, , , ,

SAMSUNG – ODYSSEY G7 AND G9, THE MONITORS OF THE FUTURE FOR GAMES

2020 will be great for Samsung innovations. A year that will see the company chart a bold new future not only for technologies like AI, 5G and IoT, but for everyday devices like gaming monitors as well.

Odyssey G7 and G9, the monitors of the future for games

Since producing its first gaming screen less than four years ago, Samsung has risen to the top of the market with a portfolio of offerings that combine outstanding performance with immersive images.

Now, the company has announced that starting this year, its Odyssey line of gaming laptops, PCs, and virtual reality devices will expand to include gaming monitors as well. This will establish Odyssey as Samsung’s official product line of gaming equipment.

Starting Left: Ki-hong Kim, Adam Burgess and Juwon Cho of Samsung Electronics ’Product Design Group, Visual Display Business

Visitors to the Samsung booth at CES 2020 can see first-hand how the company applied the futuristic design patterns (gamers love) the line is known for, to create the new Odyssey G7 and G9.

Both the G7 (27- or 32-inch) and G9 (49-inch) come with top-tier specs that include ultra-wide displays with 1000R curvature, fast 1ms response time, 240Hz refresh rate for a Incredibly smooth FPS (first-person shooter) gameplay, G-Sync support, and more.

To learn more about the design behind the gaming monitors, Samsung Newsroom interviewed some of the designers who brought these monitors to life.

A new chapter for the odyssey

In discussing the refinement process for the Odyssey G7 and G9 designs, each member of Samsung’s Visual Display Business team emphasized the importance of prioritizing the needs and interests of gamers. At its core, that’s what the Odyssey line is all about: equipping users with the tools they need to enjoy the best possible gaming experience.

However, as Visual Communication designer Adam Burgess noted, the launch of the Odyssey G7 and G9 not only demonstrates Samsung’s commitment to bringing revolutionary technologies to gaming consumers, it also provides an opportunity to effectively communicate the philosophy of the line. Odyssey, in a way that feels authentic to our product offerings now and in the future.

That philosophy comes true in a pair of monitors created under design principles that can be summed up with the words brave, futuristic and confident. The device’s simple designs set the tone for Odyssey monitors to follow, and are distinguished by their strong contrast of black and white elements and the use of attractive blue accents. (It should be noted that the name Odyssey will also apply to Samsung gaming monitors that are already on the market.)

The word ‘Odyssey’ (odyssey) reminds us of the idea of ​​navigation, of travel, Burgess said.

As Samsung’s official product line for gaming equipment, Odyssey offers consumers superior gaming experiences powered by a combination of advanced gaming technologies and useful design. Together, these two attributes evoke the image of moving into the future, he added.

Future focused

Odyssey G7 and G9’s futuristic designs are products of the team’s careful observation of market trends. Odyssey G9 designer Juwon Cho explained the team’s approach:

Our market research has shown that Samsung gaming monitors consistently get good reviews. However, we get feedback that some consumers would like to see genre-specific game elements incorporated into game monitor designs. To chart the best path to improve our offerings, we first examine some of the popular games and devices that gamers tend to prefer. When research showed that many players prefer futuristic concepts, the team adopted that term as a key design principle.

For gamers, one of the Odyssey G9’s most attractive and futuristic design elements may be the Infinity Core Lighting on its back. As Cho explained, the key to its design boils down to the same factor that allows the monitor to transform users’ gaming sessions: immersion.

When designing lighting, we use light and mirrors to create the feeling that when you look at it you are being transported to another dimension, Cho said. Of course, playing on a curved 49-inch monitor with a 32: 9 aspect ratio evokes the same feeling of immersion, and that alone would already be very appealing to many gamers. However, we wanted to create game monitors that offered more. That is, we wanted them to be monitors that users took pride in displaying.

However, as design team member Ki-hong Kim explained, immersion was not the only factor that guided the Odyssey G7’s lighting design. Like all Samsung gaming monitors, the Odyssey G7 has what we like to call Arena Lighting on its back, Kim said.

We differentiate the design by adding dynamic shapes and lighting to the front frame of the monitor. It’s all part of creating a monitor that, like the futuristic armor and weapons in science fiction games, projects a solid image as a gaming gear.

Convenience is key

Kim emphasized that the consumer is always key when it comes to product design, and because gamers are always interested in what professionals are wearing, we ask professional gamers to share their detailed opinions and preferences so that they can be incorporated into the product. .

For example, the support of a gaming monitor is considered by many professional gamers to be a very important design consideration. This is because they often require a large space to move the mouse when playing games and a wide monitor stand can get in their way.

It is also important that the monitor stand does not prevent them from placing their keyboard in a comfortable position. To address these drawbacks, the team carefully calibrated the angle of the Odyssey G7’s stand to allow users to comfortably position their keyboard and move their mouse freely. Users can also easily rotate, tilt, and adjust the height of the Odyssey G7 and G9 to accommodate their posture and eye level.

