The Starz network who owns the Encore channel will launch the Encore HD channel in July.

The Starz HD network will then consist of 6 HD channels:

• Starz HD (East)
• Starz HD (West)
• Starz Comedy HD
• Starz Edge HD
• Starz Kids & Family HD
• Encore HD

Now wether or not you actually can watch any of these channels is entirely up to your provider.

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After yesterdays article on DISH Removing VOOM channels.  DISH network has removed all of their VOOM channels.

So they added 22 new ones, and then dropped the 15 VOOM channels.  This leaves viewers with only 7 actual new HD channels.

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Yes folks.  The next version of the 3G Apple iPhone will be released during the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2008.
The conference runs between June 9 and June 13th 2008.

What can you expect in the new model?

Size: Slightly thinner 2.5 mm less
Appearance: Minor improvements, less plastic
Interface: No significant changes although there are rumors of an accelerometer change
Models and Pricing: 8GB priced at $399, 16MB priced at $499
3G: This of course means faster data rates.  Possibly with a price premium over today’s EDGE network.

Until June, we wait with bated breath.


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So we just reported that DISH Network added 22 new HD channels.
Well nothing is for free I suppose because they dropped 9 of their VOOM channels.
This means that DISH viewers really only have 13 (yes, unlucky number) new channels.

Dropped VOOM channels are:

1. Gallery 9472
2. Treasure 9473
3. Aniamania 9474
4. Voom Movies 9475
5. World Sport 9477
6. ULTRA 9478
7. Film Fest 9480
8. Game Play 9485
9. Family Room 9486

If you like your TV in HD and happen to have DISH network.  Then you're in luck. You can now enjoy 22 additional HD channels.

 

1. ABC Family HD (DISH Network Ch 180
2. Disney HD East (Ch. 172)
3. ESPNews HD (Ch. 142)
4. Biography HD (Ch. 119)
5. Hallmark Movie Channel HD (Ch 187)
6. Bravo HD (Ch. 129)
7. Cartoon HD (Ch. 176)
8. MGM HD (Ch. 385)
9. Cinemax 5 Star (Ch. 381)
10. Sci Fi HD (Ch. 122)
11. Cinemax HD West (Ch. 380)
12. Smithsonian HD (Ch. 374)
13. Comcast Sports Network Bay Area HD (Ch 419)*
14. Tennis Channel HD (Ch. 400)
15. Toon Disney HD (Ch. 174)
16. Comcast Sports Network New England HD (Ch 435)*
17. Travel Channel HD (Ch. 215)
18. USA HD (Ch. 105)
19. CNBC HD (Ch. 208)
20. Weather Channel HD (Ch. 214)
21. CNN HD (Ch. 200)
22. World Fishing Network HD (Ch. 396)

 
Research In Motion (RIM) has announced their iPhone killer.  Until of course Apple releases their 3G iPhone this year.

Here is what we know about the BlackBerry Bold so far:

• 624MHz CPU
• 802.11 a/b/g and GPS
• Half-VGA screen (480 x 320)
• Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP support
• microSDHC support up to 16 GB
• Quad-band EDGE, Tri-band HSDPA
• 2MP camera w/ flash and 5x digital zoom
• Replaceable “leather-like” back plates

 
  

It's been 1 month now since my last trip to the local Apple store. It was time for another visit after I finally heard of a new system called the Polk Audio I-Sonic System 2.
I had been waiting for a system that sounds good, looks good and has an alarm clock with iPod dock. So off I went down to the store to check it out. They did not have it on display yet, so I had to ask to see it. Unfortunately they would not take it out of the box to let me see or hear it so I was a little bummed about that. Since they have a 15 day return policy I figured I would get it anyway and try it out. 

So first things first. How does it sound?  Pretty good for such a small package.  I would say it was pretty comparable with the Bose Wave Radio for which this system is in competition.  It has two speakers in the front and two in the rear that really does provide a wide range of listening positions and fills the room with sound.  Bass is pretty good for such a small system but not as clean as larger sub woofers would be.

