Good LCD TV Sales During China's Golden Week National Holiday
By Bing Zhang
Research Director, China Market, DisplaySearch  According to a variety of sources, LCD TVs sales were up about 10 percent Y/Y during the National Day Golden Week in China, Oct 1-7. Gome, one of the largest national chain stores, officially announced its AV sales grew 16 percent, out-performing the average 15 percent during Golden Week. Local brands took share through aggressive promotion of high-end TVs and by using emerging channels such as specialty stores, group purchases, and online sales.
Because of these emerging channels, traditional TV sales channels only grew slightly, most likely up 6 to 8 percent, according to the initial sell-through sales results and vendors’ feedback. LCD TV sales are estimated to be about 2.8 million units during golden week, according to preliminary checks. TCL, Haier and Changhong enjoyed higher growth than 15 percent Y/Y; other local brands grew 5-20 percent Y/Y; and foreign brands grew slightly.
The lowest LCD TV prices during Golden Week came from online sales channels, e-commerce on websites, group purchases from chain stores, and TV makers’ specialty stores. In general, prices were at least 5 percent lower than in traditional channels; it is estimated that emerging channels contributed 3-4 points of growth during Golden Week, which also might explain why the results of spot checks on traditional channels in cities has been lower than shipment growth of TV vendors in the past several quarters.
To secure margins and keep ASPs up, local brands tried to promote new TV features in city markets, such as LED, 3D, and the so-called cloud TV. Unlike the US and European markets, it is difficult to hold a high premium on new features for very long in China.
Besides normal fighter models with low specs and few features, many high-end fighter models with new features sold well during Golden Week. Changhong cut the price of its A9000, a 47” smart TV with 3D and LED features, by over 30 percent, to CNY 3999 ($615), including 17 percent VAT, and a 32” 3D LED TV dropped to CNY 2999 ($460). TCL dropped the price of a 32” LED TV to CNY 1799 ($275), cut a 42” 3D CCFL TV to CNY 3899 ($600) and dropped a 46” LED 3D model to CNY 4699 ($722).
Interestingly, a new 60” Sharp LCD-60LX531A model tagged at CNY 14,999 ($2310) was promoted at CNY 10,000 ($1500) at a regional chain store. Many models from Sanyo, a partner of Gome, sold at the lowest prices: a 32” LCD TV at CNY 1499 ($230) and a 42” LCD TV at CNY 2429 ($373), almost the same price as that of local brands’ fighter models.
Before National Day, most local brands had 7-8 weeks of inventory, and were careful not to increase inventories because of falling panel prices and financial difficulties since the middle of 2010. Due to good sales during Golden Week, LCD TV inventories have returned to normal levels, about 4-5 weeks. TV brands are expected to rebuild inventories step-by-step for the up-coming holidays: Christmas, New Years and then Chinese New Year.
Leave a Comment  
Share Article
Back to Top
3D Surveys Clouding the Picture
By Chris Chinnock
Sr. Editor and Analyst, Insight Media  Nearly every week I see a new survey on some aspect of the 3D market. The results are all over the map. Sometimes we try to dig a bit deeper into the data to better understand the methodology and validity of the results. At times, it seems the surveys come to conclusions that exactly match what their sponsors hoped they would reveal, casting suspicion on the survey. While political surveys can be surprisingly accurate, that does not seem to be the case when measuring consumer behavior or attitudes toward CE products.
Two surveys I saw recently highlight the perils. The first was from Spain’s Consumers and Users Organization (OCU), a not-for-profit group created in 1975 and dedicated to protecting the rights of consumers.
In their survey, the OCU polled over 400 3DTV users with questions ranging from the technical performance of their screens to the personal viewing experience, as well as detected problems and preferred brands.
According to the published results, users spent 13 percent of their viewing time on average watching 3D content. Most of that content originated from Blu-Ray/DVD players, followed by TV channels showing — in decreasing order of preference — film, documentary and sports programming. This result seems reasonable, if not a little high to me.
