Skip to main content

New Rotel RSDX-02 introduced

This undeniable fact has helped launch a new compact integrated component from audio manufacturer Rotel Electronics. The company’s new RSDX-02 combines a DVD player and powerful 5.1-channel digital-surround amplifier with AM/FM tuner in a single component ideal for systems where space is at a premium. Unlike low-quality DVD-receivers, the new RSDX-02 features plenty of power and simple, flexible operation. With 80 watts of output power in all five channels and a dedicated subwoofer output, the RSDX-02 needs only a video display and a 5.1 speaker system to complete a full home theater system.

A programmable LCD touchscreen remote control is one of the RSDX-02’s many upscale refinements. Others include precision digital processing, Dolby Digital and DTS multichannel decoding, Dolby Pro Logic II and DTS Neo: 6 for two-channel sources, and an “All-Channel Stereo” mode claimed to be ideal for spreading the sound evenly for parties or casual listening. Supported disc formats include DVD video, JPEG images, standard CD, CD-MP3, and DVD-Audio. The 30/15-preset FM/AM tuner section is an option not found on typical surround processors. Rotel’s “Balanced Design” technology, meticulous engineering and top-grade componentry enhance the unit’s audio and video performance.

Inputs and outputs: The RSDX-02 provides both coaxial and optical digital inputs, as well as analog inputs for older components such as VCRs, ensuring easy compatibility in any setup. Its wideband component-video input/output facilities simplify integrating video source components with HD-ready TVs and monitors.

“This unit is a ‘plug and play’ one-box solution ideal for small-room theater systems such as bedrooms, dens, vacation homes, dorm rooms, etc,” said Rotel America general manager Mike Bartlett. “For the consumer who has a modest home theater system and wants a simplified approach without a plethora of bewildering connections, we offer the RSDX-02.” Launched in October, the RSDX-02 sells for $1499. google_max_num_ads = 5; google_debug();

Ian Bell
I work with the best people in the world and get paid to play with gadgets. What's not to like?
There’s a rare deal on the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones today
Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones seen in black.

The massively popular Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones rarely appear in headphone deals, so if you've had your eye on them for quite a while, you're in luck because they're currently $51 off on Walmart. From their original price of $400, you'll only have to pay $349, but only if you hurry because we don't expect stocks to last long. You're going to miss out on the offer if you take too long, so don't hesitate -- add the wireless headphones to your cart and check out as fast as you can.

Why you should buy the Sony WH-1000XM5
The best headphones that you can buy right now are the Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones, and it's not even close. At the heart is their outstanding wireless sound, supported by top-quality active noise cancellation that uses two processors and eight microphones to block all unwanted sound, as well as crystal-clear hands-free calling using four beamforming microphones and advanced audio signal processing. The wireless headphones also offer Bluetooth multipoint connection so that you can quickly switch between different devices, touch controls for functions like adjusting volume and calling your digital assistant, and Speak-to-Chat and Quick Attention features to stop your music and let ambient sound in without having to take them off.

Read more
Sony’s premium soundbars will finally get support for VRR, ALLM
Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos soundbar close-up of top panel.

It's been a long time coming, but the wait is almost over. Sony's premium home theater soundbars are set to receive a software update that will add support for variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low-latency mode (ALLM), two HDMI 2.1 gaming features that have been absent since these products launched.

The soundbars in question are the Sony HT-A5000, HT-A7000, and the multi-wireless speaker HT-A9 system. All three are scheduled to receive the update this fall, but Sony has declined to share specific timing, saying only that there will be more information closer to the rollout date.

Read more
What is Roku? The streaming platform explained
A roku powered TV hanging on a wall running Roku OS 12.

How do you get your Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, or Prime Video fix? Chances are it's through a streaming device or smart TV, and there's a good chance that it's through a Roku device or one running its pioneering streaming operating system. At this point, cord-cutting is old news, and Roku was one of the earliest companies to drive the adoption of web-based streaming with its self-contained, app-driven devices.

Today, watching something "on Roku" is standard parlance and the company's popular platform can be found baked into some of the biggest TV brands in the world as well as in its own lineup of streaming devices sticks, and set-top boxes. Even so, that doesn't mean you totally get what a Roku actually is. What is Roku? How does Roku work? Do you need a subscription to use it? Is it just a device you buy, or is it software?

Read more