Hot off the Word Processor!

Some Interesting new products Hit the Market. Or, "Hype - We've got Hype..." (note: most of these items are taken from company press releases or culled from other, similar sources. They're published for your information only and the claims are those of the manufacturers or their hypemeisters, not TechnoFILE - though we do manage to slip in the occasional snide remark - editor)

 

Take Hollywood Home - Bowers & Wilkins announces dramatically improved new M1 compact monitor and PV1D subwoofer, plus new finish option on ASW608 subwoofer, combined to create powerful Mini Theater systems

SIM2 Introduces M.150—The Convergence of Light, Beauty and Technology World’s first LED 3D active projection system dedicated to enhancing your interior design project.

SIRIUS Canada Launches Satellite Radio App for BlackBerry

Rotel Offers AUPEO! Online Music Service in new Internet Radio Components

Media Décor Introduces Allure Moving Art Series with iColor Frames

Elegant New In-Wall Touchscreen Debuts from ReQuest

Tributaries® Introduces Duo of Power Management Solutions

Meridian Extends SpeakerLink Technology

Sonance Rocks On with New Outdoor Designs

Future Shop Launches new ConnectPro Service

JL Audio and Hard Rock Park create a new ride experience.

Canadian Independent Music Takes International Stage as SIRIUS Satellite Radio Broadcasts Exclusive Live Concerts from North by Northeast (NXNE)

Rotel Offers AUPEO! Online Music Service in new Internet Radio Components

North Reading, MA—April 5, 2010—Rotel, manufacturer of affordable, high-end electronics has announced an alliance with AUPEO! An intuitive online music service available in the USA, Europe, and Asia that streams high quality music over the internet. Rotel plans to integrate AUPEO! into their new internet enabled components which will debut in the summer of 2010.

With AUPEO! consumers can choose from more than 80 high-quality radio stations and can create personalized music selections based on Artist, Mood and Personal Stations. Once selected, AUPEO! saves the information and creates a music profile which suggests songs based on personal preferences. AUPEO! offers a free Basic Service that streams music at 128kbps per second and a Premium package offering higher quality streaming at up to 320kbps – the perfect match for the exceptional sound quality of Rotel's products.

Mike Bartlett says, “We are pleased to be able to offer this premium quality music service to our customers with our new Internet radio components. “Although the USA offers many different internet radio services, they are contractually constrained to America only. With AUPEO! we can extend this reach to customers in the US as well as Europe and Asia.”

“Rotel is a brand that is highly regarded throughout the world for their audiophile quality components and we are very pleased to be chosen as their online music service for the new Rotel internet enabled components," said Armin G. Schmidt, CEO of AUPEO!

About Rotel Electronics
Rotel audio products are known worldwide for their quality, reliability, value, and, above all, exceptional sound reproduction. Since 1961, Rotel has utilized the resources of its formidable international design team and has manufactured its products in its own sophisticated production facilities. Rotel proudly offers a complete range of electronics that have consistently received critical acclaim and coveted industry awards. With substantial investment in new technologies and manufacturing, Rotel is prepared to meet the challenges of an evolving specialty electronics marketplace.

About AUPEO!
AUPEO! founded in 2008, provides music lovers with high-quality radio stations for every taste and mood. With AUPEO! not only online at www.aupeo.com,, but also pre-installed in numerous netbooks, connected TVs, in nearly all web radio devices and many smartphones—users can enjoy editorially overseen artist and genre stations, compile their personal favorite programs and discover new tracks. In cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technology, AUPEO! gives users access to stations tailored to individual moods. In addition to free basic programs, the radio provider offers exclusive premium access for $4.95/month.

SIRIUS Canada Launches Satellite Radio App for BlackBerry

- Free SIRIUS App for BlackBerry(R) smartphones delivers more than 100 sports, talk, entertainment, comedy and commercial-free music channels to BlackBerry's popular Storm(TM), Bold(TM), Tour(TM) and Curve(TM) devices -

Free 14-day SIRIUS trial available to all users of the SIRIUS App for BlackBerry - Available at www.sirius.ca/blackberry

TORONTO, April 12, 2010 -- SIRIUS Canada, the country’s leading audio entertainment company, today announced the launch of its official satellite radio app for BlackBerry users in Canada. The SIRIUS App, available for free at www.sirius.ca/blackberry will allow SIRIUS Canada subscribers with a compatible BlackBerry device to stream more than 100 channels of SIRIUS Satellite Radio’s leading news, sports, entertainment and commercial-free music content over cellular and WiFi networks. Blackberry users who are not yet SIRIUS subscribers will be able to sign up for a free 14-day trial.

