Save on LIFX (A19) Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Adjustable, Multicolor, Dimmable, No Hub Required, Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant and more - CNET

Save on LIFX (A19) Wi-Fi Smart LED Light Bulb, Adjustable, Multicolor, Dimmable, No Hub Required, Works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant and more

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-lifx-a19-wi-fi-smart-led-light-bulb-adjustable-multicolor-dimmable-no-hub-required-works-with-alexa-apple-homekit-and-google-assistant-and-more-ff6409cf/#ftag=CADa08b18a

iHome ISP6X Wi-FI Smart Plug, Use your voice to control connected devices, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and HomeKit enabled smart speakers - CNET

iHome ISP6X Wi-FI Smart Plug, Use your voice to control connected devices, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and HomeKit enabled smart speakers

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/ihome-isp6x-wi-fi-smart-plug-use-your-voice-to-control-connected-devices-works-with-alexa-google-assistant-and-homekit-enabled-smart-speakers-a1bdb81f/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wemo Dimmer WiFi Light Switch, Works with Alexa and the Google Assistant - CNET

Wemo Dimmer WiFi Light Switch, Works with Alexa and the Google Assistant

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/wemo-dimmer-wifi-light-switch-works-with-alexa-and-the-google-assistant-795c449a/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Tend Secure's face-detecting security camera can go anywhere - CNET

Tend Secure's Lynx Pro can go inside or out -- and has facial recognition.

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https://www.cnet.com/pictures/tend-secures-face-detecting-security-camera-can-go-anywhere/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wisenet's SmartCam N1 spots faces and tells you about it - CNET

The Wisenet SmartCam N1 is an indoor security camera with facial recognition capabilities.

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https://www.cnet.com/pictures/wisenets-smartcam-n1-spots-faces-and-tells-you-about-it/#ftag=CADa08b18a

FITINDEX Bluetooth Body Fat Smart Digital Bathroom Scale - CNET

FITINDEX Bluetooth Body Fat Smart Digital Bathroom Scale

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/fitindex-bluetooth-body-fat-smart-digital-bathroom-scale-c7c6741c/#ftag=CADa08b18a

The best facial recognition cameras you can buy today - CNET

More and more home security cameras have facial recognition. Here are your best options.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/the-best-facial-recognition-cameras-you-can-buy-today/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Tend Secure Lynx Pro review: Tend Secure's Lynx Pro is a decent camera with disappointing facial recognition - CNET

Tend Secure's facial-recognition-enabled Lynx Pro security camera struggled to pick up on faces during my testing.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/tend-secure-lynx-pro-review/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wisenet SmartCam N1 review: Wisenet's indoor security camera IDs faces, shows you who's there - CNET

Wisenet's SmartCam N1 indoor security camera does a decent job recognizing faces, but you have to pay for cloud storage.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/wisenet-smartcam-n1-review/#ftag=CADa08b18a

CNET Asks: Are you a fan of the new Amazon Smart Home devices? - CNET

Smart microwave? Smart wall clock? Amazon just released a bunch of new smart devices. Some you never knew you needed.

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Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol UHD

Picture
Sound
Extras

When an IMF agent gets killed in the line of duty, critical files containing Russian nuclear launch codes that he was carrying fall into the wrong hands. With the help of two IMF colleagues, agent Ethan Hunt penetrates the Kremlin to find out the identity of “Cobalt,” a terrorist who wants the codes to start a nuclear war. Things go awry when Cobalt plants explosives in the fortress-like complex, and Hunt and his team get blamed for the resulting carnage. As tensions rise between the U.S. and Russia, the President is forced to disavow the IMF, leaving it up to Hunt and his team to solve the crisis.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/mission-impossible-ghost-protocol-uhd

Sol Republic Upgrades its Top Selling Wireless Earbuds

Sol Republic, a Los Angeles-based maker of lifestyle music products, has updated its best-selling wireless earbuds to improve performance across the board.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/sol-republic-upgrades-its-top-selling-wireless-earbuds

Best Traditional Smart Homes, Silver and Bronze, Less Than $150,000

Pangea Courts Vinyl Enthusiasts with New Accessories

Audio accessory specialist Pangea Audio will showcase three new products for vinyl enthusiasts at next week’s Rocky Mountain Audio Fest, which runs October 5-7 in Denver.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/pangea-courts-vinyl-enthusiasts-new-accessories

Streams People Play

Who wins in the streaming war between Apple Music and Spotify? You do, of course.

Last month, you and I made a pact, right here in this space. What, you don’t remember? (Apparently, even audiophiles have ADD.) Well, our agreement was essentially this: We the golden-ear people wholly accept streaming as another worthwhile delivery system for receiving and listening to our music, especially given the strides some of the services have been making in providing higher-quality, higher-resolution streams. (Coming back to you now?)

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/streams-people-play

Save on ROGOEI products - CNET

Save on ROGOEI products

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How to get Alexa to whisper - CNET

Alexa can speak in soft tones when you need it too. Here's how.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-make-alexa-whisper/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on AXTEE products - CNET

Save on AXTEE products

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-axtee-products-c4ad093d/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Lifx Tiles bring smart (but glitchy) color to your walls video - CNET

These cool-looking light panels work with Alexa, Siri and Google -- but their glitchy performance was a disappointment.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/lifx-tiles-bring-smart-but-glitchy-color-to-your-walls/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Polk Audio Command Bar Soundbar Review

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value

PRICE $300

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Alexa voice control
Flexible connectivity
Good sound quality
Great value
Minus
No multiroom music functions

THE VERDICT
Polk’s feature-packed soundbar offers Alexa voice control and above-average sound quality. For $300, there’s plenty here to like.

