Audio Video News

ELAN
ELAN's new VIA!2 wireless touchpanel is perfect for controlling wholehouse audio, home theater, security, temperature, lighting, drapes, and just about any other wireless solution you could ask for. (Now, if only it could load and unload the dishwasher...) It uses an 802.11b wireless transmission method and comes with both the VIA!2 server and docking station. The 7.8-inch LCD touchscreen and large, easy-to-read buttons and user screens make the VIA!2 both intuitive and user-friendly. Using ELAN's VIA!TOOLS Windows-based software, you can complete the setup process in hours using simple point-and-click methods. ELAN says that the VIA!2 will last for 670 hours in hibernate mode, 24 hours in standby mode, or 6 hours in operation mode. The $3,500 price tag also gets you the Server Station, which can turn the unit's commands into IR or RS-232 commands for controlling other home devices. Look for this handy device in the first quarter of 2004.
ELAN Home Systems
(859) 269-7760
www.elanhomesystems.com

JVC
Vacation season will be here before you know it. If you must leave your comfy home theater to bask in the Caribbean or explore Europe, then you should at least pack headphones that will give you some peace and quiet on the plane. JVC has introduced their new HA-NC100 noise-canceling headphones that are designed to reduce background noise by up to 75 percent. With a retractable cord, convenient carrying pouch, and folding design, the headphones are a must for any world traveler. The HA-NC100 offers 1.42-inch drivers and boasts a rated frequency response of 10 hertz to 20 kilohertz. It comes with an adapter for commercial-aircraft sound systems and has a battery life of 50 hours. For $130, getting there could be half the fun of your vacation.
JVC
(973) 317-5000
www.jvc.com