For the majority of performance-related issues, like image resolution, quality of 3D effects, subtitle legibility and price/quality relationship, Panasonic PDP 3DTVs were the top brand. On the question of the interoperability of the TV set with gaming consoles, Sony was the top choice. Again, this seems reasonable given Sony’s PlayStation dominance.
The results also showed that 70 percent of owners preferred LED LCD 3DTVs followed by PDP 3DTVs (15 percent) and LCD 3DTVs with CCFL backlights (14 percent). This data suggests some confusing results. If only 15 percent preferred PDP 3DTVs, yet the majority thought PDP performance was best, why was the preference number so low?
Another issue identified by the report was conveniences with the 3D glasses. This is not surprising, but no information was released on the nature of these issues or on the percentage of users who voiced concerns. More than likely, that means these numbers were big, so they were not revealed.
So while some of these numbers seem reasonable, it is the lack of full disclosure that can make you wonder about the validity of the results.
A second survey from UK-based research firm YouGov, focused on what cinema goers thought of their 3D theatrical experience. Full results of the survey can be found here. Note that this data includes the gender, age, social grade and UK region of the survey participant, but it also includes their political affiliation (Conservative, Labor, Liberal Democrat). The YouGov poll of 2796 adults was weighted to be representative of the British adult population as a whole.
Results show that 48 percent of cinema goers polled (2259 of the 2796 polled were cinema goers) had been to a 3D film in the last five years. The remaining questions were apparently asked of this same group, even though 51 percent said they had not seen a 3D film in the last five years. Amazingly, only 31 percent of respondents said they didn’t know if the 3D experience was better than 2D. That means 20 percent expressed an opinion on this and other questions without having seen a 3D movie in the last 5 years! Therefore, one must question the outcome of this survey.
So what did the survey show? It found that only 22 percent said the 3D experience was better than 2D, 19 percent thought it was worse and 28 percent about the same.
When asked to choose between the 2D and 3D version of the film if there was no premium for the 3D, 47 percent said they would be more likely to see it in 3D.
The price premium was then explored to determine the top amount consumers would pay. 48 percent said they would pay no premium, with 18 percent willing to pay £1 with 11 percent able to pay £2. The "no premium" response is not surprising, but Hollywood can take some solace that consumers do see some value in 3D and will pay something for it. On the other hand, 41 percent "think 3D is a gimmick."
In five years, only 26 percent think all films will be in 3D, while 16 percent think no films will be shown in 3D.
The other dangerous part about surveys is that certain responses are often cited by various constituencies, painting an incomplete picture of the results. What number do you need to support your business plan? I am sure there is survey out with the number you need (plus others that totally refute the finding). Let the reader beware.
Chris Chinnock is senior analyst and editor of Insight Media. Reach him at [email protected]
Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top 
Three Business Tools Designed for CEDIA Members  You’re busy – we get that. Owning a business keeps you running to various job sites, meeting with clients and sometimes even pulling wires. Working in your business has sometimes kept you from working on your business. Luckily CEDIA members have an upper hand on the competition with benefits designed specifically to benefit electronic systems contractor businesses. Check out some of the CEDIA member business benefits you may not have even known about.
Career Center – Is your company looking for new employees? The CEDIA Career Center provides a platform for both employers and job seekers to make much-needed connections. Job seekers can post their resume and search job postings free of charge! CEDIA members can post job listings free of charge and have unlimited access to the resumes posted by job seekers. Non-members may submit job postings or browse the posted resumes on the Career Center for a fee.
Individuals from related trades, technical schools, universities and colleges are taking a hard look at what CEDIA member companies offer, and many have made the transition. Start your new career or find qualified employees with the CEDIA Career Center today! Visit www.cedia.org/career_center.
ESC Marketing On-Demand – The 2011 CEDIA Benchmarking Survey found that “Increasing marketing efforts” was the activity most companies reported they would undertake in 2011 to increase profitability. The good news is, CEDIA is prepared to help members with that goal through the ESC Marketing On-Demand program, available to full CEDIA members. CEDIA’s ESC Marketing On-Demand program features brochures, postcards, and other promotional materials which members can customize and print at affordable rates.