Break with the conventional

Continuing her detailed explanation of the Odyssey G7’s design, Kim described several ways the team improved the gaming monitor to differentiate it from conventional offerings. The G7’s 1000R curved display is a notable departure from typical gaming monitors, which feature square rectangular frames. She also explained how the team optimized accent lighting to enhance the gaming experience and make the monitor stand out.

Some of our team were concerned that adding lighting to the front of the screen could disturb the game, Kim said. This led us to create a lighting design that directs light downward. The design received positive reviews from users, and with that aspect of the design fixed, we were able to continue developing the product.

The bright white design of the Odyssey G9 is another thing that sets it apart from the conventional. After surveying customer reviews, the team chose to use this color because comments indicated that white creates the strongest impression of futuristic design. The feedback on the monitors themselves has been great so far as they both won the Innovation Awards at this year’s CES – the Odyssey G9 in the category of computer peripherals and the G7 in the gaming category.

Make the most of the monitor

In addition to discussing the process of refining the Odyssey G7 and G9 designs, the designers revealed how they would use the monitors to enhance their own gaming experiences.

A lot of times when I play, I do it in a dark environment so I can immerse myself in the game and focus better, Kim said. The lighting at the front and rear of the G7 was designed with these environments in mind, and helps make the gaming experience much more immersive.

Cho added that the Odyssey G9’s immersive amp design has the power to transform the way users experience their favorite games. The G9’s 1000R curvature allows the user to fill the entire field of view, Cho said.

When you experience games that support the monitor’s 32: 9 screen ratio, especially with FPS, flight simulator, and racing competitions, the level of immersion is such that you feel like you’re in-game, he added.

The gaming monitor market is estimated to grow from approximately 7.8 million units in 2019 to 12.2 million in 2023.1 Going forward, Samsung will continue to lead innovation in the market by offering gamers monitor designs that prioritize their needs.

Even after the launch of a gaming monitor, the team will constantly search for feedback and data to reflect on future product designs, Cho said.

Our goal, Kim concluded, is to anticipate trends in the rapidly evolving gaming market and to design products that lead those trends, rather than products that are simply different from what already exists.

/by
, , ,

Sennheiser HD 820 & HDV 820 A legendary combination

In honor of Sennheiser’s 75th anniversary, enjoy this limited time offer for the renowned closed dynamic HD 820 headphones bundled with Sennheiser’s HDV 820, the next generation digital headphone amplifier. Upgrade your audio experience and complement your amplifier with its high-end audiophile headphone for ultimate acoustic performance.

Sennheiser

HD 820 & HDV 820
A legendary combination

Into the great wide open

Made in Germany, the HD 820 stands apart because of it’s extraordinary attention to detail: From the extra comfortable handcrafted ear pads that insulate the listener from ambient noise, to the silver coated OFC cables and gold-plated plugs, to the robust metal headband with an inner damping element.
The sound field of the HD 820 is wide open: can explore and rediscover your music in absolute reference-class quality without intruding on the aural comfort zone of others. The HD 820 not only opens up the sound field, but it also creates new places and opportunities for you to enjoy your music.

The sound: Making great headphones show all their class

In a category of its own, the HDV 820 will deliver – virtually anything – to your headphones. The different timbres of two otherwise identical instruments, the distance between the musicians of an orchestra, the tension before a singer delivers the first note. It is all there, for you to discover through its world class sound.

An all-star team of excellent components

This package offers an unparalleled listening experience, which can even be improved by the Sennheiser HDV 820 amplifier for dynamic headphones – the perfect companion to the HD 820.

/by
, , , , ,

The Future Changes Shape: Express Yourself with Galaxy Z Flip

Samsung’s first foldable glass display, combined with a unique UX, offers a whole new mobile experience

SAN FRANCISCO, USA – 2020 – Today, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. unveiled the Galaxy Z Flip, a new, statement-making foldable smartphone. Galaxy Z Flip is bold and stylish – designed for those who see cutting-edge technology as a way to express themselves. Engineered with first-of-its-kind foldable glass, Galaxy Z Flip bends the laws of physics, and features a 6.7-inch display that folds into a stylish and compact form factor that fits in the palm of your hand1. Designed with an innovative Hideaway Hinge and custom-built UX, Galaxy Z Flip provides elegant new ways to capture, share and experience content. From its stylish design to its flexible camera experience, Galaxy Z Flip opens up a new decade of foldable mobile innovation.

The Future Changes Shape: Express Yourself with Galaxy Z Flip

 “At Samsung, we were encouraged by the excitement for the Galaxy Fold. Galaxy Z Flip is an important next step as we look to build the foldable category by bringing to consumers a new form factor, new display and most importantly, a new kind of mobile experience,” said Dr. TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “With Galaxy Z Flip’s unique foldable design and user experience, we’re redefining what a mobile device can be, and what it enables consumers to do.”

