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 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Poll: How important is surround sound to you?]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/15/poll-how-important-is-surround-sound-to-you/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/15/poll-how-important-is-surround-sound-to-you/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/11/15/poll-how-important-is-surround-sound-to-you/#comments Just how far audiophiles will go to experience sensory nirvana -- and whether it's all in their mind or in their ears -- is a subject that can be discussed forever, but for now we'll try to break down just how much it means to you. We know the vast majority of the Engadget HD community is already surround sound equipped, but how far do you go to get the absolute top notch experience? Drop the details of your setup in the comments below, especially whether you think you've done enough or have even further to go in the audio quality arena.

View Poll

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Poll: How important is surround sound to you? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiophilepollpollsreceiversspeakerssurround soundSurroundSoundSun, 15 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer adds Anchor Bay VRS scaling to VSX-23TXH, VSX-21TXH and VSX-1019AH-K receivers]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/28/pioneer-adds-anchor-bay-vrs-scaling-to-vsx-23txh-vsx-21txh-and/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/28/pioneer-adds-anchor-bay-vrs-scaling-to-vsx-23txh-vsx-21txh-and/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/28/pioneer-adds-anchor-bay-vrs-scaling-to-vsx-23txh-vsx-21txh-and/#commentsPioneer VSX-23TXH receiver Video scaling has been a longtime knock held against Pioneer's AV receivers, but Pioneer is addressing those concerns with the inclusion of Anchor Bay VRS processing in its Elite VSX-23TXH ($899) and VSX-21TXH ($699) models, and also the VSX-1019AH-K ($499). Of course, Pioneer's home market in Japan isn't getting the short shrift -- the VSA-LX52 and VSA-1019AH are getting the same treatment. These models will be getting an ABT1015 to ratchet input signals all the way up to the magical 1080p figure; hopefully an indication that Pioneer will take a page from Denon's playbook and include ABT scaling in all of its AVRs from here on out. Full details after the break.

UPDATE: We have sent questions to Pioneer about whether this is a mid-production spec bump, or ABT VRS has been in these models all along. We'll report back with any answers we get.

UPDATE: We got official word back from Pioneer -- the VSX-1019, 21, 23, 25, and 27 models have all had Anchor Bay VRS scaling from the initial production, so there's no need to go throwing your AVR out. We can't imagine why both Pioneer and Anchor Bay haven't touted this feature from day one, but if your eyes told you the new Pioneer receivers had great scaling, give yourself a point.

Continue reading Pioneer adds Anchor Bay VRS scaling to VSX-23TXH, VSX-21TXH and VSX-1019AH-K receivers

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Pioneer adds Anchor Bay VRS scaling to VSX-23TXH, VSX-21TXH and VSX-1019AH-K receivers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abt1015anchor bayAnchorBayav receiverAvReceiverpioneerpioneer vsx-1019ah-kpioneer vsx-21txhpioneer vsx-23txhPioneerVsx-1019ah-kPioneerVsx-21txhPioneerVsx-23txhreceiverreceiversvideo scalerVideoScalervrsvsx-1019ah-kvsx-21txhvsx-23txhMon, 28 Sep 2009 15:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Yamaha combines receivers with subwoofers and soundbars for trio of HTIB offerings]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/18/yamaha-combines-receivers-with-subwoofers-and-soundbars-for-trio/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/18/yamaha-combines-receivers-with-subwoofers-and-soundbars-for-trio/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/18/yamaha-combines-receivers-with-subwoofers-and-soundbars-for-trio/#commentsYamaha combines receivers with subwoofers and soundbars for trio of HTIB offerings Receivers keep growing more channels, but few people have developed an affinity for running more speakers and their tethers 'round the living room. Yamaha's doing its part with a series of products that integrate things together -- soundbars, HTIBs, and the like. On the lower end are the YHT-S350 and YHT-S400, pictured after the break. Both offer a receiver with an integrated subwoofer, through which your various devices can be connected and the output end of their HDMI cables tickled with bass. The two differ only in how they get their highs out, with the S350 including a pair of squat stereo speakers and the S400 offering a three-channel "air surround xtreme" soundbar. On the higher end is the updated YSP-4100, above, a rather tall but only 9cm deep soundbar with the receiver integrated that can be mounted on the wall right beneath your giant HDTV and then paired with a selection of wireless transmitters for iPods and the like. It includes a whopping 40 4cm speakers arrayed within, with a further two 11cm woofers, delivering what Yamaha calls 2.5.1 channel sound -- though it looks as if it can power two additional speakers at the sides if you want something a little closer to 7.1. The YHT-S350 and -S400 are due to hit Japan in time for a Halloween marathon, while the YSP-4100 should release in time for the holiday specials on TV. No prices just yet.

[Via AV Watch]

Read - YHT-S350 and YHT-S400
Read - YSP-4100

Continue reading Yamaha combines receivers with subwoofers and soundbars for trio of HTIB offerings

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Yamaha combines receivers with subwoofers and soundbars for trio of HTIB offerings originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 07:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>home theater in a boxHomeTheaterInABoxhtibothersreceiverssoundbarspeakersyamahayamaha yht-s350yamaha yht-s400yamaha ysp-4100YamahaYht-s350YamahaYht-s400YamahaYsp-4100yht-s350yht-s400ysp-4100Fri, 18 Sep 2009 07:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Denon keeps high-end covered with AVR-4810CI receiver, DBP-4010CI universal Blu-ray player and ASD-51 iPod docks]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/17/denon-keeps-high-end-covered-with-avr-4810ci-receiver-dbp-4010c/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/17/denon-keeps-high-end-covered-with-avr-4810ci-receiver-dbp-4010c/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/17/denon-keeps-high-end-covered-with-avr-4810ci-receiver-dbp-4010c/#commentsDenon AVR-4810CI receiver and DBP-4010UDCI universal Blu-ray player Denon loyalists may have been stinging from the company's no-show at last week's CEDIA Expo, but the latest round of releases should help ease the pain. Here we go with the AVR-4810CI receiver, DBP-4010DCI universal disc player and ASD-51 iPod docks. The 9.3-channel AVR-4810CI ($2,999) looks to be the successor to Denon's popular 4308CI -- feature packed and definitely on the high end of the spectrum. Six HDMI 1.3a inputs, a pair of outputs, 140-Watts to nine channels, and the familiar set of features being rolled out across Denon's lineup: Anchor Bay video processing, Audyssey DSX and Dolby ProLogic IIz. Denon wants you to know it will pair up just fine with the DBP-4010UDCI universal disc spinner, which you should think of as a cheaper -- but at $1,999, not a "poor man's" -- DVD-A1UDCI. It'll play back just about every disc you've got (okay, maybe not laserdisc), and the build quality ensures it'll do so until after your physical media has turned to dust. Finally, Denon has also brought out the ASD-51W and ASD-51N iPod docks that also let you pull in internet radio, Napster and Rhapsody -- grab up the ASD-51W if you want to do that sans wires. As you'd expect from "CI" (custom integrator) designation on these bits of fun, everything is getting in on the network control and connectivity game, but we'll leave it for you to suss out those finer details after the break.