This is my first HD radio receiver and I am impressed.  The HD radio stations are transmitted within the regular frequencies.  All you need to do is tune to your favorite station and if an HD station exists, the system will automatically select it.  You may have heard the commercials with something like "the stations between the stations".  This means that broadcasters can transmit additional stations using the same frequency.  For example you could have a station 100.3 FM, then also 100.3-1 (HD) and 100.3-2 (HD)

This system is also the first system to support iTunes Tagging.  This will allow you Tag a song you hear on HD radio and then store the name on the iPod for review and possible purchase later in iTunes.
How does it work?

1. Tune into any HD Radio station with the I-Sonic ES2. When you hear a tune you like, press the Tag button on the I-Sonic ES 2. The Tag data is stored for future reference. (You can store up to 50 songs.)
2. Dock your iPod classic or iPod nano in the I-Sonic ES2 and the Tags are transferred automatically to your iPod.
3. Sync the iPod with your computer and your tagged songs will appear in a Tagged Playlist in iTunes. You can then preview and purchase that song directly from the iTunes Store.

Conclusion

Pros:

• Competent sound system
• iPod Dock
• Tagging
• Alarm Clock (Big for me)

Cons:

• $499 MSRP
• Does not work very well with older iPods.  I tried an old iPod mini and next/previous track buttons turn off the iPod.  iPod nano is OK
  

Specifications:

• I-Sonic Speaker Technology (Patent Pending for stereo imaging on all sides of the entertainment system)
• Patented PowerPort Bass Technology for impressive bass performance
• HD Radio second-generation technology with the latest features such as multicasting
• iTunes Tagging lets you Tag and download songs you hear on HD Radio
• iPod dock with universal well adapters integrated into the top of the unit
• S-Video and Composite Video ports for connecting the I-Sonic ES2 to a TV so watch video content from your iPod
• Full-featured remote control
• 24 presets for AM/FM
• Clock with alarm and sleep timer
• Auxiliary input for easy connection of other devices
• Multiple outputs, including iPod video (Composite and S-Video), analog audio (fixed line out), headphone (mutes main speakers)
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 4.75 x 14.5 x 9.0 in./12.06 x 36.83 x 22.86 cm

In the box:

• I-Sonic ES2 system
• Remote control (battery included)
• AM external antenna
• FM external antenna
• Owner's guide

Warranty:One year limited for parts and labor

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PIONEER PREMIUM BONUSVIEW BLU-RAY DISC PLAYERS EMULATE TRUE THEATER EXPERIENCE

New Elite and Pioneer Players Deliver Reference Quality Playback with Enhanced Performance Features

NEW YORK – (May 7, 2008) – Elevating the high definition experience in home theaters, Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today announces the Elite® BDP-05FD and Pioneer® BDP-51FD BonusView Blu-ray Disc® players that exceed the capabilities of current players in the market with support of next generation high resolution audio and video formats that fulfill the emotional experience of high end entertainment. Featuring picture-in-picture interactivity and a redesigned platform that significantly improves overall performance, the new players work in tandem with Pioneer's KURO displays and A/V receivers to provide film enthusiasts the most true-to-life reproduction of HD feature films.

"Our new Blu-ray Disc players continue to demonstrate Pioneer's unwavering commitment to delivering an immersive seeing and hearing experience for those who want the absolute best in form and function," said Chris Walker, senior manager of marketing and product planning for Blu-ray Disc at Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "In offering a full line of players, we are solidifying Pioneer's reputation as a brand that is continually meeting the needs of consumers who are designing or upgrading their home theaters."

Cinematic Picture Quality
Taking advantage of HDMI® 1.3a technology, Pioneer brings film aficionados to the frontier of next generation entertainment with the most cutting edge video processing available. Both players support 12-bit video digital-to-analog converter (DAC) providing exceptional analog video performance. 12-Bit Deep Color is implemented on both models to deliver an unprecedented range of hues and shades resulting in pristine, realistic imagery that was not possible with previous generations. For early technology adopters, both players are a great investment that will continually meet the advancements of HD home entertainment technology.

