Monday, April 30, 2012

Denon DRA-697CIHD Premier AM/FM Stereo Multi-Source/Multi-Zone Stereo Receiver with HD Radio

Denon DRA-697CIHD Premier AM/FM Stereo Multi-Source/Multi-Zone Stereo Receiver with HD Radio Review



Denon DRA-697CIHD Premier AM/FM Stereo Multi-Source/Multi-Zone Stereo Receiver with HD Radio Feature

  • High-Quality Power Amplifier
  • Signal Level Divided Construction Chassis Design
  • Multi Source / Multi Zone
  • HD Radio Digital Tuner built-in
  • Subwoofer output
The DRA-697CIHD receiver will shine as the core to your high end Hi-Fi stereo multi-room audio system. Equipped with many new features including HD Radio, it can handle almost any configuration combination. Its two source three zone capability allows you to run multiple sources to multiple areas at the same time with pure clean sound. With the HD tuner as a second tuner source, regular AM/FM can be listened to in one zone and HD Radio can be listened to in another zone. Being 4 ohms stable, it can handle the most demanding speakers, yet deliver smooth fidelity. Custom integration is no problem either as this enhance receiver has all the connections an installer needs to integrate to third party control systems.


Sunday, April 29, 2012

BIC America F12 12-Inch 475-Watt Front Firing Powered Subwoofer

BIC America F12 12-Inch 475-Watt Front Firing Powered Subwoofer Review



BIC America F12 12-Inch 475-Watt Front Firing Powered Subwoofer Feature

  • Powered subwoofer with 12-inch injection molded long throw woofer; BASH designed amp
  • Patented BIC "Venturi" vent eliminates port noise
  • Adjustable crossover, adjustable volume control, automatic signal sensing
  • Inputs for both Dolby Pro Logic and Dolby Digital/DTS
  • Backed by 5-year warranty

The 12-inch, front-firing F12 powered subwoofer from BIC America incorporates a high current 475-watt peak amplifier designed by BASH Technology in combination with a 12-inch injection molded long-throw woofer. A patented BIC "Venturi" vent eliminates port noise, which is often heard from other subwoofers especially when playing demanding music and videos. The F12 also features an adjustable crossover, adjustable volume control, automatic signal sensing, high level inputs, and both Dolby Pro Logic and Dolby Digital/DTS inputs.

Front of the F12
Front of the F12 (see larger image).
Rear of the F12
Rear of the F12 (see larger image).

Specifications

  • Design: Front-firing 12-inch, 475-watt peak powered subwoofer
  • Frequency Response: 25Hz - 200Hz
  • Sensitivity: 90dB
  • Drivers: 12-inch injection molded woofer with heavy duty surround
  • Magnetic Shielding: Yes
  • Gold-Plated Terminals:Yes
  • Recommended Power: Built-in Amplifier Power: 475 watts Dynamic Peak, 150 watts RMS continuous
  • Impedance: 8 ohms
  • Dimensions: 21 x 19 x 22 inches (HxWxD)
  • Weight: 42.70 pounds each
  • Warranty: 5 years parts and labor
For more than 50 years, midrange and high frequency horns have been the hands-down choice for movie theater sound engineers. From the softest whispers... To the highest impact sound... Hrn drivers have no equal when it comes to clarity and dynamic range. The BIC Formula Theater Series carries on the legacy of the first Formula Series introduced in 1973. They offer an output capability of up to 116dB (live rock band levels), while offering refinements that surpass all of its predecessors. Injection molded long throw woofer; BASH designed amp. Adjustable crossover, volume and auto on/off. Speaker level and RCA inputs. Frequency response: 25Hz-200Hz. 15" W x 17" H x 18 1/4" D. Sold individually.


Friday, April 27, 2012

TEAC MC-DV600 Hi-fi DVD Stereo Micro System with HDMI Output

TEAC MC-DV600 Hi-fi DVD Stereo Micro System with HDMI Output Review



TEAC MC-DV600 Hi-fi DVD Stereo Micro System with HDMI Output Feature

  • Function: DVD/CD, Tuner, AUX1, AUX2, USB
  • Supports DVD-Video, DVD+R/+RW, VCD, SVCD, CD, CD-R/RW
  • HDMI Output Supporting 1080p
  • Playback MP3 Files on Portable MP3 Player via USB
  • 2-way Bookshelf Stereo Speakers and Subwoofer Included
The MC-DV600 Stereo Micro System includes Dolby Digital 5.1 Virtual Surround Sound and has a 1080i HDMI output. It includes 2-way bookshelf speakers and a subwoofer is included. It also has component, S-Video and composite Video outputs.


