Engadget HD http://hd.engadget.com Engadget HD http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/hd.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget HD http://hd.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Myka ION brings Hulu, Boxee and other web content to your TV]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/06/myka-ion-brings-hulu-boxee-and-other-web-content-to-your-tv/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/06/myka-ion-brings-hulu-boxee-and-other-web-content-to-your-tv/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/06/myka-ion-brings-hulu-boxee-and-other-web-content-to-your-tv/#comments It's been almost a full year since we heard a peep from the fine folks at Myka, but it looks like we could be talking about 'em a lot more often judging by the specs list on its latest contraption. The simply-titled ION is an Atom-based media PC that relies on NVIDIA's Ion graphics set and a customized interface that brings Hulu, Boxee and pretty much any other web content you can stumble upon to your television. Within, you'll find a 1.6GHz dual-core Atom 330 CPU, up to 4GB of RAM, ten USB 2.0 ports, VGA / DVI / HDMI outputs, an eSATA connector, Ethernet and plenty of audio outputs. The fanless design ensures that things remain quiet, and for those oozing cash, a Blu-ray drive, HDD and WiFi module can be implanted. It's up for order right now starting at $379, but you'll be stuck waiting four to six weeks for delivery.

Filed under: ,

Myka ION brings Hulu, Boxee and other web content to your TV originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atomatom 330Atom330boxeehtpchuluionmedia pcmedia streamerMediaPcMediaStreamermultimediaMyka ionMykaIonnettopnvidianvidia ionNvidiaIonother hardwareotherhardwareset top boxset-top-boxSetTopBoxstbstreamstreamerstreamingFri, 06 Nov 2009 19:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's Reggie Fils-Aime squashes Wii HD rumors... again]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/06/nintendos-reggie-fils-aime-squashes-wii-hd-rumors-again/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/06/nintendos-reggie-fils-aime-squashes-wii-hd-rumors-again/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/06/nintendos-reggie-fils-aime-squashes-wii-hd-rumors-again/#comments Oh, brother. Here we go again. Just over a year after Nintendo's own Reggie Fils-Aime denied the existence of a forthcoming Wii HD, the bigwig is having to make that very same denial again. Naturally, a few new rumors of an HD-enabled Wii have surfaced since that fateful day in October of 2008, and with the recent price drop, it made sense to think that the Big N might actually be looking ahead. Instead, it seems that it's perfectly content selling hundreds of thousands of consoles that want nothing to do with modern amenities like "HDMI," "1080i" and "things that the PS3 and Xbox 360 have offered since day one." The man's exact quote?
"I don't know how forcefully we can say there is no Wii HD."
And Reggie, we don't know how much more forcefully you can continue to break our hearts.

[Via Joystiq]

Filed under:

Nintendo's Reggie Fils-Aime squashes Wii HD rumors... again originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoledenialdenygame consoleGameConsolegaminghdnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiiother hardwareotherhardwarereggieReggie Fils-AimeReggieFils-aimerumorwiiwii 2wii hdWii2WiiHdFri, 06 Nov 2009 12:52:00 EST<![CDATA[OWC takes quad-interface Mercury Pro external BD burner to 12x]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/04/owc-takes-quad-interface-mercury-pro-external-bd-burner-to-12x/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/04/owc-takes-quad-interface-mercury-pro-external-bd-burner-to-12x/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/04/owc-takes-quad-interface-mercury-pro-external-bd-burner-to-12x/#commentsPioneer's BDR-205 may not be hitting shelves in retail form until early next year, but those who desperately need a Blu-ray burner that outpaces the optical media currently available still have an option. OWC has today updated its long-standing Mercury Pro external BD drive -- which boasts FireWire 800, FireWire 400, USB 2.0 and eSATA connection options -- with Pioneer's latest, giving it the ability to toast BD-Rs at up to 12x. Of course, you'll need lady luck on your side to actually find any media that'll support said rate, but hey, there's always the future. It's available today for $349.99, or $449.99 if you want Roxio Toast Titanium PRO bundled in.

[Via Macworld]

Filed under: , ,

OWC takes quad-interface Mercury Pro external BD burner to 12x originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12xbdBDR-205blu rayblu-rayblu-ray burnerblu-ray driveblu-ray writerBlu-rayBurnerBlu-rayDriveBlu-rayWriterblurayburnerexternal blu-ray driveExternalBlu-rayDrivemercury proMercuryProother hardwareother world computingotherhardwareOtherWorldComputingowcpioneerwriterWed, 04 Nov 2009 10:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix streaming purportedly hitting Nintendo's Wii next]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/28/netflix-streaming-purportedly-hitting-nintendos-wii-next/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/28/netflix-streaming-purportedly-hitting-nintendos-wii-next/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/28/netflix-streaming-purportedly-hitting-nintendos-wii-next/#comments Mmhmm. We see precisely where this is going. First came Microsoft's Xbox 360, then came the PlayStation 3. Now, the beast that is Netflix's "Watch Instantly" is coming to Nintendo's Wii... or that's the scuttlebutt, anyway. According to StreamingMedia, an undisclosed source close to the project has confirmed that the Big N is currently testing Netflix streaming on the Wii, and that it'll be rolled out to the public "very soon." Our initial reaction is to think that "very soon" will translate into "before the holidays," though we all know that only time will tell. But hey, when you've been waiting for this to happen since March, patience comes naturally.

Filed under: , ,

Netflix streaming purportedly hitting Nintendo's Wii next originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolegame consoleGameConsoleinternetnetflixnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiiother hardwareotherhardwarerumorstreamstreamingwatch instantlyWatchInstantlywiiWed, 28 Oct 2009 17:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix hints at Watch Instantly integration on 'already-popular device']]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/24/netflix-hints-at-watch-instantly-integration-on-already-popular/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/24/netflix-hints-at-watch-instantly-integration-on-already-popular/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/24/netflix-hints-at-watch-instantly-integration-on-already-popular/#comments Microsoft's Xbox 360 may call itself the only console to stream Netflix, but all that could be changing -- and soon. As Netflix continues to pull in new subscribers (and cash flow) like it's no big deal, the company is apparently looking to spread its wings even further by integrating its wildly popular Watch Instantly feature into "a device already owned by a large number of consumers." Naturally, the most fitting candidates for that would be Sony's PlayStation 3 or Nintendo's Wii, though the company has yet to come forward with anything concrete. Just so know you, Netflix credits the Xbox 360's streaming integration as the main reason some 2.4 million customers have signed up since late 2008, so it's more than apparent that it loves the game console. Any bets for when this will go down, or are you just plugging your ears in order to avoid potential disappointment?

