Messe Berlin IFA

A world premiere at the IFA: satellite mobile TV
A new mobile TV standard is celebrating its first public appearance at the IFA 2007. Known as DVB-SH, this system handles both satellite and terrestrial transmissions to mobile phones and other portable devices. Developed by Alcatel Lucent, this concept combines the advan-tages of both broadcasting methods. Via a geo-stationary satellite DVB-S transmissions can reach large geographical areas at relatively low cost. Local repeaters located in conurbations receive these programs from the sky and relay them via DVB-H terrestrial broadcasting. This  means reliable reception everywhere on portable devices, even indoors. A DVB project development, the DVB-SH standard has been active only since March 2007.
Alcatel Lucent, -Tel.: +49-(0)-228 243 1230 (Martina Grüger-Bühs), mobile: 0171-3020791 (Udo Recke-meyer), hall 5.3, position 11

Interactive satellite broadband access
DSL currently represents the standard for modern internet access. However, until now resi-dents in rural areas have often been unable to gain access to DSL. ASTRA has given these “black holes“ on the map its attention, and in collaboration with Newtec and the European Space Agency (ESA) has developed a technology capable of providing all households – ur-ban or rural – with an interactive DSL line. Known as Astra2Connect, it offers a low-cost al-ternative to terrestrial DSL. The satellite-based infrastructure offers high-speed internet, VoIP telephony and television, and is all contained in a single package at competitive prices. Con-sumers benefit from a low-cost, interactive connection that is permanently switched on. Download rates can achieve 1,024 Kbit/s, while uploads can reach 128 Kbit/s. To be able to use this service users need a PC, an access ID, and only three pieces of hardware: the ASTRA2Connect satellite modem (plug & play) with an ethernet interface, an 80 cm satellite dish and an interactive low noise block (LNB).
Astra, -Tel.: +49-(0)-89- 0 89-18 96 21 21, mobile: 0170-4585622 (Friedrich-Karl Reichardt) , hall 26/2, position 221

Perfect movie theatre sounds without speakers
With the introduction of the Headzone® system, acoustic specialist beyerdynamic from Heil-bronn has completely reworked the surround sound headphone concept. The most important feature is the patented head tracking function which reacts to the wearer’s head movements and automatically adapts spatial impressions in real time. Thus the listener will still experi-ence an actor’s voice on TV as coming from the set in front of him even after turning his head sideways. Normal headphones carry the audio source around inside them, which is an ob-stacle to experiencing natural surround sound. Complex internal processing of this kind not only produces perfect left/right and front/rear orientation, it also always results in a perfect spatial impression for movie fans, regardless of how unfavourable the room acoustics may be at home. The sophisticated Room Modelling feature also improves listening to stereo hi-fi music programs. The headphones reproduce the audio triangle between listener and speak-ers so that even hi-fi enthusiasts get their money’s worth.
beyerdynamic, -Tel.: +49-(0)-89-12 000-178, mobile: 0172-8900981 (Ursula Hinkel), hall 2.2, position 102

A compact camera for super sharp 12 megapixel photos

Casio has a whole range of exciting innovations on display at the IFA, among them a compact camera with impressive specifications: the EXILIM Zoom EX-Z1200, as this pocket-sized lightweight is called, takes 12.1 megapixel photos. Its extremely fine raster permits poster-size prints. A CCD shift system mechanically stabilises the camera, avoiding blurred images. An extra bright 7.1 cm wide-screen TFT colour display makes it easier than ever to look at photos and subjects, even in bright light conditions.

A DVD laptop with an iPod docking station
An iPod and a portable DVD player – in the eyes of Daewoo an unbeatable combination. This is the entertainment unit which the company’s new DPC-8099PD-I represents, an inno-vation on display at the IFA. This is an elegantly designed flat DVD laptop with an iPod dock-ing station on board. Users can enjoy this portable music machine’s sound via built-in stereo speakers or headphones. An 8-inch TFT LCD screen handles the videos. The controls on the DVD player make light work of operating the iPod. The DPC-8099PD-I plays DVD, VCD, CD and CD-R/RW optical media, and supports MP3, JPG und DivX audio/video formats. In addi-tion to discs and iPod music archives it features other sources for listening and viewing: a card reader for SDs, MMCs and memory sticks lets the user import audio/video files, and connecting a flash drive to the USB slot gives access to other media content.
Daewoo, -Tel.: +49-(0)-6033 9691-80, mobile: 0172-6201712 (Thomas Hey), hall 7.2b, position 

A high-tech compact cinema

Compact, attractively styled and brimming with high-end technology – that is the impression of Denon’s new S-302 all-in-one home cinema system. Two speakers and a subwoofer are all it needs to create impressive and precise surround sound. A built-in Dolby virtual speaker system takes care of that. The DVD player drive inside the electronic module transmits image signals to a signal processor from Faroudja, which using progressive scan scales them to a full-screen 1080-line image – ideal for high definition flat screens. A USB port lets users connect a hard drive or flash drive to play music or look at images. This compact home cinema even incorporates a network and WLAN interface, enabling it to retrieve images, music and films stored on the hard drive of a server hooked up to the network.

