Audio Video News

Thomas J. Norton takes a spin with the <A HREF="/videoprojectors/1003sharp">SharpVision XV-Z10000U DLP projector</A>, which features Texas Instrument's latest HD2 digital micromirror device. After seeing four HD2 projectors, TJN explains why the Sharp "just might have edged its way to the front of the pack."

The Home Technology & Photography Group (HT&P) of Primedia and Web site Beststuff.com, announced today the launch of Best, a shopping magazine focused on the products and experiences that embrace an upscale lifestyle. Best, which hits newsstands on Thursday, November 6 at a $3.99 cover price, is an "aspirational" magazine which offers features ranging from the selection and use of home theaters and high-end audio and video systems, to digital photography, computers and video imaging products, as well as the finest in automobiles and ultimate travel suggestions.

Less is more, the old adage has it. Torrance, CA-based Nirotek America has taken the concept to an extreme with its recently unveiled NIRO 1.1 and NIRO 1.1 PRO home theater audio systems. The systems are claimed capable of delivering full Dolby 5.1 surround sound performance from a single speaker.

New this month, <I>Guide to Home Theater</I> brings to you the internet's largest community of qualified audio and video buyers and sellers, powered by industry leaders Videogon. Visitors to guidetohometheater.com will find a new "<A HREF="http://marketplace.guidetohometheater.com">AV Marketplace</A>" link that connects directly to the most robust venue for buying and selling used and new Audio and Video equipment on the web. Services also include an online Bluebook for quick evaluation of used equipment prices, online used equipment forums, member product reviews, information on manufacturers, and a member feedback system.

Harman/Kardon
A thing of beauty is a joy forever, as the saying goes. Truth be told, Harman/Kardon's AVR 630 A/V receiver is more than just beautiful. According to Harman, this 7.1-channel receiver is the first of its kind to feature a quadruple-crossover bass manager that lets you select different crossover frequencies for the front, center, surround, and rear speakers. The AVR 630 also includes A/V sync relay and RS-232 connectivity. Think we're done? Not even close. It also can handle all of the popular surround sound formats, including Dolby EX and DTS ES, and it has built-in MP3 and HDCD decoding. For $1,299, this thing of beauty truly will be a joy forever.
Harman/Kardon
(800) 422-8027
www.harmankardon.com

The Motion Picture Association of America (<A HREF="http://www.mpaa.org">MPAA</A>) has partially caved into demands from voting members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) to release screening copies of movies nominated for Academy Awards.

Quick, can you name an obvious accessory for sleek, flat-panel displays? Sleek, flat-panel loudspeakers, of course.