Foldable Heritage
The category-defining Galaxy Fold began the foldable era. Now, Galaxy Z Flip is shaping it for a new decade. As the first device in the Z series, Galaxy Z Flip introduces a new device portfolio that reaffirms Samsung’s commitment to leading the category, and leveraging technologies and form factors to create foldable experiences that will surprise and delight in the years ahead.

Fashion Meets Technology
Galaxy Z Flip’s compact, stylish design is created for those who see technology as a way to express themselves. And all of the innovations that go into Galaxy Z Flip ensure they can do so.

  • Style that Fits in Your Pocket – Designed for ultimate portability, Galaxy Z Flip folds into the size of a wallet, so you can easily fit it in your pocket or bag. When closed, it is a stylish, compact palm-sized device. When opened, its screen size nearly doubles to reveal a stunning 6.7-inch display2. With its stylish color palette, sleek rounded corners and forward fold that closes with a satisfying snap, Galaxy Z Flip is sure to turn heads.
  • Samsung’s First Foldable Glass Display – Galaxy Z Flip features an Infinity Flex Display with Samsung’s proprietary bendable Ultra Thin Glass (UTG), making it slimmer with a sleek, premium look and feel that has never been seen with a foldable device before. The centered in-display camera cutout at the top also means there’s no notch and no distractions, with Samsung’s first-ever 21.9:9 ratio, so you can enjoy even more of your favorite content such as cinema-ratio 21:9 shows and movies.
  • New Hideaway Hinge – Galaxy Z Flip’s Hideaway Hinge is a work of engineering art. It’s backed by a dual CAM mechanism – small but sophisticatedly designed to ensure every flip and fold is smooth and stable. Galaxy Z Flip can stay open at a range of angles, like a laptop screen. The Hideaway Hinge system also integrates Samsung’s new sweeper technology, which uses nylon fibers crafted by micro-height-cutting technology to repel dirt and dust.

The Next Foldable Experience
Galaxy Z Flip is built for the modern, on-the-go lifestyle. Now you can do more, from multiple angles – hands-free. This unique foldable experience is unlike any other smartphone on the market today.

  • Do more – Hands-free – When Galaxy Z Flip unfolds, it can stay open at multiple angles, unlocking opportunities for selfies that show more of the world around you and expressive video chats with Google Duo – all hands-free.
  • Flex mode – Samsung worked closely with Google to design Flex mode – a custom-built user experience for Galaxy Z Flip’s unique forward folding form factor. When the device is free-standing, the display automatically splits into two 4-inch screens so you can easily view images, contents or videos on the top half of the display, and control them on the bottom half. Easily watch and navigate YouTube3 – stream on the top while searching for other videos, reading descriptions and writing comments on the bottom.
  • Game Changing Camera – Galaxy Z Flip literally stands on its own so that you can capture more, on-the-go – from timed group shots to vivid nighttime content. You can create content for your social media feeds from the best angle and enjoy video recording with a 16:9 ratio that’s perfect for uploads to social media platforms, hands-free – no tripod needed. Capture stunning Night Hyperlapse videos or vivid low light shots with Night mode – no flash needed. Just open your device and place it on a table. When closed, quickly capture one-handed high-quality selfies using the rear camera without unfolding.
  • Notifications on Your Terms – Whether Galaxy Z Flip is closed, standing upright or open, never miss a text, call or reminder. When closed, check the date, time and battery status at a glance on the cover display4. Get real time notifications so you can easily answer a call without unfolding or respond to a text by simply tapping the notification and unfolding your Galaxy Z Flip.
  • Multi-Active Window – Seamlessly multi-task with Multi-Active Window – simply open the Multi-Window Tray to drag and drop the apps you want to use. Scroll through an article on the latest fashion looks on the top half while shopping for your favorite pieces on the bottom5.

 Galaxy Foundation and Ecosystem
As a Galaxy device, Galaxy Z Flip brings the Galaxy ecosystem into its brand new foldable experience. It boasts flagship-level performance and features across camera, display, battery, security as well as services like Samsung Health, Samsung Pay, Samsung Knox and more6. Enjoy a versatile camera experience with 4K video capture, Live Focus and Super Steady recording7. Galaxy Z Flip features an optimized dual battery system that holds more power without taking up more space – wired or wirelessly quick charge, plus with Wireless PowerShare8, you can wirelessly charge up your Galaxy Buds, Galaxy Watch or even a friend’s device. Samsung Knox protects users and their device from the chip to the software level and receives monthly and quarterly security updates. Users also get services that enable secure payment options with Samsung Pay, health and wellness tracking and monitoring with Samsung Health, and access to more than 5,000 Samsung and partner smart products through SmartThings.