IPTV – a new era of interactive TV

At the Deutsche Telekom stand (103, Hall 6.2) the focus at this year’s IFA is entirely on IPTV – interactive, internet-based TV. The same goes for the company’s research arm, Deutsche Telekom Laboratories. The researchers at this institution have a whole array of exciting, IPTV innovations on display at the Science and Technology Forum (TWF) in Hall 5.3. One of their exhibits demonstrates how voice and image communications can be incorporated into T-Home’s IPTV service. A futuristic scenario shows a person watching a TV program, at which point the screen signals an incoming video (or conventional) phone call. He has the option of interrupting the program and to accept or reject the call, all of which is done on-screen with a T-home remote control. Another exhibit shows advertising options using IPTV, with an IPTV shopping scenario. An IPTV platform can offer personalised advertising tailored exactly to a customer’s needs. Using the T-home remote control, shoppers can request additional information and place their orders. This works using a cart, which the user can fill with products from a shopping portal featuring similar functions to those found in customary online shops. Users can also order the articles which they can see on TV. Unlike conventional teleshopping there is no need to pick up a phone – a T-Home remote control takes care of all that.

Inconvenient volume adjustments are now a thing of the past
Everyone knows the situation and hates it. The plot of a TV thriller is nearing the crucial mo-ment, with soft background music accompanying the suspense, and all eyes are transfixed on what will happen next. Suddenly a commercial break rips through the scene, with glaring colours and at deafening volume. Dolby has the remedy at hand, one that at least alleviates the acoustic shock. The sound specialists have developed an electronic system that auto-matically balances differences in volume. Known as Dolby Volume, this new system works not only with commercials, but also handles different volume when you change channels or switch reception devices. None of a programs’ typical sound or character is lost, and equally the volume of dialogue remains constant. Dolby Volume not only balances the volume, but takes a whole range of other parameters into account, including the volume of dialogue and the fact that the human ear experiences low, mid-range and high frequencies in different ways at different volume levels. Thus, depending on the volume, the system influences fre-quency response and dynamic effect, always reproducing sounds that are as natural, faithful and pleasing as possible.
Dolby, -Tel.: +44-(0)-1793 842120, mobile: +44-7795-823302 (Laura Nuttal), hall Gr. Stern, position VIP-Room 1

Speaker membranes like crystals
Loudspeaker specialists ELAC from Kiel have taken a major step forward in the ongoing quest for perfect sound. At the IFA 2007 the company is presenting the first speaker range  featuring crystal membranes – a new type of membrane with a particularly broad frequency range. This characteristic offers greater flexibility for tuning the frequency filter, filling listening areas more evenly with sound and rendering speaker positioning a less critical issue. Re-gardless of where the listener is in the room, the sound is both clear and natural.  To achieve this, ELAC has designed a new generation of transducer systems for low and mid-range fre-quencies. The aluminium membranes are recognisable by their crystal-like surface. ELAC is not simply confining this new technology with three-dimensional tuning capabilities to high- end products, but has also incorporated it in the budget end of the price range.
ELAC, -Tel.: +49-(0)-431 64774-15, mobile: 0171-7580878 (Dorothee Thomanek), Stand-Tel.-Nr.: 030-30107395, hall 1.2, position 109

A satellite receiver for every type of broadcast
A broader range of programs, an individual program choice and interactivity are among the options offered by second-generation digital TV. However, the necessary circumstances need to be coordinated for all these options to succeed on the market. In the case of satellite reception they include a neutral receiver for all free TV and subscription TV services, and a Smartcard for receiving subscription TV from various broadcasters. entavio, the new digital satellite platform, can handle all of this. As a receiver for all types of broadcasts, it puts an end to the jumble of multiple systems in the living room and guarantees TV viewing for years ahead. entavio will be launched on 1 September, and starts up broadcasting Premiere. A wide range of entavio satellite receivers from various manufacturers will be available on the market immediately.
Entavio, -Tel.: +49-(0)-89-1896-1896, mobile: 0163-7688887 (Silke Goedereis), hall 26a, position 221

Tomorrow’s television in 3D – the technology already exists

At the Fraunhofer Institute HHI (Heinrich Hertz Institute) visitors to the IFA can experience television of the distant future: a flat screen that projects 3-D images inside the room. What is so special about the results of the Free2C research project conducted by scientists in Berlin is that no special aids (spectacles) are needed for 3-D viewing. The system detects where the viewer is located (electronic tracking), and adapts the way the images are replicated to give him a perfect impression of 3-D. The 3-D images are on view in the Science and Technology Forum (TWF), the IFA Competence Center for Future Technologies in Hall 5.3.

Videotext on radio

For all visitors to the IFA interested in technology of the future a visit to the Science and Technology Forum (TWF) in Hall 5.3 is almost a must. This is where scientists from the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits (IIS), the research establishment instrumental in developing the MP3 format, are demonstrating the possible shape of future information services that will accompany radio programs. Their solution is Journaline – and it works in a similar way to videotext on radio. This information service offers intuitive and selective access to text information by subject, broadcast over digital radio. Incorporating this feature in Drm, DMB, or DAB receivers is simple and cheap. At this IFA Journaline will demonstrate optimised voice output for the first time. Along with a voice input feature this makes Journaline an ideal extra for cars.

