New Products

A new and improved surround processor, stylish on-wall speakers, a serious Bluetooth speaker, and more.

Elite Vmax Dual Series Two-in-One Projection Screen
Call it a stroke of genius, but the Vmax Dual Series electric projection screen alternates between 16:9 and 2.35:1 aspect ratios, making it a cinch to switch from a screen optimized for TV to one ready for ultra-wide blockbuster action. All you have to do is tap a button on the supplied RF (radio frequency) remote. A 12-volt trigger lets you synchronize the screen with the projector so it drops or lifts when power is turned on/off.
Simple Setup: Available in a variety of sizes, the two-in-one screen comes fully assembled and includes brackets for mounting on the wall or ceiling. MaxWhite 1.1 gain material is standard, or you can opt for Elite’s CineWhite tab-tensioned screen; both are “black-backed” to eliminate light penetration. Prices start at $859.
Elite • (562) 483-8198 • elitescreens.com

Bluesound Pulse Flex Wireless Speaker
The Pulse Flex is the latest and least expensive addition to Bluesound’s recently updated Wi-Fi-based wireless audio system. The two-way speaker supports aptX Bluetooth streaming, boasts a 192-kHz/32-bit DAC, has five assignable presets for storing favorite Internet radio stations, streaming channels, or playlists from your personal library, and can be controlled via the BluOS app.
Flex for Flexible: The speaker’s small size (it’s 7 inches tall) and beveled enclosure allow it to be positioned vertically, horizontally (upright or tilted back), or mounted in a corner. It even has a built-in alarm clock, making it perfect for night stand duty, and Bluesound offers an optional battery pack if you want to go portable. We have yet to hear Flex, but good sound is a safe bet: It was designed by PSB’s Paul Barton. Price: $299
Bluesound • bluesound.com

Kicker EB300 Water-Resistant Bluetooth Earbuds
You probably know Kicker for its… uh… kick-ass car stereo gear, but did you know the company also makes Bluetooth speakers (who doesn’t?) and headphones (ditto)? Designed with active lifestyles in mind, the EB300 earbuds distinguish themselves by being wireless and sweat/water-resistant. They also happen to be stylish (never underestimate the importance of style in the Age of Celebrity-Endorsed Deadphones).
Sure Fit: The buds come with three different size silicone tips to ensure a snug fit joggers will appreciate and have an in-line microphone for taking calls while you’re on the treadmill (well, maybe not). Battery life is rated at 8 hours. Price: $99
Kicker • (405) 624-8510 • kicker.com

Ceratec Effeqt Wall Speakers
No floor or shelf space for speakers? No problem. The elegant Effeqt speakers from Germany’s Ceratec are designed to be mounted on the wall and come in four sizes: the 47-inch Maxi W ($1,599/pair), 27-inch W ($650 each), 10-inch W Mini ($899/pair), and 5-inch W Micro ($599/pair); all are a svelte 5 inches wide and 6 inches deep.
Décor Friendly: Silver is standard, but other finish options—including black, gold, white, or any RAL color—are available at extra cost. All models feature an extruded-aluminum enclosure with an integral mounting bracket that swivels 30 degrees in either direction from its axis point and a 0.5-inch MDF baffle coated with acoustic foam to dampen reflections that can color the sound. Prices include free shipping.
Essence • (727) 580-4393 • essenceelectrostatic.com

Marantz AV7702 mkII Preamp/Processor
The new and improved mkII version of the Marantz AV7702 brings high dynamic range (HDR) and Rec. 2020 color space compatibility into the fold along with support for the new HDMI 2.0a spec and HDCP 2.2 copy protection, which you’ll need to stream 4K/Ultra HD content. The ISF-certified pre/pro can be configured for 11.2- (XLR) or 13.2- (RCA) channel action, has eight HDMI inputs (one on the front panel), and can be controlled from your smartphone using the Marantz Remote App.
Surround Galore: Carryover features include Dolby Atmos surround processing and onboard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Want more state-of-the-art surround options? DTS:X will be available via a future firmware update, and you can upgrade to Auro-3D with its 10.1-channel Auromatic upmixer for an extra 200 bucks. Price: $2,199
Marantz • (201) 762-6500 • marantz.com