Thursday, April 26, 2012

Onkyo TX-SR608 7.2-Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black)

Onkyo TX-SR608 7.2-Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black) Review



Onkyo TX-SR608 7.2-Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black) Feature

  • 100 Watts per Channel at 8 Ohms, 20 Hz¿20 kHz, 0.08%, 2 Channels Driven, FTC
  • THX Select2 Plus Certified
  • HDMI (Version 1.4 to Support 3D and Audio Return Channel) with Deep Color, x.v.Color, LipSync, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio
  • HDMI Video Upscaling to 1080p with Faroudja DCDi Cinema
  • Audio and 1080p Video Processing via HDMI (1 Front/ 5 Rear Inputs and 1 Output)
Sure, we call it an “entry-level” A/V receiver. But when you witness the full potential of the TX-SR608, you’ll know the level you’re entering is far beyond the ordinary. For a start, you get six of the latest HDMI 1.4a inputs for simple hook-up of all your high-def sources. HDMI 1.4a also brings compatibility with the new 3D video format, as well as an Audio Return Channel from your display back to the receiver. Complementing HDMI on the input front, you have an analog RGB video input for connecting your PC, and a Universal Port for Onkyo peripherals. All video sources, regardless of resolution, can be upscaled to big and beautiful 1080p via HDMI and Faroudja DCDi Cinema. Audio processing incorporates quality Burr-Brown DACs, lossless Dolby and DTS codecs, and the expanded surround formats of Audyssey DSX and Dolby Pro Logic IIz. Three-stage inverted Darlington circuitry and jitter-cleaning technology work to ensure extremely precise and faithful amplification. In recognition of the TX-SR608’s outstanding A/V prowess, it has been awarded THX Select2 Plus Certification.


Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Denon AVR2112CI Integrated Network A/V Surround Receiver

Denon AVR2112CI Integrated Network A/V Surround Receiver Review



Denon AVR2112CI Integrated Network A/V Surround Receiver Feature

  • 7.1ch Integrated Network A/V Receiver
  • HDMI 1.4a 6In/1Out 3D Ready
  • AirPlay Ready
  • Discrete Power Amps rated at 90 watts each
Take control of your home theater with the AVR-2112CI from Denon. This versatile AV receiver features 6 HDMI inputs and an output as well as component, composite, and USB inputs to accommodate all your entertainment sources. 3D pass-through and Audio Return channel capabilities make this receiver even more attractive. An ethernet port opens up even more options with internet radio and other streaming capabilities.


Monday, April 23, 2012

Marantz NR1402 AV Receiver

Marantz NR1402 AV Receiver Review



Marantz NR1402 AV Receiver Feature

  • OSD over HDMI
  • Audyssey MultEQ auto calibration plus audyssey dynamic volume and dynamic EQ
  • Support HDMI ver 1.4a 3D, ARC and content type, 4 inputs, 1 output
While this receiver might be entry level in terms of price, it certainly isn't entry level in terms of features. Whether you want to enjoy a movie in 3D, stream music via the optional Bluetooth port or are looking to enjoy the sonic benefits of Audyssey, the NR1402 has you covered. Other features include a stylish slim design, an improved front panel display and an all discrete analog power amplifier.


Saturday, April 21, 2012

Denon DJ DN-S5000 Table Top Single CD Player

Denon DJ DN-S5000 Table Top Single CD Player Review



Denon DJ DN-S5000 Table Top Single CD Player Feature

  • Denon; DN-S5000; CD player
The DN-S5000 is a tabletop single CD Player with the world's first motor driven active platter for true vinyl emulation.


Thursday, April 19, 2012

Yamaha RX-V571BL 7.1-Channel AV Receiver

Yamaha RX-V571BL 7.1-Channel AV Receiver Review



Yamaha RX-V571BL 7.1-Channel AV Receiver Feature

  • 7 - channel surround sound
  • Front Panel USB
  • HD Audio format decoding
  • Burr-Brown DAC's for all channels
  • Analog and HDMI video upscaling to full 1080p
7.1 - channel AV Receiver ready for the 3D era with 6 in / 1 out HDMI, front panel USB Digital Connection for iPod and iPhone, front panel HDMI connection for camcorders and digital cameras, HD Audio decoding with CINEMA DSP 3D, YPAO and SCENE functions.


Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Onkyo HT-S3500 5.1-Channel Home Theater Speaker/Receiver Package

Onkyo HT-S3500 5.1-Channel Home Theater Speaker/Receiver Package Review



Onkyo HT-S3500 5.1-Channel Home Theater Speaker/Receiver Package Feature

  • 4 HDMI Inputs and 1 output with support for 3D and Audio Return Channel
  • WRAT Amplifier Technology
  • Direct Digital Connection of iPod®/iPhone® via Front USB Port
  • Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio
  • Easy Settings Change with On Screen Display via HDMI
Welcome to Immersive, Affordable and Complete Home Theater. For small- to medium-sized rooms, you can’t go past the well-balanced and affordable HT-S3500 home theater package. Newly equipped with Onkyo’s WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology), the AVR and six-speaker set will surprise and delight with audio performance you would expect from a more expensive system. The package is easy to set up right out of the box, thanks to the intuitive HDMI®-overlaid On-Screen Display and wall-mountable speakers. Four HDMI inputs provide connectivity for BD players and gaming consoles, and there’s an Audio Return Channel to send TV audio through the receiver. Plug your iPod®/iPhone® into the front-panel USB and enjoy clear, powerful sound with an inbuilt optimizer enhancing the quality of compressed digital music. The AVR decodes Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™, and is ready for 3D games and movies. Perfect for replacing an aging system, or for your first foray into the world of home theater, the package is rounded out with a subwoofer to boost bottom-end sound.


Monday, April 16, 2012

Denon AVR-4311CI 9.2 Channel Network Multi-Room Home Theater Receiver with HDMI 1.4a

Denon AVR-4311CI 9.2 Channel Network Multi-Room Home Theater Receiver with HDMI 1.4a Review



Denon AVR-4311CI 9.2 Channel Network Multi-Room Home Theater Receiver with HDMI 1.4a Feature

  • The fully discrete 9-channel power amplifier delivers 140 watts per channel (1260-watts total).
  • Enhance network capability: Internet Radio and network audio/photo streaming via Ethernet.
  • HDMI 1.4a Repeater Inputs (7) and Outputs (2) support 1080p/24, 3D (All formats) Audio Return Channel
  • Decodes Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital Surround EX
  • Audyssey DSX surround processing (supports 11.2 ch.)
  • Discrete Mono Amp construction has 4-ohm speaker drive capability
Immerse yourself in rich 3D video and 3D sound, plus on-line digital content with the Denon AVR-4311CI 9.2 Channel A/V Receiver. The new AVR-4311CI is a technological tour de force, designed for consumers wanting to network their AV system to enjoy a variety of digital media like Networked Audio and Photo Streaming. It’s equipped with HDMI 1.4a connectivity, including 3D pass-through (Broadcast and Blu-ray), along with Audio Return Channel. Ethernet connectivity opens up your AV system to host of exciting capabilities like audio and jpeg photo streaming via as well as hundreds of Internet radio stations. Pandora is supported along with subscription music services like Rhapsody and Napster. Flickr photo streaming is also featured. The AVR-4311CI packs a punch with 9-channels of onboard amplification producing 1260-watts of total power (140 per channel) delivering detail and dynamics to music and movie soundtracks. The amplifiers can be "assigned" for a variety of surround sound system configurations along with multi-zone applications, as the AVR-4311CI has Multi-zone (3) / multi-source (3) capability. The AVR-4311CI also sports a unique "pre-amp only" mode, where the amp section can be completely turned off, focusing the entire power supply to pre-amp and processing circuitry


Saturday, April 14, 2012

OPPO BDP-93 Universal Network 3D Blu-ray Disc Player

OPPO BDP-93 Universal Network 3D Blu-ray Disc Player Review



OPPO BDP-93 Universal Network 3D Blu-ray Disc Player Feature

  • Universal Blu-ray disc player providing playback for a myriad of video formats on disc or eSATA/USB drives
  • Dual HDMI 1.4 outputs for multiple displays or separate, dedicated video/audio connections
  • Supports Blu-ray 3D specifications (3D television and glasses required)
  • Decoding and individual 7.1-channel output for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio
  • Stream content from Netflix or Blockbuster and update firmware via your wireless or wired network; Voltage: 100V - 240V, 50/60Hz AC