A couple of Consumer Electronics Shows ago I was visiting the booth of Sound United, the parent of Polk Audio, when a friendly executive invited me up a narrow staircase to a private meeting room. Once I was sworn to secrecy, a long, thin, black travel case was brought out and laid on the ground, and its buckles were snapped open for the big reveal. I half expected it to house a bazooka of some sort. Instead, what popped out was the prototype of a thin spear of a soundbar that appeared to have an Amazon Echo Dot sunk into its middle. Polk’s team was rightfully excited about their new project. The smart speaker was just beginning its explosive push into people’s homes, and no one had yet combined Amazon’s increasingly popular Alexa voice control technology with a soundbar. It seemed liked a perfect fit for the emerging market. So, in a way, it really was Polk’s new secret weapon.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/polk-audio-command-bar-soundbar-review

The best location for your router for actually good Wi-Fi - CNET

Buying a new, fancy router won't solve all your problems, but where you put it might.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/best-location-for-router/#ftag=CADa08b18a

FirstBuild designs for the future, but which of its appliances will get there? - CNET

Check out what FirstBuild appliance projects have actually made it as disruptive products.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/firstbuild-designs-for-the-future-but-which-of-its-appliances-will-get-there/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Flashback 1996: WebTV Aims to Televise the Internet

Twenty-two years ago this month, Silicon Valley startup WebTV made a noble effort to bring the internet to the big screen with the launch of a set-top box that connected any TV to the internet. Noble because the World Wide Web was a wide-open frontier with only 36 million users worldwide. (Today, more than 4 billion people are online.) A good 92% of the American public had yet to even experience the internet let alone think about searching the web on their TV. Oh, and internet access in those days was via a “dial-up” phone connection.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/flashback-1996-webtv-aims-televise-internet

Amazon Expands Echo/Alexa Portfolio by 9 in Pre-Holiday Push

The we-sell-everything-everywhere behemoth otherwise known as Amazon is determined to remain the Big Kahuna in Smart-Speakerville.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/amazon-expands-echoalexa-portfolio-9-pre-holiday-push

Put an August brain in your Yale smart lock with this kit video - CNET

Yale and August have joined forces to introduce a $129 kit that lets Yale locks function with August smarts.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/put-an-august-brain-in-your-yale-smart-lock-with-this-kit/#ftag=CADa08b18a

TiVo Bolt OTA: Bring Your Own Antenna

Members of the cord-cutter's club are glad to save $100 or more each month by weaning themselves off cable TV or not signing up at all. Still, some cutters suffer remorse. They miss the convenience of a set-top DVR with its sleek onscreen guides, search facility, ability to amass recordings of their favorite series and navigational shortcuts. Suddenly, they're looking at apps across devices to fill the gaps.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/tivo-bolt-ota-bring-your-own-antenna

The 5 most interesting Alexa updates (and 5 that don't matter) - CNET

Amazon told us to expect a jam-packed presentation last week -- and it wasn't lying. Here's the Alexa news that'll make an impact ... and the stuff that probably doesn't matter all that much.

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https://www.cnet.com/pictures/the-5-most-interesting-new-amazon-alexa-updates-and-5-that-dont-matter/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Kanto SYD Bluetooth Speaker Review

Performance
Features
Build Quality
Value

PRICE $330

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Excellent sound quality
Compact and well-built
Easy to set up and use
Great value
Minus
No Wi-Fi streaming
No visual feedback
No grille cover

THE VERDICT
Kanto’s SYD is a simple, high-performance Bluetooth speaker that will wow you with rich, powerful sound that belies its size.

I could tell SYD was a serious speaker the moment I heard Joni Mitchell singing “A Case of You” from 1971’s Blue. Her angelic voice was mesmerizing in a way I didn’t expect from a speaker this size, not to mention a 47-year-old recording — and I was streaming from my phone.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/kanto-syd-bluetooth-speaker-review

Tommy Shaw on Mixing Styx’s ‘The Mission’ in 5.1

Some long-gestating sonic missions are simply worth the wait. Case in point: Styx’s June 2017 studio concept album The Mission (Alpha Dog 2T/UMe), which recently entered into the 5.1 stratosphere via the 24-bit/96kHz surround sound mix found on the just-released two-disc CD + Blu-ray Edition of the album. As good and enveloping as The Mission sounds in stereo, it sounds even better in its hi-res 5.1 mix — and that’s due in no small part to the creative synergy between the record’s three chief sonic architects: Styx guitarist/vocalist Tommy Shaw, producer/guitarist/vocalist Will Evankovich (Shaw-Blades, The Guess Who), and producer/engineer Jim Scott (Tom Petty, Wilco, Dixie Chicks). I spoke with Shaw and Evankovich to delve into the making of the surround sound mix of The Mission.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/tommy-shaw-mixing-styx%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%98-mission%E2%80%99-51

Sony A9F OLED Crowned ‘King of TV’ at 2018 Shootout

Sony’s new XBR-65A9F 4K/Ultra HD OLED TV was declared the reigning “King of TV” by a panel of expert judges and video enthusiasts at the 14th Annual TV Shootout hosted by Scarsdale, NY-based AV retailer Value Electronics.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/sony-a9f-oled-crowned-%E2%80%98king-tv%E2%80%99-2018-shootout

Innotech Digital Bathroom Scale - CNET

Innotech Digital Bathroom Scale

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Save on Aikoper products - CNET

Save on Aikoper products

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The complete list of Alexa commands so far - CNET

Here are all the things you can ask Alexa to do. (Dad jokes included.)

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/amazon-echo-the-complete-list-of-alexa-commands/#ftag=CADa08b18a

The complete list of Google Home commands so far - CNET

The Google Home might not have the Echo's "skills," but there's still plenty it can do.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/google-home-complete-list-of-commands/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Derlights 5W RGB LED Light Bulb with IR Remote Control - CNET

Derlights 5W RGB LED Light Bulb with IR Remote Control

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/derlights-5w-rgb-led-light-bulb-with-ir-remote-control-f9ce7e51/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to use your router's parental controls - CNET

Managing your kid's screen time doesn't have to be a struggle.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-use-your-routers-parental-controls/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Sony's Aspirational Audio Player

Rolex, Tiffany, Ferrari. And now, Sony.

Depending on your point of view, Sony is doing something wonderful, or deplorable. Either way, I'm sure the Internet will be outraged.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/sonys-aspirational-audio-player

Klipsch Updates the Klipschorn — the Speaker that Started it All

Klipsch had updated the iconic Klipschorn, the first speaker founder Paul W. Klipsch designed and built in 1946-47 and the “only speaker in the world to be in continuous production (and remain relatively unchanged) for more than 70 years.”

