KEF & Apple iMac designer pair up to create $140K

Ross Lovegrove of iMac fame and British manufacturer KEF have teamed up to create the Muon concept speakers. Only 100 pairs were made and they are selling for about $140,000. They are formed from 6mm thick aluminum and almost look liquid. The speakers use KEF's proprietary Uni-Q drive unit array with 2 bass drivers in the back. Follow the link to read more.

AudioXsell Gallery Images are Now Free!

Introducing: Sapphire XLC

LA CROSSE, WI, DECEMBER 12, 2006: ACI (AUDIO CONCEPTS, INC.) is pleased to announce the Sapphire XLC.

The XLC is the finest center ACI has ever built. Derived from our acclaimed Sapphire XL, the XLC is state-of-the-art in every way. Three XLCs may be used as matching front channels, or it may be matched with the acclaimed Sapphire XLs.
The XLC will handle the most intense soundtracks with ease. The acoustically correct vertical mid-tweeter alignment with flanking woofers provides smooth and natural response and dispersion, with dialog reproduction second to none.

Specifications:
Frequency Response: 46-20Khz +- 3db anechoic, 60-20kHz ± 1.75db

Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms, min: 5.2 ohms, non-reactive

Sensitivity: 88db 1watt/1meter

Finishes: Satin Black, Inlaid Cherry, Piano Black

Pricing starts at $950 each, consumer-direct from ACI

Contact: Michael Dzurko
Phone: (608) 784-4570
EMAIL: miked@audioc.com

RUNCO SHIPS FIRST THX CERTIFIED PROJECTORS

PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Caster Communications, Inc. at 401.792.7080


RUNCO SHIPS FIRST THX CERTIFIED PROJECTORS



Video Xtreme models are the industry's first 1080p HD video display products to achieve THX certification.



Union City, CA – December 6, 2006 – Runco International is now shipping its Video Xtreme™ line including the new THX Certified VX-22d, VX-44d and VX-55d 3-chip 1080p DLP™ projectors and the new THX Certified VX-2000d and VX-6000d single-chip 1080p DLPprojectors.



As the first 1080p HD video display products to achieve THX certification*, the new VX-22d, VX-44d and VX-55d, along with the VX-2000 and VX-6000 have been tested to the rigorous standards outlined in the THX Certified Display program. The THX program promises that HD and standard definition content will be presented with the correct color, luminance levels and video processing capabilities. Runco is the launch licensee for the THX video program and the companies have been working closely together on the finalization of these products.



Along with THX certification, Runco’s Video Xtreme models have been designed for outstanding picture quality and performance. Runco has engineered Imaging Science Foundation (ISF™) calibration standards into every model for the purest video performance.



The VX 1080p models are offered with numerous configuration options and prices, for a broad and versatile lineup that will easily meet the needs of any high-end installation requirement. For the ultimate in viewing flexibility and enjoyment, each model is available with Runco’s exclusive award-winning CineWide™ and CineWide with AutoScope™ technology. This ground-breaking option can transform a superb home theater system into a true home cinema experience, reproducing 2.35:1 CinemaScope™ movies with unparalleled accuracy and full vertical screen image height, eliminating useless black bars.



All Video Xtreme projectors are paired with a re-engineered version of Runco’s acclaimed DHD controller, now featuring HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) connectivity for optimum compatibility with a broad range of source components. The widely heralded DHD has been such a success that Runco focused the engineering changes only to those necessary for optimal 1080p performance with the new projectors, retaining the features and performance that have made the DHD so popular.



For more information on Runco International, Inc., please visit www.runco.com.



*THX certification is approved by THX, Ltd.




Founded in 1987 and currently headquartered in Union City, California, Runco International, Inc is a market leader in state-of-the-art projection systems, flat-panel plasma monitors, video processors and other components for the consumer market. Runco’s innovations have won numerous awards and citations from the world press. Runco was the first company to introduce and market a line doubler with a multi-frequency projector in 1990 and also introduced the first multiple-aspect-ratio controller, the ARC-IV, to the Home Theater market. Recently, both of these features have become essential for the new digital high definition capable televisions.





Press Contact: Caster Communications, Inc. at 401.792.7080

Kimberly Lancaster klancaster@castercomm.com

Katie Short kshort@castercomm.com

For digital images log on to www.castercomm.com

RUNCO WOWS WITH NEW 1080p LCD FLAT PANEL DISPLAYS

PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Caster Communications, Inc. at 401.792.7080


RUNCO WOWS WITH NEW 1080p LCD FLAT PANEL DISPLAYS



Featuring the absolute best in resolution and functionality, Runco HD LCDs are showing consumers that it takes more than a flat panel to be a great picture.



