New models join the critically acclaimed XTR-50, the world’s thinnest high performance on-wall loudspeaker

On August 16, 2010, Definitive Technology announced three new models of Mythos XTR on-wall loudspeakers for delivery November 2010: the XTR-60 sized to match 55- to 60-inch and larger displays; the XTR-40 for 40- to 42-inch displays; and the XTR-20BP whose design is optimized for surround channel use. XTR-50, the original model in the product line (shipped in March 2010), is sized for 46- to 55-inch TVs.

The XTR-60, XTR-50, and XTR-40 are only 1-1/2″ deep, perfect for use next to ultra-slim LED TVs, and yet provide the high definition detail, bass, and dynamic range performance of full size speakers. The XTR-20BP is 2-1/2″ deep and features bipolar sound radiation, ideal for surround channel applications. All XTR model enclosures are fabricated from hand polished aircraft grade extruded Aluminum which is attractive, space efficient and has superior sonic characteristics.

All XTR models come supplied with a wall mount bracket that allows either vertical or horizontal orientation. The XTR-60, as well as the original XTR-50, includes a smoked, tempered glass stand while the XTR-20BP comes with a simple stand for vertical table-top placement. The XTR-60, XTR-50, and XTR-40 are supplied with hardware for horizontal shelf placement.

Whether mounted on-wall or on-shelf, used as Left and Right, Center or Surround channel speakers the Mythos XTR series speakers look terrific and sound astonishing.

The secret to the XTR’s extraordinary performance is Definitive’s patent-pending XTDD technology driver. Using state-of-the-art computer modeling and decades of speaker design experience Definitive engineers eliminated every iota of wasted space, optimized every part and maximized the moving surface area of a dynamic driver to shrink it down to a seemingly impossible compact dimension without giving up ultra-high performance audio fidelity. The XTDD driver has the kind of dynamic punch, wide frequency range and broad dispersion previously unheard of in shallow drivers.

To extend and deepen the bass response of such thin speaker the drivers are pressure-coupled to aluminum dome low-bass radiators in the new XTR-60 and XTR-40 as well as the original XTR-50. The XTR-20BP is a sealed system. The center-mounted tweeter used throughout the line is the same high-definition Pure Aluminum dome tweeter found in Definitive’s top-of-the-line Mythos ST SuperTower. The result is the kind of clarity, dynamic range and accuracy that one would expect from a premium-priced normally-sized speaker.

“The XTR-50 caused quite a stir when we first showed it at CEDIA in 2009” said Definitive’s Executive VP Dave Peet. “Dealers instantly recognized that with the new ultra-thin TVs their customers would be asking for matching shallow speakers that are attractive, easy to mount and don’t trade off sound quality for thinness. We were fortunate to be the first speaker manufacturer to address that need. Now at CEDIA 2010 everyone will see that we have yet again anticipated consumers’ needs with additional models for different size TVs and levels of performance as well as a matching model for surround.”

Preliminary Specifications

In the world of air conditioners, there are three choices: Basic, Deluxe, and Inverter. The first two in the list follow the “Good, Better, Best” nomenclature, but that third option – Inverter – seems to make everyone “ooh” and “ah”, but when pressed to explain what makes it Best, the confusion and unsure answers abound.

Enter Panasonic (and Tech & House) to solve this riddle and help you make the Best informed decision when it comes to buying your next air conditioner. To help make sense of all this, let’s discuss the three options available:

The Basic Model

Basic, as the name states, is the simplest air conditioner. A liquid coolant is run through a compressor, heating it up and turning it into a gas. This gas is sent through a series of coils to cool it off and return it to a liquid state before it is passed through an expansion valve, which cools it below freezing. Now, the coolant is passed through another series of coils that are exposed to the hot air of the room to absorb the heat of the ambient air as it travels back to the compressor to start the process again.

The Deluxe Model

Deluxe takes the Basic model and improves on the compressor, coil, and expansion valve technology to make it more efficient, and adds an ionized air filter.

Air Filter

Floating around in the air we breathe are millions of bacteria, mold, dirt, and other debris that makes up dust. Panasonic uses patented e-ion technology to purify the air while cooling it down. Dust particles carry a negative charge. Panasonic uses a positively charged screen on the air filter to attract and trap these particles.

Eco Patrol Sensor

Eco Patrol Sensor responds intuitively to the level of human presence and activities in the room to adjust the temperature for maximum comfort and savings. The benefit of energy saving Eco Patrol is maximized when the air conditioner is left on in a room that is used intermittently. For example, if the room is empty for two hours, the air conditioner automatically adjusts to raise the temperature by 2 ° C for maximum energy savings of 20%. When someone re-enters, the air conditioner will return to the set temperature to provide uninterrupted cooling.

