High-end speaker systems bring quality sound to home computers

Article Abstract:

Sonigistix's $229 Monsoon, the most advanced computer speakers to maximize 3-D audio sound, challenge high-end component system speakers in quality. The system consists of two highly-directional, flat-panel speakers and a subwoofer unit. Monsoon's 4-inch by 8-inch flat-panel satellite speakers, which are placed at 30 degrees upward on both sides of the user's monitor, distinguish themselves by directing sounds to the rear and forward despite their half-inch thickness. The subwoofer fits under the desk and handles both stereo channels's bass sounds below 200Hz. Articulating 3-D audio is where the speakers stand out. Monsoon can create the illusion of urban sounds relative to the on-screen character's placement among sound sources as well as buildings and other reflective sources. Users must determine the optimum site for sound convergence in front of the monitor, given a relatively small listening area.

Speaker Systems (Pkgd Units), Evaluation, Product/Service Evaluation, Product information, Hardware single product review, Loudspeakers, Computer speaker, Computer speakers, Sonigistix Corp., Sonigistix Monsoon (Computer speaker)

---

Microsoft pushing to alter standard for digital TV

Article Abstract:

The FCC's adoption of the 'Grand Alliance' digital TV standard could be in jeopardy as a result of intense lobbying by Microsoft. TV equipment vendors and broadcasters worked for eight years to developed the standard, which the FCC adopted in early summer 1996. Microsoft is concerned that the standard could have negative implications for the software industry by limiting its use of the broadcast spectrum. Microsoft's stand is based on a counterproposal developed by the Computer Industry Coalition on Advanced Television Service, a group that is also supported by Apple, Intel and Compaq. Microsoft is also participating in the Americans for Better Digital TV lobbying organization, which includes several film industry organizations. Proponents of the Grand Alliance standard spent about $500 million over an eight-year period in the development of the standard.

Television Sets, Standards, Planning, Televisions, Political activity, United States. Federal Communications Commission, Standard, Standardization, Company business planning, Digital television, Political issue, Activism, Political protest

---

PC makers cool to Microsoft's push for WebTV

Article Abstract:

PC manufacturers are balking at Microsoft's incentives for installing television-tuner cards as standard equipment on their new products, which would allow users to view television on their monitors. Microsoft has been dangling significant discounts on its Windows 98 OS in exchange for carrying the cards that range from around $50 to $130. The cards are a necessary companion to Web TV for Windows software, one of the new Windows 98 innovations. Hardly any PC vendors plan to accept the Microsoft offer, citing a lack of demand in a cost-conscious market. Packard Bell-NEC introduced a tuner card standard option on all PCs in 1996 but halted the practice in early 1997. Compaq would be the most likely candidate, as it participates with Microsoft on the DTV Team consortium that has been encouraging the computer industry to enter the television business.

Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing, Signal Converters, Computer industry, Internet, Marketing, Equipment and supplies, Company marketing practices, Set-top boxes (Television), Set-top internet box, WebTV Networks WebTV (Set-top Internet box)

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Assessing the validity of secondary data proxies for marketing constructs. Market orientation and business performance in a Chinese business environment
• Abstracts: Eight lame excuses to procrastinate. Knowing when to cut the cord
• Abstracts: When bad writing happens to good sex. Poetic justice. Rehabilitating a monster
• Abstracts: Preferred reading. Summer reading for you and your children
• Abstracts: Invasion of the acronyms, again: with DVD and its cousins, yet another multiletter disk drive prepares to take over the world's computer

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.