Sony’s Refreshes Indestructible DSC-TX10 Point And Shoot Camera

My favorite Sony point and shoot camera of 2010 had to be the DSC-TX5, which was a waterproof, freeze-proof, shockproof and dust-proof camera. Sony is refreshing this series at CES 2011 with the introduction of the DSC-TX10. The newest version has several advantages over last year’s model and seems once again like the perfect point and shoot.

Once again the camera retains all of the features that make it indestructible, but can now go to a depth of 16 feet underwater (for up to a hour) instead of the 10 on the TX5. There are also some imaging improvements, as the TX10 has a 16.2 megapixel Exmor R sensor, which is a big upgrade from the 10 megapixel sensor in the TX5.

The TX10 also has the exclusive new feature found in several 2011 Sony Cyber-shot cameras: 3D still photo capability and 3D Sweep Panorama.

Colors include silver, black, green, blue and pink, all of which will be available this March. Price is about in line with what we expect at $330, which means it will have a more conservative price by the holidays.

There’s also the addition of 1080i HD movie mode, which is yet another upgrade from the 720p resolution video capability the TX5 had last year. A nice wide 3 inch LCD is on the back of the camera, and we hope the screen’s responsiveness has been improved. It was slightly irritating on the TX5, with the included stylus/fingernail only providing the best results.

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05
Jan 2011
DISCUSSION 2 Comments

Sony Bloggie Camera/Camcorder Gets Huge Revamp For CES 2011 Including 3D, Dual Screens


The Sony Bloggie camera/camcorder has gone through quite the evolution since its debut several years ago. The first model was rather funky in appearance, and its slick successor with aluminum finish brought back the sense of high quality we all know and love from Sony. Sony has lost a lot of ground in digital imaging from competitors such as Cisco’s Flip series, so let’s see what the 2011 Bloggie brings to the table.

There are three new Bloggie MP4 cameras debuting at CES 2011: the Bloggie, Bloggie Duo, and Bloggie 3D.

All of the models have several base features, including a 2.7 inch screen, Steadyshot, 5 megapixel Exmor sensor and 1920×1080 MP4 video recording capability. We were surprised to see Sony drop the Bloggie from 12 megapixels to 5, as the late 2010 model had 12. I have a feeling the camera will still capture photos similar to the iPhone 4, which is still fantastic. Auto Focus and Auto Macro mode are also included, as well as Dual Record, which allows you to take photos while shooting video.

Sharing content with a Bloggie camera is easy – you can either upload (and also charge) using the built-in USB slide out arm, or via the HDMI output.

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The most advanced Bloggie is the obviously the 8GB 3D-equipped Bloggie (MHS-FS3), which has two lenses/sensors on the rear to capture 3D images and video. Sony is saying this is the world’s first 3D pocket camera, and we have a feeling we will see more 3D pocket cameras from the competition in 2011.

The Bloggie 3D will cost $250 when it hits stores in April, and also has interesting features such as a stereo microphone and built-in LED light for easier shooting in dark situations. Hopefully the LED isn’t blinding.

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The 4GB Bloggie Duo (MHS-FS2) is a keen model that responds well to Samsung’s innovative dual screen point and shoot cameras. The rear of the device has a 2.7 inch screen like the other Bloggie models, but differs by the inclusion of a 2.0 inch screen on the front for easier self-portraits. Bloggie Duo comes in four colors, including violet, green, pink and white and will go on sale in March for $170.

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The most basic Bloggie (MHS-FS1) is the slimmest of the bunch and lacks some features compared to its brethren. The Bloggie will go on sale in March for $150 and will be available in black and white.

05
Jan 2011
DISCUSSION 4 Comments

Sony Reveals TX100V Point And Shoot Camera With OLED And 3D

Sony’s flagship point and shoot camera announced at CES 2011 is the new DSC-TX100V. Featuring a goregous 3.5 inch OLED screen, you can review and show off your pictures with color reproduction far superior to LCD.

