Pro-Ject gets minimal with the Genie 2 vinyl turntable

Pro-Ject does a fine line in stylish record turntables without the huge price tag - the latest of which is the Genie 2 vinyl turntable.

For the technical amongst you, the Genie 2 offers a peripheral drive for improved speed stability, an inverted main bearing with close-tolerance bushes, a high-torque yet quiet running synchronous drive motor completely decoupled from the plinth and a substantial machined MDF platter with a felt mat. 

There's also an S shaped 8.6inch tone-arm with an Ortofon OM3e cartridge, a drive motor decoupled from the plinth to eliminate the transfer of any vibrations to the surface of the disc and a choice of 33/45 speeds. You can pick one up for £140.

Henley Designs

Sony's sleek black DAV-F200 BRAVIA Home Theatre system

It doesn't just look good - the Sony DAV-F200 BRAVIA Home Theatre system also packs in the features too

The DAV-F200 uses Sony's S-Force Front Surround technology, combining with 405w S-Master digital amplification to create virtual surround sound from just two speakers and a compact subwoofer. And there's also HDMI output, DVD upscaling to 1080p (to improve the look of your old DVDs), USB connectivity and a disc player that can handle DVDs, CDs, and file formats including MP3, Windows Media Audio, DivX and JPEG.

Price is still to be confirmed, but this should be available to pick up in the coming weeks.

Sony website

Samsung and Armani team up for a designer HD-ready TV

Is Armani a cool brand? That's a matter of opinion I guess. But if you believe it is, you might want one of these new Samsing/Armani HD-ready TV.

It's part of Armani's Casa home furnishings collection and said to be reminiscent of 'Hollywood's golden age'. Although it just look like any old black LCD TV to me.

It's a 42-inch TV with backlit remote control and 'specially designed' front-mounted power switch. Expect it over summer, with a 52-inch model to follow.

Samsung website

Roberts introduces the Sound 24 miniature audio system

It might be small, but there's plenty of audio options with the Roberts Sound 24.

That includes DAB/FM radio, CD playback, MP3/WMA, USB/SD card slots and connectivity for your iPod. There's also two speakers at the front and a sub woofer at the back for a decent audio output, clock/alarm with sleep and snooze, 20 presets, six display colours, a remote control and a decent design in brushed steel.

Available now, you can pick one up for £200.

Roberts Radio website

Sony launches the Bravia W4000 - the future-proof LCD TV

Worried that your LCD TV will be out-of-date the day after you buy it? That might not be the case with the Sony Bravia W4000.

Not only does it pack in a digital tuner, it also features an integrated HDTV tuner - which means you'll be able to tune in once terrestrial HDTV programming becomes available. A step ahead of the market if you like. Other features include a Picture Frame Mode that shows off your photos when the TV is not in use, HDMI connectivity, the Bravia Engine 2 for added depth, richness and clarity of picture and a minimalist design.

Expect it in the coming weeks - no price available as yet.

Sony website

Philips launches WACS7500 wireless audio centre for the home

At first glance, it might look like a TV. But this is actually an audio system - the Philips WACS7500.

It consists of a main unit with 80GB hard disk (enough for storing 1500 albums) and a wireless station you can place in another room. In fact, you can have up to five stations for spreading your music around - each able to play different selections at the same time and can connect to your PC for music stored there.

Output is via a flat panel speakers, with a colour screen able to show off your album artwork. Other features include internet radio, connection to an iPod, easy CD ripping and everything else you would expect of a decent home audio system.

Expect to pay £699.99 for the main kit, with the additional wireless stations selling for £199.99.

Philips website

Hannspree launches HannsMilano - handbag meets TV

Fancy a TV that isn't...well...TV-shaped? Hannspree might have just the thing with the HannsMilano - a handbag-shaped TV.

It's an LCD TV with 9.6-inch LCD screen. In terms of technology, that's about all you get. But in terms of design, this two tone TV offers a 100 per cent Italian leather exterior with a high gloss finish, carrying handle, hidden cables and all the other detailing you might find on your average Italian-style handbag.

Available later this month, you can pick it up for £129.99.

Hannspree website

Urbanati - eco-friendly DJ console

What do you get if you cross some old cork, reclaimed pine and plywood? You get the Urbanati DJ console.

It's the work of designer Trevor O’Neil, with the cork coming from an old project, the pine beams from the designer's childhood home and the plywood leftover from a cabinet. Combined, it creates an eye-catching piece of design, ideally suited for your decks, mixer and amplifier.

This one has just sold for $2,000 (around £1,000), but O'Neil does commissions, so if you want something similar, get in touch.

