SvenOnTech » Audio

Alpine Brings More Pandora Goodness and Smartphone Senrgy to Your Chariot

Sven Rafferty — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:04:22 +0000

Alpine is bringing it on with a slew of new head units for your vehicle. From the Double-DIN Audio/Video/Navigation (AVN) INE-Z928HD that features built-in Bluetooth, GPS, HD Radio, and full Pandora control connected to your iPhone, Android, or BlackBerry to the premium CD CDE-HD138BT receiver that allows ease of system building with its 4 Volt pre-amp outputs, to the advanced Bluetooth CD receiver CDE-W235BT that will add some pazazz to your OEM stereo yet look at home in your 2-DIN chassis, you already have some great choices before you. The slew of Spring scheduled audio marvels will appear between February (ya, I know, not really spring) to June. Alpine will also be showcasing its Perfect FIT Kits helping you slide your INE-Z928HD into your car without cutting up your fingers and making you wish you hadn’t taken on the job of installation yourself.

It’s great to see Alpine finally give you the Bluetooth instead of requiring an additional purchase and its inclusion of such technologies as Pandora shows that Alpine is getting the next-generation of music. Thumbs up to that, boys!

Full read and deets in the press release below.

View Press Release »

INE-Z928HD 8-inch AVN DVD Receiver and Perfect FIT Installation Kits

The INE-Z928HD AVN (Audio/Video/Navigation) DVD receiver is a landmark product for the 12-volt aftermarket. It is the first AVN system with a full 8-inch WVGA screen, yet its chassis fits into a standard 2-DIN opening. The INE-Z928HD won a 2012 CES Innovations Award in the In-Vehicle Audio/Video category.

The INE-Z928HD is feature-packed. Audio features include Pandora® Internet Radio control and station creation from iPhone®, Android™, and BlackBerry® smartphones; built-in HD Radio™ receiver; compatibility with SiriusXM (separate tuner and subscription required), and iPod® music playback from an iPod® or iPhone®. The INE-Z928HD makes every source sound better with its 4-volt preamp outputs and easy car-specific sound setup.

Additional technology features include:
• Built-in Bluetooth® wireless technology, with audio streaming, call waiting and fast phone book search
• Completely new 3D WVGA navigation platform, with over 6 million Points of Interest (POI) and free lifetime TMC traffic monitoring

To accommodate the 8-inch screen into vehicles, Alpine will offer multiple Perfect FIT (Factory Integration Technology) installation kits for the INE-Z928HD. Installation kits for ten vehicle platforms, representing popular models accounting for over 2 million annual U.S. vehicle sales, will be available (each kit sold separately). Besides being cosmetically matched for each vehicle platform, the kits also come with vehicle-specific wiring harnesses and installation accessories for direct plug-and-play connection to the INE-Z928HD.

Availability for INE-Z928HD and Perfect FIT Kits: June

CDE-HD138BTAdvanced Bluetooth® CD/HD Radio Receiver

The CDE-HD138BT is a premium CD receiver engineered to enhance the sound of multiple audio sources. Designed for compatibility with Android™ and BlackBerry® smartphones, users get wireless Pandora® Internet Radio control with station creation and thumbs up/down ratings. Other audio sources include a built-in HD Radio™ receiver and compatibility with SiriusXM programming (separate tuner and subscription required), both capable of iTunes® Tagging. Music playback from an iPod® or iPhone® is also available. The built-in Bluetooth® wireless technology provides audio streaming, simple phone pairing, and call waiting, plus Alpine’s exclusive DSP-tuned audio both for improved sound quality of streaming audio and hands-free phone calls. System building is easy with the CDE-HD138BT’s 4Volt pre-amp outputs and advanced sound tuning features.

Availability for CDE-HD138BT: March

VPX-B104R VPASS (Visual Parking Assist Sensor System)
& HCE-C104 Universal Rear Camera

Further expanding Alpine’s Drive Assist category are two new products, a parking sensor and universal rear camera. The VPX-B104R VPASS (Visual Parking Assist Sensor System) consists of a black box brain and four sensors that mount on the rear bumper, and it works with Alpine rear camera systems such as the HCE-C104 Universal Rear Camera. The VPASS system is designed specifically to help when backing into parking spots, by providing audible and visual warnings of objects behind and next to the vehicle. When the rear view image is projected onto an in-dash screen (sold separately), visual warnings are displayed as a three-color grid (green/yellow/red) overlaid onto the parking space lines to indicate the distance between the moving vehicle and its surrounding objects. When used with the HCE-C104, the VPASS system automatically switches the camera from normal to ground view when within one foot of an object behind the vehicle.