A legendary round speaker design that defined a cult

They were the cult speakers of the seventies: Grundig Audiorama spherical stereo speakers. Four speaker systems inside a spherical housing produced a completely new sound experience, but also a design object that even today has lost none of its fascination. To mark Max Grundig’s 100th birthday the Nürnberg-based company is bringing back the legendary Audiorama to its product range in 2008, with new technology and a modern design. Visitors to the IFA will be able to see and listen to these cult objects now. In contrast to the original Audiorama the horizontal plane of the new model is more elliptical, for best positioning of the chassis units. As in the seventies, the 2008 Audiorama has four speakers per housing, variously angled for 360-degree sound distribution and an unparalleled audio experience. A special design protects the tweeters from sound pressure from the subwoofers.

Have fun watching TV outdoors

Formula 1 in the garden? A crime movie on the balcony? Coral reefs in the log cabin? With the portable LCD-TV Davio7, new from Grundig at this year’s IFA, you can combine summer, sunshine and fun watching TV, wherever you are. Features such as digital DVB-T and an analogue tuner mean that you no longer have to be home to watch TV. The ideal set for TV fanatics and outdoor enthusiasts. The Grundig Davio7 is tiny in size but technically a fully grown and up-to-the-minute LCD TV. It has a built-in digital DVB-T tuner as well as an analogue multi-system tuner, for reception under any conditions. The set’s 7-inch, 720 x 576 pixel LCD screen reproduces brilliant images with precise detail.

Spray only once and your CD will work again
How annoying when your CD drive can no longer read a disc because scratches and dirt are obstructing the laser. Help is on its way with a repair and protect spray from Hama for CDs and DVDs. Simply spray on and wipe off, starting from the edge and working inwards to the centre, using a lint-free cloth supplied. Dirt and dust are carefully removed, small scratches are repaired, and the CD will work again.
Hama, -Tel.: +49-(0)-9091-502-913, tel. on stand: 030-303884000 (Yasmine Thurner) , hall 10.2, position 101

An electronics manager for a high-definition cinema

Harman Kardon is showing a new AV receiver in Berlin which is perfect for managing an impressive high-definition home cinema. The AVR 347 uses 7.1 channels – perfectly adapted for use with new HD video media. The two switchable HDMI inputs on the receiver can process HD video signals up to 1080p. A built-in processor by well-known specialist Faroudja takes care of standard-resolution moving images, for example from a DVD. It scales signals up to a 720-line full-screen image, transmits them to the display via HMDI outputs, visibly improving image quality. The AVR 347 also processes multi-channel sound via HDMI inputs. A special automatic calibrating system developed by Harman Kardon ensures that the audio playback adjusts precisely to the room’s acoustics. IPod fans will welcome a special interface for a comfortable link between the much-loved player and this receiver. The iPod’s operating menu appears on the receiver display as well as on the connected screen. The Harman Kardon remote control can be used to easily control this mobile jukebox.

World premiere: the first camcorder with a Blu-ray drive
As far as Hitachi is concerned, high-definition videos and Blu-ray discs belong together. The company is presenting its BD70 at the IFA, the world’s first camcorder for recording images on 8 cm Blu-ray discs. And there is more: at 5.3 megapixels, the resolution achieved by the integrated image sensor is a record, enabling the camcorder to display genuine full HD vid-eos at 1920 x 1080 pixels. After recording, no further processing is necessary to play these  Blu-ray discs in a Blu-ray-Disc player. The drive supports numerous formats, and records DVD blanks as DVD-RAM, DVD-R or DVD+RW, and so is fully compatible with both types of optical media.
Hitachi, -Tel.: +49-(0)-89-380179-53, mobile: 0163-4203193 (Doris Lösel), hall 23, position 102

An all-in-one travel guide and sat-nav

The Merian Scout Navigator is here, on display at the IFA 2007. As a Personal Travel Assistant (PTA) this combination of a sat-nav system and travel guide sets new standards. This intelligent travel companion is the only product on the sat-nav market to supply GPS audio guides, which automatically play when you pass by any one of more than 800 places of interest in Germany, be it in a vehicle or on foot. The Merian Scout Navigator also has a high-definition 3.7 inch VGA display, which shows Merian and Feinschmecker’s comprehensive travel information in crystal clear detail. Included are photos of places of interest, hotels, restaurants and city views. The capacitive touchscreen of the Merian Scout Navigator is extremely easy to operate and reacts to the slightest touch. Within the sat-nav market this is a solution currently offered only by Merian Scout. The device menu is designed for intuitive use and ensures easy operation. The travel companion’s easy-swap battery allows mains-free running times from four to eight hours. The Merian Scout Navigator comes with pre-installed maps from Navteq that cover all of Europe (as per Q1/2007), a TMC traffic delay warning system, and optionally TMC pro. This travel companion is ready for use immediately after you switch on for the first time.

