LATEST ADDITIONS

NextGen’s Bluetooth-IR Extender was already a pretty cool device. It’s a small cone-like device that translates AV system commands from Android-based smartphones and tablets into IR using Bluetooth communication between the Extender and the Android device. After the IR Extender receives a command, it translates it into IR before blasting it out to your components from the base unit or via IR flashers. Neat idea, right?

Scandinavian speaker maker Opalum showed off the company’s chameleon-like BREEZE.1010 digitally amplified on-wall speakers. The design of the new speakers is very similar to Opalum’s FLOW.1010; but, in a addition to the incorporation of a slightly less costly set of 10 two-inch drivers aligned in two parallel columns along the front of the speaker baffle, the BREEZE.1010 uses high-density felt faceplate panels that can be quickly interchanged (Opalum says in less than one minute) without tools.

Triad decided to give their renowned Platinum line of speakers a new big brother. Though they weren’t being demonstrated at the show, their new flagship will be available later this year. Pictured here is the top of the line offering with massive drivers and a folded horn tweeter. I plan on taking a trip to their factory down the road in Portland early next year to get a listen when they’ve revamped their demo room with them. At $15,000 each they aren’t for everyone but they should be able to deliver massive sound to even the largest custom home theater room.

Magico’s new QSub subwoofer features dual 18” custom drivers and a 4,000 watt digital amp. At the remarkably low price of $36,000 I was considering buying a pair on the spot, but the wife shot me down. While these will displace a large portion of your bank account they’ll also displace a massive amount of air in your room with their deep extension.