Oct. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Easy-to-install surround sound
systems, flat panel TVs, compact audio systems and MP3 players will likely be
in great demand this holiday season, according to the Audio/Video experts at
Cambridge SoundWorks. Consumer electronics that the entire family can enjoy
will be the primary influence for holiday shopping purchases.
Cambridge SoundWorks highlights what they expect to be some of the most
popular products this season. For additional advice on audio/video products,
consumers can visit Cambridge SoundWorks' retail locations in New England or
the San Francisco Bay area, or go to www.cambridgesoundworks.com or
call (800)-FOR-HIFI to speak with an A/V expert.
Surround sound without the hassle.
For folks who want surround sound, but don't want to deal with the hassle,
not to mention space requirements, of installing a multi-speaker system, a
huge breakthrough in home theater technology has arrived -- virtual surround
sound. SurroundWorks 200 ($999.99) uses a single, multi-channel center speaker
placed on or mounted above the TV. This one speaker emulates the surround
effect of five or more individual speakers -- no need for wiring and finding
space for separate ones here. SurroundWorks' speaker is paired with a powerful
subwoofer and stylish DVD/AM/FM control center, and the entire system is wired
using just two foolproof connecting cables.
Audio systems for MP3 users.
MP3 players are cranking out room filling sound thanks to audio systems
like PlayDock MP3 ($199.99). PlayDock MP3 fits most popular MP3 players,
including Creative's Zen and Zen Micro, Apple's iPod and iPod mini, as well as
Dell's DJ and Pocket DJ. So everyone in the family, regardless of which player
they use, can share their music. Since PlayDock MP3 runs on an extended-life
rechargeable battery, it can be used cord-free for up to 10 hours of
continuous playtime, inside or outside the home. But the best thing about
PlayDock MP3 is its great sound. Packed inside its sturdy enclosure are 3
speakers, including a powerful subwoofer that crank out crisp, full-bodied
tunes.
MP3 players to suit every style.
Players like the Creative Zen MicroPhoto 8GB ($249.99) let users take
their music and photos with them wherever they go. Winner of a Best of CES
2005 award, Zen MicroPhoto features a vivid color display, letting users view
photos or browse through music playlists from wildly colorful menus. With a
huge 8GB capacity, users can store up to 4,000 songs for music on the go, or
keep thousands of photos with them. Zen MicroPhoto comes in 10 dramatic
colors, has a removable, rechargeable Li-ion battery that offers up to 15
hours of continuous playtime, FM radio and recorder, and a voice recorder.
All in one stereo systems.
For rooms like the kitchen, den or spare bedroom, where adding music would
make a great addition but space is limited, high-end table radios like the
SoundWorks Radio CD 740 ($349.99) are excellent solutions. The SoundWorks
Radio CD has three speakers, including a powered subwoofer, offering rich,
natural, room-filling sound normally associated with larger audio systems. Its
front loading CD plays standard CDs as well as MP3 files on CD-ROM. Radio Data
Service (RDS) lets users view station information, and a great FM/AM tuner
completes this feature-packed system. Front and rear auxiliary inputs for
additional CD or MP3 players, dual alarms, and an ultra-compact remote control
are also included.
It's all about flat panel.
For those looking at the big picture, it's a great time to buy a flat
panel TV -- they're coming down in price and are loaded with extras. Sharp's
LC-32D6U AQUOS LCD HDTV has everything needed for HDTV viewing, including a
built-in HD tuner. The LC-32D6U is digital cable ready with full CableCARD
"Plug and Play" capability. It also has a detachable bottom speaker and its
included table stand can easily be removed for wall mounting. And, the LC-
32DU6U's elegant style will add a nice touch to any room.
The company sells its
award-winning line through its retail stores, online at
www.cambridgesoundworks.com and catalog operation at 1-800-FOR-HIFI.
SOURCE Cambridge SoundWorks