Availability for VPX-B104R: March
Availability for HCE-C104: February

CDE-W235BT
2-DIN Advanced Bluetooth® CD Receiver

The CDE-W235BT is a great choice to upgrade an outdated or technologically-challenged OEM radio. The CDE-W235BT’s 2-DIN chassis is an easy fit for most vehicles, and the large faceplate means larger controls along with a two-line, 14-character display that shows the audio source and song metadata (provided the metadata is available from the source). The built-in Bluetooth® wireless technology provides audio streaming, simple phone pairing, and call waiting, plus Alpine’s exclusive DSP-tuned audio both for improved sound quality of streaming audio and hands-free phone calls. It’s a CD receiver that meets the specifications for “Made for iPod® and iPhone®” compatibility, providing access and control of music libraries on these devices via its front USB input, and other media devices can be played via the 3.5 mm front panel jack.

Availability for CDE-W235BT: April

Get $50 iTunes Gift Certificate for $40 Delivered via Email

Sven Rafferty — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 16:25:12 +0000

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I’m sure you’ve seen the iTunes gift cards at Costco or Sam’s Club for a few dollars off. Sam’s has them for $10 off if you purchase $100 of a four pack of $25. That’s a pretty good deal on any Apple product as the Designed in Cupertino company rarely discounts anything in its catalog. But Sam’s Club parent, Wal-mart, has just gone one better and for half the initial cost, you will get double the percentage off. For $40 you can nab yourself $50 in an email delivered iTunes gift certificate. That’s a 20% discount which I have yet to see anywhere else and it’s an instant purchase!

If you want to treat yourself or you’ve forgotten a present or just need a bonus gift, this Wal-mart $50 iTunes gift certificate for $40 with instant delivery is your ticket to a Merry Christmas!

T-Mobile Gives Away Free Tunes via Google Music Launch

Sven Rafferty — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 23:35:42 +0000

The cat is out of the bag and Google announced it’s out of beta and in the production mode with Google Music. Accompanying the Mountain View-based search giant was T-Mobile and it is offering free music every week until the end of the year to celebrate the new digital music store. Featured artist giving away the free tunes include, “Drake, Maroon 5, Busta Ryhmes, and others,” per the T-Mobile email we received, in it’s entirety below.

So, if you’re on T-Mobile, enjoy. If not, hey, maybe this is your reason to move over, music fan.

View Press Release »

Today, T-Mobile joined Google at a press conference in Los Angeles to launch Google Music, a new platform where you can upload your personal music collections for free, discover and purchase songs from your favorite artists, and stream your music to your devices and the Web.

To celebrate the launch of Google Music, T-Mobile will offer millions of T-Mobile customers using smartphones and tablets running on Android 2.2 and above exclusive free Google Music content from featured artists including Drake, Maroon 5, Busta Ryhmes, and others.

Each week through the end of the year, T-Mobile will introduce new, free tracks via the Android Market Music Store – look for the T-Mobile Free Tracks section to find them. Free content for T-Mobile customers will also be shareable with friends via Google+.

Additional details on today’s news along with stats on the increase we have seen for streaming music on 4G devices among our customers is available on T-Mobile’s blog. As reference, I’m attaching a screenshot of the T-Mobile Galaxy S II device with Google Music.

V-MODA Unveils Limited Edition Crossfade LP2 Matte Black Metal Headphones

Sven Rafferty — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 22:59:06 +0000

Hey, it’s headphones news day. We earlier reported about Marshall’s new cans and now here’s V-MODA filling out Inbox with some limited sweetness. The limited edition Crossfad LP2 comes in matte black metal that come with 12 interchangeable colored ear shields allow you to customize your V-MODA experience. The detachable Kevlar reinforced cables with 24k gold-plated plug comes equipped, “with a 3-Button remote control optimized for Apple products including iPhone, iPad and MacBooks.” The headphones also work well with BlackBerry, Android, and Windows Phone. Between the 2-year warranty and hard exoskeleton carrying case, this $200 pair of cans seems like a pretty sweet set up. Read the release below for more details.