Professional speaker technology meets design

For those fans of music and home cinema not wishing to miss out either on a professional system with outstanding sound quality, or on elegant design, American speaker specialist JBL has an entirely new range of products that combines the two. The JBL ES series is on view at the IFA. The new speakers have adopted professional technology which includes an EOS (Elliptical Oblate Spheroidal) waveguide and FreeFlow bass reflex technology. Among the design features of this new series are a housing tapering to the rear, and a speaker baffle curving elegantly to become part of the upper housing, for efficient acoustic reduction of backwaves. Super tweeters, titanium-laminate tweeters and specially reinforced and dampened housings produce true and clear sound even at high volume. A combination of a single shelf or wall mounted compact speaker, two shelf mounted speakers, three floor units, one central speaker and two active subwoofers, all tuned to the same standard, means the listener has a huge range of options.

High-definition videos from three recording chips
A new high-definition camcorder from the extremly compact Everio range is among the JVC highlights on display at the IFA. This high-tech midget, sold as the GZ-HD3, captures moving images with three 16:9 recording chips, achieving an HD video resolution of 1440 x 1080 pixles. The camera uses a bulit-in 60 gigabyte hard drive to store data, sufficient for 7 hours recording time. The HD lens by Konica Minolta is a special and major contribution in terms of image quality enhancement on the GZ-HD3. This high-performance zoom (10x optical zoom / 200x digital zoom) has aspherical hybrid lenses which, thanks to special glass, produce very little diffuses light or aberrations. Their spacing-saving dimensions are also responsible for the camcorder´s extremely small size. This tiny travel companion can also be used as a digital photo camera. Its hard drive stores up to 9,999 images at resolutions of up to 1920 x 1080 pixels.

JVC, -Tel.: +49-(0)-60 31 -939-270 (Jürgen Wilkin), hall 5.2, position 104

A multimedia mobile phone with lots of tasty features

A tasty feast for eyes and ears. With its elegant, chocolate bar design, an FM radio, Bluetooth stereo, multi-tasking capabilities and a wide display, the Chocolate Multimedia (KU580) mobile phone from LG is a real breeze. Inside the slim casing is lots of room for the ultimate in entertainment features, along with 45 MB storage, to which a 256MB Micro SD card (supplied) can be added if required. At nine hours playing time the battery has the extra stamina for long music sessions. In terms of  phone calls that means a continuous five hours. A 2 megapixel camera for photos and videos, a VGA camera for video telephony, and various other UMTS features round off the specifications of the new LG Multimedia Chocolate.

Total control of TV viewing times

Watching TV is so yesterday. The innovations at the IFA among LG’s hard drive equipped LCD and plasma TVs guarantee total control over the evening’s viewing. The new large-scale, high-definition LT85 (LCD) and PT85 (plasma) TV sets have built-in digital video recorders. Users can stop, rewind and restart a program they are watching at the touch of a button, whenever they want. The 160 GB hard drive stores up to 86 hours of TV. LG flat-screen TVs are especially easy to operate, and the built-in recorder not only saves space, but does away with complex setting up and leads. Other extras are an integrated hybrid tuner for DVB-T and analogue cable TV.

HDTV TV as a networked media centre

Loewe has transformed a TV set into an intelligent, networked media centre – a concept called Loewe Connect. Not only are the Connect models packed with innovative technology – Loewe has three sizes, 32 to 42 inches, on display at the IFA – their modern design is just as impressive, and in particular will attract young buyers. With connectivity features for communicating with portable devices such as digital cameras and MP3 players, and even PC networks, the Connect models are blazing a new trail. With their built-in network media player, Connect Media models can also retrieve photos, images and videos from a PC or a network storage medium – assisted by an integrated HDTV tuner for high-definition image and sound quality.  Standard specifications on Loewe Connect models include an easy-access USB interface for USB flash drives, multi-card readers, external hard drives or digital cameras. The Connect Media also has an ethernet interface and a WLAN module for wireless connections to a media server PC or a network storage medium. The Connect Media DR+ rounds off the luxury end of the range. This model also has an integrated hard disk recorder, which can even record HDTV programs.

Surround sound from an acoustic projector

Loewe is presenting a genuine highlight at the IFA for all those who want fascinating home cinema sound without the trouble of installing a complicated speaker system: the Individual Sound Projector. This slim, flat, high-tech speaker and all-in-one module produces overwhelming, genuine 5.1 surround sound. Complicated adjustments are a thing of the past as the Loewe Individual Sound Projector does it all on its own. It analyses the room’s acoustics, directs part of the sound to reach the listener directly, and part of it to reflect from the walls, for a perfect listening experience. The Sound Projector produces unique surround sound from sources such as TV, DVDs and other digital equipment. This good-looking sound machine is available in platinum and anthracite tones.