[Via Joystiq]

Filed under: , , ,

Netflix hints at Watch Instantly integration on 'already-popular device' originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 24 Oct 2009 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentfilmsinternetinternet tvInternetTvmedia streamingMediaStreamingmoviesnetflixonlineonline tvOnlineTvother hardwareotherhardwareprogrammingrentalsstockstreamstreamingwatch instantlyWatchInstantlySat, 24 Oct 2009 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/23/rocketfish-wireless-whole-home-audio-system-cuts-the-cord-on-all/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/23/rocketfish-wireless-whole-home-audio-system-cuts-the-cord-on-all/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/23/rocketfish-wireless-whole-home-audio-system-cuts-the-cord-on-all/#comments Anyone stumbling into a Best Buy looking for some sort of wireless speaker solution has probably been ushered over to the Rocketfish section, but up until now, only a few devices have been available. Now, the Best Buy staple is introducing an all-encompassing system that aims to cut the (speaker) cable to all of your speakers. The wireless whole home audio system, which is obviously only available at the yellow-tagged retailer, is comprised of a Wireless Amplified Audio Receiver, a Wireless Sender / Receiver, a Wireless Outdoor Speaker and a Wireless HD Audio Starter Kit, which includes both a sender and receiver. The whole rig is designed to work with standard connections for speaker line and line level inputs, so most any speaker assortment should play nice. All told, the devices combined can send up to five sources to nine receivers throughout the home, but not surprisingly, there's no mention made of the presumably lofty price tag.

Filed under: ,

Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobest buyBestBuyhome entertainmentHomeEntertainmentother hardwareotherhardwareRocketboostrocketfishspeakerspeakerswireless speakersWirelessSpeakersFri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP to HDMI, all with one giant converter box]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/15/psp-to-hdmi-all-with-one-giant-converter-box/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/15/psp-to-hdmi-all-with-one-giant-converter-box/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/15/psp-to-hdmi-all-with-one-giant-converter-box/#comments Props to Lenkeng for dressing up their otherwise anonymous VGA-to-HDMI converter box with a PSP-related angle -- the LKV8000 comes with the necessary cables to take your PSP-2000 or above's 480p video output and push out a 720p HDMI signal complete with stereo audio. Not a bad idea -- except that we can't think of an HDTV that lacks either component or VGA jacks and that doesn't have a built-in scaler to do the same job. Maybe you're just out of ports? In any event, this guy needs a Stateside distributor before we can tell you pricing or availability, so you're stuck swapping cables for a while, Sparky.

[Via Oh Gizmo!]

Filed under:

PSP to HDMI, all with one giant converter box originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>480p720pcomponentcomponent videoComponentVideohdmilenkengLKV8000other hardwareotherhardwarepsppsp gopsp-200psp-3000PspGovgavga adaptervga convertervga to hdmivga-to-hdmiVgaAdapterVgaConverterVgaToHdmivideo outvideo-outVideoOutThu, 15 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Dashboard Update... updates: Preview program reopened, Sky TV due Oct. 27]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-updates-preview-program-reopened/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-updates-preview-program-reopened/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/14/xbox-360-dashboard-update-updates-preview-program-reopened/#comments
Just as it did earlier this year, Microsoft has opened the preview program to let the most hardcore of Xbox 360 owners poke around the updated dashboard -- presumably with access to all the 1080p instant-on streaming, Twitter, Facebook and Last.fm add-ons we've been expecting -- ahead of its official release in order to shake out any remaining bugs. While worldwide console owners should scrape together console IDs, make & model of your TV, router and more in hopes of receiving an invite next week, a little more concrete news is in order for the UK, with the console launch of Sky TV nailed down for October 27. You'll have to wait until then to find out exact pricing and channel line up availability, 'til then it's a matter of finding out who on your friends list is most suited for the inevitable football viewing party.

[Via Joystiq & NeoGAF]

Read - Xbox Live update Preview Program
Read - Xbox.com - Set a date for Sky Player!

Filed under:

Xbox 360 Dashboard Update... updates: Preview program reopened, Sky TV due Oct. 27 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connectdashboard updateDashboardUpdatefacebooklast.fmmicrosoftother hardwareotherhardwarepreview programPreviewProgramsky playersky tvSkyPlayerSkyTvtwitterukxbox 360Xbox360zune marketplaceZuneMarketplaceWed, 14 Oct 2009 19:36:00 EST<![CDATA[WirelessHD second generation hardware promises "mass adoption" pricing]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/09/wirelesshd-second-generation-hardware-promises-mass-adoption-p/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/09/wirelesshd-second-generation-hardware-promises-mass-adoption-p/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/09/wirelesshd-second-generation-hardware-promises-mass-adoption-p/#comments
Two years after assembling a team to fight the tyranny of wires with 60GHz beaming and less than a year after entering mass production, SiBEAM has unveiled its second generation of WirelessHD chips, this time with the promise of low cost, mass adoption price points with an eye towards reducing overall costs and improving video quality. The new 65nm chips don't require active cooling, use less power and take up less space, plus integrate HDMI, HDCP and DTCP support and surround sound capability. Last year the premium was too steep for us to consider wireless HDTV as a serious option, but as costs come down and manufacturer support comes up it may be time to take another look at WirelessHD.

Filed under: ,

WirelessHD second generation hardware promises "mass adoption" pricing originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>60ghzceatecceatec 2009Ceatec2009other hardwareotherhardwareotherssb9210sb9211sb9220sb9220asb9221sibeamwihdwireless hdWirelessHdFri, 09 Oct 2009 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung's new SH-B083 drive doesn't write Blu-ray, but it kin reed gud]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/08/samsungs-new-sh-b083-drive-doesnt-write-blu-ray-but-it-kin-re/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/08/samsungs-new-sh-b083-drive-doesnt-write-blu-ray-but-it-kin-re/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/08/samsungs-new-sh-b083-drive-doesnt-write-blu-ray-but-it-kin-re/#comments
Say hello to Samsung's first internal Blu-ray combo drive for PCs, while the SH-B083 isn't a super fast writer like some of its classmates, it does feature 8x BD-R and BD-ROM read speeds. Also a capable 40x / 16x CD / DVD burner, if all you want to do is watch movies, this should be a considerably cheaper option to the Pioneer BDR-205 12x burner or other 8x recordable drives when it hits shelves (specifically Amazon and Newegg) in November, though exact date and price remain unspecified. Plus, it has that "chic mirror front door design" we can't believe we've lived without for so long, making the 350ms access speed a mere afterthought. This could fit nicely inside that new C-200, right? Specs follow after the break.

Continue reading Samsung's new SH-B083 drive doesn't write Blu-ray, but it kin reed gud

Filed under: , ,

Samsung's new SH-B083 drive doesn't write Blu-ray, but it kin reed gud originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8xblu rayblu-raybluraycombodriveinternalother hardwareotherhardwarepcsamsungsatash-b083Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: Best home theater setup for gaming?]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/07/ask-engadget-hd-best-home-theater-setup-for-gaming/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/07/ask-engadget-hd-best-home-theater-setup-for-gaming/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/10/07/ask-engadget-hd-best-home-theater-setup-for-gaming/#comments As usual, this week's Ask Engadget HD centers around a particular home theater setup question, as Philip is trying to set things up for one particular purpose: gaming. Movies and TV are great source of high definition, but some of us just want to hook up the Xbox 360 or Playstation 3 and go. We'll let him flesh out the details:

"I'm finally ready to build the home theater I've always wanted, and while I'll definitely be watching TV and playing Blu-ray discs as well, it's going to be all about gaming. I've already got a PS3 and Xbox 360 hooked up to an old 20-inch LCD, but I need a real HDTV and surround setup now. I know some games support 7.1, is it worth the extra setup? Also, what HDTV in the $1,000 - $2,000 price range is best for games?"