“We’re excited to launch our BlackBerry listening app for SIRIUS subscribers in Canada,” said Mark Redmond, President and CEO, SIRIUS Canada Inc. “Our mobile listening apps for the iPhone, iPod touch and now for BlackBerry smartphones give subscribers more choice of how they want to access SIRIUS’ unmatched sports, news, entertainment and commercial-free music content. This is also an excellent opportunity for BlackBerry users in Canada to sample SIRIUS programming with a 14-day trial.”

SIRIUS Canada’s new BlackBerry App follows the successful launch of its streaming app for the iPhone and iPod touch. The SIRIUS App was the number one free app on Apple’s iTunes Store four days after launch.

At launch, the free App will be available on the following BlackBerry models: - Storm(TM) 9530 - Storm2(TM) 9550 - Bold(TM) 9000 - Bold(TM) 9700 - Tour(TM) 9630 - Curve(TM) 8900 - Curve(TM) 8520 - Curve(TM) 8530

Free 14-Day SIRIUS Trial
BlackBerry users in Canada who are not yet SIRIUS subscribers can sign up for a free 14-day trial of the service. Following the trial, users will be given the option to become a SIRIUS subscriber. The SIRIUS BlackBerry app can be downloaded at www.sirius.ca/blackberry

About SIRIUS Canada SIRIUS is Canada's leading audio entertainment company with 120 full-time channels broadcast from studios in Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal and New York. SIRIUS offers 100% commercial-free music plus premium sports, news, talk and entertainment programming from North America's most recognizable and respected personalities and brands. SIRIUS offers listeners unparalleled coast-to-coast signal coverage and digital quality sound broadcast from four high-orbit satellites.

SIRIUS is the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the CFL, NFL, NASCAR and NLL and broadcasts live play-by-play games of the CFL, NFL and NLL. SIRIUS is also the exclusive satellite radio home of CBC's Hockey Night in Canada Radio. In addition, SIRIUS broadcasts live NASCAR races as well as Barclays English Premier League and UEFA Champions League soccer.

SIRIUS products for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are available in more than 3,500 retail locations, including Best Buy, Canadian Tire, Centre Hi-Fi, Costco, Dumoulin, Future Shop, Home Hardware, London Drugs, Staples, The Source, Visions, Wal-Mart and 2001 Audio Video. All SIRIUS programming is available for a monthly subscription fee of only $14.99.

SIRIUS Canada's automotive partners include Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Jaguar, Jeep, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Pana-Pacific, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo and the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). SIRIUS automotive partners make up nearly 60 per cent of light vehicle sales in Canada. www.sirius.ca

Media Décor Introduces Allure Moving Art Series with iColor Frames

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL—February 2011—Media Decor, the leading manufacturer of elegant solutions to discreetly conceal flat screen TVs, now introduces the new Allure Series with iColor frames. 

As flat screen TVs grow larger and thinner, many consumers are choosing to mount them up and out of the way on a wall like a piece of fine art however, aesthetically, the black, glass and metal rectangle still leaves a lot to be desired in terms of décor.  

To the rescue is Media Décor’s new Allure Moving Art Series—a simple and stunning solution to attractively conceal that flat panel on the wall. 

 The Allure’s clean, contemporary lines are complemented by an endless choice of frame colors. The high gloss, lacquer-like finish is available in a wide variety of colors from Apple Green to Zebra Black (or White) and any color in-between. And Media Décor makes it easy to select the right color with a free downloadable app from iTunes for the iPhone, Blackberry or Android Smartphones. Alternatively, clients have the option to send Media Décor a color chip, fabric swatch, color code number, and more, and they will match it.   

The shadow box frame of the Allure Series that houses the structure, art and motor is only 3-inches wide and has a return to the wall of 3-inches.  And since it is essentially a “Finished Corner” frame, there are no visible mitered corners or seams.  

Installation is easy.  Z-Extrusion hardware (included) simply mounts the unit directly to the wall over the TV. Powered by a Lutron Sivoia® Electronic Drive Unit with a noise level of <44dBA, the artwork silently rolls up when the TV is on. With the TV off and the artwork down it is impossible to tell that there is a TV in the room! 

Chose from Media Décor’s vast selection of over 2,000 fine art and photography images ranging from Contemporary to Classical. Media Decor can also reproduce a customer’s high-resolution digital image of an original painting, family portrait, photograph, or company logo, and more. You can even have an artist of your choice paint an image on canvas that Media Decor can supply, for a truly original piece. 

