Loewe Gets into Desktop Audio

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Loewe launches SoundVision-- an all-in-one desktop audio system with minimalist design and control via either 7.5" touchscreeen or remote control.

Loewe SoundvisionIt plays content from a number of sources, including FM radio, internet radio, CDs and iDevices. Users can also connect it to a home network via LAN, WLAN or Powerline (allowing for access to media libraries on home networks) and Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Loewe says the SoundVision carries 6 built-in speakers (2 of which being integrated subwoofers) for "premium" audio, while the Gracenote music recognition service is also included.

The slim-line housing is available in silver or black, while the touchscreen is in anodised aluminium.

Go Loewe SoundVision

Entry-Level 3D Audio From Tannoy

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Tannoy follows up on the SFX 5.1 with the TFX 5.1-- now offering Dolby True HD and DTS HD-Master Audio compatibility in an entry-level all-in-one package.

TannoyThe TFX satellite and centre channel speakers carry Tannoy WideBand technology, with a tweeter extending response to over 70kHz and surround sound freqnecies to up to 48kHz (LPCM at 96kHz/24-bit).

The company says the original enclosures from the SFX are now reshaped and streamlined, eliminating standing sound waves in key frequencies while getting the best from the driver and crossover upgrades. Cabinet construction is "advanced polymer," while revised bracing delivers tighter mid-range punch.

The TFX subwoofer also sees improvement, with a long-throw 8" driver and 100-watt class A/B amplifier. Finally, a revised TFX filter network should ensure seamless bass and satellite output integration, for a smoother full-range soundstage.

Go Tannoy TFX 5.1

Do You Believe Security Sells? How About Mobile Security?

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I once shipped some valuable antique oakwood panels across the Atlantic. When they were damaged in delivery to my door, I went to the insurance company and claimed for the damage based on the protection the policy I purchased.

"Ah," they said. "But you bought overseas shipping insurance..."

"Yes, I did. Here's copy of your policy."

"But, sir," they replied, handing back the policy. "You only paid for insurance while your goods were on the water. These were damaged on land after arrival. They're not covered."

Now you know how I feel about our history of personal computer security...

"But I had anti-virus protection..."

"But, sir," they replied. "You also needed anti-malware. You weren't fully covered."

And so it goes... If consumers have up-to-now been reluctant to protect their mobile phones, it's because no one has presented an all-in-one security offering.

Read more...

Carphone Warehouse Releases Q3 Figures

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Carphone Warehouse releases the first update following the closure of the 11 Best Buy-branded stores (and clearing of all inventory) in the UK.

carphone warehouseThe £1.1 billion Best Buy UK venture called it quits following losses of £46.7M in the 6 months to September 2011.

Total CPW Europe revenues are down by -4.7% Y-o-Y, even if the retailer hopes for growth through postpay connections (due to customer contract renewals and new smartphone launches).

The retailer is also pushing the non-mobile category further via Wireless World stores-- tablet and accessory sales show 15% Y-o-Y growth, but represent less than 10% of total revenues. CPW currently has 294 Wireless World stores across Europe, and hopes to have a total of 375 stores open by March 2012.

While describing the current outlook as "challenging," CPW still hopes for stronger growth, particularly through the roll-out of the Wireless World format.

Go Carephone Warehouse Interim Management Statement Q3 2011-12

Kesa End-of-Year Sales Drop

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Kesa revenues drop by -1.3% Y-o-Y for the 1 November 2011 - 8 January 2012 period, as market conditions remain weak during the end-of-year period.

kesaDarty France revenues are down by -4.7% Y-o-Y, while Darty Italy, Turkey and Spain show 1.7% Y-o-Y growth for the period. The retailer say sgrowth was seen in sales within the multimedia device segments, particularly in tablets and notebooks.

The other established Kesa businesses-- Vanden Borre, Datart and BCC-- show "strong revenue performances," with an 8.6% Y-o-Y revenue increase across all product categories, especially multimedia.

Kesa online sales are also positive, showing 18% Y-o-Y growth. Web-generated sales now account for around 10% of total Kesa product sales.

Go Kesa Q3 Interim Management Statement

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