With Pioneer's 1080p / True 24 frames per second (fps) video output, the two models offer smooth performance of film based Blu-ray Disc movies that greatly reduce image judder. By preserving the feature film scene cadence in which Blu-ray Disc titles are authored and feature films are captured, viewers gain a natural, high quality movie viewing experience just as they would in the theater.

Pioneer has continued to enhance high performance DVD playback in the new players with the inclusion of the proprietary and advanced PureCinema Deinterlacer, which essentially eliminates lines that can negatively affect the viewing experience. DVDs can be scaled to a 1080p resolution for improved picture quality and compatibility with HDTVs.

Dynamic Audio Enhances Emotional Experience
Pioneer recognizes the vital importance that sound plays in creating an emotional home entertainment experience and for film aficionados who want to gain the full impact of high resolution movie soundtracks.

The new players are two of the industry's first to support all advanced audio formats, with the ability to decode Dolby® TrueHD and Dolby Digital Plus, DTS® HD* and DTS HD Master* high resolution audio formats, which also enables advanced connectivity that makes compatibility a minimal concern. Consumers will hear the subtle nuances and deep bass in their favorite films to bring an unprecedented listening experience that transcends what was previously thought possible in home theater.

Typically utilized by high end audio manufacturers and professional audio equipment, Pioneer selected the professional quality Wolfson Digital Audio Converters (DACs) in the new players to ensure the highest level audio performance that sound engineers intended audiences to experience.

Robust Build Quality
Pioneer's two BonusView Blu-ray Disc players feature a supreme build construction and attention to detail to ensure unrivaled content performance. The BDP-05FD and BDP-51FD define premium performance with high quality parts, a center loading tray which helps reduce vibration as well as dedicated audio and video boards for smooth operation and uninterrupted playback of discs.

The Elite BDP-05FD features gold-plated connection ports, capacitance touch key buttons and an aluminum front panel that will have audiophiles and videophiles eager to use and display within their high end home theater décor.

Pioneer Home Theater Synergy
Performing in concert with KURO displays and the upcoming Elite A/V receivers (SC-05 or SC-07), the new Blu-ray Disc players complete the home entertainment experience, allowing consumers to immerse themselves in stunning HD content.

Pioneer engineers developed unique performance settings in both players to ensure subtle details, vivid colors and deep shadows are accurately reproduced when shown on KURO displays. When selecting the "Pioneer PDP" in the video adjust mode, the new players will output the appropriate signal to a connected KURO and deliver the best possible image possible for viewers.

In line with the premium movie experience its products provide, Pioneer sought to create jitter-free playback and dynamic sound quality for music CDs. When connected to a new Elite receiver (SC-05 or SC-07) via HDMI, the BDP-05FD enhances CD playback with the proprietary Precision Quartz Lock System (PQLS). This advanced feature synchronizes music data coming from the Blu-ray Disc player to the receiver giving music fanatics a revolutionary high resolution listening experience far exceeding traditional methods.

Consumer Convenience
Due to the exclusive chip set design and build quality Pioneer is now utilizing, significant strides in speed performance have been made with the new players to now rival the rapid playback rate consumers have come to experience when using their DVD players. This platform greatly improves disc load, power on, power off and disc eject times.

With a continued focus on unifying the appearance and enhancing the operation of its home theater products, Pioneer has integrated the same graphic user interface found on its KURO displays and new Elite receivers. Through the player, users can customize their viewing experience via the A/V Selection menu, which provides a series of image modifications (LCD, PDP, Pioneer PDP, projector and professional) to optimize the picture displayed on a connected HDTV. Pioneer takes image quality a step further with the exclusive Picture Control Suite, which is comprised of an additional 13 video adjustments that allow viewers to fine tune small picture details of a film and deliver an experience that best suits a user's viewing preferences.