The Allure Series adds another much needed dimension to Media Décor’s existing line of motorized art models. The Elite and the Illusion, in Standard and Razor versions, are still available for surface and recess mounted TV’s. Media Décor offers the widest selection of art and frames. With TV Mirrors and Art Lifts, no one offers more choice of solutions for concealing flat panels.   

Intended for wall mounted applications where the TV and mount depth does not exceed 1.875”.  Pricing starts at $6,700 for a 42” model.

Elegant New In-Wall Touchscreen Debuts from ReQuest

Ballston Spa, New York-October 2008-ReQuest, a leading manufacturer of digital media servers and whole-house entertainment systems, is introducing an elegant new control option. The ReQuest TS6 in-wall touchscreen is a compact, powerful controller designed to mount flush with a wall surface.

Measuring just 7 by 6 inches, the TS6 requires a mounting depth of only 2 inches. It features a full, 640x480-pixel, 5.7-inch diagonal touchscreen surface, and is easy to configure to provide full control of any ReQuest F-Series, N-Series, or iQ Intelligent Music System. The TS6 connects to a home network via a single CAT5 link and automatically finds any ReQuest server connected to the network. Unique to the TS6 is that it can be powered by a standard PoE switch or via an optional 48V external PoE injector.

According to Peter Cholnoky, CEO of ReQuest, "The new touchscreen offers ReQuest's powerful graphical user interface-a clear, highly legible, and impressively intuitive GUI providing full control of music, viewing of photos, and much more." Users can effortlessly browse collections, select and build playlists, change presets on the optional radio tuners (AM/FM, XM, Sirius, or network-streaming), and fully control connected cable or satellite set-top boxes. When used with the ReQuest iQ Music System, the TS6 offers control of one or more rooms in a home. It also provides access and display of installed ReQuest widgets-small applications that run on the host server in the form of local weather, stock tickers, and local security or remote web-cams.

By using open-source operating-system underpinnings, ReQuest ensures that the TS6 provides the flexibility demanded by the most adept custom installers. What's more, it incorporates such ergonomic touches as software-controlled LCD backlighting, a user-configurable dimming delay, onboard brightness control, and adjustable panel mount to provide the best customer viewing angle depending on the height of the TS6.

Availability: November 2008
Suggested Retail Price: $1,995

About ReQuest
ReQuest, Inc.'s home-entertainment systems have set the standard for high-end digital media storage, management, playback, and system integration since 1998. The Company's award-winning media servers are the accepted leaders in cutting-edge technology. ReQuest has received numerous accolades for having the best service in the consumer electronics industry, with an installed base of more than 30,000 units. ReQuest was ranked by Inc. magazine as one of the top 500 fastest-growing private businesses in America for two years in a row. For more information, visit www.request.com

Take Hollywood Home - Bowers & Wilkins announces dramatically improved new M1 compact monitor and PV1D subwoofer, plus new finish option on ASW608 subwoofer, combined to create powerful Mini Theater systems.

M-1 loudspeaker gets enhanced full-range performance. PV1D subwoofer updates the ground-breaking “pressure vessel” Bowers & Wilkins subwoofer with a new digital platform, improved drive units and amplification. All products are available in stunning new Matte Black and Matte White finishes.

N. Reading, MA—February 2012—Bowers & Wilkins’ M1, the heart of the company’s Mini Theater packages, has been one of the major success stories in the world of home audio. Since launching six years ago, M1 has garnered many glowing reviews, won numerous awards and achieved top selling status around the world. But Bowers & Wilkins always looks for ways to improve its products and with the all new M1 ultra compact loudspeaker, performance is taken to a whole new level.  

The M-1 loudspeaker can be a key component in 5.1 packages, acting as it does as all five speakers in a surround set up – a cleverly designed table-top stand lets the center speaker sit horizontally. But it’s also a great stereo solution, as one of the most dramatic upgrades from the out-going M-1 is this speaker’s full range performance: it now offers a stereo performance comparable to larger bookshelf speakers.  

In order to achieve these improvements the M-1 has been completely redesigned internally, although only subtle styling differences are visible externally. It features all new drive units, including an in-house designed tweeter, and a bass/mid-range driver that uses the new Anti-Resonance Plug first seen on the high-end PM1 loudspeaker.  

As well as these acoustic improvements, the mechanics of the M-1 have been updated, with improved speaker cable terminations and a more robust connection to the stands – a table-top stand and wall bracket are supplied in the box, while, a floor stand is available as an optional extra. 