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/klipsch-updates-klipschorn-%E2%80%94-speaker-started-it-all

Amazon Echo Plus is the smart home hub of the future - CNET

Small changes could make a big difference for Amazon's smart home-focused speaker.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/amazon-echo-plus-second-generation-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Sprinkler controller Rachio 3 adds Apple HomeKit support - CNET

Ask Siri to water the front yard with help from your Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/sprinkler-controller-rachio-3-adds-apple-homekit-support/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on Ooma Butterfleye Smart Security Camera with Battery Backup, 7 Days of Free Storage, and 16GB of Internal Storage and more - CNET

Save on Ooma Butterfleye Smart Security Camera with Battery Backup, 7 Days of Free Storage, and 16GB of Internal Storage and more

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-ooma-butterfleye-smart-security-camera-with-battery-backup-7-days-of-free-storage-and-16gb-of-internal-storage-and-more-1ccb9fb3/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo Dot deal: Just $23 - CNET

It's used, but still the cheapest Dot to date.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-echo-dot-deal-just-23/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on Innotech products - CNET

Save on Innotech products

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-innotech-products-93822c4e/#ftag=CADa08b18a

12 new things to try with Alexa - CNET

Along with 12 new Alexa-powered devices, Amazon announced a host of new software features. Here's what to try out.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/new-things-to-try-with-alexa/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Yale smart locks get the August treatment with new kit - CNET

Assa Abloy acquired August last year, and now we're getting a look at what that means for Yale and August smart locks.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/yale-smart-locks-get-the-august-treatment-with-new-kit/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to sell your old Amazon Echo - CNET

Trade in your old Amazon Echo for cash or credit towards a new one.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-sell-your-old-amazon-echo/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Ring WiFi Video Doorbell Pro for $157 + free shipping - CNET

Ring WiFi Video Doorbell Pro for $157

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/ring-wifi-video-doorbell-pro-for-157-free-shipping-17586812/#ftag=CADa08b18a

3 new ways your kids can use Alexa - CNET

Alexa can help you kids learn and interact with your smart home.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/new-ways-your-kids-can-use-alexa/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Ultra-Short-Throw Projectors and Ambient-Light Rejecting Screens: Perfect Together?

All illustrations courtesy of Elite Screens.

You might think so. But Elite Screens’ Dave Rodgers says not so fast. It wouldn’t be wise to automatically assume that any ambient-light rejecting (ALR) screen is the best choice for ultra-show-throw (UST) projectors like the Hisense Laser TV system Al Griffin reviewed earlier this year or Sony’s extravagant VPL-VZ1000ES.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/ultra-short-throw-projectors-and-ambient-light-rejecting-screens-perfect-together

Sony Announces PlayStation Classic for the Holidays

If you’re a planner who’s already started thinking about gifts for the holidays, here’s a cool one to consider.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/sony-announces-playstation-classic-holidays

Put a Google Assistant-powered alarm clock on your nightstand for $25 - CNET

Best Buy's Insignia Voice smart-speaker is back on sale!

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https://www.cnet.com/news/put-a-google-assistant-powered-alarm-clock-on-your-nightstand-for-25/#ftag=CADa08b18a

True-Fi Headphone Calibration Software More Popular than Ever

Ever get a pair of headphones that you love for their style or comfort, but you’re just not in love with the sound profile? Sonarworks True-Fi makes it easier than ever to get “reference” studio-quality sound for over 200 headphone models.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/true-fi-headphone-calibration-software-more-popular-ever

Is your Wi-Fi good enough for your smart home? - CNET

A smart home isn't smart without the internet.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/wi-fi-smart-home-wi-fi-fix-mesh-network/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Taylor Salter 914-WHLKR Baby Toddler Scale - CNET

Taylor Salter 914-WHLKR Baby Toddler Scale

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/taylor-salter-914-whlkr-baby-toddler-scale-952a851e/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Salter Professional Analog Mechanical Dial Bathroom Scale, 400 L - CNET

Salter Professional Analog Mechanical Dial Bathroom Scale, 400 L

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/salter-professional-analog-mechanical-dial-bathroom-scale-400-l-2b7ef858/#ftag=CADa08b18a

New $50 Echo Dot gets fabric mesh design video - CNET

The new Echo Dot features 70 percent louder volume, and a new fabric cover. It will cost $50 and be available later this month.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/new-50-echo-dot-gets-fabric-mesh-design/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Kasa Smart Home Saver - CNET

Kasa Smart Home Saver

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/kasa-smart-home-saver-ffb38646/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on Philips Lighting - CNET

Save on Philips Lighting

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-philips-lighting-399b87dd/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on August Smart Lock, 3rd Gen technology - Silver, Works with Alexa and more - CNET

Save on August Smart Lock, 3rd Gen technology - Silver, Works with Alexa and more

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-august-smart-lock-3rd-gen-technology-silver-works-with-alexa-and-more-f2417d82/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on Albrillo LED Bulb - CNET

Save on Albrillo LED Bulb

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-albrillo-led-bulb-ba97d2ea/#ftag=CADa08b18a

15% off Tailwind Smart Garage Products - CNET

15% off Tailwind Smart Garage Products

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/15-off-tailwind-smart-garage-products-002e2d88/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Alexa 2018 event: Editors react video - CNET

CNET editors Ben Fox Rubin and Ry Crist break down all the big product announcements from the new Echo Dot to Amazon's Alexa-enabled microwave.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/amazon-alexa-2018-event-editors-react/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's new Echo Show boasts a revamped design video - CNET

The new Alexa-powered smart display now has a 10-inch HD screen for video.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/amazons-new-echo-show-boasts-a-revamped-design/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Warmoon LED Light Bulb - CNET

Warmoon LED Light Bulb

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/warmoon-led-light-bulb-6bb9fc11/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on NUTRI FIT products - CNET

Save on NUTRI FIT products

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-nutri-fit-products-8a661562/#ftag=CADa08b18a

5 new Alexa security tricks to watch over your smart home - CNET

Alexa just got a little better at keeping your home safe.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/new-alexa-security-tricks-to-watch-over-your-smart-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Here's what was missing from Amazon's crazy event this week - CNET

Not a lot -- but it was telling.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/what-was-missing-from-amazon-alexa-echo-september-event/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save on Geeni Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug, Black, No Hub Required, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Microsoft Cortana and more - CNET

Save on Geeni Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug, Black, No Hub Required, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Microsoft Cortana and more

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-geeni-smart-wi-fi-outdoor-plug-black-no-hub-required-works-with-alexa-google-assistant-and-microsoft-cortana-and-more-59481cfa/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Arlo Pro 2-Camera Security System w/ Mount for $280 + free shipping - CNET