Continue reading Denon keeps high-end covered with AVR-4810CI receiver, DBP-4010CI universal Blu-ray player and ASD-51 iPod docks

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Denon keeps high-end covered with AVR-4810CI receiver, DBP-4010CI universal Blu-ray player and ASD-51 iPod docks originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asd-51nasd-51wav receiveravravr-4810ciAvReceiverblu rayblu-rayblu-ray playerBlu-rayPlayerbluraydbp-4010cidenondenon asd-51ndenon asd-51wdenon avr-4810cidenon dbp-4010ciDenonAsd-51nDenonAsd-51wDenonAvr-4810ciDenonDbp-4010ciiPod dockIpodDockothersreceiverreceiversuniversal blu-ray playeruniversal playerUniversalBlu-rayPlayerUniversalPlayerThu, 17 Sep 2009 11:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound audio for beginners?]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/16/ask-engadget-hd-5-1-or-7-1-surround-sound-audio-for-beginners/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/16/ask-engadget-hd-5-1-or-7-1-surround-sound-audio-for-beginners/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/16/ask-engadget-hd-5-1-or-7-1-surround-sound-audio-for-beginners/#comments
We've talked about more than one surround sound setup in these parts, but for someone just building up their system it's always confusing to pick a direction. Luckily EHD reader Abul has come to the right place, we'll let him ask the question:

"To complement the audio found on Blu-ray movies or HD downloads, is a 5.1 setup good enough or will 7.1 surround make a significant difference? Any suggestions on best low end or mid-range setup?"

There's only about a million different HTIB systems or audio components to choose from, but for someone starting from scratch it's hard to know which item on the sales rack will be the best fit. Given what's available today, what would you start out with?

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Ask Engadget HD: 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound audio for beginners? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askask engadget dhask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdfeaturesreceiverssurround soundSurroundSoundWed, 16 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Yamaha shows off its RX-V2065 network AV receiver]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/11/yamaha-shows-off-its-rx-v2065-network-av-receiver/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/11/yamaha-shows-off-its-rx-v2065-network-av-receiver/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/11/yamaha-shows-off-its-rx-v2065-network-av-receiver/#commentsYamaha RX-V2065 receiver Yamaha has introduced a new top-end RX-V2065 model to its RX-V65 receiver line. Connecting the receiver to both the home network and the internet at-large is coming on strong, and the RX-V2065 definitely got the memo. Starting with the basics, the RX-V2065 is a 7x130-Watt receiver featuring Yamaha's ToP-ART amp design with a 5/2 HDMI in/out complement. Yammy then adds its home-cooked assortment of DSP modes, packing 17 flavors of sonic manipulation into the new receiver. Networking is where this model really sets itself apart from the similar RX-V1900 model, though, with the ability to pluck streams from Rhapsody, internet radio, DLNA, and files around your home network. Heck, even sneakernet is supported courtesy a USB port up front. To be sure, there's a lot more acronyms and add-on accessories for this unit that the custom installer crowd at CEDIA can use to round out their sales pitches (and to help bring up the margins on this $1,400 AVR), but we'll leave that for you to decipher by hitting the link.

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Yamaha shows off its RX-V2065 network AV receiver originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>av receiveravrAvReceivercediacedia 2009Cedia2009receiverreceiversrx-v2065yamahayamaha rx-v2065YamahaRx-v2065Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Sherwood delivers R-972 receiver with Trinnov Optimizer room EQ]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/10/sherwood-delivers-r-972-receiver-with-trinnov-optimizer-room-eq/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/10/sherwood-delivers-r-972-receiver-with-trinnov-optimizer-room-eq/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/10/sherwood-delivers-r-972-receiver-with-trinnov-optimizer-room-eq/#commentsSherwood R-972 receiver All right, traditionalists -- if Sherwood's NetBoxx AVR with all its internet streaming is too radical for you, the R-972 and R-774 might strike a chord with your "the receiver must have a volume knob" sensibilities. The 7x100-Watt R-972 has been awaited mostly for its 3D Trinnov Optimizer room equalization, which has made some pretty big promises -- we'll have to see how it fares when paired up with Silicon Optix REON video processing, three zone support, and compliment of 4xHDMI inputs, which seems like a negative in the current crop of $1,500 AVRs. Rather than just scale things down for the $850 R-774 model, Sherwood keeps the power at 7x100-Watts, but touts Anchor Bay video processing, two zone support, and optional pairing with the BT-R7 Bluetooth receiver so you can send tunes wirelessly to your receiver.

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Sherwood delivers R-972 receiver with Trinnov Optimizer room EQ originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>av receiverAvReceiverbluetoothbt-r7othersr-774r-972receiverreceiverssherwoodsherwood newcastlesherwood r-774sherwood r-972SherwoodNewcastleSherwoodR-774SherwoodR-972trinnovtrinnov optimizerTrinnovOptimizerThu, 10 Sep 2009 17:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony polishes a couple of its ES receivers, intros the STR-DA3500ES and STR-DA5500ES]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/sony-polishes-a-couple-of-its-es-receivers-intros-the-str-da350/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/sony-polishes-a-couple-of-its-es-receivers-intros-the-str-da350/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/sony-polishes-a-couple-of-its-es-receivers-intros-the-str-da350/#commentsSony STR-DA5500ES receiver The magic elves always save their best for the company's ES line, and while we're sure the STR-DA3500ES ($1,000) and STR-DA5500ES ($2,000) receivers are no exception, we're hard-pressed to find any big changes from the outgoing 3400ES and 5400ES models. That said, the older models stressed connectivity, clean design and easy operation, and sticking to those values is sure to appeal to many users. The STR-DA3500 is a 7x100-Watt AVR with 4 HDMI ins (2 outs) that can serve up audio to three zones and HD video to two; you might want to take advantage of the Control4 compatibility to manage the signals hither and yon. The STR-DA5500ES steps things up with 7x120-Watt amplification, 6 HDMI ins / 2 outs, control via IP, DLNA support, internet streaming (Shoutcast and Rhapsody) and that nifty streaming to your network over CAT5e seen in the 5400ES. The 5500ES also gets a couple new bits of tech -- HD Digital Cinema Sound that recreates studio sound in your home (seems like an EQ mode) and Automatic Phase Matching which "corrects for phase differentiation" among speakers (sounds like a variation on the automatic phase and frequency room EQ theme). Interested? Go past the break for the full PR.


Continue reading Sony polishes a couple of its ES receivers, intros the STR-DA3500ES and STR-DA5500ES

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Sony polishes a couple of its ES receivers, intros the STR-DA3500ES and STR-DA5500ES originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automatic phase matchingAutomaticPhaseMatchingcediacedia 2009Cedia2009eses seriesEsSerieshd digital cinemaHdDigitalCinemareceiverreceiverssonysony str-da3500essony str-da5500esSonyStr-da3500esSonyStr-da5500esstr-da3500esstr-da5500esWed, 09 Sep 2009 17:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Harman Kardon resets its AV receiver line with AVR 1600, 2600 and 3600 models]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/harman-kardon-resets-its-av-receiver-line-with-avr-1600-2600-an/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/harman-kardon-resets-its-av-receiver-line-with-avr-1600-2600-an/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/09/09/harman-kardon-resets-its-av-receiver-line-with-avr-1600-2600-an/#commentsHarman Kardon AVR 3600 The namesake brand at Harman International has introduced its new 2009 AVR lineup, making 3 out of the 4 AVRs on the company website shiny and new -- the AVR 1600, AVR 2600 and AVR 3600 (pictured, but trust us, they look almost identical). All three models are armed with lossless Blu-ray audio codec support which are now -- thankfully -- de rigeur, but the real emphasis is on connectivity and features. The living room is the new battleground, and even receivers have to fight for a place amongst the videogame consoles and set-top boxes. Taking top billing, the AVR 3600 includes second zone support and a pcked-in The Bridge III iPod/iPhone dock -- with a capital "T" and Roman numerals -- that can pull HD video right off the ubiquitous devices and put them up on the big screen. H/K put out the first receiver with Dolby Volume, and the company is standing by the feature by putting it into the 2600 and 3600 models, which also get a graphical UI in keeping with the convenience theme. Sorry, 1600 owners will have to make like everything's a foreign film and read the text. Full details and pricing after the break.