While 7.1 may not be the immediate move for everyone, we're sure some Killzone 2 players may appreciate the extra speakers. Let Phil know what setup you're running, and if you want to throw in a Xbox Live Gamertag or PSN ID as well we certainly won't be mad at you. [Note: This isn't about which system is the best, we've been there and while we might revisit the question later, fanboys, this is about the surrounding equipment so try and stay on topic, k?

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.

Filed under: ,

Ask Engadget HD: Best home theater setup for gaming? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askask engadget dhask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdfeaturefeaturesgamesgaminghome theaterHomeTheaterother hardwareotherhardwareplaystation 3Playstation3ps3videogamesxbox 360Xbox360Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer's 12x BDR-205 Blu-ray burner is so fast it's ahead of its time]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/30/pioneers-12x-bdr-205-blu-ray-burner-is-so-fast-its-ahead-of-it/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/30/pioneers-12x-bdr-205-blu-ray-burner-is-so-fast-its-ahead-of-it/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/30/pioneers-12x-bdr-205-blu-ray-burner-is-so-fast-its-ahead-of-it/#comments
We're still not sure if that many people are interested in buying Blu-ray burners yet, but Pioneer just unveiled the first 12x capable drive (up from 8x, and with an 8x read speed that gives us a great idea for the next PlayStation 3 revision) the BDR-205. Initially rolling out to OEMs this month, this drive couldn't wait for 12x certified discs to exist, though its full speed has been tested on Panasonic and Sony 6x BD-R blanks, "12x writing on all media cannot be guaranteed." Minus that caveat, expect to see these popping up on Newegg and the like any second now, the only price mentioned is for the full retail package BD-2205 coming Q1 2010 for $249.

Filed under: , ,

Pioneer's 12x BDR-205 Blu-ray burner is so fast it's ahead of its time originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12x6xbd-rbdr-205blu rayblu-rayblurayburnerfirstother hardwareotherhardwarepioneerWed, 30 Sep 2009 13:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia, Samsung, Toshiba and Sony align on Mobile High-Definition Link]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/29/nokia-samsung-toshiba-and-sony-align-on-mobile-high-definition/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/29/nokia-samsung-toshiba-and-sony-align-on-mobile-high-definition/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/29/nokia-samsung-toshiba-and-sony-align-on-mobile-high-definition/#comments Say it with us now: "Yippee!" Why such joviality? We'll tell you why. Nokia, Samsung, Toshiba, Sony and Silicon Image have all teamed up to create yet another new connector, with this one hoping to forever harmonize the strained relationship between mobile phones / PMPs and high-def displays. The so-called Mobile High-Definition Interface Working Group is seeking to create a new "industry standard" for connecting handsets and other portable consumer electronics to HDTVs and displays, though we're still wondering why exactly we need a replacement for HDMI, DisplayLink and the forthcoming Light Peak so soon. As with most of these things, details about the actual product(s) are slim, but trust us, they're working on it. And they're working hard.

Filed under: , , ,

Nokia, Samsung, Toshiba and Sony align on Mobile High-Definition Link originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adapterformathdtvMHLMobile High-Definition Linkmobile phoneMobileHigh-definitionLinkMobilePhonenokiaother formatsother hardwareotherformatsotherhardwarepartnershipsamsungsilicon imageSiliconImagesonystandardtoshibaworking groupWorkingGroupTue, 29 Sep 2009 10:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Sky TV arriving on Xbox 360 in mid-October according to SkyMag; Twitter, Facebook & Zune to follow?]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/26/sky-tv-arriving-on-xbox-360-in-mid-october-according-to-skymag/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/26/sky-tv-arriving-on-xbox-360-in-mid-october-according-to-skymag/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/26/sky-tv-arriving-on-xbox-360-in-mid-october-according-to-skymag/#comments Live Sky TV viewing via Xbox 360 didn't make it into the most recent dashboard update, readers report page 17 of the network's most recent SkyMag indicates it will arrive around mid-October. Additional details flesh out what's available, while all Xbox Live Gold members (in the appropriate areas) will get access to the Sky Player similar to the PC implementation, you will need a Sky subscription with the appropriate channels to view sports and movie content. Look out for more updates at the skyplayer.com/xbox360 site, while those of us beyond the network's reach wonder whether we can expect other features like Twitter (you're following us, right?) Facebook and 1080p instant-on movie streaming to arrive at roughly the same time.

[Thanks, David]

Filed under: ,

Sky TV arriving on Xbox 360 in mid-October according to SkyMag; Twitter, Facebook & Zune to follow? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 26 Sep 2009 19:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolesdashboarddashboard-updatefacebookfalsegame consolesGameConsolesmicrosoftother hardwareotherhardwareotherssky playersky tvSkyPlayerSkyTvtwitterukxboxxbox 360xbox liveXbox360XboxLivezune marketplaceZuneMarketplaceSat, 26 Sep 2009 19:07:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 3.0 / 3.01 firmware update making Blu-ray drive unusable?]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/25/ps3-3-0-3-01-firmware-update-making-blu-ray-drive-unusable/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/25/ps3-3-0-3-01-firmware-update-making-blu-ray-drive-unusable/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/25/ps3-3-0-3-01-firmware-update-making-blu-ray-drive-unusable/#comments
What could possibly cause nearly 700 comments on an official Sony blog post announcing the relatively minor 3.01 firmware update for the PS3? Plaudits? A Kanye meme gone awry? No, it's the age old problem of an update that apparently breaks more than it fixes. In this case, a sizable number of users are reporting that the 3.0 and/or 3.01 update caused their PS3's Blu-ray drive to be all but unusable for both games and Blu-ray movies (although some folks report that DVDs still work). Other users are also reporting intermittent problems like no sound, and some problems with specific games, but it does seem like the complaints are pretty widespread and, as of yet, Sony isn't saying much about them. Bitten by the upgrade bug yourself? Let us know in comments.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Filed under: , ,

PS3 3.0 / 3.01 firmware update making Blu-ray drive unusable? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu rayblu-raybluraybugfirmwarefirmware 3.0firmware 3.01firmware bugFirmware3.0Firmware3.01FirmwareBugother hardwareotherhardwareplaystation 3playstation 3 slimPlaystation3Playstation3Slimps3ps3 firmwareps3 slimPs3FirmwarePs3SlimsonyFri, 25 Sep 2009 14:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel announces Atom CE4100 for insanely powerful cable boxes and Blu-ray players]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/24/intel-announces-atom-ce4100-for-insanely-powerful-cable-boxes-an/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/24/intel-announces-atom-ce4100-for-insanely-powerful-cable-boxes-an/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/24/intel-announces-atom-ce4100-for-insanely-powerful-cable-boxes-an/#comments
Intel's CE3100 media chip has been behind some of the cooler demos they've done here at IDF, and it's just gotten a big brother, the Atom CE4100. As you'd expect, the big change is the replacement of the CE3100's Pentium M core with an Atom core, but this thing is actually kind of a monster -- it can decode two 1080p video streams with various high-end audio codecs, it adds MPEG-4 support and 3D graphics capability, and it can even capture uncompressed 1080p video. Of course, it's up to manufacturers and cable companies to actually put all this power to use, but Intel's promised us some hardware demos from partners -- stay tuned.