(December 2011) Winner: PCMag Readers' Choice Awards Best Blu-ray Player

"Apple doesn't make Blu-ray players, but if it did, we have a feeling that OPPO Digital would still beat it in customer satisfaction. The small Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of Blu-ray disc players earns a Readers' Choice award, having received the highest satisfaction scores of any company in all of our satisfaction surveys this year. Respondents rated overall satisfaction at 9.5 on a scale of 0 (worst) to 10 (best). That was actually the lowest of its major ratings: Overall reliability was a 9.7 and likelihood to recommend was 9.6. For comparison, the highest rated products in 2011 to date were Apple's desktops and notebooks which rated 9.2 for overall satisfaction.

OPPO currently only has two products on the market, the 9 BDP-93 and the 9 BDP-95. In addition to being designed to meet the demands of audiophiles and videophiles, both provide access to a diverse selection of content including Blu-ray discs and Blu-ray 3D, as well as a variety of streaming sources, including Netflix, Blockbuster, VUDU, YouTube, Pandora, and more."" -- PCMag.com

(November 2010)
Oppo's BDP-93 gives you universal playback of Blu-ray, DVD, CD, SACD, DVD-Audio, and a wealth of digital files, with solid picture and sound quality no matter the format. With access to streaming content from Netflix or Blockbuster on Demand, USB and eSATA ports for your external drives, and wide connectivity including dual HDMI 1.4, this player defines versatility.

Oppo BDP-93
A universal player with stylish design, ample connectivity, and serious versatility. Click here for a larger image
Serious Media Support

The BDP-93 is ready to play most any disc media. Enjoy the latest and greatest with the Blu-ray Disc and Blu-ray 3D formats (3D television and glasses required for Blu-ray 3D). On the Blu-ray front, the BDP-93 also supports BD-Live (Profile 2.0), with Ethernet/wireless networking and a gigabyte of internal storage; and BonusVIEW, which enables picture-in-picture features while the movie plays.

DVD audio and video are supported, and it'll play Super Audio CD (SACD) in stereo or multi-channel. Users can select whether to output the DSD (Direct Stream Digital) signal in its native format or convert it into PCM.

Add the USB/eSATA connectivity and the list gets longer, with support for DVD, audio CD, HDCD, Kodak Picture CD, AVCHD, MP4, DivX, MKV, FLAC, WAV and other audio/video/picture files on recorded discs.

Streaming Content

Instantly watch movies and shows streamed to your TV via the Internet connected BDP-93 with both Netflix Instant Streaming (membership required) and Blockbuster on Demand.

Crystal-Clear Video and Upconversion

The BDP-93 incorporates Marvell's Kyoto-G2 video processor, which delivers a truly immersive viewing experience by rendering video free of noise and artifacts. This goes for all types of content--Blu-ray, up-converted DVDs, streamed content, etc. Enhancement options include video noise reduction, compression artifact reduction, intelligent color, contrast, detail and edge enhancements.

Per-pixel motion-adaptive de-interlacing and advanced scaling transform the standard definition image on DVDs to high-definition output to your TV, with help[ from the Qdeo processing for a clearer, smoother, and true-to-life picture free of noise and artifacts.

Oppo BDP-93 rear
Connections to suit most any modern system--dual HDMI 1.4, multi-channel audio, coaxial/optical digital audio, composite/component video, and more.
Oppo BDP-93 chips
Custom OPPO decoder and Marvell Kyoto-G2 Qdeo video processor. These chips help deliver a truly immersive viewing experience, free from noise and artifacts no matter the source.
Oppo BDP-93 HDMI
Two HDMI 1.4 outputs, compatible with the latest 3D equipment and pre-3D HDMI v1.1-v1.3 A/V receivers.
1080p/24Hz High-Resolution Video

The BDP-93 features user selectable video output resolutions, including 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, and up to 1080p 50 or 60Hz. The BDP-93 can also faithfully display 24 fps Blu-ray discs for smoother motion and a flicker-free, film-like home theater experience.