Continue reading Harman Kardon resets its AV receiver line with AVR 1600, 2600 and 3600 models

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Harman Kardon resets its AV receiver line with AVR 1600, 2600 and 3600 models originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avravr 1600avr 2600avr 3600Avr1600Avr2600Avr3600bridgebridge iiiBridgeIiiharman kardonharman kardon 3600harman kardon avr 1600harman kardon avr 2600HarmanKardonHarmanKardon3600HarmanKardonAvr1600HarmanKardonAvr2600iphone accessoryiphone dockIphoneAccessoryIphoneDockipod accessoryipod dockIpodAccessoryIpodDockothersreceiverreceiversthe bridgethe bridge iiiTheBridgeTheBridgeIiiWed, 09 Sep 2009 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[ViewSonic debuts WPG-350 for WiFi video streaming, PJD2121 for portable SVGA projecting]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/27/viewsonic-debuts-wpg-350-for-wifi-video-streaming-pjd2121-for-p/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/27/viewsonic-debuts-wpg-350-for-wifi-video-streaming-pjd2121-for-p/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/27/viewsonic-debuts-wpg-350-for-wifi-video-streaming-pjd2121-for-p/#comments Don't let your instinctual attraction to glossy items fool you. While the PJD2121 pico projector on the right is certainly the shiniest, it's ViewSonic's WPG-350 wireless gateway that we're digging the most. Assuming you've pre-installed the appropriate software onto the pertinent Windows / OS X machine, connect the bridge to a VGA display of some sort, and stream all the 1024 x 768 presentation content you want over 802.11b/g/n WiFi. Sure, it's not HD, but at $199, it's not the worst value, either, and it's still half-lustrous on the top. Looking back at the projector, the little DLP shiner boasts 800 x 600 output, 400 lumens, and a 1,800:1 contrast ratio. A $499 price tag definitely undercuts the Samsung offering we saw yesterday, but it's still way pricey for SVGA.

Read - Press release
Read - PJD2121 product page
Read - WPG-350 product page

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ViewSonic debuts WPG-350 for WiFi video streaming, PJD2121 for portable SVGA projecting originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 01:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bridgeotherspicopico projectorPicoProjectorpjd2121pocketpocket projectorPocketProjectorprojectorreceiversview sonicViewSonicwirelesswireless bridgewireless gatewayWirelessBridgeWirelessGatewaywpg-350Thu, 27 Aug 2009 01:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Marantz rolls out SR6004, SR5004 receivers]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/25/marantz-rolls-out-sr6004-sr5004-receivers/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/25/marantz-rolls-out-sr6004-sr5004-receivers/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/25/marantz-rolls-out-sr6004-sr5004-receivers/#commentsMarantz SR6004 receiver The Marantz brand definitely has its fans, but positioning the marque against its sister brand Denon is a tough balancing act. Many were hoping for the old Marantz flagship SR8002 receiver to get the updates (cosmetic and otherwise) handed out to the SRx003 models; but those folks will have to hope the 8-series skips generations, because the rest of the lineup has quite expectedly been upped to SRx004 nomenclature. Convenience features take center stage on the SR6004 ($1,250) and SR5004 ($850), headed up by support for Marantz's RX101 Bluetooth receiver that lets you beam music, sans wires, to the receiver. These models also get Dolby Pro Logic IIz and the popular trio of Audyssey MultiEQ, Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ. After that, it looks like Marantz is getting served second at the D&M feature table -- 4-in/2-out HDMI ports, no Audyssey DSX, and no mention of Anchor Bay video processing. Still, true fans might still find the Marantz sound that they love in these new models.

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Marantz rolls out SR6004, SR5004 receivers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avrbluetoothmarantzmarantz 5004marantz rx101marantz sr6004Marantz5004MarantzRx101MarantzSr6004othersreceiverreceiversrx101sr5004sr6004wirelessTue, 25 Aug 2009 16:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Onkyo's top-end TX-NRx007 receivers land stateside]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/24/onkyos-top-end-tx-nrx007-receivers-land-stateside/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/24/onkyos-top-end-tx-nrx007-receivers-land-stateside/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/24/onkyos-top-end-tx-nrx007-receivers-land-stateside/#commentsOnkyo TX-NR5007 receiver Onkyo gifted Europe with the release of its new top end receivers about a week ago, but now the news has come to the US. Up for grabs next month will be the TX-NR5007, TX-NR3007 and TX-NR1007 ($2,699, $2,099 and $1,599, respectively). As you can guess from the names, the networking theme has been carried across the lineup, so you'll have streaming support (DLNA, Pandora and Rhapsody) right into your receiver. These 9.2-channel models will also let you fill your room with speakers, and you can either choose to use the Dolby ProLogic IIz or Audyssey DSX for extra width or height. The 145-Watt TX-NR5007 and 140-Watt TX-NR3007 have eight (!) HDMI inputs and HQV Reon video processing, while the 135-Watt TX-NR1007 must make do with "only" six HDMI ins and Faroudja processing. As usual for Onkyo, all thee models are feature-packed additions, but if you ask us, the lineup is getting awfully crowded in both specs and price. Hit the link for details to help sort out the models.

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Onkyo's top-end TX-NRx007 receivers land stateside originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avronkyoothersreceiverreceiverstx-nr1007tx-nr3007tx-nr5007Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer plots a Kuro-less future in the home theater market]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/19/pioneer-plots-a-kuro-less-future-in-the-home-theater-market/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/19/pioneer-plots-a-kuro-less-future-in-the-home-theater-market/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/19/pioneer-plots-a-kuro-less-future-in-the-home-theater-market/#commentsPioneer empty Kuro If you were afraid that the post-Kuro Pioneer would retreat to car audio, fear not, because the company has plans to soldier on in the HT space with a marketing message that emphasizes both its A/V specialty roots and "balanced" home-A/V product lineup. As much as we love those Kuro plasmas, there's no denying that the prices didn't exactly jive well with the company's efforts to get consumers to recognize the value proposition in its other products. We'll admit that everyday consumers (read: not Engadget HD readers) looking to assemble a one-brand system could have been scared off of the Pioneer name by the Kuro prices, but we wish Pioneer would have kept its plasmas around as an "aspirational" product and allowed shoppers to cross-shop displays by building in deep, off-brand HDMI-CEC support into its other electronics. Wiping our fanboy tears aside, we have to give Pioneer credit -- its current lineup of electronics (AVRs especially) stack up competitively on the value-o-meter; which is good, because with companies like Denon, Onkyo and Yamaha around, it's in for a tough fight.

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Pioneer plots a Kuro-less future in the home theater market originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 17:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu rayblu-raybluraybusinesshtibkuroloudspeakerspioneerreceiverreceiversspeakersWed, 19 Aug 2009 17:23:00 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.

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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[High end Onkyo fans in Japan get Integra DTR-70.1, DTR-50.1 and DTR-40.1 receivers]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/11/high-end-onkyo-fans-in-japan-get-integra-dtr-70-1-dtr-50-1-and/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/11/high-end-onkyo-fans-in-japan-get-integra-dtr-70-1-dtr-50-1-and/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/11/high-end-onkyo-fans-in-japan-get-integra-dtr-70-1-dtr-50-1-and/#commentsOnkyo Integra DTR-70.1 receiver Just in case its home market was feeling a bit jealous over the US release of the TX-NR807 and TX-SR707 AVRs, Onkyo Japan has brought the DTR-70.1, DTR-50.1 and DTR-40.1 receivers to its Integra lineup. The 250-, 230-, and 190-Watt ratings in the PR need some extra salt, as they're "6-Ohm, 1-channel driven" specs. That said, Onkyo receivers haven't been known to run out of gas; we just wish the specs had a little more real-world applicability. On a happier note, the DTR-70.1 and DTR-50.1 feature Reon HQV video processing and ISF calibration, and all three models get Dolby ProLogic IIz and Audyssey DSX surround processing in addition to network streaming capabilities from the "mere" Onkyo line. If you're waiting for the stateside arrival of these AVRs, there's much more info to be teased out of the machine translations below.