View Press Release »

Los Angeles – November 16, 2011 – V-MODA, the multi-platinum seller of the world’s finest headphones, unveils the latest in its “Live PlayTM” series – the over-ear Crossfade LP2 Metal Headphones. Fine-tuning the design and customization options of the now legendary Crossfade LP, the special edition Crossfade LP2 brings legendary DJ-approved acoustics, virtually indestructible military-grade durability and customization options out of the box.

“The original Crossfade LP has become number #1 headphone of choice for professional performers, DJs, celebrities, and sound-minded individuals by virtue of its tank-like durability, live sound and variety of finishes” says Val Kolton, V-MODA CEO and DJ. “LP2 transports this philosophy to another dimension by removing virtually all of our own branding and focusing on what matters most – you.”

endorse yourselfTM

In a carbon copy world of “celebrity” headphones, V-MODA’s endorse yourselfTM customs program gives customers and performers the option of expressing themselves. Users can choose from an array of over 12 colors of interchangeable ear shields that can also be professionally etched with their own artwork and logos, letters or numbers. V-MODA’s endorse yourselfTM program is also available to existing V-MODA Crossfade series customers.

Details of colors and options are at V-MODA.com/endorse-yourself

Live PlayTM Sound

A refinement to the critically acclaimed sound of the Crossfade LP, the heart of the Crossfade LP2’s Live PlayTM sound signature is its patent-pending and biggest-in-class 50mm Dual-Diaphragm Drivers and V-PORT 3D staging. This innovative driver displacement is energy efficient yet can recreate the sound of multiple drivers with the quality and consistency of a single driver. The driver’s diaphragm is constructed of a harder inner ring for mids and highs and a soft outer ring dedicated to deep bass extension so you can actually feel the music, even with low powered sources.

V-MODA’s labs, over years of research, found that many headphones artificially spike the highs above 8kHz to make up for older recordings, hearing loss and for users who listen at lower volumes. The Crossfade LP2, is however, fine-tuned with a 31-band EQ, which plays a vital part in creating it’s unique Live PlayTM sound signature while protecting the ears from permanent hearing loss or damage.

Military-Grade Durability

The Crossfade LP2 is tested under strict MIL-STD-810G military testing and V-MODA’s even tougher VMQA guidelines, of which a few are listed below

• Kevlar® reinforced detachable cables and 45-degree plug strain relief can each bend over 1 million times, over 100x industry standards
• Survives 70+ drops on concrete from 6 feet, approximately 3x the industry standard
• Headband can bend 10+ times flat, not break and retain its memory and shape
• Virtually inaudible sound variances across the spectrum of less than 2dB from unit to unit versus 10-30dB+ of inferior products
• MIL-STD-810G environmental tests including high and low temperatures, humidity, salt spray and UV exposure

Essential Ergonomic Comfort

Replaceable supple memory foam ear cushions isolate noise and immerse you into your own world of sound. Relentless research went into the precise shape and materials of the headband and ear cushions, resulting in a tailored, fashionable fit without unsightly gaps and minimal pressure on the head and ear. Although they deliver big sound, the Crossfade LP2 is extremely lightweight in design and perfect for hours of immersive listening.

trueHERTZTM – The Revelation of Headphones

Most headphone marketing simply does not tell the whole truth. Headphones often break too fast in and every unit sounds different due to quality control variance and individual fit. Upon this revelation over five years ago, V-MODA invested heavily on quality engineering and its own R&D labs to create a rugged product that provides the greatest sound for the greatest amount of people. Follow the trueHERTZ blog to learn more at http://v-moda.com/truehertz

Crossfade LP2 Features
• Stylish interchangeable shields (matte black installed and gunmetal colors included)
• Detachable Kevlar®-reinforced cables with 24k gold-plated plug
• One 3.5mm fabric cable with a 3-Button remote control optimized for Apple products including iPhone, iPad and MacBooks
• One 3.5mm fabric audio cable universally compatible with all audio, tablet and smartphone products with a 3.5mm port including Android, BlackBerry® and Windows Phone
• Hard exoskeleton carrying case, ensuring headphones are protected in style
• 2-Year V-MODA Premier Warranty
• Immortal Life Program – 50% off lifetime discount to replace consumer-damaged headphones

The Crossfade LP2 is available today at V-MODA.com and select retailers worldwide including Amazon.com, Microsoft Store, Guitar Center, and Newegg for $199 including two sets of plates. An additional set of color shields is $25 and can be customized with your own logo for $45. For more information and a brief video demonstration, visit www.v-moda.com/lp2.