Continue reading Intel announces Atom CE4100 for insanely powerful cable boxes and Blu-ray players

Filed under: , ,

Intel announces Atom CE4100 for insanely powerful cable boxes and Blu-ray players originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu rayblu-raybluraybreaking newsBreakingNewscable boxCableBoxce 4100ce 4100 media processorCe4100Ce4100MediaProcessoridfidf 2009Idf2009Intelmedia processorMediaProcessorother hardwareotherhardwarestbThu, 24 Sep 2009 12:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Toshiba's Cell TV still on for 2009 debut, now with Blu-ray]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/23/toshibas-cell-tv-still-on-for-2009-debut-now-with-blu-ray/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/23/toshibas-cell-tv-still-on-for-2009-debut-now-with-blu-ray/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/23/toshibas-cell-tv-still-on-for-2009-debut-now-with-blu-ray/#comments Just in case there was any doubt, Toshiba has confirmed plans to launch its halo product, the Cell (for Cell Broadband engine, similar to the one in the PS3) TV, with all the LED backlit 3D GUI, 3840x2160 resolution, and DLNA streaming capabilities one could want, in Japan by the end of the year. Thanks to the company's new religion, it will also feature a Blu-ray recorder to go along with the 1TB hard drive, though we can bet that will be axed before making its way stateside in 2010. Of course we're still looking forward to the Media Center Extender packing display expected here some time soon, but when an executive promises the "ultimate entertainment machine" we can't help but wonder what's in store. More detailed specifications and any pricing info other than "it will be fairly expensive" are still unavailable.

Filed under: , , ,

Toshiba's Cell TV still on for 2009 debut, now with Blu-ray originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d gui3dGui4k4kx2kblu-raycellcell processorcell tvCellProcessorCellTvdlnajapanlcdled backlitLedBacklitother hardwareotherhardwaretoshibaWed, 23 Sep 2009 23:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: Best headphone setup for a home theater?]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/23/ask-engadget-hd-best-headphone-setup-for-a-home-theater/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/23/ask-engadget-hd-best-headphone-setup-for-a-home-theater/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/23/ask-engadget-hd-best-headphone-setup-for-a-home-theater/#comments
Sure, it's great to discuss all manner of surround sound setups, in-wall speakers and the like, but for a rare few circumstances have combined to require all their audio come through nothing but a pair of headphones. That's Cory's problem, check it out:

I work a different schedule from my roommates. I've been watching Movies and TV with a crappy set of computer speakers as a headphone amp. I'm looking to upgrade and would like some suggestions. I watch TV via VMC and Movies via Toshiba HD-A3 so multiple inputs would be nice. I'm looking to spend $200 but all suggestions are welcome I'll need to upgrade someday.

What does he need to get the best quality audio, while keeping things quiet for everyone else in the house? (We're assuming building a soundproofed room is slightly out of the question.) Surely someone of you have dealt with the same issue, let us know in the comments how you get the best sound from a pair of cans.

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.

Filed under: ,

Ask Engadget HD: Best headphone setup for a home theater? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askask engadget dhask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdfeaturefeaturesheadphone amplifierHeadphoneAmplifierheadphonesother hardwareotherhardwareWed, 23 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Just Add Power introduces Projector Connector HDMI-over-IP solution]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/14/just-add-power-introduces-projector-connector-hdmi-over-ip-solut/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/14/just-add-power-introduces-projector-connector-hdmi-over-ip-solut/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/14/just-add-power-introduces-projector-connector-hdmi-over-ip-solut/#comments
It looks like the gang over at Just Add Power have cooked up a device that will let you manage multiple HDMI sources without the limits of traditional HDMI switches (and no, it isn't an HDMI Balun). The Projector Connector consists of an encoder unit that converts your HDMI source signal to IP packets and a networked receiver that decodes the signal at the display end. Add a managed switch and you can keep adding sources and display devices to your heart's content (up to 200 displays). Controlled by a PC over HTTP, this is definitely a product that will see more use in large organizations than it will in home theater setups. But still, what HD aficionado wouldn't love to get his hands on something this powerful and (relatively) inexpensive? The encoder (VBS-HDMI-308A) sells for $299, while the decoder (VBS-HDMI0108A) will run $250 -- you'll have to buy your own switch. Supports 1080p, HDCP, and up to 5.1 digital audio. Hit the read link to pick one up for yourself.

[Via CE Pro]

Filed under: ,

Just Add Power introduces Projector Connector HDMI-over-IP solution originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 17:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cediacedia 2009Cedia2009hdhdmi switchHdmiSwitchhome entertainmenthome theaterHomeEntertainmentHomeTheaterJust Add PowerJustAddPowerother hardwareotherhardwareprojector connectorProjectorConnectorMon, 14 Sep 2009 17:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Bowers & Wilkins downsizes with Zeppelin Mini iPod speaker]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/14/bowers-and-wilkins-downsizes-with-zeppelin-mini-ipod-speaker/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/14/bowers-and-wilkins-downsizes-with-zeppelin-mini-ipod-speaker/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/14/bowers-and-wilkins-downsizes-with-zeppelin-mini-ipod-speaker/#comments
It's been well over two years since high-end audio outfit Bowers & Wilkins introduced the iPod-lovin' Zeppelin, and evidently it's time for a downsizing. Today, the good folks over at B&W slung out the Zeppelin Mini, which promises the same dirigible-inspired sound but in a form factor that fits in a wider assortment of areas. To be honest, this version seems toned down quite a bit on the design side, with the key differentiating features being an updated docking arm and the addition of USB connectivity. Said socket enables direct PC / Mac streaming if your iPod gets lost, and it also enables your 'Pod to sync with your computer whilst playing back tunes. As for specs, you'll find a pair of 3-inch full-range drivers, 36 total watts of power, a 3.5 millimeter auxiliary jack and a bundled remote. It's expected to hit next month for £299 ($495), but you can get acquainted right now by jumping past the break and mashing play.

[Via Macworld]

Continue reading Bowers & Wilkins downsizes with Zeppelin Mini iPod speaker

Filed under: , ,

Bowers & Wilkins downsizes with Zeppelin Mini iPod speaker originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleaudioaudiophileBowers and Wilkinsbowers wilkinsBowersAndWilkinsBowersWilkinsipodipod accessoryipod sound systemipod speakerIpodAccessoryIpodSoundSystemIpodSpeakerluxurymusicother hardwareotherhardwaresoundspeakersstereozeppelinZeppelin miniZeppelinMiniMon, 14 Sep 2009 15:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Antenna's Direct steps up its indoor DTV antenna offerings]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/11/antennas-direct-steps-up-its-indoor-dtv-antenna-offerings/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/11/antennas-direct-steps-up-its-indoor-dtv-antenna-offerings/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/11/antennas-direct-steps-up-its-indoor-dtv-antenna-offerings/#comments
We've always been big fans of Antennas Direct, in fact our love even goes back before we wrote our still popular how to get free OTA HD where we showed you how to use a couple of the site's antennas to maximize our HD reception. But maybe you aren't living somewhere that you have the luxury of mounting an outside antenna, and your significant other isn't down with those ugly things. If you fit the picture we just painted then the new ClearStream Micron is just what you've been waiting for. The UHF only antenna has a range of 25 miles and is only 9 by 11 inches square and a mere 15 mm thick. Obviously we can't vouch for the capabilities of this antenna ourselves, but we can for Antennas Direct and at a price of $50 it is probably worth your time if you are in the need for an indoor antenna.

