Apple TV Hack Allows External USB Storage
July 1st, 2008 
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At last someone has developed a patch to expand the Apple TV’s storage through its USB 2.0 port, using the internal hard drive to boot and one fat external 2TB drive to stockpile as many TV series, photos and porn movies as you want. Yes, Cupertino, resistance to hackers is futile, I’m afraid. The process is not difficult, as you will see after the jump.
For this recipe you will need one ssh-enabled Apple TV, one sightly battered Intel Mac or Intel-based Linux/Unix system, one installed version of Mac OS X 10.4 Intel, one clean, “original, unmodified copy of the ‘mach_kernel.prelink’ file from the Apple TV,” one external USB drive, generous amounts of sightly peppered raw courage and a liberal quantity of chilled sherry.
For cooking, first format the external USB drive as Journaled HFS+ in Mac OS X and leave it aside. You won’t need it until the end.
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TX-SA706: A Powerful 7.1 AV Amplifier from Onkyo
June 30th, 2008 
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Onkyo released a new 7.1 AV amplifier equipped with an HDMI1.3 port, the TX-SA706X. Our new amplifier features five HDMI inputs and one HDMI output supporting 1080p video signals. It can reproduce the latest audio codec such as Dolby True HD, DTS-HD Master Audio…
The TX-SA706X also provides a maximum output of 200wx7, a frequency response of 5Hz-100,000Hz (Not sure if this is useful…), and includes Audyssey Dynamic EQ Processing.
It should be available July 19th for 1,120€
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Gigaset M383 T Picture perfect with HDMI
June 28th, 2008 
image The digital terrestrial TV receiver with HDMI™ and Perfect Upscale technology
The Gigaset M383 T is a DVB-T receiver that’s designed to bring digital terrestrial TV broadcasts to your High Definition (HD) ready television in superior picture quality. Featuring Perfect Upscale technology, this receiver converts standard definition TV signals to High Definition parameters and transmits them to your TV via High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI™). As a result, you can enjoy improved clarity and detail on your HD ready TV screen. For added connectivity convenience this receiver even comes standard with 2 SCART sockets.
Because this digital TV receiver is a Gigaset it also features an intuitive on-screen display (OSD) – which makes operation simple. The handy OSD will first guide you quickly through the installation process, so you can start enjoying your favorite programs in wonderfully sharp quality in no time. After you’re up and running the OSD will also ensure that using your receiver is always a pleasure.
Designed to help you get more out of standard definition broadcasts, the Gigaset M383 T for terrestrial digital TV is the ideal companion for your High Definition ready television. If you’re looking for a digital receiver that can deliver superior picture quality and which is easy to use, this model is a smart choice.
Enjoy better picture quality
Due to the limited number of channels offering free-to-air High Definition broadcasts, owning a HD ready TV doesn’t necessarily mean you can enjoy the superior pictures your TV screen can support. That’s where the Gigaset M383 T set-top box comes in. Featuring Perfect Upscale technology and a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connection, this smart digital receiver upgrades standard definition signals and transmits them to your HD ready TV – letting you enjoy every program you watch in superior quality.
7-day EPG for program schedules in advance
The Gigaset M383 T not only opens your home to a whole world of exciting digital television, it also helps you organize your viewing options so you always catch the best programs. Instead of flipping through channel after channel hoping to stumble upon your favorite shows, you can see from the on-screen Electronic Program Guide exactly what’s on and when up to 7 days in advance. You can also set up a favorites list so the channels you like best are always just a click away.
Widescreen support for a cinema-like experience
Because there’s nothing better than bringing the cinema experience into your own living room, this receiver also supports a 16:9 format. That means you can watch movies the way they were intended to be experienced and still enjoy all your home comforts.
The Gigaset M383 T DVB-T receiver is the key to a superior viewing experience and the perfect complement to your HD ready television. It ensures that every broadcast you watch always looks its best.