ABOUT V-MODA
V-MODA is the maker of the finest professional quality and modern audiophile products. It’s products are distinguished by an extreme passion for music, materials, fashion-forward design and unparalleled quality. Led by professional DJ and Chief Visionary Officer, Val Kolton, V-MODA products blend the inspiration of Italian design, the essence of music, and the charisma of Hollywood. Together with design extraordinaire Joseph Bucknall, the world’s most influential producers, musicians and DJs, V-MODA is constantly challenging the norm and forging the remix revolution. For more information, please visit V-MODAʼs website, V-MODA.com.

Make Your iMac Do the Tango

Sven Rafferty — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 21:20:12 +0000

The iMac is a pretty ingenious computer and I’m always pleasantly surprised how good the speakers sound for such a small footprint for them to live in. But truth is, if you want to be rockin’ the iTunes or pumping the Steam, then you need real speakers. XtremeMac agrees and yet, keeps it small and complimentary to the iMac with its new Tango Bar. The bar sits right under your iMac or Apple Cinema Screen and plugs into an available USB port. Snug tight in this bar are six speakers configured with dual dome tweeters and midrange/bass drivers. Oh yea, the passive radiator takes care of those 808 lows, too. And if you caught that USB mention, then you’ll understand that this baby will also work on any laptop or PC as well. Drop in the fact it also comes with a line-in jack and this baby pretty much can be used on any audio device. Too loud? Jack into the headphone port, then.

Price, availability, and deets in the press release.

View Press Release »

Oakdale, MN – November 16, 2011 – XtremeMac, a leading designer and manufacturer of accessories and audio solutions for Apple devices, is excited to announce the U.S. availability of the Tango™ Bar. The powerful 10 watt amplified USB powered sound bar features a sleek and stylish design while delivering high quality sound.

The Tango™ Bar enhances audio from any computer (Mac® and Windows® compatible) through its cutting edge technology that delivers twice the output of most traditional USB speakers. The six speaker configuration with dual dome tweeters, midrange/bass drivers and passive radiators provides for best in class audio. The Tango™ Bar sports a clean and modern design featuring a simple plug and play USB connection, and an amber backlit volume control that provides added style and functionality.

The slim Tango™ Bar is built to fit perfectly beneath an iMac® or Apple® Cinema Display. The single USB connection for both power and audio cleans up any workstation area by reducing cord clutter. Additional connections include a headphone output, line-in jack and optional sub-out port for an additional subwoofer.

The Tango™ Bar is available now in the US for $99.99 at Apple.com, Amazon.com and XtremeMac.com.

For more information on the Tango™ Bar and XtremeMac’s entire line of award winning products, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

About XtremeMac:

Celebrating its 10 year anniversary, XtremeMac is a portfolio brand of Imation Corp. (NYSE:IMN). Founded in 2001, the same year Apple introduced the first iPod™, XtremeMac provides innovative solutions to protect, power and play Apple devices. The brand’s award winning cases, speaker docks and charging solutions incorporate leading edge design and advanced technology to enhance customer experience with Apple products. Additional information can be found at XtremeMac.com, Facebook/XtremeMac and Twitter/XtremeMac.

XtremeMac, Tango and the “X” logo, are trademarks of Imation Corp. iPod, Mac, iMac, and Apple are rtrademarks of Apple Inc, registered in the U.S. and other countries. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the US and other countries.