Filed under: ,

Antenna's Direct steps up its indoor DTV antenna offerings originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennas directantennasdirectCEDIACEDIA 2009Cedia2009ClearStream MicronClearstreamMicronotaother hardwareotherhardwareFri, 11 Sep 2009 14:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Will Apple announce anything for HD snobs today?]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/will-apple-announce-anything-for-hd-snobs-today/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/will-apple-announce-anything-for-hd-snobs-today/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/will-apple-announce-anything-for-hd-snobs-today/#commentsApple Rock n' Roll event

Sure, it is The Rock n' Roll event, but an HD snob can only hope there will be something for everyone in today's event. It isn't like there haven't been any rumors either. First up was the Blu-ray support in iTunes 9, then there was the updated Apple TV and the most recent is from a Harmon Kardon press release where we learned that the latest Bridge III iPod / iPhone dock and AVR 2600 and 3600 receivers can "play back HD video from iPod or iPhone products." You'd think at least one of these would have to be true -- especially with the Zune HD hitting the streets in less than a week. Personally we have our hopes up for Manage Copy support in iTunes, but we admit that we are just dreaming.

Filed under: , , , ,

Will Apple announce anything for HD snobs today? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 11:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple TVAppleTvblu rayBlu-rayblurayiPhoneiPodiTunesiTunes 9Itunes9Managed CopyManagedCopyother hardwareotherhardwareWed, 09 Sep 2009 11:49:00 EST<![CDATA[New WiFi IR emitters from Global Cache´ get us excited about home automation]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/new-wifi-ir-emitters-from-global-cache-get-us-excited-about-hom/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/new-wifi-ir-emitters-from-global-cache-get-us-excited-about-hom/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/new-wifi-ir-emitters-from-global-cache-get-us-excited-about-hom/#commentsiTachWe've written about Global Cache´ before and we're sure anyone who's done a little home automation around the house has ran across them; but with the new iTach line just announced today, we'd bet the a whole lot more of you will get excited about the little company. While emitting IR or controlling an RS-232 device over the LAN is an old trick for this company, the latest line really takes it to the next level. The first thing we noticed was how much smaller the box was -- comes in handy when there isn't much room behind the TV -- but we quickly said who cares when we learned that WiFi was built-in. But even if you already have a network drop behind your TV you'll be happy to hear that the new line also offers PoE. Those two features alone are enough to get us excited, but the fact that an IR learner is now built-in (used to be an extra $75) and the device is no longer limited to a single connection (so you can have up to eight iPod Touch remotes now). Top all that off with a lower starting price, and being user upgradable, and you have our home automation gears working in overdrive.

Filed under: ,

New WiFi IR emitters from Global Cache´ get us excited about home automation originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GC-100Global CacheGlobalCacheiTachother hardwareotherhardwarePoEWiFiWed, 09 Sep 2009 09:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Digital Projection announces the Total 3D Experience System]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/08/digital-projection-announces-the-total-3d-experience-system/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/08/digital-projection-announces-the-total-3d-experience-system/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/08/digital-projection-announces-the-total-3d-experience-system/#commentsDigital Projection projector
The wait for honest to goodness quality 3D at home is almost over and with just about every display company out there trying to be the first to bring it into the home, it looks like Digital Projection might be the first -- for those that can afford it anyways. The Total 3D Expreience system includes everything you need to get started including a TITAN or LIGHTING 1080p 3D display, a Dimension media server with high performance graphics adapter and Blu-ray drive, Active 3D glasses, infra-red emitters and even a pre-programmed iPod touch for a remote. The media server is pre-packed with some high quality 3D, which we assume will have to hold you over until there are more 3D movies on Blu-ray. Although we still question 3D at home, no doubt there will be some takers, but if you're one of those who can't wait, you can jump in on this offering in the next two to three months -- assuming you can pay the yet to be announced king's ransom.

Continue reading Digital Projection announces the Total 3D Experience System

Filed under:

Digital Projection announces the Total 3D Experience System originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 22:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3DCEDIACEDIA 2009Cedia2009digital projectionDigitalProjectionother hardwareotherhardwareTotal 3D Experience SystemTotal3dExperienceSystemTue, 08 Sep 2009 22:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Bryston goes Class D for its Hybrid Zone amps ]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/07/bryston-goes-class-d-for-its-hybrid-zone-amps/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/07/bryston-goes-class-d-for-its-hybrid-zone-amps/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/07/bryston-goes-class-d-for-its-hybrid-zone-amps/#commentsBryston D-130Z Hybrid Zone amplifier After you're done pulling all the wires for whole-home audio, you probably want some peace of mind that the system will just work with no fuss, like, forever. If your setups are of the high-end variety, Bryston's new Hybrid Zone amplifiers might be just the way to complete the job -- the marque has legendary performance and reliability. Bryston has built its own linear power supply to go along with the Class D amps, so you can be sure the D-130Z and D-250Z aren't just knock-off reference designs, and the per-channel power (90-Watts for the D-130Z, 150-Watts in the D-250Z) can be divvied up a number of ways to suit your needs. Sounds great, but sadly this is some more Bryston gear that's out of our tax bracket -- $4,395 for the D-130Z, $5,695 for the D-250Z -- and these only get a five-year warranty to boot, a far cry from Bryston's standard 20-year promise. Press release after the break.

Continue reading Bryston goes Class D for its Hybrid Zone amps

Filed under: ,

Bryston goes Class D for its Hybrid Zone amps originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 07 Sep 2009 21:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ampamplifieraudiobrystonbryston d-130zbryston d-250zBrystonD-130zBrystonD-250zd-130zd-250zmultiroomother hardwareotherhardwareotherswhole homeWholeHomeMon, 07 Sep 2009 21:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Philips launches Wireless HDTV Link, gives airborne HDMI a fightin' chance]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/03/philips-launches-wireless-hdtv-link-gives-airborne-hdmi-a-fight/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/03/philips-launches-wireless-hdtv-link-gives-airborne-hdmi-a-fight/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/03/philips-launches-wireless-hdtv-link-gives-airborne-hdmi-a-fight/#comments
Still reeling over the death of FlyWire this summer? So were we, until we saw this beauty pop up in Berlin. Philips Wireless HDTV Link promises to set your TV free from the tyranny of cables with an HDMI transmitter / receiver pair that'll let you place all those A/V components of yours a whopping 20 meters from your set. The base station has two HDMI connections, two component connections and boasts transmission of full 1080i and 1080p / 30 HD video. Coming soon (hopefully) this bad boy is retailing for €599.99 (about $850). [Warning: PDF read link]

Filed under: ,

Philips launches Wireless HDTV Link, gives airborne HDMI a fightin' chance originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdmiifaifa 2009Ifa2009other hardwareotherhardwarephilipsphilips wireless hdtv linkPhilipsWirelessHdtvLinkwhdiwireless hdmiwireless hdtvwireless hdtv linkWirelessHdmiWirelessHdtvWirelessHdtvLinkThu, 03 Sep 2009 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Popcorn Hour C-200 launch nearly upon us, preorders start tomorrow]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/popcorn-hour-c-200-launch-nearly-upon-us-preorders-start-tomorr/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/popcorn-hour-c-200-launch-nearly-upon-us-preorders-start-tomorr/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/popcorn-hour-c-200-launch-nearly-upon-us-preorders-start-tomorr/#comments
As you may have noticed, the new Popcorn Hour C-200 media box didn't quite make its anticipated July launch, but the company now says that as of 12 a.m. PST August 27, pre-orders will open allowing the willing faithful to put in a request for the first batch, anticipated to ship September 3 or thereabouts. Don't remember the June announcement? The $299 Sigma powered box takes HDD, Blu-ray discs, USB or network inputs of nearly any video or audio codec available and brings them to your living room. Since then, pics and video of the units guts and interface have leaked out on the forums, check after the break or beyond the read link for a better look.