These professionally designed pieces feature stunning photography and industry-specific messaging. The promotional pieces have been developed to communicate the importance of partnering with a qualified electronic systems professional for successful home technology projects. The professionally designed materials target audiences such as homeowners, architects, builders, and interior designers.
ESC Marketing On-Demand is part of CEDIA’s effort to support its members’ marketing programs by providing a cost-effective way to reach potential clients and partners. Each piece is customized to feature the CEDIA member’s company name, contact information, and logo. Each item also features the CEDIA member logo.
Additional details are available and members can place orders at www.cedia.org/membermarketing. For additional information, email [email protected] or call 800.669.5329/317.328.4336. Electronic Lifestyles® Magazine – Twice a year, the stunning work of CEDIA professionals is showcased in CEDIA’s Electronic Lifestyles® magazine.
Electronic Lifestyles® magazine provides a great opportunity for CEDIA members to gain valuable exposure. In addition to being distributed to architects, builders, and interior designers, the magazine is also distributed to hundreds of industry tradeshow attendees year-round. An electronic version is also available for convenient online viewing. A recent survey of CEDIA members revealed that 74 percent of members surveyed found this to be a valuable benefit. Submitting your project to be featured is easy. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Back to Top 
This Week from rAVe NOW's BlogSquad  Gina Sansivero: Slow Down, New Yorker, and Enjoy the View
Gary Kayye: Seven Days and $5 Million for Mike Peppel is Shameful
Molly Buckley: Post-Women in AV Webinar Thoughts
Lee Distad: Think About the Signals You're Sending
Chris Bingham: If I Could Teach You Just One Thing
Dustin Baerg: Programming Isn't Just About Code
Back to Top 
THX and BluFocus Offering 3D Certification for 3D Blu-ray Discs  The 3D revolution will be broadcast, streamed and also delivered to you on Blu-ray Disc. But with this added dimension of entertainment comes more layers of complexity for filmmakers, content producers and others in the mastering chain. Even consumers have to grapple with new playback modes, 3D glasses and device interoperability, as well as physiological questions about the effects of 3D.
THX has teamed with BluFocus, an official Testing Center for the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA), to build an ecosystem of production and mastering services for 3D broadcasters, authoring houses and post-production studios. This partnership brings together two of the most respected names in Hollywood and consumer electronics to address 3D picture quality, interoperability and the physiological effects of 3D.
THX-BluFocus 3D Certification Categories
The THX-BluFocus 3D certification program helps pinpoint and eliminate any AV quality and creative flaws long before movies are broadcast, streamed or manufactured on optical disc. Attention is also paid to disc interoperability, with THX and BluFocus testing Blu-ray Discs and Players to ensure they play seamlessly. When shopping for a 3D Blu-ray Disc, consumers should look for the following THX-BluFocus certification icons.
 Audio Video Certification
The “AV” icon indicates that a movie’s 3D visual images have been analyzed frame-by-frame to ensure Left and Right Eye images retain the sharpness and detail of the original master video elements. In addition, the audio elements have also been fully evaluated to make sure they meet studio Reference Level and remain faithful to the master recordings. The result of all of this work is a pristine 3D Blu-ray Disc experience, free of digital artifacts.
 Creative Certification
All 3D elements, including characters, graphics and subtitles, should enhance the storyline and visual experience, not distract from it. The “C” icon indicates that THX and BluFocus engineers have reviewed all 3D visuals to make sure they are properly focused and in the accurate “action location” onscreen. 2D-to-3D conversions are also analyzed to detect creative errors and flaws that deviate from the director’s intent or may cause 3D viewer fatigue.