Availability
The Galaxy Z Flip will be available in limited quantities in Mirror Purple and Mirror Black, starting in select markets including the U.S. and Korea on February 14, 2020, followed by Mirror Gold in select countries. For more information about Galaxy Z Flip, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com, www.samsung.com/galaxy, news.samsung.com/galaxy, or www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/galaxy-z-flip/.

/by
, , ,

Hublot Big Bang E a smart watch with wear os built in titanium or ceramic

Hublot first released the Big Bang in 2005. Since then, this model has come to embody Swiss watchmaking in the third millennium. In 2018, the first connected version of the Big Bang made its debut. And now, Hublot unveils the . The new incarnation of the brand’s Art of Fusion ethos: a fusion between tradition and innovation, cutting edge materials and the latest digital technology.

Hublot Big Bang E, a smart watch with Wear OS built in titanium or ceramic

Hublot Big Bang E, a smart watch with Wear OS built in titanium or ceramic

Hublot Big Bang E, a smart watch with Wear OS built in titanium or ceramic

To mark the 2018 FIFA Football World CupTM in Russia, Hublot presented their first connected watch model, the Big Bang Referee 2018 FIFA World Cup RussiaTM. Equipped with the latest technological developments then available for wearable technology, this formidable tool was used both by referees on the pitch and by football fans, as a virtual stadium so they could join in with the competition. Two years later, Hublot returns with a new model: the , a connected watch equipped with the latest technology that adopts all the iconic Big Bang codes.

Hublot Big Bang E, a smart watch with Wear OS built in titanium or ceramic

Hublot Big Bang E, a smart watch with Wear OS built in titanium or ceramic

“Electronic watches were created in Switzerland using quartz in the 1970s. Fifty years later, we are continuing in the same innovative vein by producing a second smart watch which boasts an extremely high level of technological sophistication, whilst embodying all the aesthetic values, technical features and excellence that have ensured the reputation of our Big Bang collection. Ever more faithful to our “Art of Fusion” motto, we wanted the  to unite Hublot’s highly advanced technical materials with the very latest innovations from today’s digital world.”
–Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot
Hublot Big Bang E, a smart watch with Wear OS built in titanium or ceramic

Hublot Big Bang E, a smart watch with Wear OS built in titanium or ceramic

Full of sophistication and advanced technology, this piece fits in perfectly with Hublot’s watchmaking tradition. All the codes that have helped build the brand’s reputation thus far can be recognised instantly, by enthusiasts and the public alike.  A good pedigree always shines through! Its case is cut from materials such as black ceramic or titanium in a “sandwich” construction, an innovative style invented by Hublot in 2005. Extremely complex, it comprises 42 components, 27 of which are for the K Module alone, the “cage” which houses the digital heart of the watch. The design of the screws and pushers, the scratchproof sapphire crystal, and its rubber strap – with deployant buckle invented by Hublot in 1980 for the Classic model and the patented One Click system for easy interchangeability –  leave no-one in doubt: element by element, it is clear that this is a true Big Bang!
Hublot Big Bang E, a smart watch with Wear OS built in titanium or ceramic

Hublot Big Bang E, a smart watch with Wear OS built in titanium or ceramic

The  is available in a 42 mm case, made from a choice of titanium or ceramic. The hour numerals are metallised underneath the scratchproof sapphire crystal, which is covered with an AMOLED high definition touchscreen. Just like a mechanical version of the Big Bang, its rotary crown with integrated pusher is used to activate the controls for its electronic module. Developed in partnership with other brands within the LVMH Group, the watch is adapted and perfected to meet Hublot’s requirements.

Transferring their traditional expertise into this new digital environment, the designers in Nyon have developed new watch functionalities. Apart from the “Time Only” analogue function, the  features exclusive interpretations of traditional watch complications, such as a Perpetual Calendar with an immaculately precise moon phase or a second GMT time zone, which presents the earth in a very realistic way. These functionalities have been revisited and enhanced to take advantage of the possibilities offered by the digital world. Despite this built-in technology, Hublot guarantees the watch is water-resistant to a depth of 30 meters.

Powered with Wear OS by Google™, the  enables customization to the smartwatch experience. The wearer can access apps on Google Play, get answers on the go with Google Assistant and make fast simple payments with Google Pay. For a more personal experience, easily swipe to helpful information and stay up to date with notifications and messages. In addition, dials specifically created by the talented Hublot ambassadors and Friends of the Brand will be gradually unveiled.