The Pioneer Elite BDP-05FD and BDP-51FD BonusView Blu-ray Disc players will begin shipping this summer for suggested prices of $799 and $599, respectively.

Pioneer's Home Entertainment and Business Solutions Group develops high definition home theater equipment for discerning entertainment junkies. Its flat panel televisions, Blu-ray Disc players, A/V receivers and speakers bring a new level of emotion to the HD experience. The company brands include Pioneer and Elite®. When purchased from an authorized retailer, consumers receive a limited warranty for one year with Pioneer products and two years with Pioneer Elite products. More details can be located at www.pioneerelectronics.com.

PIONEER CONTINUES TO SURPASS BLACK LEVEL PERFORMANCE WITH NEW LINE OF 2008 KURO TELEVISIONS

Pioneer's 2008 KURO Displays Boast Industry Leading Black Levels and Richer Color to Create an Unmatched Emotional Entertainment Experience

NEW YORK (May 7, 2008) – Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today announces a new line of KURO plasma displays featuring black levels five times deeper than the previous award-winning KURO. Widely recognized for its commitment to creating entertainment experiences that transcend the ordinary, Pioneer takes yet another groundbreaking step towards HDTV perfection with this new line of 2008 KURO flat panel televisions.

"The game-changing performance our KURO displays brought to the marke last year revitalized the landscape of high end home theater in a way that was never thought possible. The introduction of this year's KURO televisions is another step toward our ultimate goal of pure, absolute black that will fulfill the true potential and all the promise of high-definition entertainment," said Paul Meyhoefer, vice president of display marketing and product planning, home entertainment business solutions group, Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "Our goal is to listen and fully understand the minds of creative professionals and their craft. When great entertainment comes together something truly magical happens, the boundaries of technology fall away and you're left with a truly unique experience. This is the hidden key to the power that KURO possesses and ensures the integrity of the artist's vision is never compromised."

Pioneer's Philosophy is Absolute Black
The philosophy behind Pioneer's Project KURO and the driving force is to achieve absolute, pure black. True, deep black creates a picture unlike any other that possesses finer detail, greater contrast, and more importantly, the ability to produce deeper colors not achievable before. This year, Pioneer pushes ever closer to their goal of absolute black by further reducing the idle luminance and improving black levels five times over the previous 2007 KURO models. This has enabled Pioneer to accurately reproduce deeper colors within the high-definition color spectrum and outdistance other display manufacturers.

Pioneer understands that color is a vital tool that creative professionals – from visual artists to film and television producers – use freely to evoke emotion and arouse our senses. With varying techniques from the most subtle to intense manipulation of color, artists can induce a very specific feeling within their audience. That feeling can be lost or diluted if a television cannot produce true, pure deep blacks and in turn reproduce an accurate color spectrum. The end result cannot be imitated and is beyond compare.

Evoking Emotion through Sound
Pioneer has incorporated six unique sound settings associated with each of the KURO video settings – standard, movie, sports, performance, game, dynamic – to ensure a customized listening experience that is specifically in tune with the type of programming on-screen.

The television employs an auto volume stabilization feature that further
controls the television's volume level when switching between different types of programming; including network shows and commercials, broadcast channels or different input types to insure each experience remains true and distinct from one another.

Pioneer has included the most advanced SRS® WOW HD technology in the new KURO models by incorporating SRS Definition, a high frequency enhancement that provides finer control and adjustment to manage low, mid and high audio frequencies. The result adds to the virtual surround sound effect and produces clearer, more precise audio in mid to high frequency levels.

A Truly Intelligent Television
The KURO employs a unique automatic adjustment feature called Optimum Mode that simultaneously monitors video and room light conditions. The KURO then seamlessly adjusts the picture and sound settings by even the slightest variation to provide an experience specially tailored to each type of programming. The result is movies that reproduce a film-like quality, sports that feel like you're on the field and crisp clear narration from newscasts that focus on the reporter, not ambient background noise.