Arlo Pro 2-Camera Security System w/ Mount $280

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/arlo-pro-2-camera-security-system-w-mount-for-280-free-shipping-17583380/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Zmodo 720p Mini WiFi Security Camera 3-Pack for $55 + free shipping - CNET

Zmodo 720p Mini WiFi Camera 3-Pack for $55

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/zmodo-720p-mini-wifi-security-camera-3-pack-for-55-free-shipping-17583362/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Beyond the Arthouse

The monthly announcements of upcoming Criterion releases often list films I can’t pronounce, let alone recognize. But in truth, the esteemed specialty label splits its attention between lesser- known cinema and popular movies, and this recent Blu-ray menagerie holds a pair of Oscar-winners, an enduring 1985 hit, and a singular genre classic.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/beyond-arthouse

Everything you need to know about the Amazon Echo - CNET

Amazon's Alexa-activated smart speaker is a smash hit. If you're thinking about buying in (or just curious about what she's capable of), here's a helpful cheat sheet.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/amazon-echo-alexa-everything-you-need-to-know/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Best Audio Gear of the Year (So Far)

As summer gives way to fall, it’s a great time to take stock of the audio goodness bestowed upon us in the form of 25 top performing audio products we have reviewed so far this year — all recipients of Sound & Vision’s prestigious Top Pick designation. In the following pages we offer plenty to chew on: eight speakers systems, five AV receivers, three subwoofers, three amplifiers, two soundbars, two music players, a music server, and a turntable. In other words, there’s something for everyone.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/best-audio-gear-year-so-far

Can I Get High-Def Via a Component Connection to My Legacy AVR?

Got a tech question for Sound & Vision? Email us at AskSandV@gmail.com

Q I would like to use an Oppo BDP-93 as the Blu-ray player in my system connected to an Arcam AVR350 A/V receiver. Since the Arcam is a legacy AVR with no HDMI switching, I will need to use the Oppo’s component video output. Here’s my question: Will I be able to get high-definition resolution from Blu-ray discs with this setup? I have read that Blu-rays have embedded ICT (Image Constraint Token), which forces the player to downscale the video resolution to DVD quality. Also, are there any workarounds, like using an Oppo player with early (pre-ICT) firmware? —Lisa Kaye, via email

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/can-i-get-high-def-component-connection-my-legacy-avr

Amazon's new Echo Show: Buy 2, save $100 - CNET

There's already a deal to be had on Amazon's updated flagship Alexa device. Plus: Get the new Echo Auto for half price? Maybe?

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazons-new-echo-show-buy-2-save-100/#ftag=CADa08b18a

5 ways your Google Home is the MVP of football season - CNET

Your Google Home speaker is more than just a fancy music box. It's also your best fantasy football companion.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/google-home-fantasy-football/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Refurb Logitech Circle 2 1080p Camera for $70 + free shipping - CNET

Refurb Logitech Circle 2 1080p Camera for $70

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/refurb-logitech-circle-2-1080p-camera-for-70-free-shipping-17581499/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's second-gen Echo Show looks sleeker, sounds much better - CNET

Amazon's updated Echo Show smart display has a sharper screen and much better sound.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/amazon-echo-show-second-generation-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

AmazonBasics Microwave works with Alexa to take your voice commands - CNET

And the $60 microwave will automatically order more when you run out.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/amazonbasics-microwave-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo Wall Clock gives you a house with a smart clock on its walls - CNET

LEDs on this clock add at-a-glance convenience to your Alexa timers.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/amazon-echo-wall-clock-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Ring's redesigned Stick Up Cams want a spot inside your home - CNET

The Ring Stick Up Cam Wired and Stick Up Cam Battery are the first indoor cameras for the Amazon brand.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/ring-stick-up-cam-2018-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's 3rd Echo Dot gets a softer look and better sound - CNET

Amazon's most popular smart speaker gets a fabric makeover and a boost in sound quality for the same price.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/amazon-echo-dot-third-generation-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Forget Amazon's new Smart Plug, these do the same thing for less - CNET

Sorry Amazon, $25 is too much, especially when cheaper plugs can also work with Google Home.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/forget-amazons-new-smart-plug-these-do-the-same-thing-for-less/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to preorder all of the new Amazon Echo devices and more - CNET

Amazon just announced a slew of new Alexa-powered hardware. Here's how to get all of it.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/preorder-the-new-amazon-echo/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Smart Plug showcases simple setup - CNET

Among a slew of Amazon devices announced Thursday, the Amazon Smart Plug is a $25 way to introduce your dumb devices to Alexa.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/amazon-smart-plug-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to turn any speaker into an Alexa speaker - CNET

With Echo Input, any speaker can be an Alex-enabled speaker.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/echo-input-alexa-on-any-speaker/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's Echo Show is $230 and boasts new design that isn't ugly - CNET

The video speaker setup isn't as embarrassing to have in your home anymore.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazons-echo-show-is-230-and-boasts-new-design-that-isnt-ugly/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's microwave works with Alexa, automatically reorders popcorn - CNET

"Alexa, heat up my Hot Pocket."

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-to-make-alexa-powered-microwave/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo Dot gets a fabric makeover, better sound, still costs $50 - CNET

The tiny Dot is critical to Amazon’s mission to get Alexa into your home.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazons-echo-dot-finally-gets-a-refresh-after-nearly-two-years/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon announces Fire TV recast DVR video - CNET

The new box will stream live TV from your antenna and also acts as a standalone DVR.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/amazon-announces-fire-tv-recast-dvr/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Fire TV Recast: The Amazon DVR is real, and starts at $230 - CNET

Look out, TiVo.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-fire-tv-recast-dvr-starts-at-230/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo event: Pictures from Seattle - CNET

Amazon is announcing new products in Seattle. Here's what things look like from the inside.