[Via MediaSmartServer.net]

Continue reading Popcorn Hour C-200 launch nearly upon us, preorders start tomorrow

Filed under: , , ,

Popcorn Hour C-200 launch nearly upon us, preorders start tomorrow originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 22:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu rayblu-rayblurayc 200c-200C200media streamerMediaStreamernetworked media tankNetworkedMediaTankother hardwareotherhardwareotherspopcorn hourPopcornHourpre orderPreOrdersigmaWed, 26 Aug 2009 22:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Sanyo releases LP-XU106, the brightest projector under 4 kilograms]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/sanyo-releases-lp-xu106-the-brightest-projector-under-4-kilogra/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/sanyo-releases-lp-xu106-the-brightest-projector-under-4-kilogra/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/sanyo-releases-lp-xu106-the-brightest-projector-under-4-kilogra/#comments
Sanyo's just announced a new projector, the LP-XU106. The projector weighs in at 3.4 kilograms, making it what the company calls the brightest projector in its weight class. And it is pretty bright -- at 4,500 lumens and a contrast ratio of 1,000:1. It also boasts Sanyo's "Easy Setup Function" to help out the projecting novices. The LP-XU106 will be available on November 20th, but there's no word on pricing as of yet. We'll keep you posted on that one.

[Via Akihabara News]

Filed under: ,

Sanyo releases LP-XU106, the brightest projector under 4 kilograms originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diplayslp-xu106other hardwareotherhardwareprojectorprojectorssanyoWed, 26 Aug 2009 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[The Zune HD will support surround sound]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/the-zune-hd-will-support-surround-sound/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/the-zune-hd-will-support-surround-sound/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/the-zune-hd-will-support-surround-sound/#commentsMS Expression Encoder 3

We were just complaining on the Engadget HD podcast that the Zune HD wasn't that HD because it couldn't encode broadcast HD content in the US. Then today a listener chimed in to let us know that the latest version of Microsoft Expression Encoder 3 that ships with Expression Studio 3.0 ($600) includes a few profiles for the Zune HD. While both included profiles output HD, one is specifically intended to be used with the AV Dock and thus is set to output WMA 5.1 surround sound. We did a little digging and while it does appear that Expression Encoder 3 will accept a WTV file containing MPEG2 and AC3 as input, who really wants to pony up $600 to convert their TV shows -- especially when you can use DVRMSToolBox for free. But hey, at least one team at Microsoft gets this whole HD thing.

[Thanks, Enoch!]

Filed under: ,

The Zune HD will support surround sound originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Microsoft Expresion Encoder 3MicrosoftExpresionEncoder3other hardwareotherhardwareZune HDZuneHdWed, 26 Aug 2009 11:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Paramount, Lionsgate, Warner Bros. & Sony Pictures movies finally available (legitimately) in DivX]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/paramount-lionsgate-warner-bros-and-sony-pictures-movies-finall/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/paramount-lionsgate-warner-bros-and-sony-pictures-movies-finall/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/26/paramount-lionsgate-warner-bros-and-sony-pictures-movies-finall/#comments
Over the last few years we've witnessed a slew of DivX Certified devices including HDTVs, DVD & Blu-ray player, set-top boxes, game consoles and even cell phones, but until now, despite several content agreements, in the U.S. there hasn't been any content available in the format from the major studios. That changes today now that online store FilmFresh.com, has signed up Paramount, Lionsgate, Warner Bros. & Sony Pictures to offer new release and archive movies for purchase as DivX formatted downloads. The bad news? For now at least, they'll be standard definition (stereo audio) only. Rick Bolton, CEO of Film Fresh as well as Eric Grab and John Greene of DivX filled us in on the details, and from what we've learned -- if you'll stand for lower res video -- the combination of compatibility and portability could make this download service a competitor against the likes of iTunes, CinemaNow and Zune.

Continue reading Paramount, Lionsgate, Warner Bros. & Sony Pictures movies finally available (legitimately) in DivX

Filed under: , ,

Paramount, Lionsgate, Warner Bros. & Sony Pictures movies finally available (legitimately) in DivX originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>divxdivx certifiedDivxCertifieddownloadsinternetinternet videoInternetVideolions gateLionsGateother formatsother hardwareotherformatsotherhardwareparamountprogressive downloadsProgressiveDownloadssony picturesSonyPictureswarner brosWarnerBrosWed, 26 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NEC chips to include DivX Plus HD support]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/21/nec-chips-to-include-divx-plus-hd-support/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/21/nec-chips-to-include-divx-plus-hd-support/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/21/nec-chips-to-include-divx-plus-hd-support/#commentsExpect even higher quality DivX playback from Blu-ray players, HDTVs and other devices, now that NEC has signed a deal to implement DivX Plus HD (aka h.264 in an MKV container with AAC audio) support in its EMMA chipset family. The company has already signed up chipmakers Sigma and Trident, anything rocking the appropriate logo should be able to handle content at resolutions up to 1080p, or older DivX encoded files, so feel free to plug those USB sticks and network cables into home theater equipment anywhere.

Filed under: , ,

NEC chips to include DivX Plus HD support originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 20:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chipsetdecoderdivxdivx plus hdDivxPlusHdemmanecother hardwareotherhardwareothersFri, 21 Aug 2009 20:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic in-dash HD nav system & Blu-ray player ready to ship, are you ready for the price?]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/20/panasonic-in-dash-hd-nav-system-and-blu-ray-player-ready-to-ship/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/20/panasonic-in-dash-hd-nav-system-and-blu-ray-player-ready-to-ship/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/20/panasonic-in-dash-hd-nav-system-and-blu-ray-player-ready-to-ship/#comments
Don't think you can sell the kids short anymore, keeping the Blu-ray copy at home and taking DVD rips on the road, now that Panasonic is ready to deliver its in-dash Blu-ray player and 7-inch HD screen packing nav unit in September. We got a good peek at these back in April and the specs haven't changed, with the Profile 1.1 Bonus View compatible CY-BB1000D taking care of Blu-ray duties and featuring the same UniPhier guts as the company's line of living room Blu-ray players. The CN-HX3000D is a WXGA 1280x720p 7-inch LED backlit widescreen display ready to play back media via standard HDMI, iPod connector, SD card or its digital TV tuner, powered by Windows Automotive with navigation duties assisted by Google Maps and Yahoo! Japan. The CY-BB1000D is ¥99,750 ($1,057) and the CN-HX3000D is ¥365,400 ($3,872), and both arrive September 10 in Japan. We'll let you decide if around 5 grand is a good price for the in car HD experience (might want to look at custom mounting a DMP-B15, $800 and you can take it with you.)

