Copyright (c) 2011-2012 EISA - The European Imaging and Sound Association Wed, 16 May 2012 23:10:19 +0200 EISA is the unique association of 50 special interest magazines from 20 European countries. Internationally known for the European EISA Awards http://www.eisa.eu/ http://eis.ac/images/global/feed.png 60 61 EISA - The European Imaging and Sound Association en-gb http://www.eisa.eu/ http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-tablet-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-tablet-2011-2012 The Acer ICONIA TAB A500 tablet features a 10.1-inch (26.6cm) LED backlit screen, nVidia Tegra 2 dual-core processor and the Android v3.0 Honeycomb operating system offering all the advantages that an Android-based tablet can offer. The tablet has a linear design with brushed aluminium frame and cover. In terms of connectivity 3G, Wi-Fi with DLNA compatibility and Bluetooth offer fast access whilst USB and micro USB ports, built-in GPS and a micro HDMI output allow users to enjoy 1080p video on their television. A rear-facing 5 megapixel camera with autofocus and flash is supplemented by a forward facing 2 megapixel one. The Acer ICONIA TAB A500 comes with plenty of pre-installed apps including the Clear.Fi media app which manages photos, music and videos. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-processor-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-processor-2011-2012 This device summarizes a decade of Alpine achievements in the field of digital sound processing. The PXA-H800 combines a powerful set of sound processing tools for high precision equalization and time correction with high quality multichannel sound decoders. On top of this there is ‘Euphony’ technology which synthesizes multichannel sound from a stereo source and unique tools for automated sound setup and adjustment: ‘ImprintEQ’ and ‘RoadEQ’. Eight-channel configuration makes the PXA-H800 suitable for any sound system architecture, while multiple inputs, excellent and full external controller RUX-C800 with versatile user interface, help in performing the most sophisticated sound tuning. No matter how complex the sound processing, the PXA-H800 performs all operations with ultimate respect to sound quality thanks to the use of top quality components. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-amplifier-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-amplifier-2011-2012 More than just an amplifier! The Audison Voce AV 5.1k represents a new philosophy in amplifier design thanks to a choice of two different, interchangeable modules, which provide either analogue or high-resolution digital inputs. By choosing the optional AV bit IN module, you can explore the future of Car Audio: Full DA 96/24 bit. In this "full digital mode", high-resolution music is able to flow from head unit directly to the power stage of the amplifier. The alternative analogue input module offers high and low level inputs, and a comprehensive set of filters for each channel. In both cases, you get a complete, versatile 5-channel amplifier from world-renowned Italian quality and famous Audison sound. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-desktop-speakers-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-desktop-speakers-2011-2012 Turn your computer into a Hi-Fi system by adding a dynamic set of active speakers. The Bowers & Wilkins MM-1 will be your best company for work or play on your computer. The enclosures feature spun aluminium top plates and detailing and a black cloth grille offering a minimal, high-class design. This stunning pair of 2-way speakers stands just 17cm high housing DSP controlled bass drivers and tweeters with nautilus technology and a built-in DAC. A stylish remote control and a USB or 3.5mm mini jack connection complete the set. They are not inexpensive, but the sound quality easily justifies the cost. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-headphones-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-headphones-2011-2012 Bowers & Wilkins P5 noise isolation headphones treat the listener to high quality music reproduction wherever you are. The deceptively light weight on-ear headphones feature real leather ear pads for comfort and a strong metal headband. The drivers use Mylar diaphragms and neodymium magnets offering accurate and efficient output. Supplied with an Apple approved remote and microphone, the P5’s offer hands-free call handling as well as great sound. The sound is wide and open in mids and highs while the bass is deep and punchy even when driven from a smartphone or other mobile device. A fine set of headphones delivering fantastic reproduction and delicious good looks. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-sound-station-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-sound-station-2011-2012 Don’t be fooled by the familiar Zeppelin profile – Bowers & Wilkins’s new ‘Air’ version boasts improved sound quality and enhanced flexibility. Inside its radical enclosure are five new loudspeaker drivers – one woofer, two midrange and two treble units – each with its own DSP-controlled Class D amplifier. As you might guess from the name, the new Zeppelin also contains an Apple AirPlay wireless streaming receiver that will play music directly from your iTunes library. Moreover the central dock now makes a digital connection with your iPhone, iPod and iPad devices to replay your music with even higher fidelity. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-universal-player-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-universal-player-2011-2012 Look once, look twice. You are not mistaken, for the Cambridge 751BD universal player really does provide a one-stop platform to play all CD, DVD, SACD, DVD-A and Blu-ray discs, including 3D, for just €1300. Its core processor will decode all Dolby and DTS HD audio formats while a separate Marvell QDEO scaler delivers exceptionally high quality picture performance through its primary HDMI output. The 751BD is also replete with added connectivity. There’s a Wi-Fi dongle included and wired Ethernet port to support interactive services via the internet plus an eSata connection for playing HD audio and video content, including FLAC and MKV files, from an external hard drive. The proprietary 7.1 channel audio stage is a development of the tried-and-tested circuit employed in Cambridge’s 6-series CD players, promising superb sounds to match those excellent pictures. