The SoundStage! Network

The new finishes increase the price of each speaker by 15% over the standard piano-black finish, and will take three months for delivery. Since none of the custom-colored speakers will be carried in stores, KEF dealers will have on hand sample swatches so buyers can see the colors. KEF will also make special arrangements to finish the speakers in other colors should none of these 12 new finishes suit the buyer's tastes. Consult with KEF for details.

KEF website

Sony announced its first A/V receiver capable of supporting 3D audio and video. Featuring HDMI 1.4 3D pass-through technology, ample high-definition connectivity and compatibility with all of the latest Blu-ray Disc audio formats, the new STR-DN1010 AV receiver is designed to create a simple solution for controlling any high-definition or 3D-capable home theater.

“It’s important for consumers to understand the important role that audio plays in the in-home 3D experience,” said Neal Manowitz, director of Sony’s Home Audio and Video Division. “By streamlining connectivity and supporting 3D hardware and software, the STR-DN1010 receiver will provide a simplified approach to 3D home-theater control and performance, ensuring the best possible user experience.”

likeZEBRA, an underground music hub, offers independent bands and artists around the world the chance to monetize their music and promote their tunes in one simple platform. With a multitude of promotional tools that allow bands to virally connect with fans, artists have the opportunity to gain fans and cash in on their talents. Fans have the opportunity to discover new music. likeZEBRA provides unsigned artists with innovative monetizing tools to help them get exposure. Struggling artists who don't have the funds to record demos can utilize likeZEBRA's new CD media maker to record and package their albums.

"Any struggling musician knows that breaking into the music industry is no easy feat," says likeZEBRA spokesperson Braven Greenelsh. "likeZEBRA is unique in the sense that it allows artists to gain exposure in new areas, sell and distribute their music, book their own shows, get signed, and ultimately monetize on their music in the process."

In a move that should ensure that all audio and video equipment is 3D compatible, HDMI Licensing has announced a specification that is available to the general public.

Steven Venuti, president of HDMI Licensing, said, “The HDMI Consortium recognizes the importance of standardized 3D formats for movies, gaming and broadcast content and the need for non-adopter companies and organizations to have access. HDMI is ready to support this major market development.”

The good news is that this move should ensure that 1080p can be achieved with equipment equipped with HDMI 1.4 inputs and outputs. The bad news is that most people will need an entirely new audio/video setup if they are to enjoy 3D at its highest resolution: a 120Hz television, active shutter glasses, a new 3D-capable Blu-ray player, and a new receiver or preamp if you want to connect everything through a central source. 

HDMI website

Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Michael Bolton’s Live at the Royal Albert Hall will be released in the DVD and Blu-ray formats on May 4 by Eagle Rock Entertainment.

The 110-minute program offers an array of tunes, spanning Michael Bolton’s 25-year career, such as Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay,” “How Am I Supposed To Live Without You,” “How Can We Be Lovers,” “Soul Provider,” Ray Charles’ “Georgia On My Mind,” and Percy Sledge’s “When A Man Loves A Woman.”  “Fly Me To The Moon,” “Summertime,” “Crazy Love,” and “That’s Life” are embellished by his band and all-female brass section. “Murder My Heart,” a song he co-wrote with Lady Gaga, from his upcoming CD One World One Love (to release domestically May 4), is also highlighted in this set. 

Additionally, a performance of “Nessun Dorma,” an interview with Bolton, and the “Countdown” documentary (a seven-minute feature showing the day at the venue leading up to the show) are part of the bonus features. The Blu-ray also boasts the bonus track “New York New York.”

Eagle Rock website

The UK’s dCS has introduced the Debussy DAC. This $10,999 unit features standard AES3, dual AES, and S/PDIF inputs.The USB 2.0 input is on a B-type connector and will accept 24-bit signals at 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2 or 96kHz sampling rates. The Debussy is said to operate in asynchronous mode (not to be confused with asynchronous sample-rate conversion).

According to the company, “The digital volume control allows direct connection to a power amplifier, thus in most cases removing the need for a preamplifier. Maximum output can be either two or six volts to suit different amp/speaker combinations.” In addition, “Two filters are provided offering listeners the choice of linear phase with pre-ringing or non-linear phase without pre-ringing.” The Debussy will begin shipping in March.

dCS website