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The Gigaset M383 T is a DVB-T receiver that’s designed to bring digital terrestrial TV broadcasts to your High Definition (HD) ready television in superior picture quality. Featuring Perfect Upscale technology, this receiver converts standard definition TV signals to High Definition parameters and transmits them to your TV via High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI™). As a result, you can enjoy improved clarity and detail on your HD ready TV screen. For added connectivity convenience this receiver even comes standard with 2 SCART sockets.
Because this digital TV receiver is a Gigaset it also features an intuitive on-screen display (OSD) – which makes operation simple. The handy OSD will first guide you quickly through the installation process, so you can start enjoying your favorite programs in wonderfully sharp quality in no time. After you’re up and running the OSD will also ensure that using your receiver is always a pleasure.
Designed to help you get more out of standard definition broadcasts, the Gigaset M383 T for terrestrial digital TV is the ideal companion for your High Definition ready television. If you’re looking for a digital receiver that can deliver superior picture quality and which is easy to use, this model is a smart choice.
Enjoy better picture quality
Due to the limited number of channels offering free-to-air High Definition broadcasts, owning a HD ready TV doesn’t necessarily mean you can enjoy the superior pictures your TV screen can support. That’s where the Gigaset M383 T set-top box comes in. Featuring Perfect Upscale technology and a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connection, this smart digital receiver upgrades standard definition signals and transmits them to your HD ready TV – letting you enjoy every program you watch in superior quality.
7-day EPG for program schedules in advance
The Gigaset M383 T not only opens your home to a whole world of exciting digital television, it also helps you organize your viewing options so you always catch the best programs. Instead of flipping through channel after channel hoping to stumble upon your favorite shows, you can see from the on-screen Electronic Program Guide exactly what’s on and when up to 7 days in advance. You can also set up a favorites list so the channels you like best are always just a click away.
Widescreen support for a cinema-like experience
Because there’s nothing better than bringing the cinema experience into your own living room, this receiver also supports a 16:9 format. That means you can watch movies the way they were intended to be experienced and still enjoy all your home comforts.
The Gigaset M383 T DVB-T receiver is the key to a superior viewing experience and the perfect complement to your HD ready television. It ensures that every broadcast you watch always looks its best.
Sony intros three new ES receiver models
June 27th, 2008 
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Sony has announced three new AV receivers under its “Elevated Standard” line, the STR-DA2400ES, 3400ES and 4400ES. All of them are capable of 1080/24p output, and decoding several audio codecs, including Dolby TrueHD, DTS High Resolution and DTS HD Master Audio. A built-in Faroudja DCDi Cinema chip upscales all video to 1080p when streamed via HDMI. The 4400ES is the top-end model, and has a 120W amplifier that services 7.1 channels. Six HDMI inputs are supplied, and streams can be directed to multiple zones simultaneously, including two video and three audio zones. It should ship in August for $1,500.
The 3400ES steps power down to 100W, and HDMI inputs down to four. Likewise, zone distribution includes only two video options, one of which must be composite. Finally, the 2400ES loses zone support entirely. The former will be out in August for $1,000, while the latter will arrive in July for $800.
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BBC to launch Apple TV rival
June 27th, 2008 
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The BBC is planning to launch a user-friendly set-top box that will rival the likes of Apple TV and possibly Sky.
Described as a “device that transfers web video such as its successful on-demand iPlayer service onto TV screens,” the FT reports that it would be an easy-to-use IPTV offering.
Mark Thompson, BBC director general, told the FT: “There are many things out there in the market but what we haven’t got is a simple standard, to mean that you can get services like iPlayer and Kangaroo.”
He said the corporation was “looking very hard at” forming an alliance to introduce “a very simple standard” for getting online vids from computer screens to TVs.
At early stages, and requiring BBC Trust approval yet, it’s said the Beeb is understood to be talking to content owners and hardware manufacturers.
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First region free Blu-ray players available
June 26th, 2008 
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Look no further for the follow-up to last year’s multi-region Blu-ray players, with Bluraymods.com advertising a completely region free Panasonic DMP-BD30, available in either pre-modified or DIY kit formats. That’s all 6 DVD regions and three Blu-ray regions for those keeping count, and it claims to still work with any firmware updates. The good news for import lovers is a price of €499, considerably less than previous hardware, or €69 for a mod kit. We’re still not sure how well this will play with future DRM updates, but taking the leap appears to be getting cheaper and more convenient.