The Inverter Model

In addition to the Air Purifier and Eco Patrol Sensor this third category of air conditions utilizes inverter technology, which uses an entirely different, more efficient thermostat and power distribution to the compressor to make the air colder, faster, all while using less energy than the basic and deluxe models. It achieves this by running the compressor at all times, constantly monitoring the ambient temperature, and adjusting up or down to keep the temperature as close to constant as possible. It sounds counterintuitive to think that something that is always on is using less energy, but it is true.

Basic and Deluxe air conditioners are either on or off, like a light. This causes dramatic spikes in voltage usage. Because of this, the energy consumption is substantial, especially on days when you leave your air conditioner on for hours, only turning the unit off when the room is below your comfort level. Inverter technology delivers only the power necessary to run the compressor at a rate needed to cool the room to the desired temperature and then keep that temperature constant. Inverter technology air conditioners operate within a 3-5° variance in ambient temperature rather than the 7-10° variance that non-inverter air models.

As an example let’s say you are driving down the freeway and that your car is capable of going 125 mph. You don’t drive it this fast, but the horsepower is there should you ever need it. While driving down the freeway, you keep your foot on the accelerator and the speed constant until you need to pass a slower car in front of you. Then, you step on the accelerator just enough to pass the car, but not reach 125 mph. Once past the slower car, you let off the accelerator and slow to your original speed. This is how inverter technology works. Conversely, if you wanted to know how your car would operate as a non-inverter technology car, you would either travel 125 mph or zero. Very wasteful.

Panasonic uses this inverter technology to create a class of air conditioner that sips power while keeping you cool. Some of the benefits are:

• Reach temperature in a room up to 50% faster than a basic or deluxe air conditioner
• Startup is up to 1/3 faster than basic or deluxe models
• Power consumption is 60% less than non-inverter models when tested over the same time period
• Constant power to the compressor reduces the harsh on/off cycling that can wear out parts and increase maintenance
• Reduced power usage yields an superior EER rating than non-inverter models

Inverter technology decreases your power consumption by monitoring the space that it is cooling and maintaining the temperature of your choosing without overdoing it. So, whether you’re sitting on the couch reading, or exercising to your favorite workout DVD, the inverter technology air conditioner will keep tabs on ambient temperature and use just enough energy to maintain it.

Induction cooking is a new technological innovation that Frigidaire and Electrolux have introduced into their new lines of stovetop appliances that has us totally geeking out here at Tech and House. We’d like to share with you how they’ve incorporated it into their product lines but first, a little cooking lesson:

What is it?

Induction cooking, unlike conventional electric or gas burners, involves an electromagnetic device located underneath a ceramic countertop that reacts when iron or steel cookware is placed on top of it. The two connect like a circuit – resulting in an electromagnetic connection that heats the pan but not the surrounding space. When the pan is removed from the counter, the circuit is broken and the surface remains relatively cool – unlike gas or conventional burners, which retain the heat for several minutes after cooking. This process is 70% more energy efficient than gas and approximately 20% more efficient than conventional electric stoves. As an example of this increased efficiency, you can boil water in as little as 90 seconds! An important point to note – the electromagnetic circuit will only work with iron or steel cookware – Pyrex, aluminum or copper pans will not work with an induction system because they are not magnetic.

Frigidaire Models:

Frigidaire offers two induction/electric hybrid models, the 30” FPCC3085KS model and the 36” FPCC3685KS model. Both feature 10” and 6” burners that work with different pan sizes, as well as electric burner capabilities for non-magnetic cookware. In addition, they both feature versatile temperature controls that adjust to both induction and electric cooking.

Electrolux and Electrolux Icon Models:

Electrolux and its luxury brand, Electrolux Icon, feature both hybrid and induction-only stovetop options in 30” and 36” models as well. What distinguishes each of these models from their Frigidaire counterparts is their advanced functionality. Both the Electrolux and Electrolux Icon models feature surface sensors that automatically detect the presence of magnetic cookware and will adjust the induction field to the exact size of the pan. In addition, all models offer over 25 digital preset heat settings that immediately adjust the temperature without waiting for preheating.

…But don’t just take my word for it

The attached video offers a more in-depth explanation of the benefits of induction cooking. Pay particular attention to the last frames where the speaker wipes up a spill immediately after removing the pan from the stove.

For more information about these exciting new innovations, stay tuned to the Tech and House blog for more updates.

