 line (pictured above) which is due this Summer -- still waiting on a price -- available in sizes ranging from 40-inches to 60-inches and will of course do Full 1080p 3D with help from RealD's active shutter glasses. But even if you aren't into 3D, we're sure you'll appreciate the new local dimming and built in WiFi so that you can stream all kinds of content via internet services or your home's DLNA network. Like the LX900, the HX900 does 3D, but the the active shutter glasses and 3D transmitter are sold separately. If you are interested in the rest of the lineup then don't hesitate to click through and read the entire press release.

Continue reading New Sony Bravia 3D HDTVs coming this Summer with WiFi and local dimming

New Sony Bravia 3D HDTVs coming this Summer with WiFi and local dimming originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sherwood's RD-7505 receiver and iNet-2.0 tabletop pull entertainment from the cloud

Steven Kim — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:21:00 EST

Consolidation of the boxes littered around our TVs is one trend we're happy to see, and for its part, Sherwood is getting onboard with network connectivity. Following the lead of the company's R-904 NetBoxx, the RD-7505 also got a dose of Verismo's VuNow tech for accessing content from DLNA, Hulu, YouTube, CinemaNow and internet radio. The RD-7505 also gets a trio of HDMI 1.4 inputs in addition to its seven channels of 110-Watt amplification; but you'll have to wait until summer to grab one for $500. Next up from Sherwood is the iNet-2.0 tabletop which pairs up its 8-inch display with an alarm clock, internet audio playback and an iPod dock; all of which just might make it a digital photo frame (yeah, it does that too) we'd consider putting in the house. Full details in the PR after the break.

Continue reading Sherwood's RD-7505 receiver and iNet-2.0 tabletop pull entertainment from the cloud

Sherwood's RD-7505 receiver and iNet-2.0 tabletop pull entertainment from the cloud originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HDMI 1.4 spec getting freshened up in preparation for broadcast 3D

Richard Lawler — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:19:00 EST

The drumbeat for HD 3D continues to pick up the pace, and with broadcasters around the globe pushing forward 2010 plans to bring 3D home HDMI has updated the course of its latest 1.4 spec to ensure compatibility between displays and boxes. Quite simply, existing cable and satellite hardware isn't going to be held to the same requirements as Blu-ray and videogame equipment rocking the 3D sticker and expecting compatibility with displays on the way, since they won't be passing the same high quality, high bandwidth dual-stream 1080p images anyway. Additionally, some broadcasters are pushing for HDMI to officially support "Top/Bottom" 3D transmissions they plan to use, which sacrifice resolution while saving bandwidth by shoving left/right images into a single frame. While that should add an entirely new angle to the line counting and claims of "HDLite" (get ready for 3DLite) all viewers can do is wait to hear when or if their hardware will get a software upgrade to 3D (like the one we expect will allow the PS3 to play 3D Blu-ray discs) in the months and years to come, once there's a standard everyone can adhere to of course.

HDMI 1.4 spec getting freshened up in preparation for broadcast 3D originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HDMI logos updated: version numbers out, supported features in

Richard Lawler — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST

A response to cable sellers marking hardware v1.4 compliant before a test was even available or just another way for Monster Cable to ratchet up prices, we're not sure, but HDMI Licensing, LLC has reworked the packaging requirements for all new cables and products. Cable packaging must lose version numbers starting today, while HDMI-equipped components can only use version numbers in conjunction with listing specific features supported, and lose version numbers entirely starting January 1, 2012. The picture above features logos you'll find on certified hardware going forward, while we can appreciate being tied to supported features and not just version numbers that may or may not fully apply (*cough cough* remember the "HDMI 1.3" PS3Fat?) there's no way things get any less confusing when hooking up the new 4K or 3D capable HDTVs.

HDMI logos updated: version numbers out, supported features in originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NXG Technologies is first with HDMI 1.4 cables for the 3D HDTV you don't own yet

Richard Lawler — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 11:09:00 EST

Cancel that next-day air shipment from Panasonic Japan, those in need of cables today that are compatible with the 4K and 3D displays of tomorrow can get NXG Technologies Black Pearl Series HDMI v1.4 cables. Not installing cables inside a wall or under a floor? You can probably wait for more reasonably priced (or not so reasonable, if that's what you prefer) alternatives. At around $44.95 for 1m up to $380 for a 20m cable, these available-to-dealers-only connectors promise (despite lacking certification, promised once testing is completed) to future proof custom home theater installations for beyond-1080p resolution, HDMI Ethernet Channel, Audio Return Channel and other HDMI 1.4-only features that should start rolling out in HDTVs, receivers and other equipment early next year.