Marshall Headphones Boom Ya in White Now

Sven Rafferty — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:21:45 +0000

Marshall is a well known for its brutal amplifiers and now it wants to make your ears bleed like at that last concert you attended. With the introduction of two new models, the Marshall Major, over-the-head, and the Minor, in-ear, headphones, Marshall brings good looks with great engineer. The Minor overcomes the problem of in-ear headphones falling out with its ingenious EarClick feature that prevents any slippage. Add in a microphone for smartphone conversations and you have a winner. Don’t worry you over-the-head users because the Major comes with the same mic. Keep your talk on. It also uses the same vinyl material found on the amplifiers. It’s all Marshall and all the details are below in the press release.

View Press Release »

Marshall White Headphones Now Available

Introducing Marshall White – all the great features from the original Major and Minor, but now available in an eyeball-peeling shade of white. Marshall White headphones are now available in all Marshall Headphones retailers, and online at www.marshallheadphones.com.

Marshall Major

The Major encloses vast amounts of the massive Marshall legacy. The exterior of the headband is made out of the same vinyl used in Marshall amplifiers and it bears the original Marshall texture. The Major comes equipped with a microphone and remote for use with cell phones incorporating the 3.5mm standard.

Marshall Minor

The Minor is an advanced and hard working in-ear model. In addition to its good looks it incorporates quite a few exciting features. EarClick construction ingeniously secures the earphone in the ear. The Minor comes quipped with a microphone and remote for use with cell phones incorporating the 3.5mm standard.

About Marshall Headphones
The heavy sound of Marshall has been carried over the world for nearly 50 years. Breathless roadies and roaring trucks have worked hard to make Marshall heard all across the globe. The success story of Marshall Headphones is constantly being written since being launched in 2010.

Take a Walk on the Wide Side with New Lou Reed Klipsch Headphones

Sven Rafferty — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 17:31:27 +0000

Rock legend and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Lou Reed is going to get into your head with his limited edition Klipsch Signature Audio Edition X10i headphones. These limited edition headphones build on Klipsch’s already superb Image X10i in-ear headphones to deliver Reed’s New York avant-rock flavor in a first rate style. Customized to Reed’s liking – I like the purple myself – down to his signature, fans will be able to pick a pair or two up next month. Mmm, just in time for Christmas.

View Press Release »

INDIANAPOLIS (November 15, 2011) — Klipsch, a leading global speaker manufacturer, today announces plans for the launch of a limited edition headphone in honor of Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Lou Reed. Boasting an all-new look inspired by the king of New York avant-rock, and complete with an authentic signature from the rock legend himself, fans will have the opportunity to score one of a very limited number of the Klipsch Signature Audio Edition Lou Reed X10i headphones available next month.

With an unwavering passion for live music and a legacy of iconoclastic sound that’s influenced rock musicians around the globe, The Velvet Underground star knew Klipsch was the only brand that aligned with his vision and expectations for a headphone he would be proud to call his own. To ensure the ultimate listening experience, Klipsch is customizing Reed’s favorite headphone, the award-winning Image X10i, for the limited edition run. The launch of the specialty headphones coincides with the release of Reed’s latest project, a collaborative album with Metallica titled “Lulu”. The album was released on October 31, 2011 in the UK, and one day later on November 1 in the U.S.

“I have been a fan of Klipsch products for eons,” said Reed. “I’ve always admired the unhyped bass, along with the clarity, depth of detail and extraordinary comfort of the company’s headphones. With Klipsch’s help, my dream headphone will soon be available to all of my fans – a serious model for the serious listener.”

Designed with multitasking music lovers in mind, these premium headphones feature an echo cancellation microphone for crystal clear conversations and three-button remote to handle phone calls and playlists at the touch of a button on Apple’s iPod, iPhone or iPad. Gracing the remote is Reed’s coveted signature.

Like all Klipsch in-ear headphones, the Image X10i utilizes the company’s patented oval ear tips for comfortable long-term wear, superior noise isolation and excellent bass. Unlike circular-shaped designs that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, these soft exclusive ear tips naturally fit the contours of the ear canals.

“Being able to work so closely with Lou Reed on a project such as this is a dream come true for our brand and his fans,” said Mike Klipsch, president of global operations for Klipsch. “65 years ago, Paul W. Klipsch laid the foundation to recreate the powerful, emotional and memorable live music experience for all Klipsch listeners. We continue to strive for the same today and are honored to now have a unique sound solution connected to a true music legend.”

