New Products: Consumer

Harman Multimedia Debuts JBL Encounter 5.1
Harman Multimedia has announced the introduction of JBL Encounter 5.1, the company’s first 5.1 surround sound speaker system for the home computer.

JBL Encounter 5.1 multichannel audio system comprises four self-powered satellites, a clip-on or freestanding center channel, and a powerful subwoofer for performance to match the needs of today’s gamers and movie buffs. JBL Encounter is also available in a 2.1 system.

The subwoofer delivers 200 watts of power through Harman Multimedia’s own APG Slipstream port design, and leverages a proprietary Emperor transducer for full, window-rattling bass. JBL Encounter 5.1’s optimized 50-watt Quad Odyssey I center channel and Dual Warrior satellites deliver uncolored mids, highs, and center channel dialog. Further, the JBL Encounter audio system utilizes a special interconnect technology for effortless user control over volume, treble, and subwoofer levels with a minimum of desktop clutter.

JBL Encounter 5.1 and JBL Encounter 2.1 are compatible with all analog stereo and multichannel sound cards in desktop and laptop computers, as well as with game consoles and digital music and personal CD players. They will be available in November 2003 and December 2003, respectively, for a suggested retail price of $399.95 for the JBL Encounter 5.1 system and $299.95 for the JBL Encounter 2.1 system.
For more information, visit www.harman-multimedia.com.
————————————————————————

M&S Systems Release WaveGuide Adjustable In-Wall Speakers
M&S Systems’ new line of WaveGuide Speakers feature an asymmetrical pivoting tweeter that, according to the manufacturer, offers uniform sound dispersion and extended high-frequency response. They also include a unique baffle design, Kevlar woofer cones, gold-plated terminals, and adjustable three-position switches.

WaveGuide speakers are offered as both ceiling and in-wall applications. The 6 1/2-inch WG100W (100-watt) and 8-inch WG150W (150-watt) offer customers two different powered in-wall options for music reproduction. The WaveGuide ceiling offerings includes a similar setup with the 100-watt 6 1/2-inch WG100C and the 150-watt 8-inch WG150C.

For more information, visit www.mssystems.com.
————————————————————————

Phase Technology Releases New In-Wall Subwoofer Series
Phase Technology has introduced the SUB 200 and SUB 100 in-wall powered subwoofer systems. The SUB 200 and SUB 100 powered subwoofer systems fill the needs of custom installers by delivering big subwoofer sound and in-wall functionality in an unobtrusive design that won’t compete with a room’s architecture or décor. Phase Technology’s Positive Clamping System creates a rigid barrier around the speaker baffle, trapping vibrations to let the subwoofer rattle the senses and not the walls. Phase Technology’s Low Level Linearity means the IW-200 SUB always pumps bass that’s deep and balanced, even at lower volumes where many speakers lose their punch. Both models also include a 200-watt P200 amp.

The SUB 200 System, with a retail price of $999, comes with the IW-200 subwoofer, the 200-watt P200 amplifier, and the IW-EB 200 in-wall enclosure box. The IW-200 subwoofer has dual 8-inch mica/graphite polypropylene cone drivers.

The second system introduced, the SUB 100 System, marked at a suggested retail price of $650, comes with the IW-100 subwoofer, its enclosure box, and the 200-watt P200 amplifier. The system’s sound is generated from the single 7-inch mica/graphite polypropylene woofer. When installed, the only sign of the speaker is a sound vent that resembles an HVAC return vent. The vent can be painted to completely match its environment.

For more information, visit www.phasetech.com.
————————————————————————

Onkyo Unveils Mid-Priced THX Select Receiver
Onkyo has introduced the TX-SR701 A/V receiver, delivering 6×100 watts of power and THX Select performance and processing capabilities. The receiver also includes a full suite of high-end features such as digital bass management for DVD-A and SACD, video conversion and switching capabilities, and multi-room flexibility, including Onkyo’s Powered Zone 2.

The TX-SR701’s 5.1-channel analog input includes bass management capabilities. The incoming signals are digitized and then processed by the receiver’s DSP to route low-frequency information to a subwoofer while excluding it from small satellite speakers that are not meant to handle deep bass. The subwoofer crossover is selectable at 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, or 150 Hz for optimal integration with any speaker arrangement. This feature can also be bypassed with Onkyo’s exclusive Pure Audio Mode for the ultimate in analog signal fidelity with full-range speakers.

The Onkyo TX-SR701 is currently available at a suggested retail price of $800.

For more information, visit www.onkyousa.com.

Surround Professional Magazine