HD HOME CINEMAS

The iMu is a tiny device that deploys highly effective vibration-based technologies to effectively convert any flat, hard surface into a quality audio speaker.

As with similar offerings, any hard surface becomes the speaker which means you don't have to take a large unit with you for powerful music on the go.

This "revolutionary" mini speaker uses a unique composite called Terfenol-D, measuring 5cm x 5cm x 5cm and claiming to be capable of producing a much larger sound.

Compatible with MP3/MP4 players, CD players, laptops, music phones, and other portable devices, the iMu is available now for £49.99 from GagdetShop.com.

Link: http://www.electronichouse.com/article/klipsch_announces_recession_proof_theater_packages/

Three new 5.1 speaker packages will pop up at affordable prices, starting next month.

January 23, 2009 | by Rachel Cericola

With the economy hovering around the toilet rim, it’s difficult to consider some new audio purchases. Klipsch wants to change that way of thinking, with three new recession-priced home theater packages.

All three are 5.1 systems, which include left, center and right front channels, two surrounds, and one powered subwoofer.

The HD Theater 1000 ($899.99) has five identical speakers, each with dual 2.5-inch fiber composite woofers and a MicroTractrix Horn-loaded 0.75-inch aluminum dome tweeter. Standing 8.6 inches tall, each one includes a stand or can be wall mounted. The subwoofer employs a 10-inch fiber composite driver and digital hybrid subwoofer amplifier.

Nestled in the middle of the line is the HD Theater 500 ($599.99). Each of the front and rear speakers has a 2.5-inch IMG woofer and a MicroTractrix Horn-loaded 0.75-inch aluminum dome tweeter inside. The center channel, however, has dual woofers. This set includes a Class D subwoofer amplifier and down-firing 8-inch driver.

Last, but not least, is the HD Theater 300 ($399.99). That setup’s main and surround speakers include a 2.5-inch IMG woofer and a 0.75-inch MicroTractrix Horn-loaded textile tweeter in each. The center channel is almost the same, except it’s magnetically shielded. This also has a Class D sub amplifier and a down-firing 6.5-inch driver.

Even if you have the cash for something more extravagant, Klipsch can still make a nice system. I am thinking about checking out one of these setups for myself.

The HD Theater 1000 will launch in February, with the 500 coming in March and the 300 in April.

Several of Altec Lansing's inMotion iPod speaker models have been among the favorites of CNET readers and editors alike, but it's been a while since we've seen a line refresh. That'll change in October, when two new inMotion models are released as part of Altec's brand relaunch.

First up is the inMotion Moondance GLOW (model number iM402, shown above). Designed for the nightstand, the GLOW is a clock radio iPod speaker system with dual alarms. It's so named because of its "unique multicolor, diffused illumination system" (according to Altec Lansing). In addition to a remote that enables playlist and song navigation from a distance, the GLOW includes a separate wireless "snooze remote" for alarm control.

Altec Lansing inMotion MAX iMT702

Altec Lansing inMotion MAX iMT702
(Credit: Altec Lansing)
If you want something with a bit more sonic oomph, the inMotion MAX (iMT702) may be for you. It's got a wall of sound quad-driver design that utilizes "proprietary ESS technology" and "XdB bass-enhancement" to deliver what Altec says is superior sound quality. The inMotion MAX is iPhone-friendly as well--it's properly shielded to suppress cell phone interference, and it will automatically pause playback when during an incoming call. There's also a built-in FM radio (with RDS text support), and the entire unit is powered by a rechargeable lithium ion battery that should provide up to 3.5 hours of cord-free playback.

The Moondance GLOW iM402 will retail for $200 and the MAX iMT702 will cost $180 when they hit stores in October.