The PV1D, easily the most successful Bowers & Wilkins subwoofer globally, gets a dramatic update. While it retains its acoustically principled “pressure vessel” structurally inert shape with opposed balanced drivers cancelling cabinet resonance, the PV1D now moves to the digital platform developed for the flagship Bowers & Wilkins DB1 subwoofer and includes a dynamic EQ circuit.  This provides increased flexibility and performance enhancements that, coupled with new drive units and amplification, lead to dramatically improved output.  In fact, the PV1D has a +/-3db specification of a truly impressive 7.5Hz! This very low cut off gives the PV1D a much greater ability to display a sense of space and scale that is relevant for both movie effects and music. In spite of its still compact dimensions and elegant appearance, it is comparable to far larger subwoofers from an acoustic standpoint.  

A new OLED display and touch button array provide easy access to a number of pre-sets and tuning options, while a custom version of the SubApp™ PC software provides more advanced set-up options. 

The third element in the Mini Theatre series is the ASW608 subwoofer. While this model remains the same acoustically, it is now available in the same stunning Matte White finish as the M-1 loudspeakers. 

Two possible 5.1 system configurations of the upgraded Mini Theater series are the MT-60D and MT-50.  These systems provide users with an immersive experience, but in relatively compact, discreet packages that fit easily into people’s lifestyles.  Both systems offer excellent performance, but the MT-60D sets new standards for what can be expected from a compact, stylish speaker package. This jump in quality is a result of partnering an up-graded M-1 loudspeaker, with the new PV1D, a dramatically improved version of the highly acclaimed opposed-drive-unit subwoofer. The MT-50, a more affordable system option, sees the new M-1s partnered with the ASW608 subwoofer.

About Bowers & Wilkins
Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) is Britain’s leading exporter of loudspeakers, and is also the number-one imported brand in North America. Since 1966, B&W’s “Quest for Perfection” has resulted in a succession of technical loudspeaker innovations that have satisfied the world’s most demanding listeners. B&W’s rave reviews and universal acceptance as the monitor for classical music recordings have helped B&W become the dominant premium loudspeaker company throughout the world. www.bowers-wilkins.com

 

Tributaries^® Introduces Duo of Power Management Solutions

New models use improved MOV technology, providing greater security for valued components

Orlando, Florida, February 26, 2009— Tributaries^®Cable, the Florida company that sets the standard for high-performance, high-value accessories and cables for custom home audio and home-theater installations, is pleased to announce a pair of new home theater AC power managers that offer improved technology and added flexibility, rounding out the Tributaries line of innovative power products.

The new T100 and T200 feature extensive capacity by providing a cumulative power availability of up to 1800 watts. The new models incorporate a new Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) surge suppression technology that provides faster response time and increased absorption (up to 60% more current during a spike) over traditional MOVs.  Key among the advantages of the new MOV design, is its ceramic casing—providing far greater protection from failure and offering faster heat dissipation so the accumulated temperature remains low. Also, because the temperature stays low during a spike, the lifespan of the new type of MOV lasts 10 times longer than a standard MOV. Additional surge suppression is provided for telephone connections and RF signal paths specifically designed for cable, satellite or antenna devices.

The T100 and T200 provide separate AC line filtering, electrical isolation and power conditioning for analog, digital and high-current components.

To ensure state-of-the-art protection for connected components, the T100 & T200 are engineered to provide over-voltage and under-voltage protection. If the supplied voltage to the T100 or T200 falls below 90 volts or exceeds 135 volts the unit will shut down. When the voltage returns to 95/130 volts, the unit will automatically return to its normal status.  

Blue front-panel LEDs display the on/off condition of each outlet, while a digital voltmeter shows the AC line voltage (the T200 also has a digital ammeter). The T100 and T200 will automatically detect a polarity fault in the AC wiring and alert the user via a front-panel LED.

For added convenience, always with the installer in mind, both models are supplied with additional unique features; a circuit breaker reset button on the front panel, USB charging outlets on the front and back panels and a USB gooseneck light that can be plugged in front or  back for equipment illumination. To prevent misplacement, the gooseneck lamp is made with a magnet for easy storage when not in use.  And finally, rack ears are included at no additional charge

Dual-trigger input and single-trigger output 3.5mm jacks are provided for convenient connection and easy daisy-chaining of additional power managers or power strips.

To provide the assurance of safe operation and guaranteed quality, the T100 and T200 have been granted 5 UL^® certifications including the most difficult to achieve, “Certification for Transient Voltage Surge Suppressors”, UL^® Standard No. 1449. The T100 and T200 are both fully RoHS compliant and feature a 3 year parts & labor warranty in addition to a $25,000 warranty on connected equipment.

Both models are available now.