Aside from that bombshell, there’s also the fact the TX100V records in full 1080@60p mode. At the time of announcement, this is supposedly a world first for compact digital still cameras, but we expect that to become the norm amongst the competition in 2011. The quality should be pretty excellent, as the company has the reputation to jam high quality sensors in a tiny package. We are definitely going to record some test videos for you to check out soon.

Colors available for this little dynamo include silver, back and red this March. Price is high end for this product category at $380, but it should be a heavy contender compared to the competition.

Sony has crammed in even more groundbreaking features with the introduction of 3D Still Image capture, a first for this generation. Sony is also bringing back the 3D Sweep Panorama mode. Perhaps the combination of these two features will entice the consumer to become more interested in 3D. Hopefully we can upload this type of content to Facebook one day.

The camera also touts a Sweep Multi Angle, which simulates the 3D effect of the photo you’d see on TV, but on the camera screen by merely tilting the device.

For quick use of the TX100V in any situation, Sony has updated its Auto modes, and have also included 36 still picture modes. There’s also a background defocus mode, which is commonly found on DSLR’s, interchangeable lens cameras (such as the NEX series, Samsung NX or Olympus Pen). Background defocus can really make for some nice shots, and will delight digital imaging enthusiasts.

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As for specifications, the popular and high quality 16.2 megapixel/10fps Exmor R CMOS sensor is back again, which shoots brilliant photos even in low light. We’ve shot with a Exmor R-equipped device before in the past and it blows away cameras from years prior that don’t have this technology.

05
Jan 2011
DISCUSSION 2 Comments

Sony Launches Incredible 3D Consumer Camcorder

Say hello to the most advanced consumer camcorder Sony has ever released – the HDR-TD10 “double full HD” 3D camcorder, launched at CES 2011. This is one serious performer, and features dual Sony G lenses, dual Exmor R sensors, and dual BIONZ image processors.

Thankfully, for those of you who don’t have 3D displays quite yet, the TD10 records 2D HD perfectly well. Other standard features include 64GB of built in flash memory, a generous 3.5 inch LCD screen, 10x optical zoom, Optical Steadyshot, and other attractive features. The price point, $1500 when it debuts this April) seems fair for a first generation 3D consumer camcorder, especially considering this is a new type of product.

Sony HDR-TD10 3D High-Definition Flash Memory Handycam Camcorder
Available in April for about $1500

  • World’s first “Double Full HD” 3D consumer camcorder w/ Integrated Dual Camera System – two Sony G Lenses, “Exmor R” CMOS sensors, “BIONZ” processors
  • 3D or 2D HD recording with double full HD 1920×1080 video recording and 7- megapixel still image capture in photo mode (2D)
  • View contents in 3D on the 3.5“ WIDE 3D/2D Xtra Fine with TruBlack technology LCD (1229K) without needing 3D glasses
  • 64GB of internal flash memory, for 60p/24p recording capability in 2D
  • Optical SteadyShot w/ Active Mode and iAuto even in 3D
  • 10x optical zoom in 3D (12x in 2D), 17x Extended Zoom
  • Event Browse for automatic grouping of content by events and Highlight Playback & Highlight Share (2D only) to create highlight reels automatically
  • Built-in mic w/ 5.1ch surround system, Clear Phase stereo speakers with S- Master technology, wind noise reduction, mic/HP jack, and audio level meter

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05
Jan 2011
DISCUSSION 6 Comments

