Microsoft’s new Zunes have been tested and should have the same audio performance as their equivalent iPod models but run lower in terms of video, according to an update from Zune marketer Cesar Menendez. Both the Zune 4 and Zune 8 flash players will manage up to 24 hours of continuous music playback using 128Kbps Windows Media files, but a shorter four hours of video with 500Kbps Windows Media videos versus the five of an iPod nano playing H.264 clips at the same resolution. The Zune 80’s larger battery will afford 30 hours of music but will be limited to the same four hours as its smaller counterpart. Apple’s 80GB iPod classic and both iPod touch models are estimated at about five hours of video playback. Wi-Fi was switched off in both Zune tests, according to the report.

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Teac Esoteric is celebrating its 20th year of offering impeccably high quality A/V components by releasing a new transport and DAC duo. The new P-05/D-05 components feature an optimized SACD mechanism, 32-bit DAC technology, and 4x up-conversion of CD audio. The new VRDS-NEO mechanism has been completely redesigned to effortlessly handle the high speed requirement of SACDs.

While the 32-bit D/A converter is a world first, which is suppose to combine the “best properties of a 1-bit and multi-bit device.” In addition, the up-conversion technology can breathe new life into your CD collection with an up-converted sampling rate of 176.4 kHz. Unfortunately, perfect sound reproduction is not cheap, but if you need perfection you will have to shell out $14,000 for the pair.

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At ShowEast today, Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE:DLB) is showcasing its latest version of the Dolby(R) CP650 audio processor designed exclusively for digital cinema applications. The Dolby CP650DC supports the popular operational features, reliability, and renowned quality of the Dolby CP650 with functionality created specifically for digital cinema presentations.

"As the exhibition industry embraces digital cinema, Dolby continues to be on the forefront of innovation by providing products that streamline operations for exhibitors and deliver the best entertainment experience to consumers," said Tim Partridge, Executive Vice President, Products and Technology, Dolby Laboratories. "The introduction of the CP650DC demonstrates our leadership in the digital cinema market by bringing superior audio technology to exhibitors."

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Altec Lansing announces the ultra-portable Orbit iPod speaker.

The Altec Lansing Orbit is lightweight and shock resistant.
Other features of the palm-sized Orbit iPod speaker include 24 hours playing time on 3 AAA batteries,
The Altec Lansing iM207 Orbit is already available on Amazon.com for $39.95. Shipping date is still a couple weeks out.

Luc Ackaert, EMEA Marketing Director from Altec Lansing, comments, “ We are really passionate about the Orbit, it is the perfect accessory for any MP3 player or mobile phone and can be used to share music with your friends. It is also ideal for business travelers who want a lightweight, great quality laptop speaker to listen to music on the move.”

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Panasonic announces what the call the world’s smallest and lightest wireless surround sound headphones.

The Panasonic RP-WF5500 support 5.1ch Dolby surround sound over 2.4Ghz wireless connection.Weight of the RP-WF5500 is only 250g.
Other features of the RP-WF5500 include 20 to 22,000 Hz frequency band, 30m operation range, 6 hour battery life and available in black and white.
The Panasonic RP-WF5500 starts shipping on November 20th in Japan.

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Universal has recently become something of a pain in Apple’s behind, but could this discomfort be about to transform into searing agony?

According to an intriguing report today from Business Week, Universal chef Doug Morris is trying to unite all the major music labels to create a massive industry owned music subscription service. Unlike other subscription services however Morris wants the monthly cost to be absorbed by the hardware manufacturer and users to then effectively get their music ‘free’ as a basic component of the product.

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As prices drop on HDTVs, more and more consumers are bringing home large screen flat panels and projectors and enjoying that BIG PICTURE experience at home. But sadly, many people are relying on cheap home-theater-in-a-box systems, or worse – the speakers built into their new TVs – for the sound.

Now you can upgrade your sound to match your picture, without breaking the bank. Polk’s RM6750 5.1-channel surround sound system is currently available from Amazon (J&R marketplace seller) in black or titanium finish for just $249.95. That’s $350 below the list price of $599!

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Based on technology developed for the company’s Ergo line, this new series delivers much of the same performance at reduced price points.

The Chrono series consists of the Chrono 509 DC and Chrono 507 DC floorstanders, the Chrono 502 compact two-way, Chrono 505 2.5-way center channel, and a 150 Watt powered subwoofer ($2,000/pr, $1600/pr, $1,000/pr and $650 respectively). All of the full range models in the Chrono line employ an advanced evolution of the company’s highly regarded ADT-25 aluminum-manganese dome tweeter.

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For the last thirty years or so Goldmund has been building and installing worldwide extravagant and technologically advanced products for ultimate Audio-Video purists. Their complex acoustic modeling program, called the Proteus aims to make your room as close to their ideal as they can, regardless of the room size and décor. This radically new process guarantees that your Certified Goldmund Média Room is as perfect as the one you see in their Demo Center.

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