Source Direct Mode

For users who wish to use an external video processor, high-end audio/video receiver or display, the BDP-93 offers a "Source Direct" mode for sending out content with no additional processing or alteration.

Dual HDMI v1.4a Outputs

Two assignable HDMI v1.4a outputs are provided, giving you the option of full audio and video output to two displays; or dedicating one to audio and one to video. The BDP-93 supports 3D and Deep Color modes on both HDMI output ports.

High Fidelity Audio

The BDP-93 supports bit-stream output of lossless Dolby TrueHD audio via its HDMI 1.4a output, and can internally decode Dolby TrueHD into LPCM and output via HDMI or the 7.1ch analog audio output terminals (Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus audio formats are also supported).

The BDP-93 also supports bit-stream output of DTS-HD Master Audio, for decoding and output via HDMI or the 7.1ch analog audio output terminals. (DTS-HD High Resolution Audio and DTS Digital Surround are also supported.)

7.1-Channel Analog Output

Individual analog 7.1-channel surround outputs are ideal to connect to a 7.1-channel or 5.1-channel surround sound system. The BDP-93 delivers an incredible sound stage and an immersive surround experience. For users with stereo speakers, the BDP-93 offers a down-mix mode.

For simple and easy connection to more traditional A/V receivers, the BDP-93 features both optical and coaxial outputs for digital audio.

Connectivity

The BDP-93 is equipped with two HDMI output ports, for versatile installation options. No need to upgrade your A/V receiver to a 3D model--one HDMI output of the BDP-93 can be connected to a 3D TV and the other can be connected to a pre-3D HDMI v1.1-v1.3 A/V receiver. For projector users, you can connect one output to a projector for home theater use and the other to a TV for casual viewing. For a multi-room installation the BDP-93 can output audio and video to two 3D or 2D TVs simultaneously.

Dual USB ports and an eSATA port provide you with options for external storage, so you can enjoy high-speed delivery of your digital files.

Using the included wireless-N adapter or the built-in RJ45 Ethernet port, users will also be able to interact with BD-Live content, watch instant streaming programs from provides such as Netflix, Blockbuster etc., playback contents on their home network, and update firmware to keep up with new Blu-ray releases.

What's in the Box

Oppo BDP-93, Remote Control, User's Manual

3D Technology Checklist

This product is 3D-related. To help you get a great 3D experience, use our checklist below to ensure that you have everything you need. If you have any questions or want to learn more about 3D, we invite you to visit 3D 101--our center for everything 3D. To get started with 3D, please ensure that you have:

A Display

The first--and most important--item you'll need is a 3D-ready display--whether it be a 3D HDTV, 3D projector, or 3D computer monitor. These displays usually have a higher processing power than older models as they need to display one image for each eye to create a 3D effect.

A Source

While your display is ready for 3D playback, you still need a device to read 3D content (i.e., a movie or a show). This source can be a cable box with a subscription to a 3D channel, a 3D Blu-ray Disc player, or a PlayStation 3.

Content

In order to watch 3D, you will need to get some 3D content. This 3D content will come from the source mentioned above in the form of a 3D program, movie, or game. Please ensure that your 3D movies are in the Blu-ray 3D format, as this new format will provide the best 3D experience.

3D Glasses

All 3D HDTVs on the market require Active Shutter glasses to create the 3D effect. You will need to buy one pair of glasses for each viewer. Also make sure that the Active Shutter glasses you buy are compatible with your display--for example, buy the glasses from the same brand as your 3D HDTV.

HDMI Cable

To connect your source (such as a 3D Blu-ray Disc player) to your display, you'll need a hgh-speed HDMI cable. Cables with this designation--with bandwidth speeds up to 10.2 Gbps (gigabits per second)--will be able to carry the 3D signal without any loss of quality.
If you want to get more information about 3D, shop our 3D products, watch videos, or interact with other customers, visit 3D 101, our customer center about everything 3D.


Oppo's BDP-93 gives you universal playback of Blu-ray, DVD, CD, SACD, DVD-Audio, and a wealth of digital files, with solid picture and sound quality no matter the format. With access to streaming content from Netflix or Blockbuster on Demand, USB and eSATA ports for your external drives, and wide connectivity including dual HDMI 1.4, this player defines versatility.