LAS VEGAS — LG will expand into wireless multiroom audio, focus its soundbar selection on premium models, and expand its selection of under-TV Sound Plates.
Also in its 2014 audio lineup, the company will scale back is 3D Blu-ray HTiB selection, launch two new soundbars and two portable Bluetooth speakers, and carry over its three docking tabletop speakers.
Separately, the company is also launching its first fitness band.
For information on the company’s wireless multiroom audio speakers, see page 16. For information on new soundbars and Sound Plates.
Here’s what else LG is unveiling:
With the HTiB market contracting, LG is trimming its selection of 3D Blu-ray HTiBs to three from four. The 2014 lineup will consist of two carryover models and one new entry-level model with a starting price lower than the $299-everyday starting price of the 2013 line.
The new model, shipping in March, is the 5.1-speaker 500-watt BH5140S HT, which features LG’s smart-TV platform to access online audio and video services and download apps. It also features wired-LAN connection, Private Sound mode, HDMI output with audio return channel, and playback of audio and video stored on a USB-connected hard drive or USB stick. It features optical audio input to connect to a TV, which is used to switch video sources.
The step-up model will be the carryover BH6730S, which has been retailing at $299 and adds stereo Bluetooth, built-in Wi-Fi and Private Sound Mode. That feature uses a home’s Wi-Fi network to stream HTiB audio to an app-equipped smartphone or tablet, from which users can listen to the HTiB’s audio via headphones.
The other carryover is the $799-everyday BH9430PW, which adds wireless surround speakers, two HDMI inputs, 2D-to-3D video conversion, Wi-Fi-certified Miracast technology, web browsing, two front tallboy speakers and 9.1-channel surround from a 5.1-speaker system. The 9.1-channel technology puts an extra active driver in each front and rear leftright speaker to create a more enveloping, denser soundfield around listeners.
In mini audio the CM9940 will be LG’s largest mini audio system to date with floorstanding speakers about 4 feet in height. The 3,200-watt system offers DJ features, CD player, dual USB inputs, Bluetooth and NFC.