[Via AkihabaraNews]

Read - Onkyo Integra DTR-70.1
Read - Onkyo Integra DTR-50.1
Read - Onkyo Integra DTR-40.1

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High end Onkyo fans in Japan get Integra DTR-70.1, DTR-50.1 and DTR-40.1 receivers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audyssey dsxAudysseyDsxdolby prologic iizDolbyPrologicIizdtr-40.1dtr-50.1dtr-70.1integraintegra dtr-40.1integra dtr-50.1integra dtr-70.1IntegraDtr-40.1IntegraDtr-50.1IntegraDtr-70.1isfcccjapanonkyoothersreceiverreceiversTue, 11 Aug 2009 12:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Onkyo TX-NR807 and TX-SR707 receivers keep the updates rolling]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/10/onkyo-tx-nr807-and-tx-sr707-receivers-keep-the-updates-rolling/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/10/onkyo-tx-nr807-and-tx-sr707-receivers-keep-the-updates-rolling/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/10/onkyo-tx-nr807-and-tx-sr707-receivers-keep-the-updates-rolling/#commentsOnkyo TX-NR807 receiver More than a few people have been interested in Onkyo's x07 receiver updates, and now the newness has come to the TX-SR707 and TX-NR807 models. The outgoing TX-SR706 and TX-SR806 models are well-specced to begin with, and thankfully Onkyo didn't mess with that formula. As you can guess from the "NR" designation, the $1,099 TX-NR807 adds in network streaming (including Pandora, Rhapsody, DLNA and Windows 7) to the 135-Watt/channel output. If you can do without the networking and only need 100-Watts, the TX-SR707 will save you a couple hundred bucks. Both models are THX Select2 badged, Faroudja scaling, and let you pick how to use your rear surround outputs by including both Dolby ProLogic IIz and Audyssey DSX processing. Like we said, Onkyo knows how to fill up the spec list, so head past the break for the full PR details.

Continue reading Onkyo TX-NR807 and TX-SR707 receivers keep the updates rolling

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Onkyo TX-NR807 and TX-SR707 receivers keep the updates rolling originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audyssey dsxAudysseyDsxdolby prologic iizDolbyPrologicIizdsxonkyoonkyo tx-nr807onkyo tx-sr707OnkyoTx-nr807OnkyoTx-sr707othersprologic iizPrologicIizreceiverreceiverstx-nr807tx-sr707Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Onkyo mixes HT-series receivers into lineup, confusion ensues]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/05/onkyo-mixes-ht-series-receivers-into-lineup-confusion-ensues/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/05/onkyo-mixes-ht-series-receivers-into-lineup-confusion-ensues/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/08/05/onkyo-mixes-ht-series-receivers-into-lineup-confusion-ensues/#commentsOnkyo HT-RC160 receiver Onkyo is a go-to favorite when it comes to HTIB systems for a very simple reason -- the systems are a great value on day one, and actually have room for growth through speaker and receiver upgrades. Apparently not satisfied with the coverage its current receiver lineup has over the AVR space, Onkyo has now created a new "HT" receiver line based on its HTIB receivers. First up is the $549 HT-RC160, a 80-Watt, 7.2-channel model with 5 HDMI inputs and the same Dolby ProLogic IIz that's been spreading through Onkyo's lineup. Moving up the food chain, there's the $1,049 HT-RC180 that wears the THX Select2Plus badge alongside its 7.2-channels and networking capabilities (including Pandora and Rhapsody streaming). On paper, these look just fine, but we're left wondering why Onkyo opted for double-coverage on turf occupied by its own TX-SR607 and (forthcoming) TX-SR807. How street prices track MSRP on these two "HT" models will tell where they really fit. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading Onkyo mixes HT-series receivers into lineup, confusion ensues

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Onkyo mixes HT-series receivers into lineup, confusion ensues originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 14:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ht seriesht-rc160ht-rc180HtSeriesonkyoonkyo ht-rc160onkyo ht-rc180OnkyoHt-rc160OnkyoHt-rc180othersreceiverreceiversWed, 05 Aug 2009 14:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer outs DCS-FS30, DCS-585, DCS-590 DVD HTIBs]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/30/pioneer-outs-dcs-fs30-dcs-585-dcs-590-dvd-htibs/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/30/pioneer-outs-dcs-fs30-dcs-585-dcs-590-dvd-htibs/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/30/pioneer-outs-dcs-fs30-dcs-585-dcs-590-dvd-htibs/#commentsPioneer DCS-590 DVD HTIB If you're into an all-Pioneer system, we'd suggest jumping into one of its Blu-ray HTIB offerings, but we'll just hope that these new DVD-centric offerings strike a lower price point that allows more people get started right away and attach a Blu-ray player to the HDMI inputs when their budget allows. Coming to the lineup -- at least in the UK -- are the 2.1-channel DCS-FS30 and 5.1-channel DCS-585 and DCS-590 systems. All kits are based (see that?) on a powered sub, but the configurations vary from there. The DCS-FS30 adds two height-adjustable desktop-sized speakers, and the DCS-590 is comprised of four tall speakers and a center channel, but things get interesting with the DCS-585 that comes with six small cube speakers -- two for center, the remaining four to be sprinkled around the room or stacked and put up front. Correct placement is so staid -- it's all about choices, see? More pics after the break.

Continue reading Pioneer outs DCS-FS30, DCS-585, DCS-590 DVD HTIBs

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Pioneer outs DCS-FS30, DCS-585, DCS-590 DVD HTIBs originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dcs-585dcs-590dcs-fs30dvdenglandhtibpioneerpioneer dcs-585pioneer dcs-590pioneer dcs-fs30PioneerDcs-585PioneerDcs-590PioneerDcs-fs30receiversspeakersukThu, 30 Jul 2009 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Onkyo HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 HTIBs -- new features, same value]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/29/onkyo-ht-s7200-and-ht-s6200-htibs-new-features-same-value/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/29/onkyo-ht-s7200-and-ht-s6200-htibs-new-features-same-value/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/29/onkyo-ht-s7200-and-ht-s6200-htibs-new-features-same-value/#commentsOnkyo HT-S7200 HTIB There's so many features (and components -- they even include an iPod dock) packed into Onkyo's HTIB systems that it takes a little digging to find the spec bumps in the new HT-S7200 and S6200 models. The top-line HT-S7200 received one extra HDMI input (for a total of five), and both new models also added Audyssey Dynamic Volume and Dolby ProLogic IIz to their processing palette. All in all, pretty consistent with the changes sweeping over the TX-SRx07 receiver lineup, and the $899 and $699 prices for the HT-S7200 and HT-S6200, respectively, are also in line with Onkyo's high value equation for its HTIBs. Finally, there's a $499 SKS-HT870 speaker-only package with the "tallboy" anchored speakers from the HT-S7200 system available for those who want to upgrade their HTIB without starting all over.