While many consumers will rely on this unique feature, the 2008 KURO models still have the ability to switch between six finely tuned pre-set modes including: standard, movie, sports, performance, game, dynamic for consumers who prefer the ability to manually adjust their KURO television according to their particular taste.

Enhanced Consumer Convenience Features
The introduction of the 2008 KURO 1080p line creates the perfect synergy between film, video and high quality sound, helping blend these into a new world of seeing and hearing like never before. Pioneer has built a reputation for providing best-in-class products that evoke emotion and surpass typical high- quality sight and sound specifications, adding enhanced features such as these to the 2008 KURO line:

• Pioneer KURO televisions are now only 3.7 Inches thick, reduced by nearly 20 percent
• New remote control and redesigned high definition graphic user interface for ease-of-use and seamless integration with other a/v equipment
• Networked Home Media Gallery for playback of digital assets such as HD movie, music and photos from a PC or via USB
• Pioneer KURO televisions are DLNA compatible and Windows PlaysForSure™ compatible 

Could this be the coolest remote control yet?

With the ability to control Windows Vista Media center from its own built in 2.4" screen, it sure is a front runner on my shopping list.
The shipping date "was" on or before February 28th, 2008, but has now recently changed to "Summer 2008"
You can pre-order it here for $349 and get it sometime this year perhaps...?

VAVE100 Universal SideShow Remote Control Pre-Order

Product Desription   

The VAVE100 Windows® SideShow Vista Universal Remote Control provides direct access and complete control of home entertainment devices, the Windows® Vista Media Center and the Windows® SideShow. VAVE100 has a 2.4 inch color QVGA LCD display, features Class 1 SPP/A2DP Bluetooth and is upgradable through the built-in mini USB. VAVE100 comes with a docking station that features a RC6 receiver, a Bluetooth transceiver and a power charger.

Universal Features
VAVE100 gives you the ability to control over 20 different entertainment devices from a distance of over 50 feet via IR. The learning feature and the User Definable Macro Functions allow you to set-up ONE BUTTON access. With BUILT-IN database of over 1500 wolrdwide brand names and set-up via
GUI on the 2.4” QVGA LCD display, VAVE100 gives the maximum control of the entire entertainment system at your fingertips.

Media Center
One touch of the Microsoft Media Center green button instantly activates the Windows® Media Center from Windows® Vista. Control MCE to play your favorite music or recorded TV and display pictures.

Windows® SideShow
Let the SideShow Begin! The VAVE100 brings you the power of Windows® SideShow in the palm of your hand. Windows® SideShow is the new technology of Microsoft Windows® enabling you to view headline news, weather, email , pictures from your computer, play your desired music, get information on current movies in theaters and so much more on the VAVE100.

Gotta Get A Gadget!
Gadgets are the new “ringtones” of the future. The power of SideShow lies in Gadgets, the software. Gadgets provide a host of information vehicles that will work with the VAVE100. Windows® SideShow accesses gadgets from your Windows® Vista PC and then plays them on the VAVE100 while you sit in
the comfort of your own home or office. Ricavision provides you with a myriad of gadgets giving you access to information for your life.

Note: Windows® SideShow is available in Windows® Vista Home Premium, Windows® Vista Business, Windows® Vista Enterprise, and Windows® Vista Ultimate.

Product Features

    * 2.4 Inch QVGA LCD Display with 240X320 Resolution
    * Universal Control up to over 20 Devices as well as Windows Vista PC
    * IR Learning Feature with Easy Macro functions
    * MCE Green button supported/with 4 media center buttons
    * Built-in worldwide IR database with over 1500 brand names for easy device set-up
    * IR and Bluetooth with Audio streaming
    * Integrated docking cradle with RC6 receiver, Bluetooth transceiver and power charger
    * Class 1 Bluetooth with up to 50 Meter Operating Radius
    * Rechargeable Lithium Polymer Ion battery
    * Scroll key with push select for Easy User Interface
    * Backlit buttons for easy viewing
    * Volume lock / channel lock
    * International Teletext buttons

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