Union City, CA – December 13, 2006 – Runco International, the leader in home video display technology, is helping consumers say goodbye to green shadows, jagged lines and unwanted “noise” because the new Crystal Series™ CX-40HD and CX-46HD 1080p LCD flat panel displays produce stunning native high-definition resolution pictures and incredible video imagery.



So many consumers think they are looking at a great picture; but it takes more than being flat to be great! The CX-40HD and CX-46HD LCD displays, along with the new CR-32HDi, feature Runco’s exclusive Vivix II™ video processing which not only improves high definition material, but elevates standard NTSC material (such as cable or satellite) to near HD quality for maximum viewing enjoyment. Featuring both NTSC and HDTV signal compatibility, the CX-40HD and CX-46HD are bridging the transitional gap between the current NTSC format and the emerging DTV format so consumers aren’t left with an antiquated flat panel when television broadcasts convert to all-digital transmissions.



Runco is also rolling out the CR-32HDi, a 32” HD display that achieves a new value position in Runco’s expanding lineup of LCDs. The CR-32HDi features 1366 x 768 native resolution, while the CX-40HD and CX-46HD LCD models are 1920 x 1080 high-definition native resolution displays. All three models include an integrated ATSC tuner for receiving terrestrial digital television broadcasts, an integrated 185-channel cable-ready NTSC tuner, and two 10W two-way detachable speakers. With numerous user-friendly features such as aspect ratio control, 1000:1 contrast ratio, grayscale tracking, and Runco’s exclusive VirtualWide™ mode which converts 4:3 aspect ratio images to 16:9 without losing any image integrity, owners of these new LCDs will wow their guests. Plus all three LCDs include the Imaging Science Foundation (ISF™) calibration suite to deliver the absolute best image possible under any viewing condition.



These new LCDs expand on Runco’s growing number of flat panels, increasing the 2007 full line of plasmas and LCDs to 16 models ranging from 32” to 65”; offering something for every room. Measuring a mere 4.5-inches thick, each display can easily be mounted on a wall or ceiling without protruding into a room.



The new CR-32HDi is an amazing Runco value at $1,995, while the CX-40HD and CX-46HD are $3,995 and $5,995 respectively. All three models are shipping now.



For more information on Runco International, Inc., please visit www.runco.com.



Founded in 1987 and currently headquartered in Union City, California, Runco International, Inc is a market leader in state-of-the-art projection systems, flat-panel plasma monitors, video processors and other components for the consumer market. Runco’s innovations have won numerous awards and citations from the world press. Runco was the first company to introduce and market a line doubler with a multi-frequency projector in 1990 and also introduced the first multiple-aspect-ratio controller, the ARC-IV, to the Home Theater market. Recently, both of these features have become essential for the new digital high definition capable televisions.




Crystal Series, Vivix, and VirtualWide are trademarks of Runco International. ISF is a trademark of the Imaging Science Foundation.



Press Contact: Caster Communications, Inc. at 401.792.7080

Kimberly Lancaster klancaster@castercomm.com

Katie Short kshort@castercomm.com

For digital images log on to www.castercomm.com

Tyler Acoustics announces the Woodmere II

We are excited to introduce our new Woodmere II's! This speaker uses 2-8" seas magnesium woofers, 2-5.5" seas neo magnet magnesium mids and the millennium tweeter. This speaker has the same design and cabinets as the larger Woodmeres in a more compact and less expensive package. List $10,000pr, factory direct $7500pr.

Martin Logan Summit Loudspeakers

Audio Video Revolution has a review posted of the new Martin Logan Summit speakers. They are replacing the award winning Prodigy. In fact, the entire Martin Logan line is being revamped. It looks like exciting times ahead for the company.

Read on for more...

New Oracle SI-1000 Integrated Amplifier

The SI-1000 is not as powerful as teh Si-3000 and is in a redesigned chassis. It includes 175 watts per channel.

Logitech Acquires Slim Devices

FREMONT, Calif. Oct. 18, 2006 and ROMANEL-SUR-MORGES, Switzerland, Oct. 19, 2006 —Logitech International (SWX: LOGN) (Nasdaq: LOGI) today announced that it has acquired Slim Devices, Inc., a pioneer in the development of music systems that take advantage of a home network. Products from Slim Devices, such as the acclaimed Squeezebox™ and the recently announced Transporter™, enable people to enjoy high-quality digital music, in multiple rooms of the home, regardless of whether the music is streaming directly from the Internet, or from a PC, Mac, or storage device on the network. Logitech purchased the privately held Slim Devices of Mountain View, Calif. for $20 million in cash plus a possible performance-based payment, tied to reaching certain future revenue targets.

Click on for more...

Krell FBI Amplifier

Krell's Fully Balanced Integrated (FBI) Amplifier [$16,500] is massive, slightly intimidating and forces one to reconsider what an integrated amplifier is capable of. Bred from a separate preamp/amplifier design, the FBI was born when the synergy of two components demanded they reside in the same chassis.