 Interoperability Certification THX-BluFocus 3D “I” (Interoperability) certification applies to Blu-ray Discs to ensure they play seamlessly on 2D and 3D Blu-ray Players from major CE brands. More than 100 Blu-ray players, from different regions, are evaluated with each THX-BluFocus Disc to deliver a hassle-free user experience. Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top
HDTV Shipments Decline in 2011 The forecast published by DisplaySearch this month in its Quarterly Advanced Global TV Shipment and Forecast Report shows a further reduction in the demand outlook for TVs worldwide. Total TV shipments are not forecast to grow from 2010 to 2011, holding at 248 million units. LCD TVs will account for 206M and plasma TV for 17M. The forecast reduction is based on lower business targets for the year from TV manufacturers, and lower than expected demand for key TV components during the peak procurement period leading into the holiday season.
“Demand in regions like North America and Europe has fallen short of expectations as persistent economic problems have made consumers cautious in their spending and highly value-seeking,” noted Paul Gagnon, Director of North America TV Research for DisplaySearch. “Emerging markets continue to show good growth, but it is not strong enough to counteract the weaker demand in developed markets, and as a result, we have lowered our unit forecasts for LCD and plasma TV.”
Although total TV unit demand for 2011 looks to be flat, shipments of flat panel TVs, which excludes CRT and rear projection technologies, will increase about 6 percent Y/Y. This growth looks likely to improve to 9 percent in 2012, as the premium for advanced features continues to fall and manufacturers bring low-cost solutions to emerging markets in an effort spur faster replacement of CRT TVs.
 LCD TV Will Remain the #1 TV Technology, as Backlights Shift from CCFL to LED
LCD shipments will rise from 192M in 2010 to 206M this year, which is less than the previous forecast of 211M and a key reason the overall TV market forecast was reduced.
Gagnon added, “LCD TVs account for more than 80 percent share of all global TV shipments. LCD TV supply chain participants—including panel makers, OEMs, and TV brands—have all lowered their outlook for 2011 demand, despite a recent drop in LCD panel prices. Long-term, we continue to forecast annual growth in demand for LCD TVs, although generally we expect less than 10 percent growth each year.”
LED and 3D Features Keep LCD TV Prices Stable
A growing share of new premium features, like LED backlights and 3D, are helping to keep the LCD TV category average prices very stable in 2011, falling just 7 percent Y/Y on a volume weighted basis. However, with the slower unit growth, total LCD TV revenues are expected to be flat this year. After increasing slightly in 2012, revenues should begin a gradual decline beginning in 2013. The forecast share of LED backlights in LCD TV shipments has been reduced slightly to 46 percent in 2011, but is still expected to become the dominant backlight technology for LCD in 2012 and reach nearly 100 percent of shipments by 2015.
Plasma TV Growth Slows
Plasma TV unit growth started slowing in Q2’11, declining 6 percent Y/Y, and is now expected to see a double-digit unit shipment decline each quarter through the middle of 2012. Because LCD TV prices are falling more quickly than plasma TV prices, the gap in pricing is narrowing and share is shifting away from plasma and towards LCD at several sizes. For example, in Q2’10 a 42” 1080p plasma TV was 32 percent cheaper than a competitive 42” 1080p 120 Hz LED LCD TV, but that gap fell to just 9 percent by Q2’11. Total plasma TV unit shipments are expected to fall 9 percent in 2011 to 17M units and around 5-6 percent each year thereafter.
OLED TVs Enter the Scene in Late 2012
OLED TV is set to debut around late 2012 as a contender in the 40”+ category, but will only grow to about 2.5 percent of the 40”+ segment by 2015 due to high prices and limited availability. Current projections are for OLED to debut at about 2-3X the price of a high-end LED-backlit LCD TV.
Emerging regions (China, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa) will have the strongest flat panel TV growth over the next four years, averaging 11 percent growth each year, while developed regions decline an average of 1 percent each year. The Asia Pacific region is positioned for strongest growth as the late-adopting India market begins to boom.
The worldwide forecast for 3D TVs was slightly increased through unexpected growth in emerging markets and Europe, although North America is growing slower than expected. 3D TVs are expected to account for 11 percent of total TV shipments in North America, but 14 percent of Western Europe and 12 percent of China TV shipments. Eventually though, North America will lead 3D adoption due to stronger preference for 40”+ sizes. 3D TV is expected to account for just over 22M in 2011, rising to more than 100M shipped by 2015. Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top
Da-Lite Wins 2011 InfoComm Green AV Award  InfoComm has presented its Green AV Award to Da-Lite Screen Company, Inc. The award was presented at the InfoComm 100, a conference designed to bring together top AV industry leaders and volunteers, hosted this month in Portland.
