European Custom Installer

Onkyo goes for the first-time customer in 2012-- announcing x4 entry-level AV receivers and x2 all-in-one home theatre packages, all to start shipping from March.

All models in the new receiver range carry InstaPreview (on-screen HDMI source thumbnail previews with fast switching) and Mobile HD Link (MHL) capability, while x3 models carry networking features via ethernet port.

One model (TX-NR616) is also THX Select2Plus certified, using 3-stage inverted Darlington circuitry. Meanwhile the TX-NR515 has Qdeo video processor capable to upscale video to up to 4K resolution, with 7.2 channel audio output.

The home theatre range includes the 7.1 HT-S5500 and 5.1 HT-S3500, both using "Wide Range Amplifier Technology" Onkyo claims reduces signal noise and "provides large amounts of controlled power instantaneously" through discrete output-stage components.

Both systems also include an Audyssey 2EQ room acoustic correction system (with microphone), as well as Audyssey Dynamic EQ sound correction and Dynamic Volume.

Go Onkyo Entry Level AVRs

Go Onkyo Home Theatre Packages

Philips announces TV offerings for 2012, with updates to the 6000 and 7000 series (PFL6007 and PFL7007) HD LED 3DTVs, all packing Smart TV, built-in wifi and dual-view full-screen 2-player gaming options.

The dual-view system allows 2 players to see different images on screen by splitting the 3D signal. It is found on a few other TVs, such as the Sony Playstation 3D Display.

Both 6000 and 7000 series also carry passive polarisation technology for 2D to 3D conversion, complete with 3D depth adjustment.

Being the higher-end of the two, the PFL7007 has an 800Hz motion rate, Philips Pixel Precise HD processing and uses active shutter glasses for 3D images.

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Revox shows off the Re:sound I speaker series at ISE 2012-- an ultrathin "invisible" panel speaker series installers can hide behind plaster, paint or wallpaper.

The company says the speakers make use of "bending waves," or physical waves moving within the material the soundboard is made of. As the soundboard oscillates (in a controlled manner), it turns the walls or ceiling into a sounding board with an emission angle of up to 180-degrees.

Speaker sizes are equal to DIN standards used in dry wall construction, meaning one can use the speakers instead of plaster board. The speakers themselves connect to Revox compact side room amps via standard speaker cable.

Sound panels come in 2 performance classes-- 40 or 80W, in either "C" (ceiling, 400mm wide) or "W" (wall, 625mm wide) models pre-treated in primer coating. An "A" version is also available for use in wood paneling, furnitore or behind mirrors.

Performance-wise, the panels offer frequency response of 100Hz - 18kHz with an efficiency of 88dB, depending on application.

Go Revox Re:sound I Series

Savant announces Lyon-based B&W Group France will start representing the Apple-based automation brand in France and Monaco, handling sales, training and service.

Founded in 2000, B&W France distributes products from a number of premium brands to A/V installers and retailers. It plans to open a 279 square-metre Experience Centre inside a historical building on the banks of the Saone, Lyon, on April 2012.

With interiors by HM Designer's Herve Moreau, the centre will host training sessions and a showcase for qualified end-users.

"Savant is pleased to be working with B&W France as we develop a strong position in this very important market," Savant VP of sales Chuck parrelli says. "Their knowledge of the French dealer network, professionalism, technical expertise and outstanding personnel resources will all prove to be tremendous assets for Savant as relationships with key integrators are established."

Go Savant Announces Distributor for France and Monaco

Newnex reveals what it say is the first USB 3.0 active repeater-- the FireNEX-uLINK-D, capable of repeating a USB 3.0 signal for over 14 metres of standard USB cable.

Shown at a press event at CES 2012, the FireNEX-uLINK-D is bus powered (needing no external power or drivers) and plug and play.

Also seen at CES is the FireNEX-5000-- the first USB 3.0 optical repeater according to Newnex. Using fibre it sends USB signals for over 100m, far beyond the standards of regular USB cable.

The company says the repeater can find many applications, including machine vision, security and professional audio/video.

The FireNEX-5000 should hit the market on Q2 2012, while the FireNEX-uLINK-D is already available.

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