T100 (MSRP: $350) at a glance:

• 9 Outlets:
-4 isolated Always-on Digital
-2 isolated Switched-on Analog
-2 isolated Delayed-on High Current
-1 Always-on Convenience outlet (front)
• 1U rack mountable
• 4320 Joule Rating
• 2pr DSS/CATV protected lines
• 2 sec delay power switch for turn-on/off
• 12 volt DC trigger in and out
• Dimmable LED front panel control
• Front panel circuit breaker

T200 (MSRP: $500) at a glance:

• 13 Outlets:
-4 isolated Always-on Digital
-2 isolated Switched or Always-on Digital
-4 isolated Switched-on Analog
-2 Delayed-on High Current
-1 Always-on Convenience outlet (front)
• 2U rack mountable
• 5400 Joule Rating
• 3pr DSS/CATV protected lines
• 2-sec delay power switch for turn-on/off
• 12 volt DC trigger in and out
• Dimmable LED front panel control
• Front panel circuit breaker

About Tributaries®

Established in 1991 in Orlando, Florida, Tributaries® is an acknowledged leader in the design, production, and distribution of high-quality audio and video interconnect cables, speaker wires, accessories, and electronics. The company prides itself on its customer service, and has won the CE industry magazine Inside Track Supplier Loyalty Awards a total of twelve times in the past thirteen years.

For more information, please visit www.tributariescable.com.

Meridian Extends SpeakerLink Technology
Flagship speakers receive update and Legacy products can now be linked

Huntingdon, Cambridge, UK, 24th November 2008 -Meridian Audio Ltd., the British manufacturer of stunningly stylish yet technologically sophisticated digital audio and video systems, has extended its new SpeakerLink single-cable input/output communications protocol to its flagship Digital Active Loudspeaker model, the DSP8000.

At the same time, Meridian introduced a new installation accessory, the AC11, that allows earlier Meridian components, including processors, disc players, and digital loudspeakers, to integrate with the new SpeakerLink system.

SpeakerLink employs cost-effective and universally available RJ-45 Ethernet-style twisted-pair network cabling to make all digital audio, communications, and control interconnections between Meridian components. With SpeakerLink, a single, easily concealed wire is the only connection required to connect Meridian's DSP loudspeakers with the company's audio processors or audio-video sources.

"SpeakerLink is at once both simpler and higher in performance, which makes it a perfect statement of all things Meridian," says Bob Stuart, Co-Founder, Chairman, and Chief Technology Officer of Meridian Audio Limited. "The AC11 makes integrating legacy models seamless," Stuart continues, "while the changeover of the DSP8000 signals our unreserved commitment to this superior new technology. Meridian remains at the forefront of innovation, providing solutions for our dealers while delivering, as always, the very best performance."

The new AC11 Meridian Component Interlink is a hub that interfaces SpeakerLink components with Meridian legacy models that employ DIN and/or BNC Meridian Comms ports and S/PDIF digital audio connections. The AC11 networks a complete system of components and loudspeakers using any of these connections, while further connectivity-including 12V trigger input, IR Out, and RS-232 serial port-provides for further system expansion, and enables integration of non-Meridian elements into the system.

AC11 Component Interlink will be available January 2009 with a suggested retail price of $995.

Sonance Rocks On with New Outdoor Designs

San Clemente, CA-October 2008-Sonance® is adding to its success in the great outdoors by adding three new models to its series of Landscape Series. Two new Sonance UV-resistant outdoor rock-like speakers, the RK83 and RK63 are engineered for new enthusiasts who like hearing their music outdoors from speakers that blend into the environment. The SoundHenge Redux is an enclosure created exclusively for the Sonance Mariner outdoor speakers. The finish options of Granite or Brown will weather the demands of outdoor life for years to come.

The Sonance SoundHenge Redux weather-resistant enclosure replicates a moderate-size boulder (18x14x13-inches) and is available in Granite or Sandstone to match local geology or individual taste. The enclosures accept any Sonance Mariner 50 or Mariner 60 range of rugged weather-resistant loudspeaker, a stereo-pair, or single stereo speaker configuration. The Mariner enclosure is fully contained within the SoundHenge Redux enclosure, which is formed and textured to blend into the background in backyards, pool areas, or wherever serious outdoor sound is required.

The RK63 Rock speaker is a 6.5-inch 2-way, roughly 10x11x14 inches and is rated for 100W maximum power handling; the 8-inch 2-way RK83 Rock speaker measures roughly 14x15x18 inches and is rated for 150W maximum.

All three new Sonance outdoor models feature rugged resin construction and aluminum and stainless-steel hardware throughout, for worry-free long-term exposure to any weather environment.