Filed under: HDTV, Home Entertainment

NXG Technologies is first with HDMI 1.4 cables for the 3D HDTV you don't own yet originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NXG Technologies is first with HDMI 1.4 cables for the 3D HDTV you don't own yet

Richard Lawler — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 11:09:00 EST

Filed under: Cables, Others

NXG Technologies is first with HDMI 1.4 cables for the 3D HDTV you don't own yet originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Panasonic delivering HDMI 1.4 cables in Japan next month: $42 for 1 meter

Richard Lawler — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 20:33:00 EST

It's unlikely you have any HDMI 1.4 equipped 1080p 3D, or 4K/2K capable equipment laying around the house, but that hasn't stopped Panasonic from rolling out these high speed cables already, just announced in Japan. Expected to launch August 27, they range in length from 1m to 10m, and in price from ¥4,000 ($42) to ¥20,000 ($210.) Sure you could import them just to stunt on your Monster Cable owning friends, but somehow we suspect most will be waiting for these to hit Monoprice, Blue Jeans Cable and the like, oh, and for equipment that can actually take advantage of their extra capabilities.

[Via AV Watch]

Filed under: Cables, Panasonic

Panasonic delivering HDMI 1.4 cables in Japan next month: $42 for 1 meter originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 20:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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3D, ARC and Ethernet capable HDMI 1.4 hardware announced, still a long way off

Richard Lawler — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:37:00 EST

The new HDMI 1.4 spec adds a host of new features (and, most likely, a lot of new ways to get scammed on cable purchases) but for those excitedly anticipating Audio Return Channel, HDMI Ethernet Channel and 3D over HDMI should know Silicon Image has announced its first line of chips supporting them. Destined for HDTVs, receivers, Blu-ray players and the like, the new port processor and transmitter have the extremely specific sample delivery date of "second half of 2009" so while we certainly don't expect to see any actual hardware until well into next year, keep an ear to the ground if you're considering an upgrade before then.

Filed under: HDTV, Home Entertainment

3D, ARC and Ethernet capable HDMI 1.4 hardware announced, still a long way off originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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3D, ARC and Ethernet capable HDMI 1.4 hardware announced, still a long way off

Richard Lawler — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:37:00 EST

Filed under: Industry, Cables, Other hardware, Others

3D, ARC and Ethernet capable HDMI 1.4 hardware announced, still a long way off originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HDMI 1.4 officially detailed: Ethernet / Audio Return channels, 3D, 4K x 2K support

Darren Murph — Thu, 28 May 2009 11:21:00 EST

We already heard that HDMI 1.4 was just around the bend, and now HDMI Licensing has come forward with all of the official details surrounding the specification. Unfortunately for AV enthusiasts, it seems as if we're taking two steps forward and three back, and we get this sinking feeling that HDMI 1.5 will be here before we know it. At any rate, the main additions to the format are an Ethernet channel, audio return channel, 3D over HDMI, 4K x 2K resolution support, a micro HDMI connector (around half the size of the existing HDMI Mini plug) and an automotive connection system. All fine and good, right? Sure, until you get to the part about having to choose between five different HDMI 1.4 cables, something that the suits at Monster just had to have a hand in. For a detailed look at what you'll need to study up on before buying your next HDMI cable, clinch your fists and hit the read link.

Filed under: Industry, Cables, Ports

HDMI 1.4 officially detailed: Ethernet / Audio Return channels, 3D, 4K x 2K support originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 May 2009 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HDMI 1.4 officially detailed: Ethernet / Audio Return channels, 3D, 4K x 2K support

Darren Murph — Thu, 28 May 2009 11:21:00 EST

Filed under: HDTV, Home Entertainment

HDMI 1.4 officially detailed: Ethernet / Audio Return channels, 3D, 4K x 2K support originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 May 2009 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HDMI 1.4 brings internet sharing, dreadful tiers of quality

Darren Murph — Thu, 14 May 2009 09:43:00 EST

Okay, so there's good news and bad news. Given that we just love to tease, we'll start you off with the positives. HDMI 1.4 was just revealed, bringing with it an HDMI Ethernet Channel (HEC) that enables data transfers of up to 100 Mbps between supported connected devices. Put simply, this could allow a "broadband-connected television using its HEC-enabled HDMI port to provide internet connection sharing with another HEC-enabled device such as a game console or DVR." Furthermore, the spec's Audio Return Channel (ARC) enables broadcast audio to be easily streamed back to an external amplifier, and the Automatic Content Enhancement (ACE) provides support for "future 3D video standards, increased resolution support (up to 4,096 x 2,160 pixels at up to 30Hz), and content recognition that promises to automatically optimize the TV's picture settings based on content type."

The bad news? HEC will only work with new HDMI 1.4 spec cables, and those will be graded into two separate levels of performance: low- and high-data rate. We needn't describe to you what kind of ball Monster Cable is going to have with that one, but even outside of that, we're baffled by the decision to add one more complexity to a cable that should seriously be doing everything in its power to not be overshadowed by DisplayPort. At any rate, we're told that Silicon Image is hoping to ship chip samples to manufacturers in Q2 2009, while HDMI 1.4-enabled products could arrive as early as next year. We aren't holding our breath, but we'll gladly eat crow if need be.

Filed under: Industry, Cables, Ports

HDMI 1.4 brings internet sharing, dreadful tiers of quality originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 May 2009 09:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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