The Green AV Award was created by InfoComm to recognize people and organizations for implementing environmentally sustainable practices in the manufacturing of products, integration of AV systems, reduction of waste in the workplace or through similar strategies.
As a sustainable manufacturer, Da-Lite Screen Company gives validity and trust to specifiers, integrators and end users who select Da-Lite products to comply with stringent guidelines for environmental design, chemical or particle emissions and overall quality. Da-Lite’s environmental initiatives include ISO 14001:2004 for all domestic production facilities, GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality and GREENGUARD Children and Schools certification for all screen surfaces, 100 percent landfill diversion for the Warsaw, Indiana production facility and the Screen Green Exchange Program for old or unused projection screens.
Da-Lite is a member of the US Green Building Council (USGBC) and, in addition, has been an active member of the Indiana Environmental Stewardship Program since 2008 and was renewed by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management in June 2011 for another three year term in the program.
“Today’s sustainability practices are essential to building tomorrow’s AV industry,” said Randal A. Lemke, Ph.D., Executive Director and CEO, InfoComm International. “InfoComm is pleased to issue the Green AV Award to Da-Lite for leading the industry by example.”
Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top
24fps Flaws Amplified in 3D Digital Cinema Although this story is about digital cinema, the technology described here has implications for 3D in home cinema.
Theaters show 3D movies at 24 frames per second (FPS), but actually flash each frame image three times. Called triple flashing, this technique means viewers are actually seeing 144 frames per second of triplicated content.
Triple Flashing
 In order to project standard frame rate 3D with minimal viewer discomfort, the projector “flashes” a frame for each eye, three times as fast. This tripling of the frame rate (from 24 FPS, per eye to a total of 144 FPS) provides a smoother look and gives standard frame rate content the best motion rendition possible.
Unfortunately, flashing the same frame three times takes some of the inherent flaws of standard frame rates and accentuates them when done in a 3D image. Producing and showing feature films at higher frame rates will minimize or stop the motion blur, judder and strobing audiences see today, providing a more picture-perfect 3D display.
Now some of Hollywood’s most notable directors such as James Cameron, George Lucas and Peter Jackson, are pushing Hollywood Studios to bring high frame rates (HFR) to the big screen — in 3D.
Peter Jackson is filming a two-part prequel, “The Hobbit,” at 48 FPS and in 3D. The first of two parts is targeted for release in December 2012 and Jackson’s Park Road firm will be using the latest Christie Solaria projectorsfor post-production of the much anticipated film.
Directing colleague James Cameron, an outspoken HFR proponent, has said the 3D sequels to “Avatar” will be shot at HFR. Film-technology buffs are speculating “Avatar 2” and “Avatar 3” will be shot at 60 FPS.
Shot at higher frame rates, new 3D movies will be double-flashed by projectors to remove any hint of flickering. Fans watching a film produced at 48 FPS will see the same frame flashed twice per second, resulting in 96 FPS seen by each eye and 192 FPS overall. Films produced at 60 FPS, and then double-flashed, will result in moviegoers seeing a 3D film at an ultrasmooth 240 FPS.
 Double Flashing
With feature film content shot and produced at high frame rates, high frame rate-capable projectors will “double flash” or duplicate each frame. This increases the overall frame count to 192 FPS or 240 FPS without increasing the number of repeated frames. Doing so, removes any hint of flickering, strobing and judder and creates a more compelling and engaging movie-going experience.