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https://www.cnet.com/pictures/amazon-echo-event-pictures-from-seattle/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Alexa location-based Routines turns on your lights when you get home - CNET

Set your personalized entrance music to blast as soon as you walk through the door.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-alexa-location-based-routines-will-turn-your-lights-on-as-soon-as-you-get-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's Wi-Fi Simple Setup will make it easier to connect your smart home - CNET

Alexa will share your Wi-Fi credentials with compatible smart devices.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazons-wi-fi-simple-setup-will-make-it-easier-to-connect-your-smart-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's $25 Smart Plug brings Alexa brains to dumb electrical appliances - CNET

The smart power plug allows you control older appliances, like lights or coffee makers.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-smart-power-plug-switch-things-on-off-with-alexa-tech/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon unveils a slew of Alexa gadgets for the smart home video - CNET

Amazon shows off a bevy of new Alexa-powered devices, including a new smart plug, Echo and subwoofer.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/amazon-unveils-a-slew-of-alexa-gadgets-for-the-smart-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon rolls out all-new Echo Show video - CNET

The new Echo Show will have a 10-inch HD dispay and fabric back cover. It will cost $230.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/amazon-rolls-out-all-new-echo-show/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's Alexa Guard aims to put your smart home on alert - CNET

En garde.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazons-alexa-guard-aims-to-put-your-smart-home-on-alert/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon unveils new Ring Stick Up Cam for home security - CNET

The new camera will cost $180.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-announces-new-ring-stick-up-cam/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo Wall Clock is an old-school clock, with an Alexa twist - CNET

The online shopping giant is remaking all manner of home devices, from a microwave to, yes, the boring timepiece on your wall.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-echo-wall-clock-is-an-old-school-clock-with-an-alexa-twist/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo speakers adding stereo pairing, better multi-room audio support - CNET

Echo speakers are getting a few new tricks.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-echo-speakers-getting-stereo-pairing/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Master Replicas Resurrects HAL from ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 sci-fi classic 2001: A Space Odyssey, Master Replicas Group (MRG) has created a special tribute to one of the central characters in a cinematic masterpiece that portrays the ultimate showdown between man and machine.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/master-replicas-resurrects-hal-%E2%80%982001-space-odyssey%E2%80%99

Amazon is holding a surprise Echo Alexa event. We break it down (The 3:59, Ep. 461) - CNET

We walk through all the rumors, from microwaves to subwoofers and a new Echo Dot.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-is-holding-a-surprise-echo-alexa-event-we-break-it-down-the-359-ep-461/#ftag=CADa08b18a

19 tips to prepare for a natural disaster - CNET

Be ready in case of fires, floods, hurricanes and earthquakes.

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https://www.cnet.com/pictures/prepare-for-a-natural-disaster-with-these-10-tips/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo launch live blog: Event begins at 10 a.m. PT - CNET

Expect to see plenty of new Alexa-powered devices -- and maybe even a microwave.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-echo-launch-live-blog-event-begins-at-10-a-m-pt1-p-m-et/#ftag=CADa08b18a

True-Fi Sound Enhancement App Now Supports 200+ Headphones

Sonarworks, the Latvia-based developer of the unique True-Fi app has announced that its patented sound-enhancing platform now supports more than 200 headphones and counting, including popular models from AKG, Apple, Audio-Technica, Beats, Behringer, Beyerdynamic, Bose, Focal, HiFiMan, JBL, Koss, Monster, Panasonic, Pioneer, Sennheiser, Sony, V-Moda, and others.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/true-fi-sound-enhancement-app-now-supports-200-headphones

Arlo Q by NETGEAR - 1080p HD Security Camera | 2-way audio | Indoor only | No base station required (VMC3040), Works with Alexa - CNET

Arlo Q by NETGEAR - 1080p HD Security Camera | 2-way audio | Indoor only | No base station required (VMC3040), Works with Alexa

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/arlo-q-by-netgear-1080p-hd-security-camera-2-way-audio-indoor-only-no-base-station-required-vmc3040-works-with-alexa-66cac083/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Netflix Gets a Welcome Facelift

Netflix has a whole new look as its new media player menus have been rolling out over the past couple months. The Netflix app has been updated for all major platforms. Most recently the system updates to the NVIDIA Shield and to the Apple TV included the new Netflix update that makes it easier to quickly access what you want to watch. You may have seen it already, or perhaps you haven’t noticed it as you can miss the new menus if you are fast to scroll through titles when you open Netflix. While the new navigation is not innovative, it’s a much-needed and welcome improvement and is uniform across all platforms from Roku to Apple TV.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/netflix-gets-welcome-facelift

Micromega M-150 Integrated Amplifier Review

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value

PRICE $7,499

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Reference-grade sonics
Outstanding digital audio performance up to 32-bit/384kHz
Gorgeous fit and finish and industrial design
Minus
Basic user interface
Comparatively limited onboard music streaming options
Ethernet connection can be finicky

THE VERDICT
The Micromega M-150 is a pricey, somewhat limited, but fine-sounding integrated amp with a super-slim form factor and surprising power.

Nominally, French firm Micromega would seem a deeply conflicted organization. Is it micro, or is it mega? We may never know. (For the record, “Micomégas” is an 18th-century, ur-science-fiction novella by that most French of Enlightenment figures, Voltaire.)

Either way, the south-of-Paris firm has an established record of filling niches in the ever-shifting digital-audiophile world, beginning with several notable high-end CD players. Today, like most such manufacturers, Micromega is redefining itself for the post-physical media age: Witness its latest M-One duo of streaming- capable, digital-input integrated amplifiers—streamplifiers, as I like to call them.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/micromega-m-150-integrated-amplifier-review

Amazon just accidentally revealed an Echo subwoofer and smart plug - CNET

Pocket-lint discovered these unannounced products on Amazon's UK website.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-just-accidentally-revealed-an-echo-subwoofer-and-smart-plug/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Porsche Design Unveils Special Edition 911 Soundbar

Porsche Design, the lifestyle brand started in 1972 by Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, today announced the Porsche Design 911 Soundbar Black Edition, which “transforms the exhilaration of Porsche’s 911 GT3 racecar into an intense musical experience, delivering crisp mids, powerful bass, and visual-excitement to any space.”

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/porsche-design-unveils-special-edition-911-soundbar

Alexa is the fantasy football assistant you've been waiting for - CNET

On top of keeping up with the latest scores and standings, Alexa can help you track and manage your fantasy football teams.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/amazon-echo-is-the-fantasy-football-assistant-youve-been-looking-for/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Google shows off 20 Assistant tricks on the company's anniversary - CNET

You're not limited to typing in a search box like you were 20 years ago.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/google-shows-off-20-google-assistant-tricks-on-the-companys-anniversary/#ftag=CADa08b18a

SimpliSafe adds Google Assistant compatibility - CNET

If you own the latest SimpliSafe security system, Google Assistant can now initiate lockdown.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/simplisafe-adds-google-assistant-compatibility/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Ikea smart blinds confirmed and they're coming to the US - CNET

You'll be able to control them with the Tradfri app once they launch in 2019.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/ikea-smart-blinds-confirmed-and-theyre-coming-to-the-us/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Klipsch Kicks Off ‘Keepers of the Sound’ Video Series

Klipsch today kicked off its new “Keepers of the Sound” video series, which spotlights pioneers of all crafts who’ve “stayed true to a vision of preserving their rich heritage, while adapting to today’s tech-driven world.”