Available in a high-gloss purple finish with copper accents and complete with an authentic, collectible autograph card, the Klipsch Signature Audio Edition Lou Reed X10i headphones will retail for $399.99 (U.S. MSRP) at Klipsch.com and select retailers on December 10, 2011. The first 50 customers to pre-order the product at Klipsch.com will also receive a free copy of the “Lulu” album singed by Lou Reed.
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About Klipsch Premium Speakers
For over 65 years, Klipsch has designed premium speakers for those who are passionate about great sound. Company founder Paul W. Klipsch started this legacy in 1946, and it continues today with sheer commitment to innovation and delivering the world’s most powerful, detailed and emotional sound reproduction. Today, the brand’s diverse product portfolio encompasses home theater, professional cinema, installed whole-house contracting, commercial, computer speakers, iPod® docks and headphones. As one of the first U.S. loudspeaker companies, Klipsch continues to be the high-performance brand of choice for audiophiles and home theater aficionados around the world. Klipsch Group, Inc. is also a wholly-owned subsidiary of Audiovox Corporation (NASDAQ: VOXX).

iPhone, iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano, iPod shuffle, and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc.

Best Buy Now Has that H2n Handy Recorder from Zoom!

Sven Rafferty — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 22:01:06 +0000

Lots of people use their smartphone for portable recordings and while the iPhone 4S has a great mic, it’s not designed for great recordings. If you’re in the need for such a device but do not want to shell out some major cash for something like the pros use, then you should head down to your local Best Buy and give Zoom’s new H2n Handy Recorder a look. The H2n comes with five studio-quality microphones that are offer, “Mid-Side (MS) stereo, a technique used for many years in film and broadcast, 90° X/Y stereo, 2-channel and 4-channel surround sound.” The 1.8-inch backlit LCD display helps you monitor your recording as it happens along with built-in speaker. Basically, you’re getting a sweet recording tool for two bills and you can get it now from Best Buy.

View Press Release »

Zoom Launches the H2n Handy Recorder, Available Nationwide at Best Buy

First and only portable handheld recorder with five studio-quality microphones onboard

Hauppauge, NY – (November 3, 2011) – Zoom’s new H2n Handy Recorder is now available nationwide at all Best Buy locations. Representing a new generation of portable recording, the H2n is Zoom’s most innovative handheld recorder to date. The H2n packs groundbreaking features into an ultra-portable device that allows you to record pristine audio anywhere you go. Affordably priced, the H2n is available for $199.

The H2n features Zoom’s best microphones yet and is the only portable recorder with five studio-quality microphones onboard. This design enables the H2n to offer four unique recording modes: Mid-Side (MS) stereo, a technique used for many years in film and broadcast, 90° X/Y stereo, 2-channel and 4-channel surround sound. With its newly designed user interface, 1.8-inch backlit LCD display for crystal-clear monitoring and built-in reference speaker that allows you to playback recordings on the spot, the H2n is remarkably easy to use in any application.

“We are extremely excited to partner with Best Buy for the nationwide H2n release,” says James Tsaptsinos, Vice President of Sales for Zoom. “Our original H2 audio recorder became the standard in portable recording, and the H2n has continued with that tradition, becoming the new standard within the music, broadcast, and film industries.”

Zoom H2n features include:
• Four recording modes including Mid-Side stereo, 90° X/Y stereo, 2-channel and 4-channel surround sound
• Data recovery to eliminate recording loss due to accidental power down or power outage
• High-speed USB 2.0 interface and 20 hours of battery life powered by 2 AA
• 1.8 inch backlit LCD and built-in reference speaker that allows play back instantly
• Optional accessory pack with windscreen, tripod, protective case, and remote control

No matter the application, the H2n handheld recorder brings the very best in stereo recording in a convenient, user-friendly package that fits in your pocket.

Zoom H2n Handy Recorder. The new standard in portable recording.

The H2n is available now at Best Buy stores nationwide for $199.

To request additional information about Zoom, please contact PR Representative Brad Hobbs at (305) 576-1171 x119 or by e-mail at bradhobbs@maxborgesagency.com.

