CEA 3D TV Study – A new study by the Consumer Electronics Association of over 250 retail sales associates selling 3D TVs found that many consumers are confused about 3D technology, though the view from the sales floor is generally positive. Roughly 50% of shoppers have a positive response to 3D while only 2% respond negatively. Sales associates believe 3D has generated the same or more excitement than did LED TVs and Blu-ray disc players. 80% of the interviewed associates said sales of 3D technologies will not be strong until more 3D content is available, and that was the subject of most of consumers’ questions. It is hoped that the recent launch of ESPN 3D and the many 3D movie titles set to hit Blu-ray soon will propel the category further. The study is titled “The 3D Retail Experience – Opinions of Sales Associates.”
Olympus Digital Audio Recorders – Olympus, specializing not only in cameras but also portable digital recorders and dictation devices, has added features and recording time to their inexpensive VN series of portable digital audio recorders. They record in both WMA and MP3 formats but only up to 192kbps. The model VN-700 has had its internal memory doubled. The more expensive WS-700M (4GB memory) and WS-710M can both record at 44.1K/16 WAV format as well as 256kbps MP3 and have built-in stereo mikes. The 710M has 8GB of internal memory and both have a micro SD card slot and plug directly into a PC or Mac for both charging and downloading. An FM tuner is built-in. SRP is $99 for the 700 and $149 for the 710.
Amazon Adds AV to Kindle – Amazon.com has added embedded audio and video clips to its Kindle e-reader applications for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. Readers can now listened to a travel author’s narration during a city tour, or view a demo video inside a how-to text, such as a cookbook or home repair. The new feature seems targeted at Apple’s own iBooks app, which has a color screen and can display more dynamic layouts. The Kindle device displays text on a grayscale e-ink screen. There is also the Barnes & Noble Nook e-reader, and Borders has the Kobo. Sony is in the e-reader game with their Pcoet Edition.
Naim Launches Wireless Multi-room Home Audio System – The UK audio firm has announced the UnitiSystem, which allows listeners to enjoy audiophile quality from multiple music sources, including CD, digital audio stream, FM/digital/Internet Radio, MP3/iPod and USB memory sticks in any room in the house. The system includes a CD-ripping server with extended music database and network storage, the NaimUniti all-in-one audio player, and its compact sibling, the UnitiQute. The Uniti players are controlled via an iPhone or iPod app. They will play hi-res audio files up to 96K/24-bit thru their front panel USB port and from the home network, and their SPDIF inputs can accommodate incoming audio files up to 192K/24-bit, in multiple locations around the home. Installation is as simple as plug and play; the system will work with an existing home network and wireless router setup.
Best Buy Debuts Their Own 5.1 HT Audio System – Best Buy’s store brand has added the Insignia 5.1 Home Theater System with Audyssey audio technology – an affordable and complete 5.1 surround sound system. It has 110 watts per channel, five speakers and a powered 120W subwoofer. Three HDMI 1.4 inputs and one HDMI output support both 3D content and Blu-ray. The Audyssey technology helps balance the system and can level out sounds of TV or movies