The New All in One VAIO L Touch HD PC/TV

Today Sony released all new and redesigned VAIO L (it’s about time!). The new Sony VAIO® L Series Touch HD PC/TV features a stunning 24-inch multi-touch screen enabling intuitive touch access to the internet, TV, Blu-ray Disc™ movies and more. An interesting innovation, unique to the L series expands the touch functions to the LCD bezel itself featuring edge Access technology. With the help of this technology a user will be able to access every day short cuts enabling to quickly start up a desired program, flip through the web pages by swiping fingers on the bottom of the LCD bezel, zoom by touching the black glass sections along the edge of the VAIO L, close window, etc.
This new all-in-one will also feature a full HD LED backlight display panel, instant on functionality, an HD webcam, and white will be one of its available colors.
New VAIO L would be a perfect companion for your small bedroom or kitchen and can be used as a television set as well as a DVR. Select VAIO L models will sport a built-in TV tuner and Blu-ray Disc playback as well as recording capabilities. Like previous models, an HDMI out is included if you wish to expand your viewing experience by connecting it to a larger TV. With its HDMI in connection, you can pair it up with PS3 to enjoy gaming.
Unfortunately this first generation VAIO L is not a 3D PC, however expect Sony introduce that feature later in the year.
It is definitely a very stylish PC designed to easily blend with your home decor, the VAIO L Touch PC features a sleek V-shape stand and is wall-mountable for a slick, space-saving computing experience. It also comes with a stylish wireless keyboard and wireless mouse letting you work freely without cords, and optional keyboard skins in eye-catching colors.
It will be available for pre-orders and cost you around $1200. Watch out for hands on experience in our follow up posts.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Stan M
POSTED IN

CES, Hardware, Vaio

DISCUSSION 1 Comment

Affordable Sony VAIO Y series

Another model was unleashed at Sony’s booth on the CES floor is VAIO Y series. As you may remember Sony introduced this model earlier however it had a 13.3″ LCD; this time around VAIO engineers decided to shrink its LCD LED backlit display to 11.6 inches preserving however its high brightness levels and clear, crisp picture quality. Backed by the new AMD® E Series processor and up to 4GB of RAM, this PC is powerful enough for the demands of daily basic computing yet portable enough for the frequent traveler.

An HDMI output will enable you to connect this notebook to a bigger LCD HD and you can pretty much use it to browse websites, check your facebook and tweet from your coach.

It’s a pretty affordable, low end notebook will be a good companion to any student or someone who wants to have a smaller form factor notebook for blogging and looking up information online.

Expect VAIO Y series to ship in February for about $550.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Stan M
POSTED IN

CES, Hardware, Vaio

DISCUSSION 2 Comments

The New VAIO S Series Lives On


Sony introduced another new model in its VAIO family – VAIO S featuring a widescreen LED backlit 13.3 inch display with a durable magnesium casing. It’s another perfect energy efficient notebook that delivers high brightness levels and vibrant colors while helping to provide up to 5 hours of standard battery life, and up to 7.5 hours with a large capacity battery.
A feature that was introduced a couple of years ago has been brought back and incorporated in this VAIO called G-Sensor™ Shock Protection technology helps protect it against the bumps and knocks common to frequent travel or life on-the-go.
If you are into wireless streaming, this VAIO features Intel Wireless Display for your content to be beamed to a compatible HDTV. Also as a standard feature now, an HDMI output is built in if you would like to output movies, photos, etc on your big screen TV.


It should be available soon for about $900 at your nearest SonyStyle or BestBuy stores.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Stan M
POSTED IN

CES, Hardware, Vaio

DISCUSSION 2 Comments

First Ever 3D VAIO F Series Notebook Unleashed

Among other new VAIO refreshed models, VAIO F series definitely stands out as its first 3D VAIO enabled notebook. As you may remember it was first introduced in its prototype stage at IFA and today Sony unveiled this monster desktop replacement. It packs a second generation Intel® CoreTM i7 Processor with 4 cores and supports Intel Hyper-Threading and Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 delivering the premium performance needed for powerful PC gaming. It comes with Windows® 7 Home Premium operating system. Beautiful full HD 1080p 16″ LCD will deliver unprecedented immersive experience into the 3D world.  With a touch of the 3D button you will also be able to convert 2D HD videos to 3D (however 2D pictures are not convertible). A built-in 3D sync transmitter and included 3D active glasses let you enjoy 3D movies wherever you are.

