20 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

MSI R7 260 1GD5 OC Graphics Card Released

As of today MSI’s new R7 260 1GD5 OC is available for everyone desiring an entry into the world of 4K resolution gaming and next-level of integrated audio. Equipped with a large 10cm fan this little powerhouse will remain cool while allowing anywhere from 1 to 6 displays to be connected to the card. This offers excellent flexibility for anyone looking for more versatility whether it’s extra horsepower for graphics or to allow higher resolutions to be connected to their PC. Furthermore, like the high end R9 290 and R9 290X, the R7 260 1GD5 OC is also equipped with AMD TrueAudio which reduces CPU loads up to 14% compared to rendering sound with the on-board audio chip. Extra Large […]

20 January 201420 January 2014Product PreviewsBy Hank Tolman

InWin 901: A Story of Tempered Glass

The Taiwanese hardware manufacturer InWin hit CES 2014 with a slew of new items to announce, and the official availability of one announced a couple of months prior to the show. The story of InWin’s CES 2014 announcement really centered on a single theme: Tempered Glass. Benchmark Reviews stopped by InWin’s booth at CES 2014 to talk about their new cases and to take a look at some other products you might not normally expect from InWin.

20 January 201420 January 2014Product PreviewsBy Hank Tolman

Cooler Master Goes Apples at 2014 CES, Gets HAF Stacked

Along with seemingly everyone else at CES 2014, I caught Cooler Master straying from their PC case and peripheral’s roots and into other areas of interest. Benchmark Reviews visited Cooler Master’s suite at the Palm’s Resort and Casino during CES 2014 and we found some interesting new products that you might not expect to see from the company that brought us the HAF series of cases.

17 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

ECS Z87H3-M Motherboard Launched

Feature-Rich Platform for High-End Gamers With Intel Z87 Chipset, 4K Resolution Support, and Fast CrossfireX Graphics ECS is pleased to announce the Z87H3-M, the smartest Z87 MicroATX motherboard choice on the market for high-end gamers. The Z87H3-M is packed with features that enhance the gaming experience out of the box and provides a future upgrade path, all while still being affordable price. This is an ECS Durathon board, which means it has the Triple Density moisture-proof PCB, ultra-high Extreme Temperature Resistance, and extra-stringent testing. ECS Z87H3-M features 100% durable, heat-resistant solid capacitors for an ultra-long, stable life, even with the serious electrical and thermal demands of the latest gaming hardware. Solid capacitors typically provide a lifetime 6 times longer than […]

17 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

ASUS Cerberus Gaming Headset for PCs, Macs and Smart Devices Introduced

Engineered with powerful 60mm drivers for punchy bass, full-size 100mm ear cushions for great noise isolation and convenient dual-microphone design ASUS today announced Cerberus, a gaming headset that provides users of smart devices, desktop and laptop computers with lively audio that’s full of power and depth — and cleverly designed for both gaming and mobile use. Cerberus is built with large 60mm neodymium-magnet drivers to deliver bass that’s full of punch, so listeners can feel the full emotional depth of their audio. The new headset also has been engineered with exceptionally comfortable 100mm noise-isolating ear cushions and an innovative dual-microphone design — and the easy-to-carry 1.2m headset cable can be boosted with a 1.3m splitter cable to give a total […]

17 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

ASUS R9 290X and R9 290 DirectCU II Graphics Cards Announced

Both feature exclusive DirectCU II cooling technology and DIGI+ voltage-regulator module for performance that’s up to 20% cooler and 3X quieter ASUS today announced R9 290X DirectCU II and R9 290 DirectCU II, two new graphics cards powered respectively by the new AMD Radeon™ R9 290X and R9 290 graphics-processing units (GPUs) and fitted with exclusive DirectCU II technology for cooler, quieter and faster performance. With ASUS DirectCU II technology on board, R9 290X and R9 290 run up to 20% cooler and up to three times (3X) quieter than reference designs — and that means faster gaming with less noise. R9 290X has a core speed of 1050MHz, while R9 290 flies along at 1000MHz. Both cards are fitted […]

17 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Thermaltake Core V71 Full-Tower PC Case Released

Thermaltake, being an industry leader in computer chassis, thermal solutions, and power supply units today officially releasing new full-tower PC case – Thermaltake Core V71; the new of its kind concept for more versatility and adaptability to any configuration. The Core V71 full-tower E-ATX case gives PC enthusiast flexible installation and keeps the system cool. Users can modify for superior liquid cooling or superb airflow through seamless operation. This new chassis is the ultimate powerhouse suitable for any type of PC enthusiast – no matter liquid cooling or extreme airflow. Enthusiast Design Engineered with the subtle curves, bold textures and clean lines, among many award winning case designs from Thermaltake, the Core V71 keeps it to include enthusiast level features […]