A hard drive and HDTV receiver on board

Metz has added a new dimension to television with its new line of Linus LCD TVs. Both models in the range combine the advantages of cutting-edge LCD technology and the best attributes of 100 Hertz systems. They enable HDTV reception, and with the Linus 32 HDTV 100 R an integrated hard disk offers luxury features such as time-shifted TV. The brightest of possible futures – thanks to perfect images and a hard disk solution whose many functions mean the viewer no longer has to keep checking TV timetables. A double hybrid tuner for cable and antenna reception (DVB-C/DVB-T) is incorporated on the Linus models, ideal for reception in any location.

Full HD home cinema projectors for the discerning movie fan
Taking as its slogan “My home is my cinema“, Mitsubishi Electric is presenting the latest generation of its LCD projectors at the IFA 2007: uncompromising projectors capable of full HD resolution at 1920 x 1080 pixels. This year the HC5000, which already premiered at the IFA 2006, is joined by the HC6000 and HC4900, completing Mitsubishi’s high-end triple line up. Incorporating full HD LCD panels and a completely new auto-iris function, the HC6000 features an outstanding contrast ratio of 12.000:1 and projects realistic images and ex-tremely fine detail even onto shady surfaces. At 19 dB the operating noise level is almost inaudible. The connections are geared to reproducing full HD as well, with two HDMI 1.3 in-terfaces as standard. For keen movie fans the sophisticated technology on board the HC6000 guarantees an even bigger and more realistic home viewing experience.
Another all new projector, the HC4900 rounds off the full HD range at the other end. With 3LCD technology, an auto iris function and a brightness level of 1,000 ANSI Lumen it pro-jects bright, realistic, high-contrast images. The fan noise on the HC4900 is an equally whis-pering 19 dB. These new projectors are being presented in screening rooms set up for this purpose. In collaboration with Paramount Home Entertainment Germany, Mitsubishi Electric will be screening some of the latest blockbusters in full HD.

Mitsubishi Electric, -Tel.: +49-(0)- 211-1781-705, mobile: 0172-2485413 (Melanie Klein-Hitpaß), hall 26, position 201/202

The best things to see come before a journey’s end
Sat-nav specialist NAVIGON is presenting its 7100/7110 flagship at the IFA, technically and in design terms a highlight of the show. It offers a perfect balance between complex technol-ogy and simplicity. Intuitive functions and an extra large 16:9 touchscreen make sure users are always in the picture. A built-in traffic avoidance feature is automatic and free, so the road ahead is always clear. A traffic lane assistant and Reality View functions ensure the driver stays in control. A Schöne Route (pretty route) function lets the driver explore the pret-tiest roads, be it for pure enjoyment or while travelling to one of 2 million special places of interest, offering even great diversity.
Navigon, -Tel.: +49-(0)-40-370 88-450, mobile: 0172-4597181 (Petra Schultze), hall 8.1, position 111

A dream start to the high-definition era of the future
Onkyo is heading into the high-definition era of the future at the IFA with its first HD-DVD player, the DV-HD805. Perfectly styled to match the home cinema receivers on the market, it comes with the latest version of an 1.3a HDMI output. In practical terms it means that this high-end player can output the latest, lossless high-resolution audio formats (DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD) as a bit stream, a perfect way to complement the Dolby TrueHD und DTS-HD Master Audio decoders built into a number of Onkyo AV receivers (TX-SR605, TX-SR805, TX-SR875, TX-NR905) currently marketed – a perfect start to a new audiovisual era.
Onkyo, -Tel.: +49-(0)-8142-4401-200, Stand-Tel.-Nr.: 030-30107395 (Peter Kafitz), hall 1.2, position 109a

A long-range view for great photo subjects

In order to get a whole group of friends on the same holiday snap a digital camera needs a proper wide-angle zoom. Only a few cameras genuinely fulfil this requirement. Among them are two innovations from Panasonic on show at the IFA, two super compact 8 megapixel cameras, the Lumix DMC-FX55 and DMC-FX33. In actual numbers, this means the focal distance of the built-in Leica zoom ranges from 28 to100 mm (calculated as for a miniature camera). Despite its tiny dimensions (94.9 x 57.1 x 22.8 mm), the FX55 has an above-average size LC monitor (7.6 cm), while the tried and tested 6.35 cm LC monitor on the FX33 permits an even slimmer design. The dignified looks and high-quality impression of the FX55 and FX33 reflect the inner qualities of these Lumix models which feature new and practical automatic functions.

Writable Blu-ray Disc at 4x normal read/write speed

Blu-ray discs (BD-R) achieving 4x read/write speed are among the highlights from Panasonic at the IFA. The LM BR25LDE single rewritable disc stores up to 25 GB. A dual-layer 50 GB version, the LM BR50LDE, is also on display in Berlin. With the introduction of 4x BD drives these new discs can read and write data at four times the standard speed, enabling users to handle large amounts of data or high-definition movies with the greatest of ease. The maximum data transfer rate of these new 4x discs is 144 Megabits per second, which means that copying 1 GB of data takes one minute, a task which a 2x DVD-RW disc takes six minutes to complete.