Another feature that was known to Sony AV products has been introduced to a VAIO for the first time. It is Sony’s own S-Force® Front Surround 3D system you do not need a home theater system to get vibrant sound. The unit’s extended stereo effect plus simulated 5-channel surround sound provide the perfect accompaniment for viewing 3D content.

Effortlessly connect the PC and transmit in 3D to a compatible HDTV with 3D via its HDMI™ output for a larger viewing experience.

A NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 540M with 1GB dedicated VRAM card provides high-definition graphics processing for intense gaming action without placing huge demands on the unit’s CPU.

Launch directly into Sony’s own Media Gallery™ software, by pushing the designated VAIO button on the keyboard, and rediscover your favorite music and photos with the software’s intuitive filing system. Developed with design in mind, the software includes a stunning user interface with easy-to-use features that take the work out of enjoying your media. We will confirm later on if this version of VAIO Media Gallery has Bravia Internet Video functionality.

Hands on experience with video is coming up later, so stay tuned for more specs.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Stan M
POSTED IN

3D, CES, Hardware, Vaio

DISCUSSION No Comments

Sony Launches 27 New BRAVIA TVs At CES 2011

As expected, Sony has launched a massive salvo of new televisions at CES 2011. Ranging from 22 to 65 inches, the 2011 BRAVIA line is their most ambitious yet, offering a new assortment of hardware for even better picture quality than before. New models are coming for several series, with the refreshed series carrying HX929 (pictured above), HX820, HX729, NX720, EX720, EX620, EX520, BX420 and BX320 designations.

The differences between each of the models are vast, and unfortunately we don’t have pricing information yet. We’ll mention some notable additions for the 2011 line and then let you read the fact sheet which gives you more information about each model.

First and foremost, Monolithic Design returns to the 2011 BRAVIA range with the addition of Corning Gorilla Glass, which became popular in mobile devices such as Apple’s iPhone. Gorilla glass is stronger, lighter and thinner than conventional glass. It could help next time a PlayStation 3 Motion Controller or Wii remote goes flying into the screen.

For those of you who are fans of LED backlit LCD TV’s, Sony has hit a grand slam in with Intelligent Peak LED backlighting, which has full array local dimming, but also the ability to boost brightness in lighter scenes. A contact of mine gave a good example of a night shot with the moon: the LEDs are darkened for the night and boosted for the moon. This feature will be found in the HX929 series, and will be very tough for competitors to match in overall picture quality.

Many models will have Skype embedded into the TV, meaning you can connect a special Sony camera and microphone (CMU-BR100) to do 720p HD video calls with friends from your living room. I’ll try video calling my girlfriend from CES and let you know how well it works.

Another cool feature added this year is Sony’s TrackID, which is a music recognition service for your TV. Powered by Gracenote, TrackID for BRAVIA allows you to quickly identify which song is playing on a movie, TV show or commercial.

BRAVIA Engine has shedded and reborn into the new X-Reality Engine and X-Reality PRO Engine, which offers several interesting improvements in picture quality. The X-Reality Pro is a dual-chip digital video processor that noticeably improves video content playback, whether it be HD, compressed HD, SD or low-rez Internet clips. Sony states the PRO engine adjust signal patterns by analyzing and comparing content to an enormous library of film and video. Content coming in looks better coming out.

Multi-frame analysis in the X-Reality Pro Engine also helps create missing resolution, while Sony’s Super Bit Mapping has 14 bit up-scaling, processing and pixel mapping. Gradients will look smoother than ever before.

In contrast, the regular X-Reality Engine is a single chip solution that still offers excellent picture quality. The engine features Sony’s Intelligent Image Enhancer, which separates consistent parts of incoming video (such as outline, texture, and color/contrast) and adds enhancements individually.

Internet equipped BRAVIA’s are numerous this generation, as Sony continues to offer more entertainment than ever before. A total of 40 free/premium services are available, including the usual suspects such as Qriocity VOD/Music Unlimited, Netflix, Pandora, Hulu Plus, Amazon VOD, YouTube, Slack, Crackle and blip.tv.