Available as soon as the  is released, the first edition is part of the #HublotLovesArt movement: a series of eight dials stemming from the imagination of storytelling artist Marc Ferrero. Every three hours, the dial changes colour, meaning eight creations are displayed in sequence over a 24-hour period. Each of these is based on a specific colour: Happy Yellow, Magic Blue, Orange Dynamite, All White, Lucky Green, Magic Red, Rainbow Spirit and Black Magic. And that is not all. Every full hour is marked with the appearance of an animation that lasts five seconds. A very #HublotLovesArt way of adding a touch of colour and rhythm to different moments throughout the day!

The  will be produced in two different editions: one in titanium and one in black ceramic. For the first time in Hublot’s history, this watch will be sold online on the brand’s website as well as on the Wechat network in China. It will then be available to purchase in boutiques and the traditional network.

Google, Google Play, Wear OS by Google, Google Pay and other marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

/by
, , , ,

Technics Announces the SL-1210GAE Limited Edition Direct Drive Turntable to Commemorate Its 55th Anniversary

Wiesbaden, Germany / May 28, 2020 – Technics has been delivering a wide variety of epoch-making audio products, such as speaker systems, amps and audio players to worldwide markets since 1965, the year in which this valued Hi-Fi audio brand debuted. This year, Technics releases the SL-1210GAE Limited Edition direct drive turntable to commemorate the 55th anniversary of the Technics brand. This special model is based on the internationally acclaimed Grand Class SL-1200G hi-fi turntable and features a full black colour scheme, which has already proved popular with other recent Technics products. The SL-1210GAE will be available from June 2020 and limited to only 1,000 units will be sold in the world

Direct Drive Turntable System
SL-1210GAE

55th Anniversary Limited Edition

Technics Announces the SL-1210GAE Limited Edition Direct Drive Turntable to Commemorate Its 55th Anniversary

Special and exclusive specifications of the SL-1210GAE 55th anniversary model

1. All-black colour scheme

The SL-1210GAE’s 10-mm-thick aluminium top panel sports a meticulously anodized black brushed hairline finish. In addition, the operation buttons and tonearm also employ a high quality black finish that results in a uniform, premium appearance.

2. Special badge inscribed with a serial number

The SL-1210GAE is wholly made in Japan by skilled artisans’ hands, with a significant level of hand-made processes to ensure the highest quality possible. The top panel features a special badge, inscribed with the unique serial number to signify that it is a 55th anniversary model.

3. Insulator

The specially developed zinc insulator features αGEL™, a soft gel-like material with excellent shock absorbing properties which is also used on the highly acclaimed, ‘flagship’ SL-1000R reference turntable. The high-density zinc die-cast housing offers superb vibration damping characteristics and excellent long-term reliability. The new insulator effectively isolates the turntable from external vibrations, ensuring completely undisturbed music reproduction whilst preserving every fine nuance and detail within the musical signal.

αGEL™ is a trademark of Taica Corporation registered in Japan and/or other countries.

4. Strobe light ON-OFF switch

Turning off the strobe light allows the listener to concentrate more effectively on the music, especially in dimmed environment.

Product features of the SL-1210GAE

Coreless Direct Drive Motor

Conventional analogue turntables have problems with degradation in sound quality caused by factors such as minute speed vibration during rotation and rotation irregularity called “cogging.” In the SL-1210GAE, the use of a coreless direct-drive motor (with no iron core) eliminates cogging. Also, the twin-rotor construction reduces the bearing load whilst maintaining high torque, and also reduces minute vibration during rotation. These factors enable reproduction of the warm, high-level detailed sound available from analogue vinyl records.

High-Precision Motor Control Technology

The application of motor control technology developed for Blu-ray devices, and switching the drive mode depending on the operational status of the motor achieves a high starting torque and high speed stability for optimum playback.

Three-layered Turntable Platter

The turntable features a three-layered construction with a rigidly combined brass top-plate, an aluminium die cast core platter and a solid rubber coating covering its entire rear surface to eliminate unwanted resonance, thereby achieving overall superior rigidity and vibration damping. This delivers smooth rotational stability and high inertial mass surpassing the SP-10MK2 (the direct-drive turntable standard used by broadcast stations worldwide), as well as having more than twice the inertial mass of the SL-1200MK5.

High-level Balance Adjustment

When the weight distribution of the turntable is uneven, excess vibration or noise occurs during rotation, which causes degradation in sound quality. To counteract this, the balance of the turntable is adjusted at the factory by using specialised high-precision balance adjustment equipment for each and every item after the turntable is assembled. Turntables that have undergone adjustment are labelled with a sticker reading “BALANCED” to indicate that individual adjustment has been done.

High-Sensitivity Tonearm

The tonearm employs lightweight magnesium which has a high damping effect, with cold drawing improving the characteristics of the material and achieving the high-precision required. In addition, high initial-motion sensitivity is attained by employing the traditional Technics gimbal suspension construction with the horizontal rotation axis and the vertical rotation axis intersecting at a single central point, as well as high-precision bearings using a cut-processed housing.