A new digital drive for perfect high-definition image quality

Two components are required for perfect images: a top-quality flat screen and digital management for perfect handling of every image source. Philips combines both –spectacularly so with the 32PFL9632D LCD TV. Boasting a 32-inch screen, this innovation at the IFA is a premiere: it is the first model to be equipped with a particularly sophisticated innovation for improving image quality, known as the Perfect Pixel HD Engine. This stands for an array of technologies which guarantee the best possible quality from all sources and a hitherto unsurpassed HD viewing experience. Philips’ 100Hz ClearLCD technology is the decisive enhancement that prevents blurring of quickly moving objects. The Perfect Pixel HD Engine also improves colour quality, and handles four billion colours, a level of differentiation that reproduces even the most subtle of differences in especially natural tones.

A portable multimedia station

Exciting entertainment for a journey by car or plane: in addition to playing DVDs, Philips’ new portable DCP750 DVD player also has a docking connection for bringing Apple iPod videos and sounds to a swivelling, 18 cm wide-screen display. Featuring a card reader slot, this multi-talented player can also reproduce MPEG 4 movies or images stored on SD flash cards. Naturally it also plays numerous types of discs such as home recorded  DVDs, audio CDs and (S)VCDs. This compact, lightweight and elegant entertainment station comes with a car adapter plug, for uninterrupted enjoyment over long journeys as well. Whenever the device is not connected to a mains supply, a built-in battery ensures 2.5 hours of playing time, ideal for a feature-length film or several episodes of a TV series. The DCP750 has something extra for all iPod fans. This multi-talented DVD player can charge a connected iPod while it is playing. A remote control ensures easy control and navigation.

Virtual worlds for video gamers

Philips’ amBX software for PCs gets gamers’ pulses racing. amBX opens up new realms for PC screens and brings the gaming experience closer to real life. It gives gamers a total-surround sensory experience, which they can set up during configuration by choosing numerous effects. amBX makes use of light in various colours, sounds, vibration, and even air currents to add to the action and enhance the gaming experience. The first peripheral devices for PCs to be compatible with amBX comprise a pair of satellite lamps for the left and right side, a 2.1 speaker set, consisting of satellite speakers with built-in lights and subwoofer, a pair of tabletop fans, a vibrator unit for the gamers’ wrists, and a wall uplighter which doubles as a central controller. The peripheral devices come in silver and graphite tones. Philips amBX PC peripherals are no problem to install and easy to control with user-friendly software. The configuration manager allows gamers to precisely adjust the intensity of the various effects, matching the location of the particular device.

An unmatched screen contrast ratio
The eighth generation of Pioneer’s high-end plasma TVs is on display at the IFA 2007 – with images of breathtaking quality. The outstanding feature of these new models is an unparalleled screen contrast ratio which gives images depth, clarity and a natural look. Pioneer called the new technology program for developing these new sets ”kuro“, the Japanese word for “black”. The results are there for all to see. Black appears in much more intense shades, colours are more lively, details are sharper. Pioneer has managed to achieve a picture quality that currently has no equal. For black to be so intense it was necessary to create an environment unable to reflect either colour or light. Thus the screen contrast ratio of Pioneer plasma TVs is an unmatched 20.000:1.
Pioneer, -Tel. +49-(0)2154-913-276 (Maik Hildebrandt), hall 1.2, position 101

A mini camera for recording high-definition videos

Samsung’s HD camcorder is one of the smallest recording devices among the innovations at the IFA 2007, but its technical capabilities are worth noting. The VP-HMX10A records super sharp moving images at a high-definition resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. It compresses images using the highly efficient MPEG 4 standard (H.264), which was designed for recording HDTV images. A 10x optical zoom fills the screen with impressive detail even when filming from a very long distance. The new HD model has a 4 Gigabyte flash card for saving images, and for additional storage other SD cards can be used. To ensure that creating a good film is childsplay the Samsung designers attached great importance to easy operation and clear menus. Even before switching on the VP-HMX10A, pressing the ”i-check“ button shows the battery charge status. If power is sufficient, then using the Quick Start function one can start up immediately and be sure not to miss out on even one good picture, as the time lapse between switching on and recording is only 3 seconds. A swivelling handle ensures that users can hold this small, lightweight camera  firmly and without wobbling at all times, which is crucial to recording flawless images.

A multi-format player for both HD formats – HD-DVD and Blu-ray disc
Samsung has brought a technical sensation to the IFA, the BD-UP5000 multi-format HD Player. This is currently the world’s only HD player capable of playing both video and multimedia content from the two high-definition formats, HD-DVD and Blu-ray disc. High-definition promises pure enjoyment of the highest quality. However, in spite of a huge public interest in high-end home cinema, until now enthusiasts have been wary of making purchases, due to uncertainty caused by the rivalry between the two standards, HD-DVD and Blu-ray, neither of which is compatible with the other. Samsung’s move means that one need no longer wait. With the arrival of the BD-UP5000 hybrid HD player this manufacturer has a device that not only promises a secure investment for the future, but keeps its promise as well.
Samsung, -Tel.: +49-(0)911-530 63 0 (Sabrina Löhr), hall 20, position 