XBR-HX929 Series features include:
Brilliant Full HD (1080p) picture quality with full-array local dimming LED backlight
Sleek Monolithic Design with OptiContrast Panel Technology
Integrated Wi-Fi (802.11n)
Skype ready in 720p high definition
BRAVIA Internet Video and Qriocity
X-Reality PRO Engine
MotionFlow XR 960
Rear two-way IR inputs and two-way RS232C control
Screen sizes include 65-inch (XBR-65HX929 which is available in August 2011), 55-inch (XBR-55HX929), and 46-inch (XBR-46HX929)

Other new BRAVIA models include:

BRAVIA HX820-Series LED LCD 3D Capable HDTV
Available in May
Brilliant Full HD (1080p) picture quality with Dynamic Edge LED backlight
Sleek Monolithic Design with OptiContrast Panel Technology
Integrated Wi-Fi (802.11n)
Skype™ ready in 720p high definition
BRAVIA Internet Video and Qriocity™
X-Reality PRO Engine
MotionFlow XR 480
Screen sizes include 55-inch (KDL-55HX820), and 46-inch (KDL-46HX820)

BRAVIA NX720-Series LED LCD 3D Capable HDTV
Available in May
Brilliant Full HD (1080p) picture quality with Dynamic Edge LED backlight
Sleek Monolithic Design with OptiContrast Panel Technology
Integrated Wi-Fi (802.11n)
Skype ready in 720p high definition
BRAVIA Internet Video and Qriocity
MotionFlow™ XR 240
X-Reality™ Engine
Screen sizes include 60-inch (KDL-60NX720), 55-inch (KDL-55NX720), and 46-inch (KDL-46NX720)

BRAVIA HX729-Series LED LCD 3D Capable HDTV
Available in May
Brilliant Full HD (1080p) picture quality with Dynamic Edge LED backlight
X-Reality PRO Engine
MotionFlow XR 480
Integrated Wi-Fi (802.11n)
Skype™ ready in 720p high definition
BRAVIA Internet Video and Qriocity
Rear two-way IR inputs and two-way RS232C control
Screen sizes include 65-inch (KDL-65HX729), 55-inch (KDL-55HX729), and 46-inch (KDL-46HX729)

BRAVIA EX720-Series LED LCD 3D Capable HDTV
Available in February
Brilliant Full HD (1080p) picture quality with Edge LED backlight
X-Reality Engine
MotionFlow XR 240
Wi-Fi ready (USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately)
Skype ready in 720p high definition
BRAVIA Internet Video and Qriocity
Screen sizes include 60-inch (KDL-60EX720, which is available in April), 55-inch (KDL-55EX720), 46-inch (KDL-46EX720), 40-Inch (KDL-40EX720), and 32-inch (KDL-32EX720)

BRAVIA EX620-Series LED LCD HDTV
Available in February
Brilliant Full High Definition (1080p) picture quality with Edge LED backlight
X-Reality Engine
MotionFlow 120
Wi-Fi ready (USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately)
Skype ready in 720p high definition
BRAVIA Internet Video and Qriocity
Screen sizes include 55-inch (KDL-55EX620), 46-inch (KDL-46EX620), and 40-Inch (KDL-40EX620)

BRAVIA EX520-Series LED LCD HDTV
Available in February
Brilliant Full HD (1080p) picture quality with Edge LED backlight
X-Reality Engine
Wi-Fi ready (USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately)
Skype ready in 720p high definition
BRAVIA Internet Video and Qriocity
Energy saving Presence Sensor minimize power consumption
Screen sizes include 46-inch (KDL-46EX520), 40-inch (KDL-40EX520), 32-inch (KDL-32EX520)

BRAVIA BX420-Series HDTV
Available in February
Brilliant Full HD (1080p) picture quality with CCFL backlight
Five HD Inputs to connect multiple HD devices
USB input for photo, music and video playback
Scene select customized picture and sound settings
Ambient Light Sensor
Screen sizes include 46-inch (KDL-46BX420), 40-inch (KDL-40BX420), and 32-inch (KDL-32BX420)