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LG launched in Korea a new 5.1 Audio system for Alcoholics.
June 24th, 2008 
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I know that words like Champagne or Red Wines, make things more glamourous or more luxurious… (Red Wine not really but hey… I don’t drink any alcohol…), and this “Art de vivre” style seems to be very fashionable in Korea. This is why the new HT762TZR, a 5.1 audio system for TV and VIDEO, use the shape of Champagne glasses and the “Bordeaux” color of Red Wine… Yeah I know 100% bad taste… Who poor wine in champagne glasses?
So after Alcoholics design, shall we expect the Junkie design anytime soon ?
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Sanus PFV59b Black Television Stand Platinum Series Lowboy Cabinent for for 37- to 64-inch TVs
June 22nd, 2008 
image The perfect stand for your digital TV, whatever size it happens to be
The Sanus Platinum AV Foundations PFV59 is an extra-wide three-shelf lowboy built to accommodate today`s largest TVs. Its sleek lines and custom-blended finish offer a striking look that complements modern AV gear. High-quality construction and open architecture maximize airflow and provide the enhanced strength needed to handle even the largest televisions. Features include large wire management channels and a sleek, durable tempered-glass shelf.
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The Sanus Platinum AV Foundations PFV59 is an extra-wide three-shelf lowboy built to accommodate today`s largest TVs. Its sleek lines and custom-blended finish offer a striking look that complements modern AV gear. High-quality construction and open architecture maximize airflow and provide the enhanced strength needed to handle even the largest televisions. Features include large wire management channels and a sleek, durable tempered-glass shelf.
- Assembly hardware included
- Extra-large shelves are designed to handle even the largest AV systems
- Wire management system helps keep cables concealed and organized
- Non-slip protector pads isolate glass top from shelf frame for a safe, secure TV setting
- Tempered-glass shelves provide durability and elegance
- Product Width: 59 in / 149.86 cm
- Product Height: 17 in / 43.18 cm
- Product Depth: 18.5 in / 46.99 cm
- Package Width: 68.75 in / 174.63 cm
- Package Height: 3.75 in / 9.53 cm
- Package Depth: 20 in / 50.8 cm
- Package Weight: 115 lbs / 52.16 kg
- TV Size Range 17 - 64 inches / 43.18 - 162.56 cm
- Top Shelf Width 59 in / 149.86 cm
- Top Shelf Depth 18.5 in / 46.99 cm
- Top Shelf Capacity 150 lbs / 68.04 kg
- Middle Shelf Width 47 in / 119.38 cm
- Middle Shelf Depth 17.25 in / 43.82 cm
- Middle Shelf Capacity 60 lbs / 27.22 kg
- Bottom Shelf Width 47 in / 119.38 cm
- Bottom Shelf Depth 17.5 in / 44.45 cm
- Bottom Shelf Capacity 100 lbs / 45.36 kg
Detailed Specifications:
Denon RCD-CX1: A "new" SACD player-amp..
June 16th, 2008 
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Denon will put its new SACD player/amp on the market on mid-July, the RCD-CX1.
Well, actually… two years ago, we talked about two products made by the same maker and which are quite similar to this one! ([url = http://www.akihabaranews.com/news-12619-X.html] See the news here [/ url]). So what’s new?
Nothing special! It’s the same product, but in only one box!
Our amplifier will always provide a maximum power of 2×75W, with the L24 processing… That is all. To get this “new” amp, you’ll have to spend around 1000€!
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New DVD player from Toshiba
June 15th, 2008 
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At the end of June Toshiba will release a new DVD player featuring HDMI output, the SD-590J. It can reproduce images in 1080p, and uses 192kHz/24-bit audio DACs and 54 MHz/14-Bit video DAC. It supports MP3/WMA audio files, DivX files, and JPEG images.
It should cost around 80€.
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