Trevor O'Neil

Via Born Rich

Denon relaunches Smart Series S-81DAB home audio system

Denon has relaunched its Smart Series S-81DAB home audio system - and at a considerably reduced price.

Alongside Denon build and sound quality, you get a home audio system packed full of features, including iPod integration, CD Player with MP3/WMA support, DAB radio, RDS FM/AM radio, two-line high-clarity display, 50+50 watt digital amplifier, clock radio with alarm, an 'ergo' remote and two-way speakers tuned for UK ears.

The old price was £600 - it's now on the market for £400.

Denon website

Roberts launches Gemini 31 retro-meets-modern DAB radio

Another new DAB radio from Roberts - the Gemini 31.

Packed into a case that's described as 'retro-meets-modern' and with a mahogany handle, the Gemini 31 is packed with all the usual DAB features. That includes PausePlus (you can pause live radio for up to 40 minutes), full-range stereo loudspeakers, 100 hours of battery life, LCD display, 10 station presets and FM reception.

The Gemini 31 is available now for £89.99

Find out more at the Roberts Radio website

Arcam Solo Mini - high-end audio in a small silver box

Arcam has shrunk down its successful Solo audio system, introducing the Arcam Solo Mini for the space conscious.

It might be smaller, but it doesn't compromise on quality, offering award-winning industrial design, easy access top-mounted controls, a large two dot-matrix fluorescent display, an ergonomic remote handset, audiophile grade CD player (with MP3/WMA playback), DAB/FM/AM radio, clock/alarm, all the connectivity you'll need and a 25 watts per channel linear amplifier.

It's even got a smaller price tag than its predecessor, retailing at £650 (without speakers) from March.

Find out more at the Arcam website

3ga introduces JB7 digital jukebox - digitise your CD collection

If you fancy having your entire CD collection available at the touch of a button, you might want to take a look at the JB7 digital jukebox from 3ga.

The JB7 rips tracks from your CDs, storing them on an internal hard drive for playback - no computer required. In fact, it's simplicity itself, just stick in your CD and the tracks will be automatically added to your digital jukebox, with a CD transferred in less than five minutes. And you can still play tracks while you do it.

There's a choice of a 40GB or 80GB drive, you can transfer via USB and you can use it as a standalone audio system - it packs in a 30 watts per channel amplifier. A clock/alarm and remoter control complete the package, with prices starting at £299.

Find out more at the 3ga website

Skullcandy GI Rasta headphones

Ideal for the reggae DJ, these Skullcandy GI Rasta headphones ditch the traditional black and instead go for a rastafarian-friendly red, green and yellow.

But it isn't just novelty, these are decent enough for an entry-level record spinner, with 90-degree orientable speakers and volume control, as well as travel protection, a stereo adapter, 3m of cable and a gold-plated plug.

Shop around - you can get these as cheap as £29.99 - including via the link below.

Find out more at the iheadphones website

Denon DJ DN-HS5500 direct drive scratch turntable - could it mean the end of the vinyl DJ?

Well, could it? No chance - there's still too many devotees to vinyl and digital DJs are still very much seen as second class citizens. But with kit like the Denon DJ DN-HS5500 around, it's sorely tempting to go down the digital route.

Details are scarce right now, with the official launch not due until March. But apart from the image above, we do know a few things. Firstly, there's 'tactile' control of your digital music via a direct-drive scratching platter, built-in effects, cueing and pitch adjustment, as well as connectivity for all your digital music - USB storage, hard drive (which can be installed internally) or iPod

We should have more details nearer the launch. In the meantime, enjoy the image.

Denon DJ website

Sony launches affordable Bravia high definition VPL-VW40 projector

If you like the idea of bringing the cinema into your home, it could be more affordable than you think with the Sony Bravia Full HD VPL-VW40 projector.

According to Sony, this is aimed at the 'price-conscious' consumer, although it's stopped short of actually giving a price. Regardless of that, the VPL-VW40 offers high definition (1080p) viewing, helped along by the Bravia Engine processor which digitally enhances each frame in real time. There's also a 2.5ms response time, up to 15,000:1 contrast ratio, quiet (22dB) operation, all the connectivity you would need (including HDMI for HD) and a stylish brushed aluminium remote control with fully backlit keypad to go with the stylish projector.

Expect this in the coming months - and a price a couple of weeks before it hits the shelves.

Find out more at the Sony website

Tangent Cinque - wood-covered DAB/CD sound system

Not content with producing the best-looking internet radio on the market, Tanget now has one of the most stylish tabletop sound systems around - the Tangent Cinque.