BRAVIA BX320-Series HDTV
Available in February
Amazing High Definition (720p) picture quality with CCFL backlight
Five HD Inputs to connect multiple HD devices
USB input for photo, music and video playback
Scene select customized picture and sound settings
Ambient Light Sensor
Screen sizes include 32-inch (KDL-32BX320), and 22-inch (KDL-22BX320)

05
Jan 2011
POSTED IN

CES, Hardware, Televisions

DISCUSSION 11 Comments

Sony Brings a New Blu-ray Player & Home Theater System Line up for 2011

Today Sony released a new line up of Blu-ray disc players, introducing four stand alone models (BDP-S780, BDP-S580, BDP-S480, and BDP-S380) and three integrated home theater systems (BDV-E780W, BDV-E580, and BDV-E280), as well as a 5.1 channel home theater audio system (HT-SS380).  All of the models play back DVD, CD and SACD discs in addition to Blu-ray Discs.

The company also introduced its first portable Blu-ray Disc player, BDP-SX1000, which features a 10.1-inch WSVGA screen.

The high end model BDP-S780 brings a number of new features to the market like Skype videoconferencing, HomeShare Wi-Fi Network compatibility as well as Super Bit Mapping borrowed from previous ES Blu-ray player.

Sony’s BDP-S780 Blu-ray Disc player is Blu-ray 3D capable and compatible with DVDs, CDs, and SACDs.  The model features built in Wi-Fi wireless (802.11n) with Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) as well as an Ethernet jack for easy access to BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE™.

Compatible with Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA®) devices, the model serves as a DLNA client and allows you to wirelessly share digital photos, music, and video media from your PC using your home network.  It also includes a front USB input for convenient access to photo, music, and video playback.  The model is also compatible with Sony’s new HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speakers.

The player also has Skype™ embedded.  When connecting a USB TV camera, purchased separately, users can enjoy free widescreen Skype-to-Skype video calls with friends and family from the comfort of their living rooms.

The model also features an Entertainment Database Browser, using Gracenote™ technologies, that allows users to browse details like actor and production information from a Blu-ray disc and access related content found on BRAVIA Internet Video content.

Users with an iPhone®, iPod touch®, or Android™ mobile device can control Sony’s entire Blu-ray line-up using a free application that can be downloaded from the app stores.  The updated Sony “Media Remote” app allows the mobile device to function as a remote control that includes the ability to access a Blu-ray Disc’s details such as jacket artwork, actor, and production information as well as search for additional video clips online.  With an Android phone, consumers can also use the app to control their Sony Blu-ray and Bravia products with their voice.  The app is also compatible with select new BRAVIA HDTVs announced today.

With the press of a button, the BDP-S780 can up convert 2D content to simulate 3D and improves standard definition and web video quality with Sony’s IP Content Noise Reduction technology and Precision Cinema HD Upscaling technologies.

It also includes Super Bit Mapping, Smoothing, and Chroma Processing technologies which deliver smoother color gradation when connected via HDMI.

Building on industry leading fast load times, the model features an improved start up and disc loading performance.  When the quick start feature is turned on, the start-up time is quicker and disc loading is faster than previous models.

Also new to Sony’s Blu-ray Disc player line is the BDP-S580 Blu-ray Disc player featuring built in Wi-Fi (802.11n) with WPS.  Other features found on this model include:

  • Full HD 1080p playback
  • Blu-ray 3D, DVD, CD and SACD compatibility
  • IP Content Noise Reduction
  • BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE functionality
  • Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote technology
  • DLNA Client and photo, music, and video playback
  • Photo, music, and video playback via front USB
  • HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speaker compatible
  • “Media Remote” (iPhone/iPod touch/Android BD Remote Control application)
  • Quick start and loading
  • Available in March for about $200