High-Quality Terminals

The use of brass-milled and gold-plated phono terminals and ground terminals prevents degradation in sound quality while enabling the easy attaching and detaching of cables. Also the use of metal shielding construction inside the case reduces the effects of external noise.

Four-layered Cabinet Construction

A hairline-processed, 10-mm-thick black top panel of immaculate aluminium is added to a three-layered construction of aluminium die-cast, BMC(Bulk Moulding Compound), and heavyweight-class rubber. This four-layered construction combines high rigidity necessary for superb vibration damping with a superior solid build and a luxurious finish and feel..

Product page of SL-1210GAE
https://www.technics.com/global/introduction/hifi-direct-drive-turntable-system-sl-1210gae/index.html

/by
, , , ,

Bang Olufsen Reveals Stunning 88 inch Beovision Harmony TV

Bang & Olufsen is raising the bar in luxurious cinematic experiences with the launch of the Beovision Harmony 88- inch TV – Bang & Olufsen’s most luxurious and immersive TV experience that features not only the world’s first 88- inch 8K OLED TV, but also the largest OLED screen ever created from LG Electronics.

Bang Olufsen Rev eals Stunning 88 i n ch Beovision Harmony TV

“Today, we are bringing together the best of artisanship and the bleeding edge of display technology. Our customers tell us that they want the ultimate in cinematic and immersive experiences with a design that adds to the décor rather than disrupts it. This is exactly what we are bringing to the market with our new two-meter-wide Beovision Harmony powered by stellar Bang & Olufsen Signature Sound and the world’s first 88-inch 8K OLED TV”, says Christoffer Østergaard Poulsen, Vice President of Product Management at Bang & Olufsen. Beovision Harmony was originally unveiled at Milan Design week in 2019 as a meaningful combination of art and technology, where the TV folds down into a sculptural shape when not in use.

The two oak and aluminium covers partially obscures the black screen, and when the TV is turned on, the panels fan out like a butterfly opening its wings, and the screen rises above them to the perfect viewing height. The ultimate experience for movies and sports The two-meter-wide Beovision Harmony TV comes with the 2020 OLED 8K display from LG Electronics optimized for Bang & Olufsen, which allowsfor the full Bang & Olufsen cinematic experience. With an 8K resolution, delivering four times more detail than 4K TV and 16 times more than HDTV, it is designed to deliver stunning picture quality, upgraded performance and artificial intelligence-enabled features that brings movies and sports to life like never before imagined. At the heart of the TV are several advanced core technologies, most notably the new α (Alpha) 9 Gen 3 AI Processor.

This advanced processor leverages upgraded processing power and artificial intelligence deep learning algorithms to improve on the picture quality and enable a host of specialized features for various types of content. As for the sound, along with the pre-installed three-channel sound system and built-in dual subwoofer, the TV is compatible with Bang & Olufsen’s speaker program, allowing one to connect up to eight wireless Beolab speakers for true 7.1 surround sound. All sources can be controlled with the Beoremote One, a remote crafted from a single piece of extruded aluminium that adds well to the luxury experience.

Exclusive finishes and bespoke solutions Along with the existing speaker cover choice of oak wood and natural aluminium, two more options have recently been added to the Beovision Harmony. Warm brasstone aluminium has been combined with smoked oak and bronze tone aluminium with walnut. The new finishes will be matching the Beolab 50 and Beolab 90 finish options, creating a visual coherence between the products when included in a complete home cinema experience. Finally, a full customisation of finish on Beovision Harmony, Beolab 50 and Beolab 90 is available for clients who wish to own something totally unique.

Pricing and availability Beovision Harmony including the LG 8K 88-inch OLED ZX TV optimized for Bang & Olufsen is estimated to retail from EUR 46,500 EUR / GBP 44,100 / CHF 53,400 / USD 49,000 / DKK 352,000 and will be available in Bang & Olufsen stores from the end of June 2020. To find out more, follow the conversation at @bangolufsen on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube using #BeovisionHarmony

/by
, , , , , ,

Douglas So: A Collector’s Love Story

Vintage in general is trending, and vintage cameras are getting more and more popular. They can be found in every flea market and especially young people are showing a great interest. Enthusiasts are looking out for these special and rare pieces, not only because of their value but also because of nostalgic reasons and a certain individuality that can be gained by owning one.

Douglas So: A Collector’s Love Story

Mr. So, you created the F11 Foto Museum and established the f22 foto space. What were the ideas behind them?
I love photography and cameras – and I wanted to create a place that camera and photo lovers could visit throughout the year. If you look at international cities like New York, Paris or London, they all have dedicated places for photography. So the main idea behind F11 is to promote photography – and at the same time I encourage heritage conservation and the establishment of private museums. f22 foto space is basically a gallery and camera shop. It offers younger artists a chance to exhibit their work and, at the same time, it offers cameras for camera lovers.

