AUDIO

An in-wall is an in-wall is an in-wall, right? Wrong! The style of in-walls hasn't changed much since they were introduced in 1982, so Sonance is giving them a radical makeover. The Architectural Series (due early in 2007 for $900 to $3,500 a pair) presents a bold new look with trimless and micro-trim models. With 19 variations - small, medium, or large, and round, square, or rectangular - finding the perfect look will be easy.

• SpeakerCraft updated several models in its highly acclaimed AIM series, and Niles introduced more than 100 new products, including 24 in-wall speakers. Definitive Technology rounded out its Reference Architectural Series lineup with the UIW RCS II ($599), designed as a ceiling LCR, and the UIW RSS II surround ($499).

• Made from the same woods as its $100,000 pianos, Yamaha's Soavo Natural Sound speakers look nearly as good as they sound. The series, due in November, includes the Soavo-1 tower ($1,799), the Soavo-2 bookshelf ($999), the Soavo-900M surround ($999), the Soavo-900C center ($999), and the Soavo-900SW sub ($1,299).

• While everyone has their panties in a bunch for 1080p video, few people are talking about the next-gen sound that will accompany these pictures. After sitting through a private demo in Dolby's suite of its lossless TrueHD, I can confidently say that you should be just as excited about next-gen audio. Individual sounds are better defined and the overall mix has greater impact - it will definitely take the theater experience to the next level!

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