For more information about high frame rates, download the High Frame Rate Technology Overview here [PDF]: https://www.ravepubs.com/utility/documents/christie-high-frame-rate-technology-overview.pdf Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top 
New Fully Loaded THX Certified TiVo Premiere Elite DVR  Available today, TiVo’s top of the line TiVo Premiere Elite DVR includes four digital tuners and a 2TB hard drive. For the first time, TiVo users can record four different programs while watching a fifth recorded. More than 300 hours of HD programming can fit on the massive drive. In addition to recording digital cable channels, the TiVo Premiere Elite has built-in access to on-demand movies and TV from Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, Hulu Plus, Blockbuster On Demand and even YouTube videos. On the music side, it integrates Pandora, Rhapsody, Music Choice videos and more. Plus, it lets users stream personal music and photos from their PC or Mac.
The TiVo Premiere Elite also connects to the TiVo App for iPad and iPhone. With it, users can manage, search and schedule recordings all without interrupting what they’re watching. Also, with the TiVo Desktop Plus, TiVo recordings can be transferred for playback on an iPod, PSP or other media players.
The THX Certification process tests hundreds of performance parameters to ensure a minimum of macro-blocking and mosquito noise, along with minimal de-interlacing, scaling and other distracting video artifacts. This means that regardless of where the content is coming from (i.e., cable, Netflix), the images and sound are as close to the original source material as possible. The included THX Optimizer tool lets consumers set up the TiVo and TV quickly and accurately.
The product supports up to 1080p resolution, as well as digital cable and Verizon FiOS. For even more recording space the TiVo Premiere Elite has an eSATA port allowing users to attach an external hard drive. If users want to connect to the TiVo services wirelessly, there are both N and G network adapters available.
The $499.99 TiVo Premiere Elite is available now at TiVo.com, Magnolia, and TiVo-authorized home theater installers. You can see all the specs here: http://www.tivo.com/products/tivo-premiere-elite/?WT.ac=tivohome_mantle_elite
Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top
Platinum Tools Ships Modular Crimp Tool  Platinum Tools has started shipping a new, very small crimp tool in the form of the Tele-Titan — a modular crimp tool for RJ45, RJ12 and RJ11 priced at only $34.95. Truly a palm-of-the-hand style crimp tool, the Tele-Titan includes a built-in cable stripper for both round and flat wire, can accommodate all CatX cable types and is a one-handed pressure-style crimp tool that the company says is simple to use.
Not much else to say about it — details are here: http://www.platinumtools.com/products/12507.php?cat=4
Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top
In Kick-Ass Cool News: New Throwable Panoramic Ball Camera Announced  No, this is not a disposable camera, but you do throw this netball-like camera up, up and away. When it reaches its apex, it snaps a single, instant 360-degree panorama. Padded foam saves this camera from being a ex post facto disposable.
This technology now makes panoramic shots a toss-up with taking a normal photo. This ball camera from the Computer Graphics Group at TU Berlin, avoids traditional difficulties by simultaneously firing off 36 fixed-focus two-megapixel mobile phone camera modules at the highest point of its flight.
An accelerometer keeps track of the ball's acceleration: as the ball reaches its maximum arc it comes to a near stand-still. As its upward velocity and the down-pull of gravity equalize each other, that’s when it snaps a 360 degree photo.
Buckminster Fuller would have loved the padded geo-design and the Hulk would approve the color.
Once you catch the ball camera (or pick it up from a bounce), you can take the images off the device with USB, and you can view the photos in 360-degree using a “spherical panoramic viewer.”
Want to see for yourself how this works? Watch this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Th5zlUe6gOE#!
Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top 
MartinLogan Ships Beautiful Bookshelf Speaker  Dubbed the Motion LX16, MartinLogan's newest bookshelf speaker is a 5.25" woofer housed in a wooden cabinet with an interesting look — a hand-rubbed, high-gloss piano black or black cherrywood finish that appears almost black in low light. MartinLogan’s signature perforated steel grille appears to float in front of the solidly constructed 3/4-inch thick MDF cabinets. Hidden beneath the grille, the drivers are secured by a solid, black-anodized brushed aluminum baffle that sits flush with the cabinet. According to MartinLogan, the so-called Folded Motion tweeters and woofers are blended with a crossover network featuring polypropylene and low-DF electrolytic capacitors, custom wound inductors, plus thermal and current protection. Spec'd at 92 dB @ 2.83 sensitivity with a nominal impedance of 5 ohms (but is also compatible with 4-, 6- or 8-ohm rated amplifiers), the speakers offer a 2.7 kHz crossover frequency, 20- to 200-watts-per-channel and a frequency response of 60-25kHz. Truth be told, these things look amazing and we are thoroughly impressed — these just might be the perfect bookshelf speakers. Martin Logan has them listed at $799 per pair.