Described as a digital sound centre, the Cinque offers a choice of DAB or FM radio (with all the usual presets and visuals), CD playback and MP3/WMA compatibility. It might be useful by the bed too, throwing in a a choice of alarm function (radio or CD). The own downside is the remote control - obviously the designers passed that one by.

If the walnut finish isn't your thing, there's also white, black and red to choose from, with each model retailing from £239. A version without the DAB is also available from £189.

Find out more at the Advanced MP3 Players website

Roth Audio Music Cocoon MC4 - high-end iPod audio system with valves

It might look like something out of a mad professor's lab, but this is actually a high-end sound system for your iPod - the Roth Audio Music Cocoon MC4.

Designed for the iPod, but good for any portable audio device, the Music Cocoon MC4 uses vacuum tubes, adding a 'real warmth and dimension' to the music - something other amplifiers can't offer - just hook up your iPod and some speakers to hear the evidence.

Output is 13W x 2 and everything is controlled by remote or by the large controls on the front panel. if you want one, it retails for around £385.

Find out more at the Roth Audio website

Elecom introduces the ASP-WPS9 - a curved wood iPod dock

A mix of modern music technology and mid-century design has produced the Elecom ASP-WPS9.

It's an iPod dock, just plug in your portable player for stereo sound via the 2x 3w speakers, with a remote control to access your tracks. And when its not in use, this is one piece of technology you'll not want to hide away.

The one downside is that this is Japan-only so far. Here's hoping we see it in the UK very soon.

Find out more at the Elecom website (Japanese)

Numark TTi turntable - copy your vinyl to an iPod without a PC

There's an ever-growing number of ways to convert your vinyl to digital files for playback on an iPod (or other MP3 player), but the newly-launched Numark TTi turntable makes it that bit easier - removing the computer from the equation.

The TTi deck packs in an iPod dock, leaving you to simply spin the record to transfer to your portable player, as well as offering pitch control if you want to speed up/slow down those tunes. And if you want to go 'old school', there is USB and EZ Vinyl Converter software for the PC or Mac for doing it with that computer.

This convenience comes at a premium, with the TTi expected in the middle of 2008 for $449, which is around £250.

Find out more at the Numark website

Via Engadget

Davone offers Rithm speakers with quality sound and cool Danish design

Hopefully in 2008, we'll finally be able to buy the incredibly stylish Davone Rithm speakers.

They're a match of classic Danish design with audio know-how, with the curved wood cabinet manufacture outsourced to a leading Danish furniture maker, leaving the technical people to concentrate on what they do best - providing an expansive sound, powerful bass and a balanced audio output.

These have just gone into production in Denmark - hopefully we'll see them in the UK later this year. No pricing available as yet.

Find out more at the Davone website

Loewe launches Connect range of multimedia TVs

Loewe has been making a name for itself producing some of the most stylish TVs on the market - and the new Loewe Connect range only adds to that reputation.

It's described as a 'multimedia TV', offering high-definition viewing, wireless connectivity, internal storage for your music, films and photos and connections for a range of mobile devices and storage units. All your media is accessible via a remote and with a built-in digital tuner and hard drive, there's no need for a separate digital recorder.

And of course, there's that minimalist design, which is available in high gloss black, white and matt chrome silver. Three screen sizes to choose from - 32, 37 and 42 inches - with a 37-inch model priced at £1,949. You can order the Loewe Connect from 30th January 2008.

Find out more at the Loewe website

Sony announces decor-friendly Bravia B4000 portable TV

Looking for a TV that isn't black or grey? There's not a lot around - although from today, there's one more to choose from, the Sony Bravia B4000.

It's a 'portable', but bigger than the average, with screens sized from 20 to 26-inch, all available in Pearly White or Mocha, designed to match with today's popular decor designs. Other  features include a handgrip for carrying, a built-in stand, the Bravia Engine for improved colour, contrast and detail, Virtual Dolby Surround and BBE ViVa audio signal processing, HDMI connectivity (as well as all the other connection you expect) and a built-in digital tuner.

No news on price as yet - that should become clearer when it hits the shelves in the coming weeks.

Find out more at the Sony website

Swedx launches Wood LCD HDTV with surround sound speakers

We love our wood - although I'm not entirely convinced about the merits of the Swedx launches Wood LCD HDTV with surround sound speakers.

Yes, that's an all-wood entertainment system - although there's only so far the wood will go. I can't imagine a wooden screen being much fun. The TV is HD-ready and the speakers off 5.1 surround sound. And so far, that's about as much as is known.