An unbelievable sound machine in your hand luggag
Sennheiser is presenting the PXC 450 at the IFA, new travel headphones which combine the superior audio quality of a model with ear surround-pads together with interference-free sounds. The result is that plane or train noises do not impede the listener’s enjoyment – all this is taken care of by a technology called NoiseGard. This feature captures extraneous sounds with tiny, built-in microphones, generates a counter-signal, and with this additional data neutralises unwanted background noises. To ensure that travellers stay in contact, the PXC 450 has a so-called TalkTrough function, an option which allows a caller to be put through using the microphone, making it easy for a conversation to take place without removing the headphones. An innovation that is among the highlights at this year’s IFA, it can be quickly folded for carrying in one’s travel luggage.
Sennheiser, -Tel.: +49-(0)-5130-600-329 (Edelgard Marquardt), hall 3.2, position 107

Tall and slim – an LCD beauty ideal
Sharp’s AQUOS XL2E series fulfils home cinema enthusiasts’ dreams. In terms of technol-ogy, the screens of this new and stylish full HD TV generation are more than everything that movie watchers could wish for. The sets are three additional highlights in the Sharp full HD line up, and are available in screen sizes of 42, 46 and 52 inches. With 100 Hertz technol-ogy, very fast panel reaction times and a large number of connections to hook up other de-vices, the standard equipment on these sets is impressive.
A new, ultra slim design houses the screen. The visible screen diagonal has grown, but the outer dimensions of the sets have hardly changed, so that the LC-46XL2E is only marginally larger than previous Sharp LCD models with a 42-inch screen. At 100/120 Hertz the frame rate has doubled in speed, and in combination with Sharp Quick Shoot technology even fast-moving images are as clear and crisp as could possibly be. AQUOS XL2E are 24p-compatible, and so reproduce images to Hollywood studio perfection without loss of quality and without the need for upscaling. The images are so realistic that viewers imagine actors to be directly opposite inside the living room. The set automatically detects films stored at 24 images per second. These can be played with 24p-compatible devices such as Sharp’s new BD-HP20S Blu-Ray player.

Sharp, -Tel.: +49-(0)40-2376 2215; mobile: +49-(0)173-6287804 (Martin Beckmann), hall 3.2, position 101

Music in every room
Rarely has audio technology been so elegantly packaged and so easy to operate as the Sonos Digital Music System (DMS). At the IFA 2007 this manufacturer shows how a central control unit accesses music archived in up to 16 digital or analogue sources, via wireless connection. The music can be taken from sources as varied as MP3 or CD players, stereo systems, PCs, notebooks or Macs, internet radio stations or even online audio subscription services. The Sonos DMS reproduces digital music files from a home network or the internet and transmits them over a wireless connection to ZonePlayers up to 32 rooms away – lords and owners of palaces need not worry. The centrepiece of the Sonos DMS is the Sonos Controller CR100 with a 3.5 inch LCD colour display capable of allocating an individual music selection and  sound volume to each room. An audio book in the bathroom, lounge music in the living room, or pop music in the kitchen, with a few routine keys and a touch of the scroll wheel the Sonos Controller CR100 makes navigating the intuitive menus childsplay, even without reading the operating manual.
Sonos, -Tel.: +49-(0)-89-4444674-66 (Jürgen Rast), hall 17, position 207

As small as a golf ball – a new speaker with sounds to fill a whole room

Sony is presenting a unique system at the IFA, the BRAVIA Theatre DAV-IS10 home cinema which produces 5.1 channel sound using tiny speakers. With a subwoofer and five tweeters barely larger than golf balls and discreetly distributed in the living room, this elegantly designed system producing 550 watts is impressive. Only 21 cm wide and a little over 10 cm high, the control unit of the DAV-IS10 contains a DVD/CD/MP3 player, an RDS FM and medium wave tuner and a sound processor. Via an HDMI interface an integrated upscaler transmits DVD signals in high-definition quality (up to 1080 pixels) to a TV set.

Five full HD series, and natural colour second to none
The arrival of Sony’s BRAVIA series of full HD LCD TVs means that fans of high-definition viewing are in for a great time. Altogether, this dazzling array of innovations comprises 13 models with screen sizes ranging from 40 to 70 inches, all of which are capable of reproduc-ing 1080 lines in full-screen mode, i.e. full HD. The images which the DL-70X3500, the 70-inch BRAVIA flagship, is capable of displaying are nothing short of breathtaking. This is the first BRAVIA model to use Sony’s new Triluminos LED background illumination – achieving the most intense and natural colours ever seen on a BRAVIA. Recognisable by the X3500 and X3000 logo identifying the series, all these top of the range models among the red hot innovations at the IFA have even more technical highlights to offer: Motionflow +100Hz high frame rate technology ensures that fast screen movement appears as flowing motion, and 24p True Cinema lets viewers play Hollywood movies on Blu-ray disc at 24 frames per sec-ond, faithfully reproducing original studio quality, assuming of course that the player is 24p-compatible.
Sony, -Tel.: +49-(0)30-25754067, Stand-Tel.: +49 (0)30 303887071 (Harald Rätzer), hall 7.2, position 