About Zoom:
Zoom is renowned all over the world for its recording and guitar effects gear. Headquartered in Tokyo, Zoom has continuously created a diverse line of original, innovative audio products from effect processors, to rhythm machines, samplers and recorders. Samson Technologies is the exclusive U.S. distributor of Zoom products. Samson is based in Hauppauge, New York.

zoom.co.jp / samsontech.com

AirPlay with Scandinavian Design Now Available for Your iDevice…at a Price

Sven Rafferty — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 23:45:43 +0000

I love, LOVE, Scandinavian furniture and have since I was kid. Hey, with a Swedish name, one has to, right? A walk through IKEA always gives me flashbacks to when I was a kid while in Germany and I always remember how my sweet parents spent thousands on a custom Scandinavian bed for me as a teen that I still miss to this day. Now, that same stunning look and simplicity comes to speakers for your iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, and even iTunes on your Mac or PC. Utilizing AirPlay from Apple, Libratone debuts it’s AirPlay enabled sounds systems that, “boast exceptional sound and minimalistic Scandinavian design made from hand-picked materials including Italian cashmere, and chrome.” One look at these blocks and you don’t have to look any further for beauty. While Libratone shafted us on any specifications in its press release, it certainly didn’t prepare us for the staggering prices. The “cheappy” clocks in at $700 and the top of the line will set you back $1,300! But hey, it’s Scandinavian, right?

View Press Release »

LIBRATONE DEBUTS AIRPLAY
ENABLED SOUND SYSTEMS

Libratone’s wireless AirPlay speakers boast exceptional sound and minimalistic Scandinavian design made from hand-picked materials including Italian cashmere, and chrome

Palo Alto – November 2, 2011 – Libratone, a brand known in Europe for its high-end sound systems, makes its U.S. debut with the launch of two cutting-edge AirPlay-enabled options for the ultimate sound experience: the Libratone Live and Libratone Lounge. Apple’s AirPlay® allows users to stream songs from their iTunes music libraries on Mac or PC, as well as music stored on their iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, through their Wi-Fi networks.* The Libratone Lounge system is designed to make every corner of the room the ideal spot for sound while the Libratone Live allows for versatility due to its smaller size. Another attractive feature is the gorgeous design of both systems, which is heightened with quality hand-picked materials including Italian cashmere, chrome, wood and selected acoustic materials. Libratone Live and Lounge allow you to experience big sound with minimalistic design without clumsy, clunky speakers. One is all you need.

Liberation is a reoccurring theme for Libratone as they encourage a life without cables, without clutter and most importantly surrounded by great sound. Users can enhance the Libratone experience with the Libratone App, which allows for the customization of the FullRoom feature, enabling you adjust sound to fit any room.

The Libratone speakers are now available in a variety of colors to compliment your spaces. The Libratone Lounge, perfect for living room spaces, is available in Slate Grey, Blueberry Black and Vanilla Beige as standard at a cost of $1,299 and as red and green cashmere in its premium offering at a cost of $1,399. The more petite Libratone Live, ideal for any room in the home, is available in grey, black and beige as standard at a cost of $699 and as premium in red and green cashmere at a cost of $799. The stylish Live also offers a chrome handle for easy portability.
Libratone Lounge and Live are available at Apple Online Store in US. For a full list of other retailers visit www.libratone.com/buy.

“Music is the context in which we live our lives – a personal soundtrack so to speak. We believe strongly in simplicity and the ability to experience room-filling sound in any room without clumsy speakers and tangled wires” states Soeren Louis Pedersen, Chief Sales Officer of Libratone, “Libratone is designed to simplify and enhance any home décor with room filling, high fidelity sound”.

Libratone Live and Libratone Lounge features:

• Libratone Lounge and Libratone Live utilizes AirPlay, allowing users to stream songs from their iTunes music libraries on Mac or PC, as well as music stored on their iPad, iPhone or iPod touch, through their Wi-Fi networks.*
• Minimalistic interior design. Libratone Live is small and even has a handle for easy placement. Libratone Lounge is designed to stand alone or to fit under a TV or anywhere aesthetically all while enjoying the same exceptional sound.
• FullRoom technology. The single sound source design ensures that acoustic sound is covered from corner-to-corner. Take the experience to the next level by personalizing the FullRoom feature with the Libratone App.
• Quality raw materials and craftsmanship all from hand-picked materials including cashmere, chrome and wood. Gorgeous colors compliment every home.
The Libratone App is available for free from the App Store on iPad, iPhone or iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore.