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Onkyo HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 HTIBs -- new features, same value originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 10:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ht-s6200ht-s7200htibonkyoonkyo ht-s6200onkyo ht-s7200onkyo sks-ht870OnkyoHt-s6200OnkyoHt-s7200OnkyoSks-ht870othersreceiverssks-ht870speakersWed, 29 Jul 2009 10:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Onkyo keeps the SACD fires burning ]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/27/onkyo-keeps-the-sacd-fires-burning/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/27/onkyo-keeps-the-sacd-fires-burning/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/27/onkyo-keeps-the-sacd-fires-burning/#commentsOnkyo C-S5VL SACD player, A-5VL integrated amplifier
Sure, Blu-ray has its Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA formats to satisfy the audiophiles, but Onkyo has apparently decided that there are still enough US audiophiles to warrant the release of gear previously labeled "Japan-only." With Wolfson DACs and a thermally regulated data clock circuit (you know, to tame those nasty jitters), the $599 C-S5VL SACD deck is ready to tackle your small but irreplaceable library of discs. Pair it up with the $699 A-5VL integrated amp and transport yourself back to a time when you didn't worry about specs -- 40-Watts across two channels, Burr-Brown DACs, and a low-noise preamplifier section should make for a killer small room/office system; and if you're anything close to mainstream, a small room or office is exactly where music listening has been pushed to. Grab the "sweet spot" chair and indulge!

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Onkyo keeps the SACD fires burning originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-5vlamericaaudioc-s5vlintegrated ampintegrated amplifierIntegratedAmpIntegratedAmplifieronkyoonkyo a-5vlonkyo c-s5vlOnkyoA-5vlOnkyoC-s5vlother formatsother hardwareotherformatsotherhardwareothersreceiverssacdusMon, 27 Jul 2009 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Audioholics overviews entry level receiver choices ]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/23/audioholics-overviews-entry-level-receiver-choices/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/23/audioholics-overviews-entry-level-receiver-choices/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/23/audioholics-overviews-entry-level-receiver-choices/#commentsEntry level receivers
Take one sagging economy, add in advancing technology, bake them with some economies of scale and serve up to consumers hungry for this newfangled digital, HD AV craze -- it's a winning formula. When it comes to AV receivers, however, the pool is so crowded that picking a winner in the entry level category (remember that sagging economy) is daunting enough to push people to HTIB simplicity. The truth is that there's no single "best" entry-level receiver, but Audioholics has gone through the trouble of putting appropriate models from Denon, Yamaha, Harman Kardon, Onkyo and Pioneer into a feature comparison grid. The answer that emerges on which receiver is the "best" is a definite "it depends" -- you basically get to pick two out of three: audio features, video features and price. So the bad news is, you've got some choices to make; the good news is, you've got some choices to make.

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Audioholics overviews entry level receiver choices originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioholicsavr-154avr-590comparisondenondenon avr-590DenonAvr-590entry levelEntryLevelharman kardonharman kardon avr-154HarmanKardonHarmanKardonAvr-154onkyoonkyo tx-sr307OnkyoTx-sr307pioneerpioneer vsx-819hPioneerVsx-819hreceiversrx-v365tx-sr307vsx-819hyamahayamaha rx-v365YamahaRx-v365Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Yamaha YTH-591 HTIB reviewed -- you pay more, you get more]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/08/yamaha-yth-591-htib-reviewed-you-pay-more-you-get-more/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/08/yamaha-yth-591-htib-reviewed-you-pay-more-you-get-more/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/08/yamaha-yth-591-htib-reviewed-you-pay-more-you-get-more/#commentsYamaha YHT-591 HTIB
Every time we're asked for speaker and/or receiver suggestions and our victim's eyes glaze over as the discussion stretches on, we're reminded of why HTIB (home theater in a box) systems are so successful. As crazy as it seems to us, most people just want to get going with the HT, not invest in a lifestyle. Based on the review at the aptly named HomeTheaterInABoxReview, the Yamaha YHT-591 sounds like a system we could recommend the next time we're asked. At $649, it's on the expensive side of the HTIB spectrum, but you get what looks like a slightly detuned RX-V463 (105-Watt, 5.1-channels), 5 bookshelf/desktop-sized speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer. Other than the spring clips on the receiver, it looks like the receiver will survive a few round of speaker upgrades, with YPAO room EQ, HDMI connectivity and good codec support. Hit the link for the full details.
[Thanks, Brian!]

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Yamaha YTH-591 HTIB reviewed -- you pay more, you get more originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hometheaterinaboxrevewhtibothersreceiversspeakersyamahayamaha yht-591YamahaYht-591yht-591Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Yamaha intros RX-V1065 receiver]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/06/yamaha-intros-rx-v1065-receiver/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/06/yamaha-intros-rx-v1065-receiver/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/06/yamaha-intros-rx-v1065-receiver/#commentsYamaha RX-V1065 receiver
As we saw in February, Yamaha looks like it's stressing the "feature per dollar" theme for its receivers. But if your ego (or setup) can't stomach the thought of anything less than 100-Watts per channel, today's release of the RX-V1065 will set you right. The new 7.2-channel model cranks out 105-Watts through Yamaha's Digital Top ART circuitry and more codec support, YPAO room EQ, and Cinema DSP gadgetry than you can shake a stick at. The RX-V1065 also adds in support for HD radio and audio files on USB memory devices (WAV, MP3 and WMA). There's something for everyone -- even the haters will find something to like in the 29-pound weight that's the same as the lower RX-V765 model. At just under $1000 mark, we would have traded out the HD Radio and USB support for a second HDMI output, but we're greedy like that.

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Yamaha intros RX-V1065 receiver originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>othersreceiverreceiversrx-v1065yamahayamaha rx-v1065YamahaRx-v1065Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer refreshes, lowers prices on its Elite receivers]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/01/pioneer-refreshes-lowers-prices-on-its-elite-receivers/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/01/pioneer-refreshes-lowers-prices-on-its-elite-receivers/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/07/01/pioneer-refreshes-lowers-prices-on-its-elite-receivers/#commentsPioneer Elite SC-27 receiver
If you love the good stuff -- and who doesn't -- then the four new receivers Pioneer has dropped into its Elite lineup might be your cup of tea. Slotted in at the high end of the range are the SC-27 (pictured) and SC-25; and the prices of $2,000 and $1,700 respectively even manage to shave a few dollars off the outgoing SC-07 and SC-05. The SC-25 and SC-27 both hold up the ICEPower tradition, and the SC-27 wears a THX Ultra2 Plus badge -- the first class D amplifier to earn the distinction. Add in the Burr-Brown DACsADCs and Wolfson DACs on these two and you've got the makings of top-end gear. Lower on the totem pole but continuing the trend of shaving a few bucks off the older models (VSX-01TXH and VSX-03TXH) are the VSX-21TXH ($700) and VSX-23TXH ($900). As you'd expect, all the Elites get loaded up with a heap of Pioneer's best wizardry, including MCACC room correction, network connectivity and (of course) compatibility with iPods and iPhones. There's plenty of other good info in the press release, so hit the link for the full details.

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Pioneer refreshes, lowers prices on its Elite receivers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 17:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elitepioneerpioneer sc-25pioneer sc-27pioneer vsx-21txhpioneer vsx-23txhPioneerSc-25PioneerSc-27PioneerVsx-21txhPioneerVsx-23txhreceiverssc-25sc-27vsx-21txhvsx-23txhWed, 01 Jul 2009 17:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Yamaha debuts neoHD media controllers, and a HTIB bundle too]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/29/yamaha-debuts-neohd-media-controllers-and-a-htib-bundle-too/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/29/yamaha-debuts-neohd-media-controllers-and-a-htib-bundle-too/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/29/yamaha-debuts-neohd-media-controllers-and-a-htib-bundle-too/#commentsYamaha neoHD YMC-S21 system
Considering the continually falling prices of receivers and discrete speakers, Yamaha's new neoHD components that emphasize integration and ease of use rather than just the "boxes per dollar" HTIB metric sounds like a good move. On power-up, the YMC-500 ($600) and YMC-700 ($800) also turn on the TV, guide the user through a tree of activities (starting with "Watch/Listen/Play" options) and power up the correct devices. Both models pack 3 HDMI inputs, a pair of component ins, and one composite (yuck) set. On the audio side, there's decoding all the way up to Dolby TrueHD (no mention of DTS-HD MA in the PR -- perhaps a Zoran chipset lurks within?) and a nice dollop of Yamaha technologies, including Cinema DSP, AIR SURROUND XTREME, YPAO room correction and Adaptive DRC dynamic volume control. If you spring for the YMC-700 model, you also get wireless connectivity to the media lurking around your house on PCs, a license for TwonkyMedia software for streaming to the YMC-700, and Rhapsody access. Still not convenient enough for you? Then grab for the $800 YMC-S21 HTIB system (pictured) that combines the YMC-500 with a 2.1-channel speaker setup -- interestingly, the PR doesn't spell out a YMC-700 + 2.1-channel speaker bundle. Full details after the break.