Smile an even nicer smile: wide-angle cameras with a Smile Shutter function
Two new digital Cybershot cameras from Sony automatically can now capture your happiest moments. With their Smile Shutter function both the DSC-T70 and DSC-T200 will detect a smile and capture it, with no need to press a button. Before a picture of the whole family can be taken, the main person in the display, previously selected via touchscreen, has to smile before the camera shutter triggers. This lets you capture up to six ”happy moments”. This feature means that even the self-timer function takes on a charm of its own kind: no need to rush back to the group, and no photographer gets caught unawares in motion. Thanks to the Smile Shutter program you can automatically trigger the self-timer with a smile, and perfect self portraits and group photos are guaranteed. An integrated face recognition function also enhances portraits, automatically adjusting all the camera settings, from shutter speed to flash. The improved autofocus and face recognition function promise wonderfully sharp por-traits with natural complexions – even in bad light, using tele settings or with moving objects.
Sony, -Tel.: +49-(0)30-25754054 (Marthe Leppin), Stand-Tel.: +49 (0)30 30388707, hall 7.2, position 

An all-in-one music centre – internet radio, network player and iPod station

TerraTec is displaying a compact music centre at the IFA that defies categorisation. Even the name – TerraTec calls its innovation NOXON 2 radio for iPod –  is insufficient indication of all the capabilities of this digital all-in-one entertainment system. This compact device combines the functions of a conventional FM radio, an internet radio tuner, a home network music player and, lest it be ignored, also acts as docking station for an iPod. This multi-talented machine can make wireless contact with a multimedia computer or the internet via a built-in WLAN station, and users can play digital music from a USB flash drive or removable hard disk connected to the built-in USB interface.

Sharp, flowing movements on a large-scale screen

With its new LCD TVs, Toshiba has directed its attention at screen movements appearing sharp and flowing. Thus the company has equipped its high-end Z series REGZA models with a version of the 100Hz Active ion M100 image enhancement system, which recalculates 100 hertz images to full HD. The new chip managing this 100 hertz solution calculates intermediate images so as to perfectly match the movements on screen. Future Toshiba LCD TVs will be able to display movements in full HD with perfectly sharp edges. The company has also added a feature known as a Film Judder Canceller to its digital signal processing methods. This eliminates visual juddering which can occur whenever an HD player runs videos at 24 frames per second, the speed of a movie theatre motion picture. New Z series REGZA TV sets are available with 37 to 57 inch screens.

The first multimedia notebook with an HD-DVD recording drive
Toshiba’s new Qosmio model may be billed as a notebook at the IFA, but in reality it is a complete home entertainment system with the functions of a genuine all-in-one home cinema system. The design of this latest version of the Qosmio series hints at its special multimedia features. Elegantly clad in black and white this notebook has prestige, and not only when it sits in the study. A multimedia station with style, it blends in with every living room interior. The first in the range to be newly designed, the Qosmio G40-11L now has an HD-DVD recording drive. The NVIDIA® GeForce® 8600M GT graphics board guarantees outstanding graphics and video reproduction. The basic concept of this product family remains 4-in-1 home entertainment, combining the functions of an LCD TV, a virtual surround sound system, an HDD/DVD recorder and PC in a single housing, along with a 17-inch screen. Intel® Centrino® Duo processor technology in combination with an Intel® Core™2 Duo T7300 processor guarantee a high standard of multimedia performance. The formidably sized 400 GB (2x 200 GB) hard drive is also capable of satisfying multimedia demands.
Toshiba, -Tel.: +49-(0)-02131-158 107 (Tanya Quijano), hall 21a, position 

More quality and diversity on digital radio

The digital radio standard DAB has gained an offspring. DAB+ is a new radio system which transmits sound using the more efficient MPEG 4 compression standard. This means that radio stations can pack even more broadcasts into an existing frequency range. And what is more they can use this superior compression method to achieve even better sound quality. For the first time, trinloc is displaying sets at the IFA which can receive transmissions using either standard, DAB or DAB+, giving visitors an opportunity to experience a genuine premiere and compare the differences in quality at first hand, until now a purely theoretical argument.

A design object and speaker all in one

Xounts is the first sound system to combine perfect stereophonic sound with interior design that can be personalised to individual tastes. Ultra-modern NXT speaker technology transforms the entire housing into a membrane, enabling perfect sound to be heard through a range of 360 degrees with only a single box. The 2.1 system distributes sound evenly in all directions, creating perfect stereo sound in every  room. Xounts is compatible with almost every analogue and digital system, regardless of interfaces and communication paths: one speaker for all devices. Digital wireless communications and a system that is extremely easy to operate let the listener experience the advantages of ultra-modern sound technology. By substituting replaceable covers, so-called Styles, Xounts can be quickly given a different and individual look that can be modified at any time, entirely to one’s own personal tastes. New collections of Styles appear at regular intervals, offering an ever-expanding range of new design options. A lighting system fitted inside turns Xounts into a light source that gives an atmosphere to every room concept. Xounts is a design object and speaker all in one.