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HDCP cracked; opens door for DRM-free HD boxes

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Home » News » HDCP cracked; opens door for DRM-free HD boxes

HDCP cracked; opens door for DRM-free HD boxes

Posted by Hector Consuegra on September 27, 2010 |Comments

Hackers have been busy, first breaking Apple’s iOS, and now HDCP.

Hackers have cracked the antipiracy code commonly used in set-top boxes, and Blu-ray and DVD players, Intel told several news outlets yesterday. Rumors flew Tuesday that the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) technology was compromised. Intel confirmed the news yesterday.

Intel spokesman Tom Waldrop said the code published online “appears” to be a master key. Users can derive keys from this published master key that will work on devices that use the copy protection technology.

HDCP prevents the copying of audio and video content playing on HD devices like TVs and players for Blu-ray and DVDs.The digital rights management software is required when playing audio and video content over HDMI cables (and other cables) that connect flat-panel TVs to gaming systems or other HD drvices.

The hack unlocks DRMed content by providing the master key, which can then strip the encryption that’s on the cable box and DVR. With the encryption removed, anyone can make unlimited copies of HD content. Copy protection software becomes moot.

Expect to see DRM-free movies and games flooding the black market soon.

With DRM cracked, the way is open to build new HD devices, as well, and bypass the license fees Intel charges for the privilege. However, Intel doesn’t expect illegal hardware to pop up anytime soon, pointing out there is a lot of work and expense involved in making the DRM-free computer chip, and then embedding in to a device. There is a risk that vendors in countries with less stringent copyright regulations will take on the hassle and start manufacturing DRM-free Blu-ray players and TVs. This would mean a hit for Intel’s license fees and illegal hardware would impact retail sales of the devices.

Despite the hackers’ victory, Intel said encryption technology is still sound and remains the best way to protect content.

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Sony New Midrange 3DTV line with the NX810 series

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Home » News » Sony New Midrange 3DTV line with the NX810 series

Sony New Midrange 3DTV line with the NX810 series

Posted by Hector Consuegra on August 25, 2010 |Comments

Sony’s finally taken the wraps off its latest televisions for the US market, carrying the NX810 model number. Available in 60-, 55- and 46-inch sizes next month, these give a 3D spec bump (and around a $200 premium on the MSRP) to the existing NX800 series of Edge LED lit HDTVs that came out earlier this year. Like the NX800, these feature a slick monolith design, built-in WiFi, widgets and an ambient light sensor to automatically adjust the picture in changing room conditions, but other than the 3D-readiness (and coupons for free Blu-ray 3D movies and PSN games, though it looks like you’ll have to pay for the glasses on your own) it’s hard to find any differences on paper. Football fans looking for a new 3D set may be tempted to jump on one and can check the specs and prices after the break, but we’ll probably wait around to see what a Google TV might bring to the table — and at what price.

Press Release

SONY LAUNCHES NEW 3D BRAVIA TVS JUST IN TIME FOR KICKOFF

• Just in time for the kickoff of the fall football season, Sony just announced three new 3D BRAVIA TVs that are perfect for the big game.
With a number of college and pro football games slated to be broadcast in 3D this fall, Sony’s BRAVIA is the perfect way to see the next dimension in sports — the full HD picture puts you right on the sideline!

• Offering outstanding contrast with smooth, vibrant images, Sony’s new NX810 HDTV models have great picture quality even in brightly lit rooms – perfect for that lazy afternoon watching all the games and following your fantasy football league.
• With built-in Wi-Fi and access to Sony’s BRAVIA Internet Platform and the company’s new movie service, Qriocity, the Sony not only offers a great picture, but access to a massive amount of online content to match.
• In screen sizes including 60, 55 and 46 inches, these new Sony models have any room covered.
• Also, anyone who purchases one of the new 3D BRAVIA models will receive two free Blu-ray 3D titles and a PlayStation® Network voucher enabling 3D BRAVIA purchasers to download stereoscopic 3D gaming experiences on the PS3.

Quote:
• “BRAVIA is optimized to deliver the best possible 3D consumer experience by leveraging the vast knowledge from our theatrical and professional products groups,” said Chris Fawcett, vice president of Sony’s television business. “3D is driving the growth of the entertainment industry and only Sony is involved in every stage of the platform.”

BRAVIA® KDL-60NX810 Edge LED LCD HDTV with 3D
Available in September for about $4,700
• Full HD 1080p Resolution with 3D
• DynamicEdge LED Backlighting with local dimming
• Motionflow™PRO 240Hz Technology for Smooth Motion
• Built-in Wi-Fi® for Network Connectivity
• BRAVIA® Internet Video & Widgets
• LightSensor™ adjusts backlight with room light

BRAVIA® KDL-55NX810 Edge LED LCD HDTV with 3D
Available in September for about $3,700
• Full HD 1080p Resolution with 3D
• DynamicEdge LED Backlighting with local dimming
• Motionflow™PRO 240Hz Technology for Smooth Motion
• Built-in Wi-Fi® for Network Connectivity
• BRAVIA® Internet Video & Widgets
• LightSensor™ adjusts backlight with room light

BRAVIA® KDL-46NX810 Edge LED LCD HDTV with 3D
Available in September for about $3,000
• Full HD 1080p Resolution with 3D
• DynamicEdge LED Backlighting with local dimming
• Motionflow™PRO 240Hz Technology for Smooth Motion
• Built-in Wi-Fi® for Network Connectivity
• BRAVIA® Internet Video & Widgets

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Videos (Switched – Ultimate Home Theater 13,000 Watts 130dB 1 Million)

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Home » News » Videos (Switched – Ultimate Home Theater 13,000 Watts 130dB 1 Million)

Videos (Switched – Ultimate Home Theater 13,000 Watts 130dB 1 Million)

Posted by Hector Consuegra on August 25, 2010 |Comments

What would you do with a Million dollar ($1,000,000.00) Home Theater? Take a tour of the most expensive home theater in North America and perhaps the world.

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Home Theatre Basic Redesigned

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Home » News » Home Theatre Basic Redesigned

Home Theatre Basic Redesigned

Posted by Hector Consuegra on July 20, 2010 |Comments

About two years ago we put together a very basic webpage for Home Theatre Basic and never really paid attention to there after. Well that has changed… completely redesigned with new web standards a technologies. We are very proud of the website and hope you continue checking pack with us.

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HDCP cracked; opens door for DRM-free HD boxes

HDCP cracked; opens door for DRM-free HD boxes Posted by Hector Consuegra on September 27, 2010 |Comments

Sony New Midrange 3DTV line with the NX810 series

Sony New Midrange 3DTV line with the NX810 series

Videos (Switched – Ultimate Home Theater 13,000 Watts 130dB 1 Million)

Videos (Switched – Ultimate Home Theater 13,000 Watts 130dB 1 Million)

Home Theatre Basic Redesigned

Home Theatre Basic Redesigned Posted by Hector Consuegra on July 20, 2010 |Comments

HDCP cracked; opens door for DRM-free HD boxes

Posted by Hector Consuegra on September 27, 2010 |Comments

Home Theatre Basic Redesigned

Posted by Hector Consuegra on July 20, 2010 |Comments