How many surround sound channels do you need? The 7.1 channel AV receiver not only became common in 2004, but starting at less than $1,000 (some a below $500). Led by manufacturers, such as Onkyo, Yamaha, Denon, and Pioneer, mid-range home theater receivers showcased technology that would have commanded price tags of $2,000 or higher just a couple of years ago. In addition to adding the option of 7.1 channels, features such as Dolby Prologic IIx processing, a significant increase in power output per dollar, increased multi-room flexibility, and video up/downconversion capabilities (making hookups less complicated for both VCRs and DVD players), really made the home theater receiver the true control center of home theater, within reach of almost any budget.
Video Projectors
Video projection technology has really matured over the past few years. Advances in LCD and DLP technology have brought compactness, ease of use and setup, and affordability to the video projector. Although there are high performance video projectors that are still out of reach for most consumers, there are now video projectors for the bargain hunter, with prices starting around $1,500 for basic units. One of the leaders in budget-priced video projectors in 2004 was BENQ. With continued strides in compactness, quality, bulb life, brightness, lower price points, the video projector made definite inroads at both the retail and consumer level.
Expect to see more display space at your local electronics dealer devoted to video projectors in 2005. Also watch for retailers in 2005 making an effort to make the video projector option more appealing to consumers by offering video projector packages that may include the screen, and audio system as well.
For more information on video projectors, check out my article Video Projectors - What You Need To Know
Conclusion
2004 was a very active year for the consumer electronics industry, which saw benefits for the consumer. With improvements of existing technology and prices continuing a downward plunge, many products, such as flat panel televisions and DVD recorders, previously aimed at the high-end market, became more accessible for the average consumer.
What I have covered in the above article is only a small portion of new products and innovations that made their mark in the past year.
For a list of some of the products I liked this past year, check out My Favorite Products of 2004.
However, expect some exciting developments in 2005, especially with regards to anticipated new products finally arriving, such as high definition Blu-Ray and HD-DVD players and recorders, and the promise of slimmer picture tube televisions. In addition, products that may also breakout big in 2005 include satellite and high definition radio, wireless and network audio/video concepts, and continued merging of the home PC with home theater. However, there will still be continuing advances in both Plasma and LCD televisions, more affordable video projectors, whole-house audio/video systems, HDTV, and more.
The 2005 Consumer Electronics Show
All of the above and more will be revealed at the annual CES (Consumer Electronics Show) January 6-9, 2005 in Las Vegas, Nevada. From the latest in DVD recorders and Flat Panel Televisions to video projectors and high-end Vacuum Tube audio, CES Will have it all.
The show itself will be scattered all over Las Vegas and manufacturers large and small will display their wares for the retailers and media. The main exhibit areas of the show will be headquartered in the massive Las Vegas Convention Center, with most independent high-end audio manufacturers displaying their products across town at the Alexis Park Hotel. There will even be special exhibitors from independent foreign manufacturers from countries such as Israel, Sweden, China, Germany, and more.
Although the show typically covers a wide range of home electronics product areas, areas of special interest will include: Home Theater and Home Networking, Digital Image and Video, Mobile Electronics, Satellite Radio, Energy Efficiency. New product introductions also will play a major part in the show. Also, the latest advances in multi-room audio and video networking products will be displayed. In addition, there is always a "surprise" announcement or two to spice things up, as well as displays of product prototypes not yet available for market. This is just a taste of what will be at the show.
As in previous years, your intrepid guide plans to be on hand to check out all the lastest "stuff", ask probing questions, and getting some great photos of exhibits of interest related to home theater. Upon return, I will be posting a series of followup articles highlighting and explaining the latest products and trends in home theater. For a look at my coverage of previous CES events, check out my CES Photo Gallery.