For more, you'll have to keep an eye on the Swedx website. Personally, I'll be holding fire from ordering until there's a wooden DVD player and remote.

Find out more at the Swedx website

Via Nexus 404

Roberts ditches faux leather for metal with the MP-SOUND 41 DAB radio

Roberts DAB radios - they're usually made of wood and faux leather in a 50s style aren't they? Well, usually, but not in the case of the MP-SOUND 41 DAB radio.

It actually keeps the Roberts shape, but goes for more metal and adds one interesting feature - an Electronic Programming Guide (EPG), which means you can browse all the upcoming radio shows, setting any shows you like to record to a memory card, playing back on any device. Other features include pausing live radio and the usual clock/alarm functions.

Expect to pay £139.99.

Find out more at the Roberts Radio website

Boston Acoustics Solo XT DAB radio - go horizontal or vertical

Boston Acoustics has mixed quality audio with cool design to produce the Boston Acoustics Solo XT DAB radio - and you can personalise it to your interior.

Yes, you can replace the grill for one that matches your colour scheme - and again when you re-decorate. On top of that, there's a DAB and FM tuner, quality audio output with BassTrac Variable Bass Boost (for better bass at low volume), connectivity for an iPod, a large graphic display, dual alarms, a unique snooze function (which operates  by touch all over the cabinet) and the clever design - a rotating control that means you can use horizontally or vertically.

All of that for £149.99. Expect to see in late February.

Find out more at the Boston Acoustics website

Beats by Dr Dre headphones - hip hop headwear from the man himself

Never mind producing records, hip hop mogul Dr Dre is currently spending his time flogging technology - Beats by Dr Dre headphones to be precise.

Just announced, these cans are the work of Dre in conjunction with tech firm Monster. According to the marketing blurb, they have a  'unique and avant-garde new look', with the sound tuned by the former NWA man for a 'rich, deep bass'. Want to know more? Well, let's hear from the man himself...

“When I’m making a track I’m trying to capture the sound that makes me go ‘now THAT’s the shit! And I want that reaction from everybody who hears it. I spend a lot of time in the studio listening to my music through headphones…with Beats, people are finally going to hear it the way they should: the way I do.” 

So there you go. Expect them in a couple of months for $400, which is around £200.

Find out more at the Monster website

Griffin Evolve wireless iPod sound system heads to UK

Griffin - makers of all things iPod - is introducing its Evolve wireless sound system to the UK.

Essentially, it turns your iPod into home audio, just plug your iPod into the dock (which also charges it), then play your music through the rechargeable 4-inch wireless speakers - which can be moved up to a range of up to 150ft - playing tunes in a different room if you like. You can even add extra speakers if you want your music all over the house.

The speakers can be played outside the charger for up to 10 hours and everything is controlled by a slimline remote. Expect to see the Evolve from March, with a retail price of £249.99.

Find out more at the Griffin website

Cue Radio - radio and iPod sound system - with looks like an old portable TV

It's the CES in Las Vegas this week, which means lots of new technology on show, some of which will be out soon, while others might only see the light of day next Christmas. This Cue Radio probably belongs to the latter category.

It's a high-end radio, claiming to be the 'best table radio in its class' in terms of sound (even better than the Bose radios apparently). Feature-wise, it has an AM/FM radio, a dock to play and charge your iPod and a small screen that looks like one of those old portable TVs from the early 70s - but in actual fact shows the radio information, time and your iPod music details.

Very stylish and if it sounds as good as claimed, we'll be chasing one down later this year.

Find out more at the Cue Acoustics website

Via Technabob

JVC launches wooden HP-FX500 earphones

According to your average hi-fi buff, wooden cabinets are the thing to have for your high-quality speakers to enhance audio quality. Which is why JVC has introduced its HP-FX500 earphones in a wooden casing.

Does they really sound better? That's impossible to say without grabbing hold of a pair, then comparing with the pair you got free with your music player. But one thing can't be denied - these are probably the most stylish earphones on the market.

Just launched in Japan, they sell for the equivalent of £75. No news of a launch outside of Japan as yet.

Find out more at the JVC website

Scandyna launches special edition 40th anniversary Minipod Jubilee speaker

Scandyna is celebrating 40 years in the audio business - and to celebrate, it has issued a special edition 40th anniversary Minipod Jubilee speaker in strictly limited quantities.

In fact, there's just 200 available, each with its own serial number, gold-plated speaker terminal, gold spike sputnik-style spike feet and gold Scandyna badge. Design-wise, it has three chambers that work together to minimise vibration and distortion, producing a much cleaner audio.

Available now, you can pick one up for £550.

Find out more at the Scandyna website