In this episode we have a few tips for the Home Theater Novice from Daily Tech. We talk about the most technologically advanced Super Bowl. And we finish up with a discussion of some higher end gear from Harman Kardon.

 

 

 

Harman Kardon recently released new products that put them at the forefront of the latest technology. We'll introduce you to some of these products today and we'll have hands on reviews in the future.

 

Today we talk about some new products that Harman Kardon recently released. These new products put Harman Kardon at the forefront of the latest technology. We'll introduce you to some of these products today and we'll have hands on reviews in the future.

We start of with Harman's new line of receivers. The AVR 740, AVR 640, and the AVR 440. The AVR 740 is a 7.2 A/V receiver that uses a  DCDi by Faroudja to process and upscale all incoming video to 720p or 1080i high definition and outputs it through its HDMI jack. On the audio side a direct HDMI connection to compatible audio sources make this device easy to integrate with your home theater system. There is also an XM module for listening to Satellite radio. The 740 comes uses their own  EzSet/EQ II system to calibrate the system for 7.2-channel capability the unit also comes with TC 30 remote. The MSRP is set at $3499 and will be available in February.

The 640 is a 7.1 system with many of the same features that the 740 has. The 640 provides HDMI switching but no upscaling. The 640 will cross convert S-Video and composite to component without scaling. This receiver uses the EzSet/EQ system calibration and room equalization functionality. The receiver comes with a remote (no the TC 30) The 640 will be available in February. No MSRP has been announced.

The 440 is similar to the 640 but without the analog video cross converting and less power. The 440 will be available in March. No MSRP has been announced.

The next product announcement we found interesting is the TC 30 remote. The remote looks suspiciously like the Logitech Harmony 520. It does have a bigger color screen and four more soft keys. It also has a charging cradle which is a great improvement. Other than that it looks exactly like the 520. The configuration website re-directs to the Logitech Harmony site. We were able to log in with our Harmony account IDs. We just hope the TC 30 is put together better than the 520. A $300 remote should be very sturdy!

The final product we are going to talk about today is "theBridge". This product is an iPod docking station that truly integrates your iPod into your home theater. With the iPod docked into the bridge and the use of the receiver's remote control you'll have access to all your music. The iPod's information is displayed on the receiver's front panel and on a connected TV screen. The remote provides complete control of the iPod. The bridge is available today for $70