Suggested Retail Prices: Availability: December 2008
SoundHenge Enclosures: $275.00 RK63 Rock $435.00
RK83 Rock $700.00

Sonance Broadens Architectural Series

Future Shop Launches new ConnectPro Service

New ConnectPro Installation and Repair Services Helps Connect Technology Easily

(Burnaby, BC) July 15, 2008 - Future Shop, Canada's largest retailer and e-tailer of consumer electronics, is creating the ultimate service experience by helping connect people with technology with little effort. On July 18, 2008, Future Shop will launch its new ‘ConnectPro’ service, allowing Canadians the opportunity to work with experts to custom design and perfectly install their home theatre, computer service and car audio.

“When you buy a home theatre system or a computer, you not only want it to blend into the décor of your home but more importantly want all elements to performing correctly. That’s where our professional installation ConnectPro expert teams come in to help optimize your electronics and entertainment systems,” said Mike Chuback, Vice President Services and Retail Training, Future Shop. “Our customers are asking for help connecting their technology and want it to be easy.”

46 per cent of Canadians consider technology to be an important in home décor

The challenge with technology for today’s homeowners is really determining how important it is to your décor and how comfortable you are in installing it. In fact, a recent survey* commissioned by Future Shop, and conducted by AskingCanadians.com, indicated that 46 per cent of Canadians consider technology to be an important component of home décor. This survey also indicated that the biggest challenge Canadians face when installing their own technology is time constraints at 43 per cent followed by lack of skills at 41 per cent.

From HD set up and gaming to even more complex set ups such as connecting a computer from another room to the home theatre system, the Future Shop ConnectPro experts will synch them up seamlessly. While aesthetics plays a key role, it’s also important to ensure the system works perfectly with all its components - surround sound, in wall or ceiling speakers and mounting flat screens at the optimal height.

Connecting families

Technology has now become the social foundation of families, couples and singles alike. In today’s constantly connected life, families are learning to use technology to get closer and remain active. Whether it’s playing games, watching movies or listening to music, seize the moment and let technology not be something to stress about, but instead, be something that brings you together.

ConnectPro at Future Shop

Future Shop’s ConnectPro proudly believes in delivering professional service experience to every customer. ConnectPro experts help connect technology with Home Theatre Installation, Computer Services such as set up, network customization, repairs, and Car Audio Services. Future Shop’s ConnectPro expert teams are thoroughly trained with certification programs, training in customer service and product connectivity to deliver a first-class experience. Appointments can be booked in-store or by calling 1-866-4CONNECT. For more information on ConnectPro visit, www.futureshop.ca/connectpro (as of July 18).

About Future Shop
With 133 stores across the country and the nation's premier web store (www.futureshop.ca), Burnaby, BC-based Future Shop is Canada's largest retailer and e-tailer of consumer electronics. The company employs more than 10,000 technology enthusiasts, has enabled its website to deliver unparalleled content about the products it sells and host an online community forum for technology beginners and tech-savvy experts to exchange ideas, reviews, tips and other consumer electronics information (www.futureshopforums.ca). As a proud corporate citizen, Future Shop has developed solutions to recycle used electronics (see www.futureshop.ca/green) and is committed to employee volunteerism and supporting non-profits organizations dedicated to transforming local youth into Future Leaders (see www.futureshop.ca/community).

SIM2 Introduces M.150—The Convergence of Light, Beauty and Technology
World’s first LED 3D active projection system dedicated to enhancing your interior design project.

SIM2, the Italian manufacturer whose high performance home theater projectors are known worldwide for their pristine video resolution and stunning aesthetic design, takes the visual experience to the next level at the 2012 CES, with the introduction of the M.150, the convergence of light, beauty and technology. This system is the result of years of intense research and passion offering a new concept of integrating entertainment with interior design. 

The concept is simple—inspire creativity and add vitality to the home by painting with light and images. Whether it’s personal photographs, art, mood lighting, or movies, this system delivers stunning visual pleasure, to ignite the senses.  As the world’s first 3D active LED video interior design system, this is a one-of-kind solution for discerning customers who desire a unique way to enhance the beauty of their home with a window of light created with cutting-edge projection technology.

“When quality is combined with unparalleled technology and design, it harmoniously creates a visual experience that can be described only as fine art,” said Alberto Fabiano, Executive Vice President of SIM2 USA. “This system is a defining direction for the New Year. SIM2 is offering a product that transcends traditional home cinema, and provides a unique visual solution to ‘video furnish’ one’s home with light.”

The M.150’s advanced DLP imaging technology allows customers to indulge their creative side. Whether it’s painting their homes with light and color, creating their own personal digital art gallery or enjoying their favorite movies or sports, each becomes a rich, fulfilling emotional experience at the touch of a button. With its generous palette of vivid color and light, the M.150 can add subtle visual ambiance, or create a bright, colorful reproduction of your choice of digital imagery.  