16 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

ROCCAT Siru Ultra-thin Gaming Mousepad Released

Blade-thin gaming surface measures less than one millimeter, anchors to your desktop with non-slip backing ROCCAT today announces the availability of its cutting-edge gaming mousepad: the Siru. The unique, blade-thin gaming surface is less than a millimeter thick, making it one of the thinnest mousepads ever created. The ultra-thin, single-layer Siru is comprised of a battle-ready, easy-to-clean top that provides high glide and outstanding control; and a reusable, non-slip backing that anchors to your desktop. The innovative design of the mousepad provides direct desktop feedback, allowing for exceptionally precise tracking and lightning-fast aim corrections. Available in two stylish colors – Cryptic Blue and Pitch Black – the Siru is the perfect gaming companion of both laser and optical mice. BLADE-THIN […]

16 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

ASUSTOR ADM 2.1 Beta Program for NAS Devices Launched

ASUSTOR releases ADM 2.1 Beta Program featuring all new MyArchive storage technology, thumbnail previews and the My Computer function for File Explorer, added Bluetooth support, multiple new NAS Apps and the music streaming AiMusic mobile app. All users are welcome to download and experience the beta for themselves. ASUSTOR Inc., a leading innovator and provider of network storage solutions, has announced the release of the ASUSTOR Data Master (ADM) 2.1 Beta Program for all of its NAS devices (2, 3, and 6 Series). All ASUSTOR users are welcome to download the beta firmware from the official ASUSTOR website and experience all the brand new features firsthand. The ADM 2.1 Beta Version expands the core functionality of the system and includes […]

16 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Thecus N7710-G and N8810U-G SMB and Enterprise NAS Units Announced

N7710-G and N8810U-G Feature Ultra-Fast Network Connection Speeds Network attached storage expert Thecus® is pleased to announce its newest NAS units, the N7710-G and N8810U-G, which combine performance with a tried and trusted platform for SMB and enterprise users. Powerful hardware, an efficient design, and great software support mean these NAS products offer multiple functions to multiple users, rapidly and flawlessly. These latest additions to the Thecus line offer significant improvements in performance thanks to powerful Intel® Pentium® G850 Dual Core CPUs, and 10GbE technology. 10GbE networking delivers speeds up to 10x faster than regular gigabit connections, ensuring these NAS units will be ready for whatever the future can throw at them. Along with the 75% faster (but cooler running) […]

15 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Nikon D3300 Digital SLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II Lens Launched

Nikon’s latest entry-level model offering an effective pixel count of 24.2-million pixels, and equipped with a Nikon DX-format CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter, the latest EXPEED 4 image-processing engine, as well as Guide Mode and a variety of Special Effects that enable simple capture photos as intended. Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the D3300, its latest entry-level Nikon DX-format digital SLR camera. The smaller and lighter AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II, a normal zoom lens covering the 18 to 55mm range of focal lengths will also be released. The D3300 is an entry-level model offering an effective pixel count of 24.2-million pixels and equipped with a Nikon DX-format CMOS sensor with no […]

15 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Vuzix M100 Smart Glasses With Nuance Voice Technology Released

Vuzix Enhances M100 Smart Glasses with Voice Recognition for Menu Commands and Application Navigation Vuzix® Corporation (OTCQB: VUZI), today announced that its M100 smart glasses will now incorporate voice recognition powered by Nuance Communications. The Vuzix M100 smart glasses are a flexible Android®-based wearable display platform that runs a growing number of industry specific software applications. Nuance’s voice technology gives the user a powerful and intuitive way to engage the M100 smart glasses, while increasing safety and task efficiencies in the workplace. Nuance’s embedded voice technology runs directly on the M100 smart glasses – so there is no data connection required. The M100 smart glasses also incorporate noise-cancelling technology that allows users to speak simple commands to control and navigate […]

15 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

VocalZoom AcoustOptic Microphone Debuts

Unique speech enhancement technology enables voice communication and recognition in virtually any environment VocalZoom, a provider of a unique speech-enhancing microphone, today announced the first live demo of their SEEON microphone which will soon infiltrate automotive and mobile computing devices – enabling widespread, reliable use of communications and speech recognition applications. Growing at an astounding rate, speech recognition technology is included in nearly every major technology people rely on today from cars and computers, to TVs and smartphones. In the automotive industry alone, it is expected that more than half of new cars in 2019 will integrate speech recognition, as manufacturers increasingly seek safer ways for drivers to interact with navigation, audio and Bluetooth systems. However, people using in car […]

14 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Velodyne vLEVE Headphones Unveiled