Do you have a favourite collector’s item?
There are too many! But among them all, I like the M cameras, especially the MP cameras made in 1956 and 1957. They were made especially for professionals, and were not considered commercially successful. At the time only 402 cameras were made; but in the end they became collectibles because of the very special features that do not exist in other Leica M cameras. So, right now, in auctions, the MP cameras are often the most sought-after items. They also hold a high value, because many of them were used by very famous photo journalists.

If you could only keep one of your collector items, which one would it be?
That’s a very hard question! It’s a little bit like asking parents which child is their favourite. If I could only keep one, it would most likely be a black painted camera – but I can’t decide which one.

Some of these cameras are surely connected to great stories. What’s your favourite one?
Lots of cameras belonged to famous photographers, which is what attracts my attention. For example, there is one camera that was in possession of the famous photographer Ian Berry. It’s an M3 camera, made in 1967 and one of the last ten black painted M3 cameras ever produced. And what makes it even more special is that Leica managed to convert this M3 camera to use it with the Leicavit rapid winder; normally they were not compatible. So, for Ian Berry, Leica managed to adapt the two systems to work together; this camera has been very well used. All the patinas show that the camera was used by the photographer frequently, in order to produce beautiful images throughout his career. The photographer even put his name on a dymo tape on the back of the top plate!


/by
, , , ,

WILSON AUDIO Wamm master chronosonic

In this video, Dave Wilson speaks about his early research on the time domain, and how this poorly understood phenomenon affects the way we hear music. Dave also reveals his inspiration for designing loudspeakers—the passion that has been central to his designs during a career spanning more than thirty-five years.

Magnum Opus

 

 Please celebrate with us this small homage of Dave’s remarkable life work, which, as it relates to loudspeakers, now culminates in his Magnum Opus, the WAMM Master Chronosonic.

You, noble Art, in how many grey hours, when life’s mad tumult wraps around me, have you kindled my heart to warm love, have you transported me into a better world, transported into a better world!” To my mind, this is what Dave Wilson has accomplished with the WAMM Master Chronosonic.

 Jacob Heilbrunn, The Absolute Sound

Where to Listen & Buy

This was a milestone listening experience, one of those events when you can hear the paradigm shifting. Interestingly, although the new WAMM is going to raise the price of Wilson’s flagship model substantially, it will still be short of being the most expensive speaker in the world. But then, with performance like this, expense is secondary.

 Roy Gregory, The Audio Beat

It’s About Time

This video previews the long awaited WAMM, Master Chronosonic™, Dave Wilson’s Magnum Opus. Nearly five years of research, development, and thought have gone into the new WAMM. Now, as a preface to its launch in a few months, we offer up this small homage to Dave, a visionary who has indelibly changed the way we all think about music and its reproduction.

Drivers

  • Daryl Wilson and Wilson’s team of engineers recently concluded another round of research and development into tweeter technology.
  • Wilson’s MTM configurations, which feature time-domain adjustability, have always been far more sophisticated
  • Unlike the original WAMM, which required a subwoofer to cover the bottom octaves, the Master Chronosonic is a true full-range design.
Learn More

Enclosure Materials

Most loudspeaker manufacturers are content with building enclosures from medium-density fiberboard—a material originally used in the construction of tract-home sub floors. In contrast, Wilson has spent the last several decades researching and developing cutting-edge composites.
Learn More
/by
, , ,

Leica CL Starter Bundle

Leica CL Starter Bundle black camera. The Leica CL Starter Bundle consists of the Leica CL and Leica Elmarit-TL 18 mm f/2.8 ASPH. The Leica CL is an intuitive camera with a built-in high-resolution electronic viewfinder and all essential controls conveniently located on its top plate, designed to be used with L-mount lenses. Atop the camera are two dials, with customizable buttons in each center, for setting the aperture, shutter speed, ISO value, exposure compensation and shooting mode – making it convenient for the photographer to take pictures without taking their eye away from the viewfinder. An additional display on the top plate instantly provides all relevant photographic settings at a glance. The user has total control at their fingertips when taking pictures with the Leica CL, and the perfectly tuned pressure point of the shutter release brings it all together with a satisfying haptic click.

Leica CL Starter Bundle

Save $1,595 when you purchase the Leica CL Starter Bundle. The bundle includes a Leica CL and Leica Elmarit-TL 18 mm f/2.8 ASPH for $2,995.

(Image credit: Leica)

Leica luxury is now available for a fraction of the price, as the brilliant Leica CL with Leica Elmarit-TL 18mm f/2.8 ASPH bundle offers a huge saving of $1,495!

 

Leica CL Starter Bundle (Black): $2,995 (was $4,490)
Save $1,495 on the fantastic Leica CL with the pocketable Leica Elmarit-TL 18 mm f/2.8 ASPH lens. This roaming rangefinder combo is an absolute steal at this price!