Fabiano concludes, “With this introduction, SIM2 is once again first to market a system that is not only technologically superior, but a true lifestyle enhancement for its owner.”

About SIM2 USA Inc. and SIM2 Multimedia

Since their entrance into the US home theater market in 1999, SIM2 USA, under the guidance of its parent SIM2 Multimedia (established in 1995), has dedicated its resources to marketing and servicing products that meet the demands of the US market. SIM2 Multimedia is a worldwide leading manufacturer of home theater products and leading provider of high-end performance large screen systems (for control rooms, information, communication, and simulation) and professional projection systems for E–cinema applications. Over the years, SIM2 has gained a reputation for meeting the industry’s demands for new, emerging technologies, offering high-quality and reliable products that meet the customer's need in any application. Products are designed and manufactured in Italy. The marketing policies of the company are world-oriented, with a direct presence in Italy (headquarters), the USA, UK, China, Germany (sister companies), and in over 60 countries worldwide through partnerships with qualified distributors.

JL Audio and Hard Rock Park create a new ride experience.

Miramar, FL-June 13, 2008-Hard Rock Park, a 55 acre Rock n' Roll theme park in Myrtle Beach, SC, officially opened to the public on June 2, 2008. This brand new park features over 50 attractions for rockers of all ages, including live shows, thrilling rides, restaurants, live musical entertainment and more. The Park, which expects to draw 3 million visitors annually, turned to JL Audio in their quest to create an entirely new performance benchmark for on-board audio in four of its key attractions. The goal was to immerse riders with clean, powerful sound that would rival a live concert.

According to Andy Oxenhorn, President of JL Audio, "This has been such an exciting project because it combines great music and top-flight audio quality to energize the experience of these incredible attractions. The rides at Hard Rock Park will expose millions of music lovers to the quality of JL Audio products and will encourage them to look into our mobile, marine, and home audio products."

Three of the JL Audio-equipped attractions honor legendary rock bands: Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, and The Moody Blues. A fourth ride pays homage to the "British Invasion" of the 1960's. Each attraction will thrill riders visually, viscerally and audibly, thanks to high-power JL Audio amplification and speaker systems built into the ride's vehicles.

Led Zeppelin-The Ride is Hard Rock Park's signature rollercoaster, rising 155 feet into the sky (15 stories tall) and boasting six breathtaking inversions, the largest of which is a 120-foot loop. The thrilling drops and loops are all synchronized to Led Zeppelin's classic hit "Whole Lotta Love," creating a truly revolutionary, adrenaline-pumping experience for its riders. Each train features over 2000 watts of JL Audio power driving thirty-two component speaker systems (one for each rider)! The Moody Blues Nights in White Satin-The Ride offers a mind-bending indoor journey, choreographed to a special version of the band's symphonic rock masterpiece. The music has been re-orchestrated specifically for Hard Rock Park by Justin Hayward, who originally composed the song more than 40 years ago. The ride incorporates sights, sounds, smells and tactile techniques that immerse riders of all ages. The audio portion of the multi-sensory experience is delivered by on-board JL Audio component speakers and amplifiers.

Eagles "Life in the Fast Lane"-Hard Rock Park's longest rollercoaster ride belts out the Eagles' hit "Life in The Fast Lane" during a classic "runaway mine-train" experience. Each train accommodates 24 people and features over 2000 watts of JL Audio power driving a JL Audio speaker in front of each seat to provide an amazing, immersive sound experience.

Maximum RPM!-Located in the "British Invasion" portion of the Park, this amazing attraction seats riders in Mini Coopers, each equipped with six JL Audio speakers and one 600 watt amplifier, taking them on a wild rollercoaster experience. The attraction includes an amazing Ferris-wheel-type structure that lifts the cars and riders into place for the initial drop.

Each of the four attractions will display signs with the announcement that JL Audio is the exclusive sound system of the ride.

About JL Audio (www.jlaudio.com)
Headquartered in Miramar, Florida, JL Audio is a high-end mobile, marine, and home audio company hat has been manufacturing high-quality audio solutions for discriminating listeners for nearly two decades where the company has earned worldwide acclaim and achieved significant market share. JL Audio products are sold exclusively by specialty retailers throughout the U.S.A. and distributed in fifty-eight countries around the world. Recipient of numerous awards and accolades, JL Audio loudspeakers, amplifiers and subwoofers have been awarded fourteen U.S. patents for innovative audio technology.