The FBI dominates loudspeakers with a fully regulated 3Kw torodial power supply and a balanced topology that results in the lowest noise and greatest detail retrieval from a recording. It's immensely powerful delivering 300 Watts/channel (8 Ohms), 600 Watts into 4 Ohms and 1,200 Watts into 2 Ohms. Evolution CAST circuitry connects the source, preamp and amp reducing voltage gain stages to the minimum, resulting in a noise floor that approaches the theoretical limit of technology.

- Krell Press Release

New Wilson Audio Website

Check out the new and improved Wilson Audio Website! Anyone want to send us some Alexandrias!

Fatman iTube from TL Audio

The Fatman iTube is a tube amplifier and docking station designed specifically for iPod. They claim true audiophile sound from this clever iPod accessory. It comes with everything except speakers and the iPod.

US retail price for the iTube is $649, and the iTube with Speakers is $1,099.

iTube Specifications:
Power output: 13 watts per channel

Frequency response: 20Hz – 20Khz (+/- 1.5dB)

Harmonic distortion: 0.5%

Signal to noise ratio: 86dB

Input impedance: 100K

Tube complement: 2 x 6N1 (ECC85), 1 x 6E2 (EM87)

Dimensions (l-w-h):
Amp: 10.2” x 5.7” x 5.1”, Dock: 6.1” x 5.1” x 4.8”

Weight: 9.5 lbs

CEDIA Winning Home Theaters

Check out all 19 of these incredible home theaters. There are examples from all of the price range categories ($40K +). Some of these are absolutely amazing.

New Krell Evolution Amplifiers are Shipping!

The Evolution 403 and 900 are now available. The 403 is a three channel power amp that is rated at 400 watts. The 900 is a 900 watt amp. Both feature Krell's CAST (Current Audio Signal Transmission) circuitry. The also include internal high current line conditioning to filter RF noise from the AC. Both are available in diamond-cut silver and luxurious black finishes.

Apogee Revival?

Apogee was closed around 10 years ago but an Australian company is attempting to revive the companys products. The new Synergy 1.5 was shown at the recent London Hi-Fi Show. They feature a more friendly ohm rating than the originals but are also more expensive, comin gin at $24,500.

Aurum Acoustics Integris CDP CD Player/Preamplifie

Marc Mickelson wonders just how good this integrated CD Player/Preamp can be. Click through to his full review.

Look for the second half of this review from Doug Schneider soon!

Goertz Audio - BP1000

Randall Smith concludes that the BP1000 really made a difference on his review system when used with each component individually. Read the review at Home Theater Sound.


Manufacturer Link:
http://www.goertzaudio.com/powerSupply.html

Highlights From CEDIA Expo 2006

Audio Video Revolution has a great roudup highlighting some of the new products seen at CEDIA this year.

AudioXsell welcomes Red Dragon Audio

Look for Red Dragon Audio at the 2006 Rocky Mountain Audio Fest

Pronounced [levi'uthun] - Red Dragon Audio created the leviathan signature series monoblocs™ to provide music lovers and audiophiles with the absolute best amplifier technology in the most stunning custom enclosures. Every leviathan monobloc™ is handcrafted with painstaking attention to detail, finish and execution. Our skilled carpenters start with 250grit sand paper and progressively work towards the final sanding with 2000grit sand paper. This graduated sanding technique ensures the smoothest surface imaginable and beckons the observer to caress it's contours. Hand waxing every solid wood case takes six days in order to allow the surface to properly air dry between coats. The entire process of building a set of leviathan monoblocs spans over ten days due in part to the old world wood finishing, hand wired connections and laser cut stainless steel casework. Nothing is hurried.

Each leviathan signature monobloc™ contains an independently modified ICEpower 1000ASP module providing 500watts into 8ohms and over 1000watts into 4ohms. With its own independent power supply the leviathan delivers excellent transient response and dynamic contrast drawing you deeper into the music. Every note will be reproduced more naturally, fully and vibrantly with the leviathan signature monoblocs. Strings will come alive, drums will snap with conviction and vocals will float freely around you. In fact, the leviathan signature is so remarkable it might just be your last amplifier ever.

Only the finest materials are used in the assembly of each leviathan signature monobloc™ with each part selected for pure sound quality. The solid hardwood case is offered in four stunning exotic woods: zebrawood, cocobolo, east Indian rosewood and macassar ebony. Other finishes available by request. Cabinet construction starts with hand selecting each piece of hardwood for its beauty, uniformity and integrity. Top and bottom plates are laser cut from twelve gauge brushed stainless steel which provides an extremely rigid framework for the hardwood exterior. Solid Silver wire with Teflon coating is used to provide the cleanest signal path for the delicate delivery of the line level signal. The output stage utilizes heavy gauge silver plated copper wire for massive current handling capabilities. Because of the complex nature of switch mode power supplies a host of EMI/RFI control, absorption and diffusion methods have been employed to preserve the very essence of the music. A bevy of protection features are built right into each amplifier such as thermal, over current, short circuit and HFD protection. No detail is overlooked and no part is employed without exhaustive testing.