Continue reading Yamaha debuts neoHD media controllers, and a HTIB bundle too

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Yamaha debuts neoHD media controllers, and a HTIB bundle too originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>htibmedia controllerMediaControllerneohdothersreceiversspeakersyamahayamaha ymc-500yamaha ymc-700yamaha ymc-s21YamahaYmc-500YamahaYmc-700YamahaYmc-s21ymc-500ymc-700ymc-s21Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VuNow's internet video-to-TV streamer finds a home in Sherwood receivers]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/16/vunows-internet-video-to-tv-streamer-finds-a-home-in-sherwood-r/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/16/vunows-internet-video-to-tv-streamer-finds-a-home-in-sherwood-r/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/16/vunows-internet-video-to-tv-streamer-finds-a-home-in-sherwood-r/#comments
The VuNow platform is sitting a lot prettier, as it has grabbed an OEM deal to be included in Sherwood's upcoming line of receivers. Already making an appearance as the Netgear ITV2000 standalone unit, now high end amps and surround sound systems will have access to a variety of internet video sources without additional hardware. Verismo's said it will be pursuing many different opportunities for its technology, we'll wait and see where the YouTube / CNN / ESPN and more streaming hardware shows up next, though your cable box would appear to be a safe bet.

Continue reading VuNow's internet video-to-TV streamer finds a home in Sherwood receivers

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VuNow's internet video-to-TV streamer finds a home in Sherwood receivers originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>internet tvinternet videoInternetTvInternetVideomedia streamerMediaStreamerothersreceiverreceiverssherwoodstreamingverismoverismo networksVerismoNetworksvunowvunow podVunowPodyoutubeTue, 16 Jun 2009 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Rotel's RSX-1550 receiver -- great performance, but a bit pricey]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/12/rotels-rsx-1550-receiver-great-performance-but-a-bit-pricey/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/12/rotels-rsx-1550-receiver-great-performance-but-a-bit-pricey/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/06/12/rotels-rsx-1550-receiver-great-performance-but-a-bit-pricey/#commentsRotel RSX-1550 receiver
It's taken a good long while since Rotel debuted its 15-series AV components, but we're glad to see that a thorough review of the 5.1-channel RSX-1550 receiver has gone up at AVGuide. As a marque that sits at the high end of the spectrum, some quirks are to be expected, but Rotel has finally gotten onboard with HDMI 1.3 connectivity, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA, and independent subwoofer crossover frequencies for each channel. Also, it sounds like Rotel changed the "house sound" slightly, with a shift towards a more "gutsy" sound with a bassier presentation. Overall, it sounds like the RSX-1550 turned in a solid performance, but outside of Rotel's loyal following, $2,000 for a 5x75-Watt (conservatively rated, but still) receiver that forgoes auto calibration is going to be a tough sell. Audiophiles who complain about feature creep at the expense of quality, however, should take a look -- the RSX-1550 looks like it bucks the trend.

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Rotel's RSX-1550 receiver -- great performance, but a bit pricey originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 03:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15 series15Seriesavguideothersreceiverreceiversreviewrotelrsx-1550Fri, 12 Jun 2009 03:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer's VSX-819H, VSX-819AH and VSX-1019AH officially available]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/27/pioneers-vsx-819h-vsx-819ah-and-vsx-1019ah-officially-availabl/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/27/pioneers-vsx-819h-vsx-819ah-and-vsx-1019ah-officially-availabl/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/27/pioneers-vsx-819h-vsx-819ah-and-vsx-1019ah-officially-availabl/#commentsPioneer VSX-1019AH-K receiver
Much to the unofficial surprise of owners who have been using Pioneer's new receiver models since early this month, they're now officially available. If you've been holding out for seamless integration between the receiver and your iPod/iPhone devices (you do have more than one, right?), you'll take some comfort in the "Works with iPhone" and "Made for iPod" labeling on Pioneer's VSX-819H, VSX-919AH and VSX-1019AH (pictured) models that come in at $299, $399 and $499, respectively. In a nod to lifestyle convenience, Pioneer's press release skips over the HT specs for these receivers and plays up the Advanced Sound Retriever and Auto Level Control features that promise to put some life back into your lossy encoded music. We're a little sad to see the HT side of things didn't get more ink -- these units offer good complements of features, especially at their respective price points; if you've been playing with one of these, let us know what you think below.

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Pioneer's VSX-819H, VSX-819AH and VSX-1019AH officially available originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 27 May 2009 07:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iphoneipodpioneerreceiverreceiversvsx-1019ahvsx-819hvsx-919-ahWed, 27 May 2009 07:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Onkyo outs audio-centric components in Japan]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/26/onkyo-outs-audio-centric-components-in-japan/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/26/onkyo-outs-audio-centric-components-in-japan/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/26/onkyo-outs-audio-centric-components-in-japan/#commentsOnkyo HTX-11X HTIB system
Onkyo just loves to make new product announcements in batches, and the latest press volley is no exception. Planned for release next month in Japan are the 2.1-channel HTX-11X system, CR-D2LTD CD mini-system with matched D-112EXLTD bookshelf speakers, A-5VL Class D integrated amplifier, and C-S5VL thin SACD deck. Even if the model names don't exactly roll off the tongue, the machine translations tell you most of what you need to know. Here's a quick rundown: the HTX-11X matches up the stereo pair of bookshelf speakers with the amplifier buried in the subwoofer cabinet to the tune of 35-Watts to the sub itself and 17-Watts across each of the 5 remaining taps; if you're putting together something for your executive office, the CR-D2LTD mini-system paired up with the D-112EXLTD speakers will handle your CDs and FM radio; and audiophiles looking to roll their own might find something to like in the 80-mm thin C-S5VL SACD deck and 40-Watt A-5VL Class D integrated amplifier. If you're planning on doing some shopping in Akihabara soon, go past the break for pretty pics and hit the links for the full details.

Read - HTX-11X HTIB system
Read - CR-D2LTD mini-system, D-112EXLTD speakers
Read - A-5VL integrated amplifier, C-S5VL SACD player

Continue reading Onkyo outs audio-centric components in Japan

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Onkyo outs audio-centric components in Japan originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 26 May 2009 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-5vlaudioc-s5vlcr-d2ltdd-112exltdhtibhtx-11xintegrated amplifierIntegratedAmplifierjapanminisystemonkyoother hardwareotherhardwareothersreceiverssacdspeakersTue, 26 May 2009 19:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Okoro Media Systems's OMS-AX100 amps up your boring HTPC]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/20/okoro-media-systemss-oms-ax100-amps-up-your-boring-htpc/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/20/okoro-media-systemss-oms-ax100-amps-up-your-boring-htpc/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/20/okoro-media-systemss-oms-ax100-amps-up-your-boring-htpc/#commentsOkoro Media Systems's OMS-AX100 amps up your boring HTPC
For some there's nothing better than the warm glow of indicator lights coming from a huge stack of home theater equipment. Others, though, prefer consolidation, and that's what Okoro Media Systems's upcoming OMS-AX100 will offer: an HTPC with an integrated 5.1 channel amplifier from D2Audio (a 7.1 version also avail). With 100 watts per channel you can plug your non-powered speakers right into the unit and, through HDMI and component inputs, connect other sources, too. However, with only one of each, you're going to have to choose favorites among gaming systems. Orders can be placed now to ship in June, and a base Windows Vista-equipped machine with 500GB of storage, 4GB of memory, and an AMD Athlon 64 X2 5050e 2.6GHz processor will set you back $1,650. A Blu-ray drive bumps the price another $190, which seems like a worthy upgrade -- if only because you might have a hard time finding an empty input for an external one.