About Hard Rock Park (www.hardrockpark.com)
HRP Myrtle Beach Operations, LLC, is designing, developing, and constructing; and will own and operate Hard Rock Park, an approximately 55-acre rock n' roll theme park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina under a long term license agreement with hard Rock International. HRP Myrtle Beach Operations LLC is a Partnership between the executive management team of Steven Goodwin, Felix Mussenden and Jon Binkowski, who designed and developed the park's concepts and will be responsible for building and operating the park; FHTP, LLC, a group of prominent local investors and community leaders and a joint venture led by real estate developer Ziel Feldman and Amnon Bar-Tur, Managing Member of SafeHarbor Holding, LLC; from New York and Africa Israel Investment and Polar International Real Estate from Israel.

Adobe Releases Three New Public Betas

Dreamweaver, Fireworks and Soundbooth Now Available on Adobe Labs

SAN JOSE, Calif. - May 27, 2008 - Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today gave a sneak peek at three applications from the next release of Adobe Creative Suite, its award-winning collection of graphic design, Web development and video editing applications. The company released public beta of new versions of Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe Fireworks and Adobe Soundbooth as free downloads on Adobe labs. Once downloaded and launched, the betas will be active for 48 hours after which time only Creative Suite 3 customers will have an extended ability to use the betas until the next release of Creative Suite becomes available.

The Dreamweaver beta for Web design and development, the Fireworks beta for prototyping, and the Soundbooth beta for audio creating and editing, demonstrate the direction that Adobe Creative Suite is taking with features and technologies that will simplify and streamline design and development workflows across all media. The betas also offer users the opportunity to give Adobe feedback for further product development.

"Dreamweaver, Fireworks and Soundbooth are the major applications we're unveiling as public betas before the next release of Creative Suite," said David Burkett, vice president of product management for Adobe Creative Suite. "This early release software gives our loyal customers a taste of the radical workflow enhancements that we have in store, as we redefine how designers and developers collaborate to deliver stand-out digital experiences."

"We're excited to begin formally developing within the new Creative Suite environment," said Matias Penela, director of technology for AgencyNet. "Adobe is providing the strongest and most efficient workflow to date. With a plethora of new and improved tools for each software title, our day-to-day development can be more effective and we'll be further empowered to push the boundaries of creative design and technical innovation for our clients."

The Dreamweaver public beta includes a new Related Files Toolbar and Code Navigator feature that allows users to dive deeply into complex pages that include HTML files, links to JavaScript documents and integrated XML data. Users can see related files in the Related Files Toolbar and with Code Navigator make changes to code that appears in various parts of a document just with one update. The update to Dreamweaver also features a new Live View Mode, which is based on the open source rendering engine Webkit. It enables users to see content in real-world, real-time environments without having to leave Dreamweaver to preview in a browser. This feature also gives users the ability to freeze JavaScript language to debug interactive pages as well as view and interact with Flash content.

New features in Fireworks beta include a new user interface that is now consistent with other applications within the Creative Suite making it easier for users to switch between applications that now have a universal look and feel. In addition, Fireworks beta now allows users to export design comps as high fidelity, interactive, and secure Adobe PDF documents for enhanced client communication. Fireworks beta is also now compatible with Adobe AIR, HTML, Adobe Flash and Adobe Flex Builder so users can create their design once and deploy to whichever application platform is required by clients.

The Soundbooth beta showcases a host of new features for creative professionals to complete their audio production tasks more efficiently, including the new multiple track support which allows users to edit multiple audio clips on a number of tracks, and the new ability for users to match volume levels across audio files. Also included is the capability to preview MP3 compression settings before saving them and a new speech recognition technology that lets users create transcripts of dialogue tracks quickly and search them for words and phrases within a timeline.

Availability and System Requirements

The Dreamweaver, Fireworks and Soundbooth betas, once downloaded and launched, will be active for 48 hours after which time only CS3 customers will have extended access. Using their CS3 product serial numbers, users will have the exclusive ability to unlock the betas and use them for free until the next version of Creative Suite becomes available. Beta access will give users an opportunity to deliver feedback, via Adobe Labs, for future product development. Dreamweaver and Fireworks betas run on multiple operating systems, including Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack 2, Windows Vista and Mac OS X version 10.4.11 or later on PowerPC G5 or Intel-based Macintosh systems. The Soundbooth beta runs on all those systems except for PowerPC-based Macintosh systems. The betas can be immediately downloaded from Adobe Labs at www.labs.adobe.com .

About Adobe Systems Incorporated

Adobe revolutionizes how the world engages with ideas and information - anytime, anywhere and through any medium. For more information, visit www.adobe.com .

Support TechnoFile via Paypal