Want to see all the specs? Go here: http://www.martinlogan.com/motionSeries/motion-lx16.php
Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top
Community Adds to VLF Sub Range  Community has launched three new products to its VLF Series (stands for Versatile Low Frequency) in the form of the dual 8-inch VLF208LV, the single 15-inch VLF115 and the single 18-inch VLF118 subwoofers. The new VLF208LV, a dual 8-inch in a larger volume enclosure than the ultra-compact VLF208, is designed for applications that require ultra-low frequencies from a slim-profile design (it's only 10×21.75×21.75"), with a frequency response down to 40 Hz (-3dB) and an operating range to 30 Hz (-10dB). It can handle 1000 watts. The VLF208LV is available in both portable and installation versions. The portable version includes built-in handles and a pole mount socket, while the black and white installation models incorporate multiple M10 hang points and both are available in black or white.
 The new VLF115 and VLF118 models are also designed as "slim" subs, with a half-space sensitivity of 98dB. The VLF115 handles 1500 watts with an operating range of 25 Hz to 1000 Hz, while the VLF118 handles 2000 watts with an operating range of 26 Hz to 1000 Hz. The VLF115 and VLF118 are available in portable and installation versions, each with four M10 hang points on the top, bottom and sides of the cabinet for use in either horizontal or vertical configuration.
For complete specs, go here: http://www.communitypro.com/index.php/product-list/113-vlf-series
Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top
Thiel Issues Specs on SmartSubs  Thiel has published complete specs on its new SmartSub Series and they are impressive. If you'll recall, at CEDIA Thiel debuted its new SmartSub line, including two new models — the SS2.2 and the USS. The SS2.2 uses two 10" drivers to garner 20Hz-300Hz input response, an acoustic output of up to 105dB @ 20Hz and 112 dB @ 30Hz. Featuring both line and XLR inputs, the SS2.2 offers output power of 1000 watts RMS and weighs in at 104 pounds. The new USS is like a mini version of the SS2.2 in that it has one 10" driver but also has an input response of 20Hz-300Hz, an acoustic output range of 99dB @ 20Hz and 106dB @ 30Hz. It has both line and XLR inputs and weighs only 55 pounds.
Both come in multiple wood finishes and will ship next month.
Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top
Paradigm Intros Subs for Monitor Loudspeaker Line  Paradigm has added three new subwoofers to its recently announced Monitor Series 7 line – the Monitor SUB 8, Monitor SUB 10 and Monitor SUB 12 – all with a streamlined design and a smaller footprint, engineered around the same single-driver design. The SUB 8 and SUB 10 both feature a mineral-filled polypropylene cone with a corrugated Santoprene surround (8 and 10 inches, respectively) first seen in the company’s Signature Series. They also have a 1½-inch, four-layer, copper-clad aluminum voice coil, Nomex spider, 4.5 lb ferrite magnet and an AVS die-cast heat sink chassis. The SUB 12 features a 2-inch, four-layer, copper-clad aluminum voice coil, 6.5 lb ferrite magnet, along with dual Nomex spiders and AVS die-cast heat sink chassis.
All three subs feature internal Ultra-Class D amplifers delivering 900 watts Dynamic Peak/300 watts RMS Sustained power and boast low frequency extension of 19 Hz for the SUB 8, 17 Hz for the SUB 10 and 16 Hz for the SUB 12 (DIN indicates -3 dB in a typical listening room). The Monitor subs are wireless; with the addition of Paradigm’s PT-2 transmitter, up to four Monitor subwoofers can be daisy-chained simultaneously.