In this post, I’m going to review three different models of iPod Receivers, two by Denon and one by Marantz. Then I’m going to contrast them and then leave it up to you to decide which one is better. We’ll start with Denon.

Denon ASD-51W & ASD-51N Comparison

On the surface, both of Denon’s models, the ASD-51W and 51N appear very similar, with the notable exception of an exterior antenna on the 51 – evidence of its Wi-Fi capabilities. Each product features an assortment of connectivity options such as S-video input – allowing the user to post videos and photos onto their TV. Each of these models supports the entire iPod product line – click here for more information about the Denon Compatibility Matrix. Three of the most unique features are as follows:

• Streaming Internet services – Using an internet connection, each model not only supports subscription-based services such as Rhapsody and Napster, but also internet radio stations such as Pandora, Grooveshark and Ping.fm.
• Party Mode – the ability to broadcast simultaneously in up to five rooms.
• Wi-Fi capabilities in the 51W increase its portability, as well as its price.

Marantz IS301

When Marantz sat down to create the IS301, they wanted to answer one problem – how do you supplement the capabilities of the iPod with minimum impact on its functionality? What they created was a fully featured docking station that distinguishes itself from the competition through its portability, its navigation system and its unique TV interface.

The IS301 features a docking station that fits in the palm of your hand and allows you to stream both audio and video to any Bluetooth compatible receivers within 30 feet. Many docking stations anchor the iPod to a fixed location and allow mobility only through a remote control. Why sacrifice this mobility? The IS301 lets you charge your iPod as you walk, broadcasting to any Bluetooth receiver you choose – home theater, laptops, etc.

Another issue that the engineering team looked at was the navigation system. Many docking stations use a proprietary menu system that is often confusing and difficult to use. Marantz wanted to create a more intuitive menu, but at the same time remove the learning curve for new users. The answer seems deceptively simple – why not use the same interface as the iPod? Since the iPod already has a really cool interface, the IS301 lets you navigate their system just as you would without the dock.

Lastly, one of the major challenge users face with other docking stations is that they stream primarily through a TV – which must be on at the time to navigate the system. Because the IS301 uses the iPod’s native user interface, this is no longer an issue – users can navigate the system normally without relying on outside peripherals.

So which is better?

Well, that’s ultimately your call – it all depends on your connectivity needs. Are you looking to bring your music on the go, say, in your car? Well, considering that most cars don’t come equipped with a Wi-Fi Hotspot, you’re probably going to be using a Bluetooth connection. If that’s the case, you might want to consider Marantz. On the other hand, if you’re looking to entertain a house full of guests from a single stereo, you’ll probably be better off opting for the Wi-Fi connectivity in the Denon Doc.

If you missed the opportunity to purchase your kitchen appliances or that home theater you wanted when the tax rate in Panama was still at 5% we’ve got some good news for you. Its not too late to save on that extra 2% hit. In fact, come to Tech and House in the month of August, and not only will we take care of the extra 2%, we will take care of the entire tax with our “Todo Sin El Siete” promotion. Everything is on sale! Take a look at our catalog below to see whats missing in your home.

If you would like to download our catalog, please click here to download.

Hot on the heels of their recent partnership with Univision (see my earlier blogpost here) regarding their exclusive coverage of the World Cup, Panasonic released an exciting new camera for the consumer market, the TS 2 Underwater Camera.

What’s amazing about this camera is not simply the fact that you can take crystal clear photos up to 33 feet (10M) under water, it’s the fact that you can drop it on the pool deck, spill your drink on top of it, kick it into the pool and then take crystal clear pictures or video as if nothing happened. And its got a sleek casing to boot.

This camera is ideal for both the rugged explorer to the clumsy weekend warrior. Some of its features include:

• 14 Megapixel resolution
• 4.6x Zoom lens
• 720p HD Video Recording
• Intelligent Resolution technology
• Face and scene detection
• 2M(6’) high fall
• Freezeproof up to -10°C (14°F)

One of the most unique features of this camera is found in its “Intelligent Resolution Technology”, or as it’s displayed in the Options Menu, the Happy Mode.  Not kidding. Happy Mode enhances colors, resolution and brightness in such a way as to increase the clarity and luminosity of a picture, making it more aesthetically pleasing to view.

The TS2 retails at $439.99 and is currently in stock.

Have you wanted to watch TV and surf the internet at the same time, but feel constrained by the limited availability of online programming? If so, we’ve got some exciting news for you. Recently Sony announced a partnership with Google to create web-enabled televisions called Google TV.

Why Now?