Featuring Designer Interchangeable Skins, Headphones are Stylish, Sonically Sensational – and the Very Latest in Wearable Technology What’s the sound of fashion forward? In a word – according to audio pioneer Velodyne Acoustics (www.velodyne.com) – “vLeve.” Velodyne’s on-ear vLeve headphones are available with designer skins that enable music lovers to engage in the art of personalization, matching the style to the sound. vLeve and its optional skins – 35 and counting – will be on display at 2014 International CES, under way from Jan. 7 through Jan. 10. Designed by Marta Hall, international artist and Velodyne president, vLeve headphones are available in matte black and satin silver, and carry an MSRP of $219. Designer accessory skins – silicon-based and flexible, […]

14 January 201414 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Velodyne Wi-Q 12 Wireless Subwoofer Introduced

Velodyne’s Three Decades of Bass Technology Innovation Culminate In Powerful, Feature-Rich Subwoofer That Goes Anywhere – Without Clumsy Wires Put the “boom” anywhere in the room with Velodyne’s Wireless Wi-Q® 12-inch subwoofer, which makes its official debut at 2014 International CES in Las Vegas, under way from Jan. 7 through Jan. 10. The Wi-Q is the culmination of three decades of leadership in subwoofer technology by audio pioneer Velodyne (www.velodyne.com) and is affordable, powerful and feature-rich. With no clumsy wires, it can be quickly integrated into any entertainment system – in any location within 50 feet (15 m) – or concealed in custom cabinetry. “Velodyne’s wireless Wi-Q subwoofers put the boom anywhere you want in a room by eliminating awkward […]

14 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Thermaltake Luna & Pure Series LED High Airflow PC Case Fans Announced

Since 1999, Thermaltake, the specialist and market leader in cooling over a decade, also being an industry leader in computer chassis, thermal solutions, and power supply units announcing new case fan series- “Luna” and “Pure”. Both series provide efficient, and quiet cooling whether used to pull cool air into the PC system or push hot air out. Particularly, Luna series is the new stunning focus for 2014 Thermaltake PC case fans, the advancing technology in-mold injection anti-vibration rubber pads offer hassle-free usage 80% protection coverage with four corners included. With precisely balanced fan blades and long life bearing, Luna and Pure undoubtedly guarantees ultra low noise. “Luna series” releases three colors of selection (Red, White and Blue), to add up […]

13 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Snow Lizard SLXtreme Solar Powered, Waterproof and Battery-Boosting iPhone Case Launched

The SLXtreme’s built- in battery and solar charger provides users power to outlive their adventure Snow Lizard’s SLXtreme 5 is the ideal iPhone 5/5S case for users who want to take their case on outdoor adventures. Featuring ultra-rugged, waterproof protection and battery-boosting technology, the SLXtreme 5 is now available. “The SLXtreme line has a proven track record of protecting and enhancing iPhone usage while tackling the harshest outdoor conditions,” says Steve Calle, CEO and Co-founder of Snow Lizard Products. “We are excited for consumers to check out the SLXtreme for the iPhone 5/5S as it shields against drops, spills, providing peace of mind that their investment is protected.” The SLXtreme 5 features an integrated 2550mAh battery that more than […]

13 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

OWC Mercury Helios 2 PCIe Thunderbolt Expansion Chassis Released

Now with even faster throughput, Helios 2 adds more options to Thunderbolt Expansion Chassis line Other World Computing, (OWC®) https://www.macsales.com, a leading zero emissions Mac® upgrade and storage technology company debuted the addition of the OWC Mercury Helios 2 PCIe Thunderbolt Expansion Chassis to its Helios line at CES 2014. The Helios 2 is a solution for using two single-width, or one single-width and one double-width, PCIe 2.0 adapter cards with Mac Pro® (2013), Mac mini, iMac®, MacBook Air®, MacBook Pro®, and other Thunderbolt-equipped computers that do not have PCIe slots due to size and/or design limitations. More Users Can Now Tap Into Power of PCIe and Thunderbolt Desktop workstations used to be the only way computer users could access […]

13 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Other World Computing Hard Drive Upgrade Kit for PlayStation 4 Announced

DIY kit enables PlayStation 4 owners to add larger, faster Hard Drive for better gaming experience Other World Computing, (OWC®) https://www.macsales.com, a leading zero emissions Mac® upgrade and storage technology company, announced a Hard Drive Upgrade Kit for PlayStation 4 at CES 2014 that will allow users to add capacity and boost performance up to 40% faster vs. stock drive for reducing system load time. What it does The OWC DIY Upgrade Kit for PS4™ allows PS4 owners to double storage and boost the performance with an OWC drive. DIY bundles include everything needed to upgrade/replace existing 2.5” drive and transfer gaming data to new drive. For added value, the original drive can be converted to an external drive, using […]

