MediaTek Launches 4x4 802.11n/Bluetooth 5.0 System-on-Chip with Dedicated Wi-Fi Accelerator
MediaTek announced the world's first 4x4 802.11n and Bluetooth 5.0 system-on-chip featuring a dedicated Wi-Fi network accelerator. The MediaTek MT7622 was created for premium networking devices including routers and repeaters, whole home Wi-Fi, and home automation gateways that pre-integrates audio and storage features. MediaTek also announced its next generation Wi-Fi low power chipset portfolio for connected smart home devices.
LG Sophisticated Dolby Atmos and High Resolution Audio Soundbar Now Available
LG Electronics launched its new soundbar with Dolby Atmos, 4K pass-through support and High Resolution Audio to enhance the home cinematic experience. The new 2017 LG SJ9 5.1.2 channel High Res Audio soundbar with Dolby Atmos is also launched together with the LG SJ8 4.1 channel version and LG SJ7 "Flex" soundbar with wireless subwoofer, all using technologies that maximize compatibility with premium LG TVs for an enhanced home experience with surround sound capabilities.
Cypress Announces Highly-Integrated Programmable EZ-PD CCG3PA USB-C Controller with Power Delivery 3.0 and Quick Charge 4.0 Support
During Computex 2017, Cypress Semiconductor announced availability of a new USB-C controller with Power Delivery (PD) that streamlines the design of power adapters, chargers, and power banks. The EZ-PD CCG3PA controller supports the PD 3.0 standard with programmable power supply (PPS) and Qualcomm's Quick Charge (QC) 4.0 protocol, which enable new power source product designs to provide an improved fast charging user experience.
SEAS Announces New FEA18RCZ Prestige Full Range 6.5-Inch Driver
Norwegian speaker designer and manufacturer SEAS Fabrikker is gearing up its new generation drivers, resulting from an extensive R&D effort. Since the company premiered its new full range drive unit in Guangzhou in December 2016, audio designers have been anxiously waiting for news about availability. audioXpress has met the SEAS team at High End Munich 2017 and got the confirmation that the company is now accepting orders for the new H1794-08 FEA18RCZ.
Intel Unveils New Intel Core X-Series Processors and Announces Thunderbolt 3 Everywhere
During the annual Computex 2017 event, Intel unveiled its new Intel Core X-series processor family with 4 to 18 cores, which now includes the new Intel Core i9 Extreme Edition processor, the first consumer desktop CPU with 18 cores and 36 threads. On what is possibly the most interesting front for computing, outside of pure processing power, Intel announced plans to integrate Thunderbolt 3 into all future Intel CPUs and to release the Thunderbolt protocol specification to the industry.
Cypress Expands Wireless Connectivity Portfolio with New 802.11ac High-Performance Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Combo Solution Solution
During Computex 2017, Cypress Semiconductor announced a new wireless solution that delivers advanced coexistence combining 802.11ac high-performance Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). The new highly integrated Cypress CYW4373 solution incorporates a USB 2.0 hub that provides a common WLAN and Bluetooth interface. The combo solution seems to be ideal for connected audio systems.
Polk Audio MagniFi MAX SR Soundbar Voice-Controlled Wireless Smart Surround Speaker
Soundbar designs keep getting better and are gaining market share by complementing new-generation 4K UHD flat panel TV's that keep getting larger but don't necessarily have great sound. Soundbars are becoming smart connected speakers, and the centre hub for expanded surround sound systems. Polk Audio is the latest brand to leverage the trend with its MagniFi MAX SR SoundBar, a true 5.1 surround system using patented technology, connecting to wireless surround speakers and Google Home.
Propellerhead Releases Free Reason 9.5 Update with VST Support
As promised back in May 1, Propellerhead Software released Reason 9.5, the newest - free - update to the award-winning Reason music production software. Reason 9.5 introduces VST support, the number-one feature from Reason users. The update introduces new and creative ways to use VST plugins with drag and drop from the browser, allowing CV and audio connections with plugins, direct Player support, and even adding VST plugins in Combinators with Reason’s own devices or Rack Extensions.
Soundtrap Expands Its Successful Cloud-Based Music and Podcast Recording Platform to Four New Languages in 57 Countries
Soundtrap, the innovative online music and podcast recording platform headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, and successfully funded in Silicon Valley, announced that it will make its Consumer and Education solutions available as part of an expansion to four new languages: Spanish, French, German and Swedish, enabling it to reach millions of new users in more than 57 countries. The easy-to-use solution works across iOS, Android, Chromebooks, Mac and Windows.
Frontier Silicon Announces Smart Audio Solution with Google Assistant
Frontier Silicon announced that its Smart Audio platform, Minuet, has been upgraded to include Google Assistant. Minuet already allows brands and manufacturers to develop smart audio devices with Chromecast built-in. With the addition of Google Assistant, users will be able to control their smart speakers via voice and use these speakers not only to play music but also to access Internet services, such as news, update personal schedules and control a wide range of smart home devices.