In contrast to past attempts at launching Web TV, Google and Sony are collaborating with some of the top names in Technology such as Intel, Adobe and Logitech to deliver a cutting-edge solution.  The TV itself is using Intel’s CE 4100 Processor, Adobe Flash v10.1,  Google’s Android 2.1 platform as the OS and Google Chrome as the default browser (naturally). Logitech is offering several options for system controls – an all-in-one Harmony Remote (source) complete with an embedded LCD touch screen as well as a wireless full QWERTY keyboard to navigate the embedded browser with ease.

What’s so cool?

Nearly six years ago, companies like Tivo and Replay TV revolutionized the way that people watch TV. It not only offered the promise of recording your favorite shows without the need for a separate piece of hardware, it also allowed viewers to pause live broadcasts and rewind them on the fly. Google TV promises to be Tivo on steroids: not only will you be able to store and sort through your favorite shows, you’ll be able to Tweet about them using a customizable home screen that stores your bookmarks, Picasa albums and favorite TV shows.

Buffering…

Ok so I know what you’re thinking, there’s gotta be some 900 pound gorilla lurking somewhere in the room. To an extent, there is.  His name is Buffering – the 30 sec + bout of frustration that occurs when a page loads slower than its broadcasted material. This is one of the major challenges that Google needs to address if they are to entice consumers of mainstream media to the web. For the time being, they are approaching this dilemma from the hardware side alone. According to Google’s head of TV Technology, Vincent Dureau, the minimum hardware requirements will include Intel’s ATOM processor, in addition to at least 1GB of unified RAM for video and audio processing as well as 4GB of persistent flash memory for system and data storage. (source)

Here at Tech and House, we are as keenly interested as you are in this product offering and will be posting details on this release as soon as we get our hands on them. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have questions. Until then, check out this video by Google explaining the technology.

Frigidaire Appliances are known for their exceptional value making it “A great product at a great price” with all the features included. Whether it is the cooking range with self clean, convection, 5th burner, lower warming drawer all for a fraction of the cost of its competitors. Frigidaire Wall Ovens are available in Single, Double & Warming Drawers. Frigidaire Cook tops come in gas & electric all have unique Frigdaire Style and really fit in flush to your countertop. Frigidaire dishwashers have the best price points in the industry as well as Frigidaire Air conditioners & Frigidaire microwaves. Frigidaire Gallery Series appliances are built to harmonize perfectly with your busy lifestyle. Through meaningful innovations, they’ve humanized their technology to create appliance design that’s uncluttered, controls that are intuitive, and features that are as sensitive as they are smart. The Frigidaire Professional Series is perhaps their most beautifully designed collection of home and kitchen appliances in the Frigidaire Lineup. Crafted in durable brushed stainless steel, each piece promises to add class and artistry to the heart of your home. And of course, all their appliances deliver the superior performance and solid craftsmanship Frigidaire is famous for.

Innovations

Advanced Rinse Technology

Available on Frigidaire Affinity washers, this feature provides a final rinse of fresh water to ensure whiter whites and reduce allergens.

Balance Control System

Available on Frigidaire Affinity Washers, this system uses vibration control technology to keep even oversized loads balanced for smooth, quiet operation. Ideal for use on second floors.

Energy Saver Option

Available on Frigidaire Affinity Washers, this option reduces water temperature which saves energy when washing clothes.

Convection Cooking

This gives you the added advantage of airflow circulation, which allows for a more even distribution of heat. By using the forced flow of hot air, convection ovens cook 25-30% faster than conventional ovens at a lower heat, and bakes food more evenly.

Delay Start

This feature on Frigidaire dishwashers allows you to set your dishwasher to begin washing on your schedule. It can be programmed from 1 to 12 hours.

DishSense™ Technology

This feature on select dishwashers utilizes sensors to select the cycle based on your cleaning needs.

DrySense™ Technology

This feature on Frigidaire Affinity Dryers dries your clothes more precisely, reducing wrinkles.

Humidity-Controlled Crisper Drawers

These refrigerator drawers were designed to keep your fruits and vegetables fresh.

Keep Warm Setting

This useful setting on select ranges and wall ovens keeps food warm until everything – and everyone – is ready.

Keep Warm Zone

This area on electric cooktops and ranges keeps food warm until everything – and everyone – is ready.

PowerPlus™ Preheat

This feature preheats your oven in less than 6 minutes.

Real Stainless Steel

This stainless steel has been treated with a protective coating that reduces fingerprints and smudges, making it much easier to clean.

SpaceWise™ Adjustable Shelf

This shelf on select refrigerators easily adjusts up and down to create more space for taller items.