The Leica CL (review here) is one of our favorite cameras from the manufacturer, pairing a 24.2MP APS-C sensor with the Leica L mount, three-inch touchscreen, 4K video, Wi-Fi and 10fps burst shooting.

The L mount means it can accept both full-frame L lenses as well as Leica’s TL lenses – including the brilliant Leica Elmarit-TL 18mm f/2.8 ASPH pancake prime, a wide-angle 27mm lens that’s just 0.8 inches thick!

Disclaimer: The actual product may vary from the images shown on the website.
/by
, , , ,

OPPO expands its Find X2 series with the arrival of Find X2 Neo and Find X2 Lite

● Find X2 Neo and Find X2 Lite have 5G technology and the latest camera, design, battery and processor features

● Both phones will be available in Spain from April 24 on Amazon, Media Markt, El Corte Inglés, FNAC and Phone House. In May and June they will reach operators

● Discover them at smartphones

Madrid, April 21, 2020 – OPPO, the world’s leading smart device brand, announces today that its Find X2 series has two new members: OPPO Find X2 Neo and OPPO Find X2 Lite, both with 5G technology, four rear cameras, a slim and light design and Qualcomm® Snapdragon ™ 765G processor.

OPPO expands its Find X2 series with the arrival of Find X2 Neo and Find X2 Lite

Better photos thanks to image stabilizer

OPPO Find X2 Neo stands out for having four rear cameras: the 48MP main camera, a 13MP telephoto lens, an 8MP wide-angle camera and a 2MP black and white camera. The main camera integrates the Sony IMX586 sensor with OIS, and its image effect is improved thanks to a new ISP image algorithm. The 13MP telephoto lens achieves a 5x hybrid optical zoom when switching with the main camera and wide-angle lens zoom. In addition, it supports ultra clear night mode IA, achieving high-quality night photos in an easier way. As for the front cameras, OPPO Find X2 Neo features a 32MP camera that recognizes skin color and light condition when taking a selfie and Beautify 2.0 mode customizes it to capture the best image.
For its part, OPPO Find X2 Lite also has four rear cameras: the 48MP main camera, an 8MP telephoto lens, a 2MP wide-angle camera and a 2MP black and white camera. Its front camera is also 32MP.

OPPO Find X2 Neo also enables portrait bokeh, video zoom, smart video editing via SoLoop. Asmimso has smart video editing software that features filters, music, rhythm and transitions, and synthesizes video clips into custom templates. The 90Hz screen and 5G speed will allow users to have fun with video recording.

Light body, better performance

The OPPO Find X2 Neo screen ratio is 92.1% using a flexible 6.5-inch OLED screen. Also, it uses a new light sensitive ultra thin screen fingerprint module, reducing the thickness of the fingerprint module from 2.95mm to 0.266mm. Finally, OPPO Find X2 Neo has a thickness of 7.7mm and a body weight of 171g, thus creating the thinnest 5G smartphone in the world. In addition, OPPO Find X2 Neo has the new ColorOS 7 system, with Android 10.

For its part, OPPO Find X2 Lite adopts dual mode 5G SoC Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G. It also features a large 4025mAh battery that supports 30WVOOC Quick Charge 4.0. It also incorporates the new ColorOS 7 system, with Android 10.

More immersive gaming experiences

OPPO Find X2 Neo has a curved screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, to offer a better imaging experience when browsing the Internet. Also, the brightness of OPPO Find X2 Neo increases up to 800nit by 14% and the maximum brightness up to 1100nit. This allows the screen to be viewed in all light conditions, including when the sun’s rays hit the phone. The maximum touch sampling rate of 180Hz allows users to play games with a smoother touch, meeting the highest demands on applications and games. Furthermore, the display of these devices has passed TUV Rheinland Global Eye Protection Certification and HDR10 + Certification.

OPPO Find X2 Neo has the dual speakers with the largest sound chamber known to date, bringing better volume and stereo effects. At the same time, Dolby Atmos’ reliable sound experience offers users an immersive audio experience.

Faster network speeds than 5G

Both devices feature Qualcomm®’s Snapdragon ™ 765G processor that enables download speeds of up to 3.7 Gbps.

In addition, OPPO Find X2 Neo employs intelligent antenna cutting technology, and inspects the signals through 4 antennas that are in charge of finding the most optimal channel, reaching network speeds that are 30% faster. Likewise, OPPO Find X2 Neo has dual 5G + WiFi channels, allowing the 5G mobile network and 5G WiFi to work at the same time, achieving overlapping network speed.

Longer battery life at the perfect temperature

On the other hand, with the aim that users can use 5G speed with a battery life of 4G, OPPO Find X2 Neo adopts a Smart 5G system that controls the consumption of the performance of different applications.

/by