Rounding out the line, other new Blu-ray Disc players include:

BDP-S480 Blu-ray Disc Player

  • Full HD 1080p playback
  • Blu-ray 3D, DVD, CD, and SACD playback
  • Wi-Fi-ready (USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately)
  • BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE functionality
  • Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote technology
  • DNLA Client and photo, music, and video playback
  • Photo, music, and video playback via front USB
  • HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speaker compatible
  • “Media Remote” (iPhone/iPod touch/Android BD Remote Control application)
  • Quick start and loading
  • Available in March for about $180

BDP-S380 Blu-ray Disc Player

  • Full HD 1080p playback
  • DVD, CD, and SACD playback
  • Wi-Fi-ready (USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately)
  • BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE functionality
  • Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote technology
  • Photo, music, and video playback via front USB
  • “Media Remote” (iPhone/iPod touch/Android BD Remote Control application)
  • Quick start and loading
  • Available in February for about $150

Blu-ray Disc Home Theater Systems

Sony’s new Blu-ray Disc home theater line feature three models that are Blu-ray 3D capable and all offer access to Sony’s BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE™ technology.

The flagship BDV-E780W is a full HD 1080p 5.1 channel 1000 watt Blu-ray Disc home theater system that features built-in Wi-Fi (802.11n), wireless rear speakers, 2-way front speakers that can deliver a wider audio sweet spot ideal for family viewing and an improved subwoofer.

The model also features a universal remote, as well as the “Media Remote” control app available for iPhone/iPod touch and Android devices.

It includes Sony’s Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote® technology to access disc cover art, actor, and production information, as well as IP Content Noise Reduction technology and Precision Cinema HD Upscaling to improve standard definition and web video quality.

Serving as a DLNA client, the model is compatible with DLNA devices and includes a front USB input for photo, music, and video playback and is compatible with Sony’s new HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speakers.

The model also comes with an iPhone/iPod dock and offers two HDMI inputs and will be available in May for about $600.

Other new Blu-ray Disc home theater systems include:

BDV-E580 Blu-ray Disc Home Theater System

Available in March for about $500

  • 1000 watt, 5.1 channel home theater system
  • Blu-ray 3D, DVD, CD, and SACD playback
  • Two HDMI inputs
  • Integrated Wi-Fi (802.11n) with WPS
  • BRAVIA Internet Video
  • Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote technology
  • USB and DNLA Client and photo, music, and video playback
  • HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speaker compatible
  • “Media Remote” (iPhone/iPod touch/Android BD Remote Control application)
  • iPhone/iPod touch dock included
  • Quick start and load

BDV-E280 Blu-ray Disc Home Theater System

Available in April for about $400

  • 1000 watt, 5.1 channel home theater system
  • Blu-ray 3D,DVD, CD, and SACD playback
  • Two HDMI inputs
  • Wi-Fi-ready (USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately)
  • BRAVIA Internet Video
  • iPhone/iPod touch dock included
  • Quick start and load

Portable Blu-ray Disc Player

Sony’s new BDP-SX1000 is the company’s first portable Blu-ray Disc player.  The 10.1-inch wide, WSVGA model plays back both Blu-ray and DVD discs, as well as USB media.
It features 180-degree swivel display, five hour battery life from the built-in, rechargeable battery and offers built-in speakers and a headphone output.
The model will be available this spring for about $300.

Home Theater Audio System

Sony also announced the HT-SS380 5.1 channel home theater audio system with Blu-ray Disc player matching design.  The 1000 watt model includes three HDMI inputs and one output featuring an HDMI repeater (3 inputs/1 output), stand-by pass through, 3D pass through, and audio return channel allowing the television to send audio signals back to the unit for playback.

The models ships with an iPhone/iPod dock included for payback of audio, video, and photos.

The HT-SS380 will be available this spring for about $350.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Stan M
POSTED IN

3D, Blu-Ray, CES, Hardware

DISCUSSION 4 Comments