*AirPlay requires iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPod touch (2nd, 3rd or 4th generation), iPad 2 or iPad with iOS 4.2 or later, or Mac and PC with iTunes 10.1 or later. Wi-Fi network is required.

About Libratone
Libratone is a Copenhagen-based audio company that creates sound systems for today. That’s it.
Our approach is three-headed: Wireless technology, hi-fi quality, and Scandinavian design
– in one sound source.

Our goal is to play music from iPad, iPhone and iPod touch devices worldwide and to deliver an alternative to clumsy stereo systems and the wire-havoc they wreak. All without compromising the sound experience.

To learn more about Libratone’s Lounge and Live audio systems visit www.libratone.com.

Trademark acknowledgements
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Libratone and FullRoom are registered trademarks of Libratone A/S.

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The Smallest Integrated Amplifier, Booster, is Here!

Sven Rafferty — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 20:30:47 +0000

If you’re looking for a way to add a boost to your desktop speakers for pure and clean music power, head over to Orb Audio’s site for a look at the just released Booster. The $164 amp allows up to four sources and even contains a connection for subwoofers. Every good unit comes with a remote control and so does the Booster. In it’s sweet looking case, you can power up those speakers while keeping the foot print small on your desktop. Grab the two Orb speakers for a savings of $25 to complete the look as well. All available now from Orb Audio.

View Press Release »

Orb Audio Launches Booster, the World’s Smallest Integrated Amplifier with Four Inputs, Remote Control and Subwoofer Output

New Product Complements Line of Orb Compact Speakers and Amplifiers

NEW YORK, NEW YORK (October 31, 2011) –– Orb Audio, a leading maker of handmade, highly affordable and décor-friendly audio products, announced today the launch of Booster, one of the world’s smallest integrated amplifiers. Together with Orb’s compact Mod1 and Mod2 speakers, Booster allows consumers to say goodbye to large, complicated home audio receivers without sacrificing sound quality or convenience.

Booster brings high performance sound to up to four audio sources, featuring an easy-to-use remote control, beautiful extruded aluminum cabinet and professional quality speaker connectors. Additionally, Booster is designed with a subwoofer output and small/large speaker size selector, features not normally found on amplifiers of this size.

Booster is also very small, measuring just six inches wide, six inches deep and one and three quarters inches high. When paired with Orb’s award-winning compact speakers, Booster delivers luxurious, room-filling sound from an unbelievably small package.

“Booster is a great addition to our product line because it is a problem solver,” said Ethan Siegel, co-founder and CEO of Orb Audio. “Our customers have asked us for an easy way to bring home speaker sound to their computers, iPods and TVs without complicated electronics or extensive wiring. Now we have two great solutions to offer consumers — Mini-T, released earlier this year, which connects one audio source to a pair of speakers, and Booster, which connects up to four sources and also features a subwoofer output and remote control. Between these two choices, we have the bases covered, and consumers can choose the features they need.”

“We also hope to expand the market for small home audio components,” said Siegel. “Booster is the only amplifier of this size that features multiple inputs, a remote control and a subwoofer output. It really can replace much larger components, and we think this is a winning combination of features, performance, size and price.”

Available immediately for $164.00, Booster can also be purchased as a package with two Orb speakers for $378.00, a savings of $25. For individuals who desire a more traditional audio setup, Orb Audio also offers complete home theater systems to fit most budgets and room sizes. More information about Orb Audio products, pricing and purchasing can be found at www.orbaudio.com or by calling 877-ORB-AUDIO (877-672-2834).

About Orb Audio

Orb Audio is committed to being different. From the beginning in 2002, it has been our intention to deliver speaker systems with the finest quality components, an attractive, upscale design and an affordable price. The only way to accomplish all of this was to be different from the other players in the industry, make our speakers in the United States, and to sell them to our clients directly to avoid substantial (and totally unnecessary) markups. Our satellite speakers are manufactured in the United States by craftspeople with years of experience in electronics assembly. We do not have to take mass market considerations into our design, so we can design our speakers for one thing — performance.

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