11 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

MSI GT70 2OK and GT60 2OK CAD Laptops Released

Mobile Quadro Graphics Performance Surpass Desktop MSI was recently released the latest GT70 2OK and GT60 2OK – 3K IPS Edition CAD Laptops. Equipped with NVIDIA Quadro K3100M graphics card, these 17.3” and 15.6” CAD Laptops provide not only faster but more stable performance to professionals. Professional’s Choice – MSI CAD Laptop “Being certificated by Autodesk, Solidworks and other varies independent software vendor (ISV), MSI CAD Laptop’s awesome features – exclusive Super RAID 2 technology, matrix display supports up to 4 monitors and the unique cooling system- Cooler Boost 2 technology – increase not only efficiency at work, but also provide more stable and faster working environment for professionals. The latest MSI Mobile CAD Laptops series, GT70 2OK and GT60 […]

11 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

BRAVEN Vibe Portable Bluetooth Audio System Debuts

World’s first portable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi distributed audio system that wirelessly distributes audio throughout the home and on-the-go through the Braven Vibe App BRAVEN unveils Vibe, the world’s first portable distributed audio Bluetooth® and Wi-Fi audio system that revolutionizes multi-room audio by allowing users to share music across multiple devices virtually anywhere from any wireless device. The BRAVEN Vibe System takes advantage of single streaming and sharing solutions across iOS, Android, and Windows devices and can support multiple audio streams concurrently. The BRAVEN Vibe System creates a wireless sound network and allows users to establish speaker zones for customized audio streaming from anywhere in the home to the beach and the outdoors. It’s the world’s first system that utilizes Wi-fi […]

11 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Matrix Audio Qube 2 Bluetooth Stereo Speaker Unveiled

Pocket friendly speaker is one of several innovative products in the LVH Pavilion, Booth #59024 at the Consumer Electronics Show Matrix Audio, a pioneer of portable audio, is highlighting the newest addition to its line of compact speakers at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The Qube² is the older brother to the Qube (a 2013 reddot design award winner). The Qube²’s anodized aluminum shell houses powerful 2×3 watt speakers, producing big sound from a tiny package. “Our goal was to create a speaker that is truly portable” says Adel Babataher, Matrix Audio CEO and Founder. “We researched a lot of mini speakers that claimed to be mobile yet they could not fit comfortably into a purse or […]

11 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

LenovoEMC px4-400d Four-Bay Desktop NAS Announced

• Up to 25% higher data throughput performance than previous model • Ideal for early adopters, SMBs and workgroups with up to 75 users • Available in a diskless configuration or up to 16TB* with Server Class HDDs or Pro Series models utilizing standard HDDs LenovoEMC Limited today announced the worldwide availability of the new LenovoEMC™ px4-400d Network Storage, a high performance four-bay desktop NAS that delivers advanced data protection plus local and remote content sharing utilizing the simplicity and power of the LenovoEMC™ LifeLine operating system. Debuting this week at 2014 International CES tradeshow in Las Vegas, the new LenovoEMC px4-400d utilizes hot swap 7200rpm SATA-III Server Class drives in a compact form factor with up to 16TB in […]

11 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

Lenovo Y and Z Series Laptops Introduced

– Y and Z Series Laptops and C560 AIO Built for Consumers’ Lifestyle – Y Series offers extreme performance with eye-popping graphics and brilliant display – Z Series laptops fuse mobility and entertainment with fun color choices – C560 AIO a great all round, compact performer for the entire family – Introduces trio of monitors with new 4k monitor for mind-blowing visuals Lenovo(HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY) today announced three new additions to its consumer line of laptops and desktopsthat elevate the computing experience. The new clamshell Y40, Y50, Z40 and Z50 laptops and the C560 all-in-one (AIO) desktop provide advanced performance and entertainment features in portable and space-saving designs. The Y Series laptops give users the technologies needed to enjoy […]

10 January 2014Manufacturer NewsBy News Reporter

GIGABYTE BRIX Pro DIY PC Kit Unveiled

A Compact PC Kit Combining Exceptional Processing Power with Enhanced Graphics Performance GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co. Ltd., a leading manufacturer of motherboards, graphics cards and PC systems, is proud to announce the next generation GIGABYTE BRIX Pro, a compact DIY PC kit that features professional CPU performance and visually stunning graphics support with the Intel® i7 Core™ 4770R processor featuring the Intel® Iris™ Pro graphics 5200. “The GIGABYTE BRIX Pro is the perfect showcase for Intel’s exceptional Iris Pro graphics technology,” commented Henry Kao, Vice President of GIGABYTE Motherboard Business Unit. “The deceptively compact BRIX Pro packs a high-performance, desktop-class processor that is highly suited to processor-intensive creative applications and 3D gaming titles. “GIGABYTE’s BRIX Pro PC is a great example […]