All three subs are available in Black Ash to match the Monitor Series loudspeakers and estimated U.S. FMV pricing for the series is as follows: Monitor SUB 8 is $699, Monitor SUB 10 is $849, Monitor Sub 12 is $999. The PT-2 wireless transmitter and Perfect Bass Kit (PBK) are optional accessories and have a US FMV of $149 and $99, respectively. For complete specs, go here: http://www.paradigm.com/products/products-by-category/subwoofer
Leave a Comment
Share Article Back to Top 
Belden Joins D-Tools Manufacturer Vantage Point Program  D-Tools announced this month that Belden has joined the D-Tools Manufacturer Vantage Point (MVP) program. Belden, headquartered in St. Louis, produces and sells cables, connectivity and networking products.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top
ZVOX's Sand Bloomberg Inducted Into CE Hall of Fame  ZVOX has announced that ZVOX partner and "Head Sales Guy" Sandy Bloomberg has been inducted into the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top
IMU and 3D@Consortium Offer Workship on Stereoscopic 3D  Insight Media University, a parternship between Insight Media and Brawn Consulting, have teamed up with the 3D@Home Consortium to offer a full-day workshop on stereoscopic 3D. The workshop will be held on Nov. 2 in San Jose.
To register for the course, click here: https://www.cvent.com/events/3d-workshops/registration-c33b7abd9ed64252947f7c69d0e665e9.aspx To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top
RGB Spectrum Opens European Showroom and Depot  RGB Spectrum has opened two new facilities in Europe — a new sales and training facility in Eindhoven and a European depot locaion in Schiphol, both of which are in The Netherlands.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top
D-Tools Updates URC's Product Line in System Integrator (SI) 5.5 Software  D-Tools Inc. announced that detailed information on of the entire family of URC products has been recently updated in D-Tools product database, better enabling D-Tools System Integrator users to specify URC products.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top 
For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe HomeAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100% opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the high-end HomeAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: we run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
Don’t like us, then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below.
To send me feedback, don't reply to this newsletter – instead, write directly to me at [email protected] or for editorial ideas: Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at [email protected]
A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I’ve been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don’t think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue – which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe Publications has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition.
rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA, launched in February, 2004.
To read more about my background, our team, and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top
Copyright 2011 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – 919/969-7501. Email: [email protected]
rAVe HomeAV Edition contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors. |
It may turn out to be the final legacy for Steve Jobs. After dominating music, smart phones and "second screen" tablet markets with slick new products, rumors are flying this week that Jobs has "cracked the code" for the next generation living room HDTV.
Coming at it from an investor perspective gives plenty of rationale behind Apple’s move in this direction. But anyone paying attention to the recent coverage of Steve Jobs, and particularly his public statements, have come to know it’s not the money or dominating yet another product category that inspired him — or brought success to Apple. Job’s desire to "think different" gave us dividends of another kind, a simplicity in design and interface that surprises, and even brings joy. It has also been reported that Jobs left behind a product roadmap and strategy for the next three years, as he knew his time was limited. So perhaps we see several new innovations from the legacy of this very different thinker who touched the lives of so many.
A few weeks ago, I had the wonderful pleasure of planning and executing a stage update for a House of Worship (HOW) client of mine. I've been working with them for years, I designed and installed their entire system. From the front-of-house, to the IMAG and web streaming system, to their stage lighting… we did it all.
After announcing a cut of 4,000 jobs for 2012, many are wondering if Philips will even make HDTVs after this year — and even if it does, who will want to buy a TV from a company who's clearly getting out of the TV business? It's failed to sell its TV business after announcing earlier this year that it planned to sell to Hong Kong-based TPV, but the deal has still not materialized. And, now the job cuts. In fact, it's rumored to be a cut in not just the TV business, but also hospital equipment business as well.
Commercial guys and higher-end residential guys already know this well, but the importance of proper cooling and ventilation of AV gear remains underappreciated amongst both retail AV shops and integrators who are doing mainstream-priced systems.
