LATEST ADDITIONS

CES 2011
Modern Modular Computer
Darryl Wilkinson  |  Jan 09, 2011
The Xi3 Modular Computer is small, cube-like, completely modular, and less than 4 inches per side. It uses 64-bit x86 dual core processors running at 2.0 GHz and, since it uses less than 20 watts to operate, it is totally silent due to the lack of fans. The silent operation and solid state storage make it a great choice for a home theater PC or DVR. Pricing starts at $849 (with Linux operating system – add $149 for Windows 7). Additional storage memory and thin clients are available. The computer can be ordered in different colors and various configurations.
CES 2011
Emotiva Pro Becomes Sherbourn
Darryl Wilkinson  |  Jan 09, 2011
Custom install-exclusive Emotiva Pro recently acquired Sherbourn, the high-end manufacturer of amps and preamps. The new Sherbourn preamps will include Control4 HC-200B controllers that will allow for home theater and whole-home automation. Look for the first products to be available sometime around April.
CES 2011
Shameless Self-Promotion
Darryl Wilkinson  |  Jan 09, 2011
Since you’re reading this on a computer, you’re obviously on the cutting edge. You can get even more edgier by subscribing to the digital version of Home Theater Magazine using Zinio for your iPhone, iPad, or computer. 12 issues are only $9.75.
CES 2011
iSing the Blues
Darryl Wilkinson  |  Jan 09, 2011
I know that we in this country are entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in the form of some sort of iPod accessory; but I draw the line at karaoke – especially iKaraoke. Friends don’t let friends karaoke.
CES 2011
Augmented Reality Glasses for Those Who Need Even More Reality
 |  Jan 09, 2011
Vuzix’s new “augmented reality” glasses have tiny video cameras on the front and small high-resolution display screens (one for each eye) behind. The setup allows virtual images to be laid over 3D video of the real world captured by the front-facing cameras. Potential applications could include virtual instruction manuals or training videos.
CES 2011
Because We Don’t Watch Enough of It Already
Darryl Wilkinson  |  Jan 09, 2011
Dish Network’s $99 Sling Adapter connects to a Dish ViP722 or ViP722k HD DVR receiver with a single USB connection. The adapter lets you access programming from your receiver using a PC, iPhone/touch/Pad, Android, or BlackBerry device anywhere you have a high-speed Internet or 3G mobile connection.
CES 2011
Electrifying Concept
Darryl Wilkinson  |  Jan 09, 2011
Hyundai showed off their Nuvis concept hybrid car. It’s not as cool as the Tesla Roadster that was being charged wirelessly at the eCoupled booth, but I’ll still take one.
CES 2011
Baby Robot Overlord
Darryl Wilkinson  |  Jan 09, 2011
Call me paranoid, but even these 18-inch tall robots seem to look at me with evil intent.
CES 2011
Bass in Your Bones
Darryl Wilkinson  |  Jan 09, 2011
Immerz’s KOR-FX is an over-the-shoulders tactile transducer that converts the lowest bass frequencies into vibrations that you feel through your collar bones. The effect was definitely interesting, but it may have been turned up a little too much for my tastes in order to make sure different attendees actually felt the effect. Tentative price is $189.99 and should be available beginning in April.
CES 2011
Focal Gets Bookish
Darryl Wilkinson  |  Jan 09, 2011
Focal showed off a new multimedia speaker system called the XS Book. The system consists of a powered speaker (2 x 20 watts) that takes an analog audio output from your computer. A speaker cable is then run from the amp in the first speaker to the companion speaker. Even though the system doesn’t include a subwoofer, Focal claims a frequency response of 50 Hz to 22 kHz, which is very believable based on what I heard during a demo at Focal’s suite in the Mirage. In fact, these speakers are good enough to be used as main bookshelf audio or TV speakers in a small room. They’re compatible with Omnimount brackets for on-wall mounting. Pricing is expected to be $399.

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