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/klipsch-kicks-%E2%80%98keepers-sound%E2%80%99-video-series

Motion Sensor LED Light Bulb - CNET

Motion Sensor LED Light Bulb

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/motion-sensor-led-light-bulb-95c6f519/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Epson Intros ‘Advanced Pixel-Shifting’ in $2K Projector

Epson has introduced “advanced” pixel-shifting technology in the Home Cinema 4010 LCD projector it unveiled yesterday.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/epson-intros-%E2%80%98advanced-pixel-shifting%E2%80%99-2k-projector

Best Contemporary Smart Homes, Silver and Bronze, Less Than $150,000

Alexa goes audiophile: Why Amazon may finally be getting serious about audio - CNET

Commentary: A report says Amazon will announce an amp, a receiver and a sub with Alexa on board. Can the retail giant truly appeal to the audiophile?

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https://www.cnet.com/news/alexa-goes-audophile-why-amazon-may-finally-be-getting-serious-about-audio/#ftag=CADa08b18a

4 features we want to see in an Amazon Alexa microwave - CNET

My Lean Cuisines are ready for some voice assistance.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/what-i-want-to-see-in-an-amazon-alexa-microwave/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to find your phone (and all your Apple devices) with HomePod - CNET

Apple's HomePod gets this helpful, pinging update this week.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-find-your-phone-with-apple-homepod/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Leaked Google Home Hub could take on the Amazon Echo Show - CNET

These images supposedly show Google's take on a smart display.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/leaked-google-home-hub-could-take-on-the-amazon-echo-show/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's new Alexa Gadgets Toolkit lets Alexa have some toy-friendly fun - CNET

Robots that can lip sync Alexa's speech? Disco balls that sparkle whenever you say the wake word? Amazon's new software makes it possible.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-new-alexa-gadgets-toolkit-lets-alexa-toy-around/#ftag=CADa08b18a

RIP: Home Video Pioneer Andre Blay

When Sony launched the first videocassette recorder in 1975, it was just a matter of time before movies would become available on tape for viewing at home — a foreign concept at the time — but Andre Blay got the ball rolling and started a business that would forever change the way Americans enjoy entertainment at home. Blay passed away August 24 in Bonita Springs, FL at age 81.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/rip-home-video-pioneer-andre-blay

BeerMKR might be the perfect automatic beer brewer - CNET

Finally a beer bot that checks all of the right boxes. Here's hoping it lives up to its promise.

from
https://www.cnet.com/reviews/beermkr-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save up to 25% off select Sengled Light Bulbs - CNET

Save up to 25% off select Sengled Light Bulbs

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-up-to-25-off-select-sengled-light-bulbs-3edeb09a/#ftag=CADa08b18a

First Alert Onelink Safe and Sound - Smart Hardwired Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm and Premium Home Speaker with Amazon Alexa - CNET

First Alert Onelink Safe and Sound - Smart Hardwired Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm and Premium Home Speaker with Amazon Alexa

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/first-alert-onelink-safe-and-sound-smart-hardwired-smoke-carbon-monoxide-alarm-and-premium-home-speaker-with-amazon-alexa-4d6a35fa/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wi-Fi smart plugs: Get 4 for $18 - CNET

These app-powered plugs can also be controlled via smart speakers. Plus: two bonus deals!

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/wi-fi-smart-plugs-get-4-for-18/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Etekcity Body Scale with Step-On Technology, Elegant Black - CNET

Etekcity Body Scale with Step-On Technology, Elegant Black

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/etekcity-body-scale-with-step-on-technology-elegant-black-0a8ce8fe/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Smart Weigh Digital Body Weight Scale - CNET

Smart Weigh Digital Body Weight Scale

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/smart-weigh-digital-body-weight-scale-c6be77c1/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Vizio’s Announces Upscale, Atmos-Enabled Soundbars

Vizio today announced the availability and pricing of three Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar systems, ranging in price from $500 to $1,000 and featuring upward firing drivers to support 3.1.2-, 5.1.2-, and 5.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos configurations.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/vizio%E2%80%99s-announces-upscale-atmos-enabled-soundbars

1byone Bluetooth Body Fat Scale with App - CNET

1byone Bluetooth Body Fat Scale with App

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/1byone-bluetooth-body-fat-scale-with-app-9e329df6/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Modulus M1 Makes Movies and Media Marvelous

Two years ago, I stumbled across a display booth with an overly energetic dude was eager to convince me that he'd invented something akin to the home-theater version of sliced bread. Actually, he said something like, "It's a DVR for the Streaming Age!" So, being a sucker for an enthusiastic sales pitch, I sat (stood, really) through Modulus President/CEO Steve Schulz's extremely compelling demo of the Modulus M1. Although I started the conversation off with my usual (and not-quite-true), "I've only got 10 minutes until my next appointment," half-an-hour later we were still going through the 20+ features included in the Modulus M1. Schulz called the Modulus M1 a "revolutionary media hub." Here's how I described it at the time: "Part DVR, part media server, part universal remote, as well as part nearly anything else you can think of that’s important for a modern home theater system, the M1 includes 12TB of media storage space; an RF-based 'Ultimate Remote Control' with voice search, air mouse, and full QWERTY keyboard; as well as an internal Blu-Ray/DVD disc player/ripper." I also said that it was "almost too good to be true."

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/modulus-m1-makes-movies-and-media-marvelous

9 unusual things to try with your Google Home speaker - CNET

The Google Home speaker isn't just for spewing facts and turning on the lights. Here are some unexpected ways it can help you through the day.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/unusual-things-to-try-with-your-google-home-speaker/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Does Amazon have new Alexa hardware on the way? - CNET

In 2016 and 2017, September meant new Echo devices. With rumors of new tech flying fast, will 2018 follow suit -- and if so, what should we expect?