Read - CYBB1000D
Read - CN-HX3000D

Filed under: , , , , ,

Panasonic in-dash HD nav system & Blu-ray player ready to ship, are you ready for the price? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automotiveblu rayblu-raybluraybonus viewBonusViewcn-hx3000dcy-bb1000dhead unitHeadUnitin carin-dashInCarlcdnav unitNavUnitother hardwareotherhardwarepanasonicuniphierwindows automotiveWindowsAutomotiveThu, 20 Aug 2009 09:04:00 EST<![CDATA[CRISTAL combines 'The Sims' and Surface for full room control]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/15/cristal-combines-the-sims-and-surface-for-full-room-control/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/15/cristal-combines-the-sims-and-surface-for-full-room-control/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/15/cristal-combines-the-sims-and-surface-for-full-room-control/#comments Have you ever yearned for more immediate control over your surroundings? No, we don't mean Magneto car-flipping abilities. We mean more like wrangling all of the gear in a room into some kind of understandable and connected system. If you said yes -- and you're a Sims aficionado -- you'll want to check into CRISTAL. We're not talking expensive champagne here, we're talking about the "Control of Remotely Interfaced Systems using Touch-based Actions in Living spaces" system (c'mon, it sort of makes sense). The premise is simple: instead of having to juggle multiple remotes and input systems to deal with a room full of technology, CRISTAL merges a Surface-like touch area (your coffee table in this scenario), an overhead camera, and connected devices to form a frighteningly intuitive control scheme. The idea allows for all sorts of handy arrangements, like being able to virtually drag media from a server on one side of the room to your TV on the other, dim lights in a particular area by swiping on that location, or draw a path for a Roomba to clean using the overhead view. Right now this is just a research project, of course, but the team working on the concept believes costs could move down from the astronomic $10,000-$15,000 the setup would cost now to a more affordable range. Until that happens, you'll have the video of CRISTAL in action after the break.

Continue reading CRISTAL combines 'The Sims' and Surface for full room control

Filed under:

CRISTAL combines 'The Sims' and Surface for full room control originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 15 Aug 2009 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Control of Remotely Interfaced Systems using Touch-based ActionsControlOfRemotelyInterfacedSystemsUsingTouch-basedActionscristalMichael HallerMichaelHallerother hardwareotherhardwareremote controlRemoteControlStacey ScottStaceyScottUniversity of WaterlooUniversityOfWaterlooUpper Austria University of Applied SciencesUpperAustriaUniversityOfAppliedSciencesSat, 15 Aug 2009 11:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Zune 4.0 software won't play nice with HDTV Media Center recordings]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/14/zune-4-0-software-wont-play-nice-with-hdtv-media-center-recordi/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/14/zune-4-0-software-wont-play-nice-with-hdtv-media-center-recordi/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/14/zune-4-0-software-wont-play-nice-with-hdtv-media-center-recordi/#comments
With the launch of the Zune HD and the CEDIA show just around the corner, we've been hoping this could mean an all new integrated future for Windows Media Center and other Microsoft platforms -- until now. As a few commenters pointed out yesterday, the corrected spec sheet received from Microsoft indicated HDTV and protected Windows Media Center DVR-MS (the files used by Vista Media center) recordings were not supported. We reached out for clarification and received the following:

"Zune HD, and the forthcoming Zune 4.0 PC software, will support and transcode Windows Media Center recorded TV file formats from Windows Vista or Windows 7 that contain MPEG-2 video, in either the DVR-MS or WTV formats. Support is limited to unencrypted SD and HD recordings. HD Files with AC3 audio are not supported by Zune."

As you may or may not be aware, at least in the U.S. , and most other countries, any high definition broadcasts you snag from antenna, ClearQAM or otherwise use Dolby Digital AC-3 audio, meaning the Zune software won't be able to convert them. Current workarounds for bringing Media Center recordings on the go should still be a go, but all we can see is the missed opportunity to tie the two platforms together with easy one click transcoding support. Hopefully Microsoft still has something up its sleeve to pull together Zune and Windows 7 Media Center, but portable DVR recordings ain't it.

Filed under: , , ,

Zune 4.0 software won't play nice with HDTV Media Center recordings originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ac-3dolby digitalDolbyDigitaldvrdvr-msmedia cneterMediaCnetermicrosoftmpeg-2other hardwareotherhardwareotherstranscodewindows 7windows media centerWindows7WindowsMediaCenterwtvzunezune hdZuneHdFri, 14 Aug 2009 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Kaleidescape gets in line behind RealDVD for rough treatment]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/13/kaleidescape-gets-in-line-behind-realdvd-for-rough-treatment/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/13/kaleidescape-gets-in-line-behind-realdvd-for-rough-treatment/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/13/kaleidescape-gets-in-line-behind-realdvd-for-rough-treatment/#commentsDVD lawsuitWhen it rains it pours -- right on the heels of the punishing blow dealt to RealDVD, the money-laden Kaleidescape crowd suffered its own setback at the hands of the law. You just know that the DVD CCA (Copy Control Association) appealed the 2007 ruling that allowed Kaleidescape owners to rip DVDs to their media servers, and yesterday a California Appeals Court overturned that ruling. Next stop -- the Santa Clara Superior Court, which could place an injunction on Kaleidescape if the appeal is upheld. It's not over yet, but we're prepping the soundboard with ominous music, boos and noisy hand-wringing. Whatever (and whenever) the outcome, we can only hope that Blu-ray's Managed Copy comes to the scene sooner rather than later and settles this issue for our beloved HD content

Filed under: , , ,

Kaleidescape gets in line behind RealDVD for rough treatment originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appealccacourtDMCAdrmdvddvd ccadvd copydvd copy control associationdvd ripperdvd rippingDvdCcaDvdCopyDvdCopyControlAssociationDvdRipperDvdRippingfair useFairUsehollywoodillegalkaleidescapelawsuitlegalmpaaother formatsother hardwareotherformatsotherhardwarerippingsuesuitThu, 13 Aug 2009 18:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Zune HD specs fill in the blanks on video format support, battery life and more]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/13/zune-hd-specs-fill-in-the-blanks-on-video-format-support-batter/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/13/zune-hd-specs-fill-in-the-blanks-on-video-format-support-batter/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/13/zune-hd-specs-fill-in-the-blanks-on-video-format-support-batter/#comments
Now that everything Zune HD is official and available for pre-order, Microsoft has seen fit to loose official specs, putting to rest -- at least until we can do a full hands on -- questions about what to expect from the OLED touchscreen packing device. From dimensions (52.7 mm x 102.1 mm x 8.9 mm, 2.6 oz) to battery life (24 hours for music with wireless off, up to 4 hours of video) and charge time (3 hours, 2 hours to 90%.) While the official site (incorrectly) currently lists max video res at barely-better-than-DVD 720 x 480, we contacted Microsoft and received the official specs on video support, and if for some reason you needed to hear it again: the Tegra chip is a beast. Ready for HDTV playback when it's plugged into the AV dock, the Zune software supports up to 1280 x 720, 30 frames per second at a max 14 Mbps bitrate for WMV HD and h.264 sources. Confirmed still a bummer? No wireless video streaming from the Zune Video Marketplace, though the specs do indicate that purchases and rentals will work across all three screens, PC, Zune and Xbox 360. Check the corrected specs after the break, now all that's left is getting some alone time with one.