[Via eCoustics]

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Okoro Media Systems's OMS-AX100 amps up your boring HTPC originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 20 May 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5.1 channel5.1 channel amplifier5.1Channel5.1ChannelAmplifier5050e7.17.1 channel7.1 channel amplifier7.1Channel7.1ChannelAmplifieramd athlon 64amd athlon 65 x2 5050eAmdAthlon64AmdAthlon65X25050eamplifierathlon 64Athlon64blu rayblu-rayblurayd2audiohtpcokorookoro media systemsokoro media systems oms-ax100OkoroMediaSystemsOkoroMediaSystemsOms-ax100oms-ax100othersreceiversWed, 20 May 2009 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[LG puts its HB954TBW Blu-ray HTIB into Korean streets]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/14/lg-puts-its-hb954tbw-blu-ray-htib-into-korean-streets/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/14/lg-puts-its-hb954tbw-blu-ray-htib-into-korean-streets/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/14/lg-puts-its-hb954tbw-blu-ray-htib-into-korean-streets/#commentsLG HB954TBW Blu-ray HTIB
Only last month we saw a positive review of LG's HB354BS HTIB, and the company obviously feels it's on to something good with these HTIB systems, because it has now introduced the similar HB954TBW to its homeland Korean market. This system notches up the channel count to 5.1 (as opposed to the 2.1-channel HB354BS), but still hangs on to the Mark Levinson name-drop, Blu-ray heart and retractable iPod dock that to our eyes looks like a sleek accident waiting to happen. Gather up your won, this one lists out at ₩1,299,000 ($1,030).

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LG puts its HB954TBW Blu-ray HTIB into Korean streets originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 14 May 2009 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu rayblu-rayblurayhb954tbwhtibkorealglg hb954tbwLgHb954tbwother hardwareotherhardwarereceiversspeakersThu, 14 May 2009 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Denon outs 2009 line of Blu-ray players, AV receivers and headphones]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/11/denon-outs-2009-line-of-blu-ray-players-av-receivers-and-headph/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/11/denon-outs-2009-line-of-blu-ray-players-av-receivers-and-headph/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/11/denon-outs-2009-line-of-blu-ray-players-av-receivers-and-headph/#comments
Ready for loads of succulent new audio / video equipment that you can likely only afford in your wildest dreams? Fantastic. Today in NYC, Denon has decided to introduce a whole fleet of new kit, so we'll get right down to the nitty gritty. Oh, and we're on hand at the premiere, so expect some hands-on shots shortly.
  • DBP-2010CI ($699; shipping in July) - Profile 2.0 Blu-ray player, onboard Ethernet, BD-Live / BonusView support, DivX HD playback, support for AVCHD, Anchor Bay Technologies VRS processing, upconversion and IP scaling to 1080p/24, RS-232c support, HDMI / component / composite video outputs
  • DBP-1610CI ($499; shipping in July) - Same as above sans Anchor Bay chip and RS-232c
  • Nine new AV receivers, priced from $379 at the low-end to $1,999 at the high; shipping between May and July 2009
  • ASD-51W ($299.99) and ASD-51N ($249.99) network-enabled iPod docks, both shipping in August. Both items also allow for Rhapsody streaming, Internet Radio streaming and Napster support.
  • AH-NC600 ($199), AH-C710 ($149) and AH-C360 ($49) in-ear headphones, all of which will ship by July
Full press releases and details for each are posted just past the break, and yes, it's overwhelming.

Gallery: Denon outs 2009 line of Blu-ray players, AV receivers and headphones


Continue reading Denon outs 2009 line of Blu-ray players, AV receivers and headphones

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Denon outs 2009 line of Blu-ray players, AV receivers and headphones originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 11 May 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AH-C360AH-C710AH-NC600Anchor BayAnchorBayASD-51NASD-51Wav receiveravrAVR-1610AVR-1910AVR-2310CIAVR-3310CIAVR-4310CIAVR-590AVR-790AVR-890AVR-990AvReceiverbd livebd-liveBdLiveblu rayblu-raybluraybonus viewBonusViewDBP-1610CIDBP-2010CIdenonipod accessoryIpodAccessoryother hardwareotherhardwareothersprofile 2.0Profile2.0receiverreceiversMon, 11 May 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CNET shoots down the Dolby ProLogic IIz in Onkyo's TX-SR607 receiver]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/01/cnet-shoots-down-the-dolby-prologic-iiz-in-onkyos-tx-sr607-rece/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/01/cnet-shoots-down-the-dolby-prologic-iiz-in-onkyos-tx-sr607-rece/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/05/01/cnet-shoots-down-the-dolby-prologic-iiz-in-onkyos-tx-sr607-rece/#commentsOnkyo TX-SR607 receiver
Onkyo's $599 TX-SR607 receiver made its way through CNET's auditioning room, and it sounds to us like it holds up Onkyo's tradition of delivering solid performance at entry-level prices. Even though the receiver got dinged for its big, boxy design (which we like, by the way), additional complaints about the unit running hot strikes us as a bit unfair. Given some breathing room, the Onkyo's audio performance stacked up favorably against a Denon 3808CI. At $599, we wouldn't come down too hard on the video upscaling performance; your display might do a fine job on that task anyways. Ah, but what about that new Dolby ProLogic IIz that's supposed to raise your roof? Well, it didn't seem to work for CNET at all -- on a variety of source material and even with boosted levels fed to the height speakers, the effect fell, well, flat. We'd suggest trying out DPL IIz before jumping into the multi-channel arms race.

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CNET shoots down the Dolby ProLogic IIz in Onkyo's TX-SR607 receiver originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 01 May 2009 09:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cnetdolby prologic iizDolbyPrologicIizdpl iizDplIizonkyoonkyo tx-sr607OnkyoTx-sr607othersreceiverreceiversreviewtx-sr607Fri, 01 May 2009 09:39:00 EST<![CDATA[AVReview pits four high-end receivers against each other]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/27/avreview-pits-four-high-end-receivers-against-each-other/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/27/avreview-pits-four-high-end-receivers-against-each-other/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/27/avreview-pits-four-high-end-receivers-against-each-other/#commentsPioneer SC-LX71, Onkyo TX-NR906, Sony STR-DA5400ES, Yamaha RX-V3900
Despite the trickle down of advanced features on many manufacturers' lower-end receivers, there's still plenty of room for their upper-echelon offerings as well, and the UK's AVReview put four £1,200 - £1,500 ($1,750 - $2,200) receivers in a matchup. Entering the ring were the Onkyo TX-NR906, Pioneer SC-LX71 (SC-07 in the US), Sony STR-DA5400ES and Yamaha RX-V3900; we only wish models from Denon and Marantz would have made it to the contest as well. That said, matching up four receivers is not to be taken lightly, and it sounds like each of the contestants would serve you well in both features and absolute performance. We won't spoil the ending for you, but even though only one receiver snagged the overall crown, at this price point you should know that things are more nuanced than a single "winner;" your personal priorities are going to be the biggest variable in choosing the best model for you.