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-echo-alexa-hardware-update-september-2018/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Apple HomePod review: Great sound, but it's trapped in Apple's world - CNET

The HomePod delivers amazing audio quality, but this pricey speaker is an iOS-only device that effectively requires an Apple Music subscription.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/apple-homepod-review/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon is reportedly making a microwave -- and 7 other secret Alexa gadgets - CNET

Amazon also apparently has an "in-car gadget" of some kind. What could that be?

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https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-is-reportedly-making-a-microwave-and-7-other-secret-alexa-gadgets/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to make calls with Apple HomePod - CNET

Your HomePod can now be your speakerphone.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-make-calls-with-apple-homepod/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Google Super Charges Song Identification Tool

Google has introduced a “faster, more accurate” version of its Sound Search music identification tool and integrated it into the Now Playing feature introduced last year on its Pixel 2 smartphone.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/google-super-charges-song-identification-tool

Roku Owners: Visit Space from Your Living Room

We were pumped when NASA did the first 4K live stream from the International Space Station a year and a half ago, and now we can hardly contain our enthusiasm with the news that spectacular views of space from NASA are now available on the Roku streaming platform.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/roku-owners-visit-space-your-living-room

Apple HomePod: All the tips and tricks you need to know - CNET

Curious about a specific HomePod feature? Or what about those nasty rings on wood surfaces? Read this.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/apple-homepod-every-tip-and-trick-you-need-to-know/#ftag=CADa08b18a

A Smart Speaker Is In Your Future

Source: Adobe Analytics survey “State of Voice Assistants” (September 2018)

Like it or not, smart speakers are on a roll. A serious roll.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/smart-speaker-your-future

This smart mirror scanned our (nearly) naked bodies, left our insecurities bare video - CNET

For $1,395, the Naked Labs Body Scanner produces frighteningly detailed models of your body that you can scrutinize on your phone. It's awesome, and some of us hate it.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/this-smart-mirror-scanned-our-nearly-naked-bodies-left-our-insecurities-bare/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Solar panels power this sliding smart lock video - CNET

The $299 Array smart lock from Hampton Products includes a hidden keypad and solar panels to recharge its battery.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/solar-panels-power-this-sliding-smart-lock/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Naked Labs Body Scanner review: Naked Labs' all-seeing smart mirror lays your insecurities bare - CNET

This combo smart mirror and smart scale scans your nearly naked body, then shows you the goods on your phone. The tech is impressive -- and some of us hate it.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/naked-labs-body-scanner-review/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Dive into home security with these indoor cameras - CNET

Whether you're serious about security or simply want to spy on a mischievous pet, these indoor security cameras are vying for a spot in your home.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/security-camera-roundup/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Ready Player One

Picture
Sound
Extras

How many more movies and TV shows will simulate virtual reality to tell a “thought-provoking” story about the fate of society? I gave up on Netflix’s Black Mirror because I could not bear another tale of VR gone awry, but Ready Player One brings the pedigree of Steven Spielberg, plus Ernest Cline’s bestselling novel. How could it miss?

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/ready-player-one

Paradigm/Anthem at CEDIA 2018: A Demo to Remember

The buzz from CEDIA 2018 may be fading, but a few show highlights are likely to live on in the memory of attendees. One is Paradigm/Anthem’s 7.2.4-speaker home theater demo, which gave viewers an immersive, high-intensity sampling of Ready Player One and Blade Runner 2049 on Ultra HD Blu-ray with Dolby Atmos sound.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/paradigmanthem-cedia-2018-demo-remember

AXPONA Moves 2020 Expo from April to November

Organizers of the Audio Expo North America (a.k.a. AXPONA) have announced that the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel in metro Chicago is the show’s new permanent home and that in 2020 the three-day show will move from its usual mid-April time frame to late October/early November.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/axpona-moves-2020-expo-april-november

Revel’s New, Upgraded Subwoofers Due Out this Fall

Revel previewed two new Performa3 Series subwoofers at last week’s CEDIA Expo that feature updated amplifiers and a new high-performance driver.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/revel%E2%80%99s-new-upgraded-subwoofers-due-out-fall

Save On Tenergy Digital Body Weight Scale - CNET

Save On Tenergy Digital Body Weight Scale

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-on-tenergy-digital-body-weight-scale-e599dd34/#ftag=CADa08b18a

5 ways to smarten your patio this fall - CNET

Just because summer ends doesn't mean you can't still enjoy your backyard.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/5-ways-to-smarten-your-patio-this-fall/#ftag=CADa08b18a

The pitfalls of perfect cooking - CNET

Many new appliances promise to help you cook perfect meals. But the beauty of cooking is in the mistakes you make in the kitchen.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/the-pitfalls-of-perfect-cooking/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Sunbrite Unveils Re-Engineered Outdoor TVs

SunBriteTV, a brand of SnapAV, announced a redesigned and re-engineered series of outdoor televisions at last week’s CEDIA Expo 2018 in San Diego.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/sunbrite-unveils-re-engineered-outdoor-tvs

TP-Link's Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip aims to smarten and protect - CNET

This $80 Kasa strip automates everything you plug into it, and works with Google Assistant, Alexa and Cortana.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/kasa-smart-wi-fi-power-strip-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Say Goodbye to Another Piece of Tech History

Americans love nostalgia. A few weeks ago a construction crew dismantled the iconic AMPEX sign along Highway 101 in Redwood City, California and many people in the community were not happy.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/say-goodbye-another-piece-tech-history

Array by Hampton Connected Door Lock review: This sliding smart lock includes solar panel power - CNET

A solar-powered smart lock? Hampton Products proves we're closer than you think with the Array.