Update: Microsoft has hit us with the corrected & updated spec list with a slight change to battery and charge specs: 33 hours of life playing music with no wireless, up to 8.5 hours of video. 3 hours to charge from PC, 2 hours via AC adapter. Hopefully that's long enough to cover your one man rave in the woods far away from A/C outlets. Check the PDF for yourself, but beware, as Microsoft has informed us one typo remains, as the Zune HD can hold up to 22 / 48 hours (16GB / 32GB) of video optimized for the device, no matter what the official sheet says.

Continue reading Zune HD specs fill in the blanks on video format support, battery life and more

Filed under: ,

Zune HD specs fill in the blanks on video format support, battery life and more originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>720pbattery lifeBatteryLifebitratechargingcodecsh.264hd wmvHdWmvmicrosoftother hardwareotherhardwareothersresolutionsmooth streamingSmoothStreamingspecszunezune hdzune marketplacezune video marketplaceZuneHdZuneMarketplaceZuneVideoMarketplaceThu, 13 Aug 2009 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: How can I get internet radio in my home theater?]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/12/ask-engadget-hd-how-can-i-get-internet-radio-in-my-home-theater/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/12/ask-engadget-hd-how-can-i-get-internet-radio-in-my-home-theater/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/12/ask-engadget-hd-how-can-i-get-internet-radio-in-my-home-theater/#comments
Despite how much money and time is spent on the display in your home theater, sometimes you just want to kick back and listen to some music. While SACD or DVD-Audio might get it done for some, a craving for more selection or just letting someone else pick the songs has lead our friend Reginald to seek internet radio in his home theater, we'll let him explain:

"I have been looking at internet radio that I want to stream through my wireless network so it can be picked up on my home stereo. I have DirecTV that can pick up the network as well as a PS3 that also can see the network.

Would a program that runs on the PC be the best way to go or should one get a special tuner that is placed at the AV Receiver that connects wirelessly to the network be the best way to go."

So, can one of his networked devices double up as a streaming radio source or would a new receiver with the feature built in be the way to go? Let us know what setup works for you.

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.

Filed under: , ,

Ask Engadget HD: How can I get internet radio in my home theater? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askask engadget dhask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdfeaturefeaturesinternet radioInternetRadioother hardwareotherhardwarepandoraradioreceiversslackerstreamingWed, 12 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony CMT-DH50R mini-HTIB coming to small screens, big offices in Korea]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/11/sony-cmt-dh50r-mini-htib-coming-to-small-screens-big-offices-in/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/11/sony-cmt-dh50r-mini-htib-coming-to-small-screens-big-offices-in/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/11/sony-cmt-dh50r-mini-htib-coming-to-small-screens-big-offices-in/#commentsSony CMT-DH50R mini-HTIB We never thought we'd have to use the "mini" prefix for a HTIB system, but Sony Korea's CMT-DH50R introduction has forced our hand. The CMT-DH50R takes the familiar mini-system motif popularized in executive offices and adds in HDMI output with 1080p upscaling. Looking through the numerous badges on this 2x80-Watt system, though, you'll notice the Blu-ray logo is nowhere to be found -- sorry, folks, it's DVD only. It's also not clear if there's an HDMI input to go along with the USB device support; but Korean execs may be willing to overlook any shortcomings because the system will play back their ill-gotten and totally legit DiVX files and, more importantly, let them rock the karaoke right from their desks. We'd be surprised if this system made it to US shores in this form, so if you're itching, we suggest you grab up ₩428,000 and grab a flight.

Read - CMT-DH50R release
Read - CMT-DH50R specs

Filed under: ,

Sony CMT-DH50R mini-HTIB coming to small screens, big offices in Korea originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cmt-dh50rdvdhtibkoreaminisystemother hardwareotherhardwaresonysony cmt-dh50rSonyCmt-dh50rTue, 11 Aug 2009 15:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Auzentech's HDMI 1.3 X-Fi HomeTheater still coming soon, for $249.99]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/11/auzentechs-hdmi-1-3-x-fi-hometheater-still-coming-soon-for-24/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/11/auzentechs-hdmi-1-3-x-fi-hometheater-still-coming-soon-for-24/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/11/auzentechs-hdmi-1-3-x-fi-hometheater-still-coming-soon-for-24/#commentsStill waiting for an alternative to the ASUS Xonar HDMI 1.3 audio card? Auzentech knows your pain and promises its Creative-powered X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 sound card is on the way in "mid-August." Rather than waiting for actual shipping hardware to lay down your cash, you can, of course, pre-order right now and know that someday bitstreamed or PCM lossless audio from your HTPC will be a reality, though an all-in-one video and audio card is still our most fervent wish. The cost? $249.99, but owners of X-Fi Prelude and X-Meridian sound cards can slash $50 from that price, hit Auzentech's site for the dirty details.

Filed under: , ,

Auzentech's HDMI 1.3 X-Fi HomeTheater still coming soon, for $249.99 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.1auzentechcreativehdmi1.3htpcother hardwareotherhardwareotherspci-epci-expresssound cardSoundCardx-fiTue, 11 Aug 2009 12:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Toshiba applies for BDA admission, Blu-ray players and laptops coming soon]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/10/toshiba-applies-for-bda-admission-blu-ray-players-and-laptops-c/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/10/toshiba-applies-for-bda-admission-blu-ray-players-and-laptops-c/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/10/toshiba-applies-for-bda-admission-blu-ray-players-and-laptops-c/#comments
We'd already heard that Toshiba -- the outfit best known for solidly backing HD DVD during the two-year format war of the early 21st century -- was preparing to swallow its pride and kick out a Blu-ray player by the year's end, but now it's official. The outfit just announced moments ago that it has "applied for membership of the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) and plans to introduce products that support the Blu-ray format." Sadly, Tosh doesn't bother to mention exactly what kinds of BD-capable wares it hopes to produce, nor is it ready to disclose product launch time frames. We'd tell you exactly how it wants us to just be patient and all, but you're probably better off hearing it directly from the horse's trap:
"In light of recent growth in digital devices supporting the Blu-ray format, combined with market demand from consumers and retailers alike, Toshiba has decided to join the BDA. Toshiba aims to introduce digital products that support the Blu-ray format, including BD players and notebook PCs integrating BD drives, in the course of this year. Details of the products, including the timing of regional launches, are now under consideration. We will make announcements in due course."

Filed under: , , , ,

Toshiba applies for BDA admission, Blu-ray players and laptops coming soon originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 03:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bdBDAblu rayblu-rayblu-ray disc associationblu-ray laptopblu-ray playerBlu-rayDiscAssociationBlu-rayLaptopBlu-rayPlayerbluraybreaking newsBreakingNewsformat warFormatWarother hardwareotherhardwaretoshibaMon, 10 Aug 2009 03:20:00 EST