All Red Dragon Audio amplifiers are hand crafted here in the USA and tested extensively for 72 hours prior to shipment. To guarantee the safe transit of the leviathan signature monoblocs™ we use custom wood containers with two inches of high density urethane foam lining. This method for packing and shipping will ensure the safe arrival of the leviathans to the home of their new owner.

Specifications:

1000Wx2 @ 4? & 600Wx2 @ 8? †

Damping factor 2000 into 8O load

Neutrik Silver XLR Differential Inputs - 2V for full output

Custom Cardas Patented Binding posts - solid copper with silver finish

Solid 24awg Silver Signal wire with Teflon jacket.

Silver-plated copper internal speaker wire with PE jacket.

Common mode and differential mode EMI filtration used throughout.

ERS paper employed at key locations to absorb and diffuse unwanted EMI.

>119dBA dynamic range

dc - 38kHz frequency range

High efficiency: 83% total efficiency @ 500W, 8?

Environmentally friendly - very little power is wasted as heat

115V or 230V operation. Please specify when ordering.

10" x 5.5" x 14.5" (WxHxD), weight varies depending on wood used.

Hand built with pride in the USA & carries full 5-year warranty††

Sold only in select audio dealers.

† 0.01% THD+N, 1kHz
†† Warranty valid for original owner.
Please contact for transfer of warranty.

Reviews - http://www.reddragonaudio.com/reviews.htm

Awards - http://www.reddragonaudio.com/awards.htm

New Naim NAC122x Preamplifier

The NAC122x, a replacement for the NAC112x, is based on its larger brother the NAC202 and features a hardwired motorised Alps volume control potentiometer delivering better performance, lower noise in use and an improved feel over the resistor ladder volume control of the NAC112x.

The six DIN inputs are relay switched, contrasting with being multiplexed on the NAC112x, improving performance. Inputs one and six: (CD and Aux2) are duplicated on RCA sockets.

Much care in the design has been afforded to making the casework and PCB as low resonance as possible and to isolate the PCB from the environment and hence deleterious vibrations.

The NAC122x features an additional output in addition to the Naim standard DIN. This stereo output on two RCA sockets, is optimised for connection to an active subwoofer, supports the growing use of 2.1 systems.

Rear panel layout is similar to the NAC202 and hence is Fraim friendly.

The NAC122x can be powered from the preamp power outputs of the NAP150x or NAP200 or can be upgraded by powering it from either a FlatCap 2x or Hi-Cap 2 power supply. One of the DIN inputs can supply power to a Naim Stageline outboard phono stage.


Specifications:
Analogue inputs - 6

Input sensitivities - 75mV, 47kOhm

Output levels, tape/AV/Aux 1 - 75mV, 600 Ohm

Main output - 0.775V, <50 Ohm

Overload margin, all inputs, all audio frequencies - 35dB

Dimensions (H x W x D) - 70 x 432 x 301mm

Finish - Black

1080p DLP McIntosh Projector is unveiled

McIntosh has announced their first projector at CEDIA with the introduction of the MDLP1. To get their complete video solution to match their impressive audio products you will need to pick up the projector for around $30,000 and the new VP1000 video processor for about $16,000. The processor offers dual scalers, 4HDMI inputs, and 6 each of component, S-Video, composite, and RS-232 inputs.

Worlds First Mini HDMI cable

ACCELL has announced the first mini HDMI cable in Denver at CEDIA. The cable has been mainly designed for phone, digital camcorder and camera use. Up to now the standard HDMI connector was too large for these portable devices. Look for these cables in ACCELL’s UltraCam line later this year.

New NEC Industrial Grade Projectors

If you have around $85,000 to drop and you don’t mind blowing it on a projector, why not pick up one of NEC’s new massive projectors. The new HL16000HD offers some pretty huge specifications including: 14,000 lumens, 1,400 – to – 1 contrast ratio, and a 2,048 x 1,080 resolution. They are also offering a few "smaller" options for a measly $65,000. Grab one when it comes up for sale in November. The news release was only in Japanese but a translated link is below.

Sharp and Sony Battle in the Projector Arena at CE

Sharp and Sony both brought wonderful new products to CEDIA this year. Sharp's new XV-Z20000 flagship projector utilizes a single 0.95-inch DLP chip from Texas Instruments to provide 1,920-by-1,080 resolution and a 1000:1 ANSI contrast ratio. The Sony boasts two HDMI video inputs that support 1080p signals at 60 and 24p frame rates—a good match for HD-DVD and Blu-ray disc players.