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https://www.cnet.com/reviews/brinks-array-review/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Meet the smart lock with solar power - CNET

The Array by Hampton Connected Door Lock includes a solar panel to help recharge its batteries.

from
https://www.cnet.com/pictures/meet-the-smart-lock-with-solar-power/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save 15% off MATEIN Smart Plug(2 Pack) - CNET

Save 15% off MATEIN Smart Plug(2 Pack)

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-15-off-matein-smart-plug2-pack-790f0ae8/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save $10 on "Made For Amazon" Ninety7 SKY TOTE Portable Battery Base for Amazon Echo (2nd Generation) Black/Carbon - CNET

Save $10 on "Made For Amazon" Ninety7 SKY TOTE Portable Battery Base for Amazon Echo (2nd Generation) Black/Carbon

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/save-10-on-made-for-amazon-ninety7-sky-tote-portable-battery-base-for-amazon-echo-2nd-generation-blackcarbon-07381924/#ftag=CADa08b18a

WiFi Smart Plug AXHKIO 2 Pack WiFi Smart Plug Mini Outlet - CNET

WiFi Smart Plug AXHKIO 2 Pack WiFi Smart Plug Mini Outlet

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/wifi-smart-plug-axhkio-2-pack-wifi-smart-plug-mini-outlet-7d182d47/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Replacing the PLEX Cloud Server with a Quality NAS Drive

The end of the PLEX Cloud means that users now have to store their own media files on computers or hard drives in they home. This causes issues for those with large libraries, presenting problems of where to save the media files so that they are always accessible without having to leave a computer powered on all of the time. A network attached storage (NAS) drive is the best answer for how to store and access a PLEX media library.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/replacing-plex-cloud-server-quality-nas-drive

Panasonic DP-UB820 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player Review

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value

PRICE $499

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Reference-level video performance
In-player tone mapping for HDR and conversion to SDR
Multichannel analog output
Minus
Image enhancement options can be overwhelming
Setup not always intuitive
No 4K/HDR streaming support

THE VERDICT
Panasonic’s UHD Blu-ray player offers reference-level video performance and also sets a new bar for HDR playback with both HDR flat-panel TVs and projectors.

Today’s Ultra HD Blu-ray player market is drastically smaller than the one for the spinning-disc machines of old. In my early days reviewing DVD players, I could literally enter an electronics store, walk out with over a dozen players, and that would only represent a sampling of the available models. But with the massive rise in the popularity of streaming, we’ve seen the player market continue to slim down.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/panasonic-dp-ub820-ultra-hd-blu-ray-player-review

HomePod to get calling, other updates Sept. 17 - CNET

Apple is finally adding calling to its flagship Siri smart speaker.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/homepod-to-get-calling-other-updates-sept-17/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Lavish Hi-Fi Hosts KEF Event in Northern California

Live in or near Santa Rosa, California? Lavish HiFi is holding a “special evening of music and audio lore” with KEF’s global ambassador, Johan Coorg tomorrow evening (Thursday, September 13) at its Santa Rosa showroom.

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/lavish-hi-fi-hosts-kef-event-northern-california

Robbie Robertson on the 50th Anniversary of The Band’s Music From Big Pink

Photo: Elliot Landy (1968)

Released 50 years ago this past July 1, The Band's Music From Big Pink immediately set the world of popular music on its collective ear, and it's now being celebrated in a super-deluxe box set that includes a 24/96 5.1 mix of the album on Blu-ray. We get on the line with Band mastermind Robbie Robertson to discuss the secret to the overall intimacy of the Big Pink recording itself, the key elements that make the 5.1 versions of “The Weight” and “Chest Fever” instant benchmark reference tracks, and what Band album he’d be interested in having remixed in 5.1 next.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/robbie-robertson-50th-anniversary-band%E2%80%99s-music-big-pink

UNV 4-Megapixel PoE Dome Camera for $46 + free shipping - CNET

UNV 4-Megapixel PoE Dome Camera for $46

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/unv-4-megapixel-poe-dome-camera-for-46-free-shipping-17566286/#ftag=CADa08b18a

AT&T Adds 5 Cities to its 2018 Mobile 5G Launch Plan

AT&T announced plans on Monday to introduce mobile 5G service in parts of five additional cities, bringing the number of cities that will receive service this year to 12.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/att-adds-5-cities-its-2018-mobile-5g-launch-plan

Verizon to Launch 5G in 4 Cities on October 1

Making good on a promise made last fall, Verizon yesterday announced plans to launch 5G broadband service in parts of Houston, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, and Sacramento on October 1.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/verizon-launch-5g-4-cities-october-1

Innovo Medical Deluxe Fingertip Pulse Oximeter - CNET

Innovo Medical Deluxe Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/innovo-medical-deluxe-fingertip-pulse-oximeter-b5bdf649/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Hurricane Florence: ​Be ready for the next hurricane with a go bag - CNET

Keep this bag ready for a hurricane -- or any other natural disaster for that matter.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/prepare-for-the-next-hurricane-natural-disaster-go-bag/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to put away your summer clothes and toys for the winter - CNET

Look forward to next summer by storing your swimsuits, floaties and flip-flops the right way.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-wash-and-store-summer-items/#ftag=CADa08b18a

7 unusual Alexa skills you should try - CNET

Haven't you always wanted to listen to vintage radio broadcasts?

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/unusual-alexa-skills/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Adios CEDIA Expo 2018

The 2018 edition of CEDIA Expo is now history. CEDIA is one of the two big annual trade-only shows covering AV gear. CES, held each January in Las Vegas, is the big Kahuna. Apart from every electronic gadget on the planet (and some not so electronic) the main event at CES is the launch of all the new Ultra HD TVs for the coming year (not to mention the 8K sets waiting for their close-ups). It’s a forest of video displays everywhere you look, and covering CES, with its attendance generally over 150,000, is a major challenge.

CEDIA, on the other hand, takes place in early September. It’s a moveable feast, spending a couple of years in one city before moving on to another. I’ve been to Denver, Dallas, San Diego, Atlanta, Indianapolis, and New Orleans for that event over the past 20 years. And while you’ll see some flat screen sets at CEDIA, they’re usually the current models. For video CEDIA is a projector show. It caters to custom installers, who nearly always feature a projector in their jobs. And since the attendance at CEDIA is a fraction of the CES glut it’s a far more laid-back event.

Video Everywhere The big projector news at CEDIA, at least on the relatively affordable side, nearly always involves Sony, JVC, and Epson. Sony launched true 4K projectors last year at near-popular (though hardly blue-light special) prices, but did a repeat this year with several new lamp-lit designs...

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/adios-cedia-expo-2018

GE Appliances' FirstBuild microfactory expands to India - CNET

The facility will open in 2019.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/ge-appliances-firstbuild-microfactory-expands-to-india/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Rotel’s New Surround Processor Does Atmos and DTS:X

Rotel’s newest surround sound processor decodes Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks and offers a variety of high-performance features.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/rotel%E2%80%99s-new-surround-processor-does-atmos-and-dtsx