[Boxing glove image courtesy germes-online]

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AVReview pits four high-end receivers against each other originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 27 Apr 2009 07:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avreviewcomparisonenglandonkyoonkyo tx-nr906OnkyoTx-nr906otherspioneerpioneer sc-07pioneer sc-lx71PioneerSc-07PioneerSc-lx71receiverreceiversreviewrx-v3900sc-07sc-lx71shootoutsonysony str-da5400esSonyStr-da5400esstr-da5400estx-nr906ukyamahayamaha rx-v3900YamahaRx-v3900Mon, 27 Apr 2009 07:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Cutting Edge update brings multiroom, dual live buffers to DirecTV HR2x / R22 HD DVRs]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/26/cutting-edge-update-brings-multiroom-dual-live-buffers-to-direc/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/26/cutting-edge-update-brings-multiroom-dual-live-buffers-to-direc/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/26/cutting-edge-update-brings-multiroom-dual-live-buffers-to-direc/#comments
DirecTV HD DVR owners keeping an eye on Cutting Edge releases got a special treat this weekend with a new update that enabled multiroom viewing and dual live buffers on HR2x and R22 receivers. Allowing users to pause one tuner for up to 90 minutes while they watch the other, DBSTalk notes this test release is a "Very High Risk" so don't bother calling customer service if it doesn't work properly, and if you missed the downloading window Friday then you'll have to wait for the next test period -- or whenever DirecTV is confident it has worked out all the kinks -- to give the new (or old, if you're a DirecTivo owner) features a try.

[Thanks, Kevin]

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Cutting Edge update brings multiroom, dual live buffers to DirecTV HR2x / R22 HD DVRs originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 26 Apr 2009 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffersdirectvdual live buffersdual tunerDualLiveBuffersDualTunerdvrhd dvrHdDvrhr20hr20-700hr21hr22multiroomothersr22receiverssatelliteSun, 26 Apr 2009 14:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony PlayTV already working (a little) in New Zealand]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/24/sony-playtv-already-working-a-little-in-new-zealand/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/24/sony-playtv-already-working-a-little-in-new-zealand/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/24/sony-playtv-already-working-a-little-in-new-zealand/#commentsHow close is Sony's PlayTV DVR to working with New Zealand broadcasts? Very, or so it would seem, one reader wrote in to let us know the UK PlayTV unit he brought down to NZ in '08 has, since the 2.10 firmware update, put its DVB-T compatibility to work and started picking up some broadcasts. So far he's able to catch TV3 in 1080i and AC3 surround and even pause and buffer video, but no program scheduling support. On the other 7 Freeview channels? Video, but no audio so far. Sony hasn't documented any New Zealand compatibility in its upgrades, but at least judging by one users experience everything is being "worked in" in good time.

[Thanks, Jim]

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Sony PlayTV already working (a little) in New Zealand originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 01:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If you read Engadget HD, it's safe to say that you're ahead of the curve when it comes to home audio/video. You do your homework before picking out gear, and you know that the PS3 can deliver Blu-ray audio bliss courtesy lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA tracks. One look at all the configuration options in the PS3's XMB (Xross Media Bar) interface, however, and you might find yourself wondering how to unlock the those audio codecs. In this installment of HD 101, we'll briefly cover the reason for the confusion and then go through setting up your PS3 for lossless audio step-by-step.

Continue reading HD 101: How to use Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with your PS3

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HD 101: How to use Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with your PS3 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioblu rayblu-raybluraycodecdecodingdolby truehdDolbyTruehddts-hd maDts-hdMafeaturedfeatureshd 101Hd101losslessps3receieversreceiverreceiverssonyTue, 21 Apr 2009 14:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung AS730 HTIB review]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/21/samsung-as730-htib-review/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/21/samsung-as730-htib-review/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/21/samsung-as730-htib-review/#commentsSamsung AS730 HTIB
In a time when most people feel that the sound spilling out of the white earbuds that came bundled with their PMP is "really good," getting people to pry open their pocketbooks for sound quality is a tough battle. That doesn't mean it's not worthwhile -- ask anyone who has experienced a good HT demo and they'll tell you that audio is a significant part of the grin-inducing experience. Where price sensitivity intersects with a desire to experience surround sound, HTIB (home theater in a box) systems have found a nice market opportunity. For its part, Samsung's $500 AS730 HTIB promises a lot -- a compliment of five speakers plus a powered sub combined with a receiver that can accommodate your existing system and leave you with some room to grow with both inputs (three HDMI, two component video and an iPod dock) and outputs (an extra pair of speaker outputs for 7.1-channel rear-surrounds). Read on to find out how the Samsung AS730 managed the features/price balancing act.

Gallery: Hands-on with Samsung's AS730 HTIB

Continue reading Samsung AS730 HTIB review

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Samsung AS730 HTIB review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>as730featureshome theater in a boxHomeTheaterInABoxht-as730ht-as730shtibreceiverreceiversreviewsamsungspeakersTue, 21 Apr 2009 09:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Onkyo debuts Universal Port-loving iPod dock, HD radio tuner]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/17/onkyo-debuts-universal-port-loving-ipod-dock-hd-radio-tuner/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/17/onkyo-debuts-universal-port-loving-ipod-dock-hd-radio-tuner/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/17/onkyo-debuts-universal-port-loving-ipod-dock-hd-radio-tuner/#commentsOnkyo U-Port iPod dock, HD Radio tuner
Onkyo only kept early adopters of its recently introduced TX-SR507 and TX-SR607 receivers waiting for a month to put the Universal Port (U-Port) 'round back to good use. The company has introduced an iPod/iPhone dock (is there anything that doesn't have one?) and a HD Radio module as U-Port accessories. The $109 UP-A1 iPod dock will allow remote control of the connected device and will output component video to the connected receiver when it ships in May. The UP-HT1 HD Radio tuner will show up in July and for $159 will unlock HD radio reception to your Onkyo U-Port receiver. Neither peripheral is exactly earth-shaking, but it's a safe bet that one of them will enjoy a lot more uptake than the other.

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Onkyo debuts Universal Port-loving iPod dock, HD radio tuner originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hd radioHdRadioipod dockIpodDockonkyoother hardwareotherhardwareothersreceiverreceiverssr507sr607tx-sr507tx-sr607u portu-portuniversal portUniversalPortup-a1up-ht1UPortFri, 17 Apr 2009 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Denon releases AVC-1610 receiver in Japan]]>http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/16/denon-releases-avc-1610-receiver-in-japan/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/16/denon-releases-avc-1610-receiver-in-japan/http://hd.engadget.com/2009/04/16/denon-releases-avc-1610-receiver-in-japan/#commentsDenon AVC-1610 receiver
Denon released the AVC-1610 receiver to its Japanese customers, and we can only assume it will make its way to other markets soon as the replacement for, of course, the AVR-1609 model. The specs we teased out of the machine translation look pretty good -- the same 75-Watt (130-Watt maximum into 6-Ohms) amplification as the outgoing model, but HDMI inputs have moved up a notch to three, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD MA and Dolby ProLogic IIz have been added to the surround audio processing support, and analog-to-HDMI video conversion is now onboard as well, which should help clean things up your cabling. Now if Denon would only add preamp outputs to this model, we'd be set. The AVC-1610 is set for mid-May availability in Japan at ¥55,000 ($550), which should give interested shoppers plenty of time to start planning whether to buy a new AVR-1610 or score a deal on last year's AVR-1609.

[Via AkihabaraNews]

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Denon releases AVC-1610 receiver in Japan originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 22:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avc-1610denondolby prologic iizDolbyPrologicIizjapanothersreceiverreceiversThu, 16 Apr 2009 22:18:00 EST