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-professional-lens-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-professional-lens-2011-2012 The Canon EF 70-300mm F4-5.6L IS USM is an amazing telephoto zoom lens that combines high image quality with an extremely durable construction and a surprisingly compact design. It sets a new standard for this popular zoom range with its professional autofocus performance and the latest generation of Image Stabilization, but is still affordable for the enthusiast. Throughout the zoom range the lens shows optical qualities that are in line with fixed focal length lenses - it performs very well even at its widest aperture, and the environmental shield protects it from moisture and dust. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-camera-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-camera-2011-2012 The Canon EOS 600D is a good-value camera that has a very strong set of features and customisable functions. The excellent resolution and its low-noise characteristics even at high ISO settings make it an extremely desirable model to amateur photographers. This new EOS generation offers Full HD video, a larger, more comfortable grip, an external microphone socket, wireless flash control, good dynamic range, an articulated LCD screen and a host of beginner-friendly features that make advanced picture quality easier to achieve. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-camcorder-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-camcorder-2011-2012 The Canon LEGRIA HF M41 high-end video camera is conveniently compact making it useful for shooting high quality videos under practically all conditions. The camera has a LCD screen and a traditional viewfinder. It is equipped with an easy to use menu system with as many automatic and manual functions you could wish for - including full manual sound recording and the ability to connect an external stereo microphone. Auto focus is extremely fast due to an external "distance eye". With no less than two SD card slots complementing the built-in 32 GB flash memory, you should never run out of recording space. Picture quality is extremely good with an exceptionally low level of noise, even in poor light. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-travel-compact-camera-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-travel-compact-camera-2011-2012 Casio’s small superzoom camera, with its stabilized 12.5x zoom and 24mm wide angle lens, fits easily into most pockets making it the ideal travel companion. The camera has a very strong set of core features, including a high-sensitivity, 12.1-million-pixel, back-illuminated CMOS sensor, a high-resolution 3-inch display, full-HD movie modes with stereo-sound, an HDR-mode and the easy-to-use Sweep Panorama mode. The outstanding feature of this EXILIM is its high-speed-mode: it can shoot up to 30 pictures with a resolution of ten million pixels in 3/4 of a second and record movies at up to 1,000 frames per second that can replayed in slow motion. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-audio-design-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-audio-design-2011-2012 If you think all hi-fi loudspeakers are built into rectangular wooden boxes, then DALI makes us all think again with its stylish FAZON F5. Rather than use orthodox materials, DALI, the Danish speaker specialist, has worked with die-cast aluminium to achieve a highly novel and elegant loudspeaker shape. Not only conceived to be pleasing to the eye, its curved cabinet is also ideal for minimizing internal reflections while offering great rigidity. Not just a pretty face, the FAZON F5 also benefits from DALI’s tried-and-tested wood-fibre cones and light silk dome tweeter. Available in high gloss red, black and white, this 86cm-tall sculpture comes with a purpose-built stand that allows your cables to be hidden from sight. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-printer-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-printer-2011-2012 The Epson Stylus Photo R3000 is a well-designed A3+ printer that produces extremely high-quality and detailed pictures with the help of its 2pl ink droplets and the inclusion of a vivid magenta in the UltraChrome K3 pigment ink set. A new colour LCD control panel makes the printer easy to operate, while a high speed USB port, built-in Wi-Fi, net connection and PictBridge give the user a wide range of ways to send files for printing. Thanks to the nine high-capacity (25.9ml) ink tanks, the cost of printing has been reduced. This is an ideal printer for both professional photographers and advanced amateurs. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-speaker-system-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-speaker-system-2011-2012 The latest generation of Focal car speakers is more “demand pulled” than “technology pushed”. The new “Performance” series is aimed at the music lover wanting to combine outstanding manufacturing quality and exquisite sound with ease of installation and affordable price. To achieve this, Focal combines the technologies that made this brand famous: Polyglass cone, inverted metal dome tweeter with wave-guide system, precision diecast chassis, and a carefully engineered versatile crossover. The way all parts are designed and engineered clearly shows that besides impressive engineering expertise the developers have lots of practical skills, which facilitates installation into a car. Here we have a perfect example of the affordable dream. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-advanced-compact-camera-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-advanced-compact-camera-2011-2012 The Fujifilm FinePix X100 advanced compact camera introduces an innovative new hybrid optical and electronic viewfinder, and is a very high-quality camera designed to be portable and always ready. The camera is ruggedly built, has a very sharp 23mm F2.0 moderate wide angle lens that offers selective focus, and its APS-C CMOS sensor offers high image quality even under low-light conditions. As a near-silent camera with excellent manual and automatic shooting modes, the FinePix X100 stands out as a serious alternative to a compact system camera or a travel camera for the enthusiast and professional photographer. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-subwoofer-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-subwoofer-2011-2012 Ground Zero's GZPW 10SPL demonstrates the best of both worlds: SPL (sound pressure level) and sound quality. Just 10” in diameter, it combines the size of a sound quality woofer and the output of a SPL type. Its very rigid cone in combination with the huge and extremely powerful motor guarantees clear and accurate bass under all conditions. If you want it really loud, connect the GZPW 10SPL to the most powerful amp you can find and you'll earn one of the highest outputs anyone can achieve with a 10” - whilst keeping excellent sound quality, of course. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-integration-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-integration-2011-2012 The Helix PP50 DSP is the easiest way to enhance the sound in your factory fitted car sound system. Adding extra power and a fully featured digital sound processor is made very easy with just one plug'n'play connector and the device is small enough to be hidden anywhere. Best of all is its usability: it can be set-up by simply inserting a microSD card resulting in perfect alignment for your particular car model. Alternatively, every function of the DSP can be set manually via the provided PC software and if you don't need a sound processor you can use the Helix by setting basic crossovers switches. Thanks to its 56 bit processor and latest amplifier technology the result will always be an improvement of sound that is hard to believe and all within a minute. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-social-media-phone-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-social-media-phone-2011-2012 If you're looking for the ultimate social networking mobile phone, the HTC ChaCha is one of the best. This elegant Android piece of art features a full QWERTY keyboard and direct access to the Facebook community at the push of a single dedicated button. Sharing pictures and comments is now more convenient than ever. Whether you wish to "chat", send emails at the speed of light, listen to music (most codecs are supported) or surf the web, everything is amazingly simple. The 5 megapixel integrated camera will give you the chance to turn yourself into an official reporter for your community. With this incredible object in your hand, you will feel connected with the world. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-innovation-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-innovation-2011-2012 JBL engineers offer a simple answer to the million-dollar question: “What button should I press to make my factory fitted car radio sound like a professionally installed system?” The JBL MS-2 is a compact, truly unique portable device designed to enhance the sound of any portable audio source before it is fed into the auxiliary input of your car stereo. A built-in microphone and sophisticated digital circuitry analyze and correct the sound of your car stereo within 10 seconds. Suitable for use with any portable device, you simply have to press the “magic button” to dramatically improve the way your car sounds. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-loudspeaker-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-loudspeaker-2011-2012 Striking from the first glance, JBL’s ‘Weave’ design ensures its Studio 190 floorstander will stand out from the crowd. This three-way loudspeaker, which includes a pair of 165mm bass units, sounds powerful, dynamic and detailed, offering a great insight into all types of music – including movie scores. Crucially, while the Studio 190 has an exotic appearance, it remains easy to drive and is the ideal partner for a great many entry-level amplifiers and AV receivers. So much loudspeaker, so small a price tag – how does JBL do it? Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-video-projector-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-video-projector-2011-2012 To get fully immersed in the 3D realm you need a big picture and JVC’s DLA-X7 does this with room to spare! This D-ILA projector is one of the first to achieve THX 3D certification, boasting a 70,000:1 native contrast and substantial 1300 ANSI Lumens brightness. Because JVC has designed this projector for use with active shutter 3D glasses, this allows the DLA-X7 to be used with a far wider choice of screen types than might otherwise have been the case. Other key technologies include a custom on-screen gamma control and 7-axis Colour Management System, ensuring very accurate calibration, and a video processor for smooth rendering of all types of video material. All-in-all it delivers an eyeball-popping 2D/3D experience. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-3d-camcorder-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-3d-camcorder-2011-2012 Anyone can become a 3D film producer with the JVC Everio GS TD1. This easy to use and versatile camcorder is packed with automatic functions for the simple creation of high quality 3D images but stacks of manual functions give the more experienced user complete control of the end result. Work can be monitored on the 3D LCD touch screen, which offers an easy to use menu system and can be viewed without special glasses. Users can choose to save recordings in either JVC's future proof high quality 2x full HD format or standard side-by-side AVCHD to be edited easily with an existing video editing system. The camera is equipped with a pair of high quality F1.2 zoom lenses making it possible to shoot 3D or 2D stills or movies under poor light conditions. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-51-loudspeaker-system-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-51-loudspeaker-system-2011-2012 In the race to produce the slimmest home theatre loudspeakers, KEF is on the winners podium with its black T-series satellites that are a mere 3.7cm deep. These are not lo-fi panel speakers but employ proprietary twin-layered drivers, rather like a conventional cone made very rigid and shallow. Designed to sound impressive whether hung on the wall or mounted on KEF’s floorstands, the satellites and partnering subwoofer are smoothly integrated into a cohesive system with little adjustment required on the part of the user. The subwoofer employs a 250W Class D amplifier, its elegant profile also optimized for use close to a rear or side wall. KEF’s T205 speaker system is a skinny latte that’s big on flavour. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-navi-media-system-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-navi-media-system-2011-2012 “Boarding complete”. This Kenwood unit perfectly integrates as many systems and functions as the most demanding driver could imagine offering an easy to use and exciting in car infotainment experience. The Garmin navigation section is quick and smart offering excellent guidance and up to the minute traffic information. The double DIN chassis accommodates a large 7” screen. Besides a CD/DVD mechanism, Kenwood’s twin USB ports can be used to playback audio and video files from external devices while internal DTS and Dolby Digital decoders take care of multi-channel A/V requirements. An iPod/iPhone interface allows control from the large touch screen and built-in Bluetooth provides phone and streaming capability. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-3d-home-theater-solution-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-3d-home-theater-solution-2011-2012 This year EISA has paired two LG products together which we believe complement each other and create a market beating Home Theater combination. The LG 55LW650S uses passive 3D technology. This brings immediate benefits as unlike its active counterpart, the glasses are lightweight, relatively cheap and do not require batteries making this the best way to share 3D movies or sports coverage with large groups of family or friends. But convenience is not the only reason to choose the 55LW650S. 3D pictures are reproduced in a very natural way, with negligible crosstalk and can be viewed without causing any eye fatigue and results from watching normal Blu-ray movies and TV contents are also of a very high standard. Set-up is extremely simple and when combined with LGs HLX56S soundbar with integrated Blu-Ray player and wireless subwoofer, it delivers powerful multichannel sound. Good connectivity, including LG Smart TV services, completes the reasons for its success in this year’s awards. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-51-system-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-51-system-2011-2012 Looking for a distinctive and elegant home theatre package that won’t break the bank? Then LG’s HX966TZ 3D Blu-ray system with its 5.1 channels of audio, easy connectivity and, in TZW guise, wireless rear speakers could be just the ticket. LG’s central unit offers Smart TVaccess, enabling you to view content from the web, download apps, stay in contact with your friends on social networks, check the weather forecast or play games. It also incorporates Wi-Fi Direct, for easy wireless connection, a USB input that supports NTFS hard drives and an iPhone/iPod dock. In a market full of complex home theatre solutions, LG’s HX966TZ offers a genuinely user-friendly surround experience. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-av-streaming-tv-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-av-streaming-tv-2011-2012 The brand new Loewe "Individual 46 Compose 3D" delivers stunning pictures and sound while providing lots of connectivity options. An internal DR+ 500 GB hard disc will record, store and stream all broadcast content to any room in your house, even if it is in 3D. Any recorded video can be streamed via LAN, WLAN or Powerline and users can easily enjoy broadcast content on other Loewe displays with their unique "Follow-me" feature - Start watching a TV programme in the living room, pause whenever you want and resume watching in the bedroom with a click on a remote-button. Loewe Individual 46 Compose 3D is the easiest and most flexible way, to enjoy multimedia all around your house. It is also desperately elegant and stylish and perfectly crafted as well. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-network-music-player-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-network-music-player-2011-2012 What is the CLiC? To describe it as a digital preamp or a streamer does not do it full justice. Better to think of it as a comprehensive unit which funnels internet radio and music files from a variety of sources – including wired and wireless networks and USB sticks, CD players and even analogue sources. At its core, the CLiC uses the company’s M1 24-bit/192kHz DAC, and there’s a large clear colour display to help navigate its menus. It boasts a total of seven digital inputs – iPod/iPhone/iPad, a network connection, front and back USB, two coaxial and one optical from which it delivers a wonderfully open and dynamic sound that’s lively, communicative and punches well above its weight. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-high-end-audio-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-high-end-audio-2011-2012 Celebrating its 60th anniversary Swiss company Nagra, famous for its precision audio engineering, has introduced a hybrid tube amp that breathes new life into the classic 300B triode valve. With solid-state input and bias adjustment combined with a parallel pair of 300B direct-heated power triodes, the 300i amplifier offers a sweet 2x20W output – perfect for high sensitivity loudspeakers. This modern classic employs the finest custom-made transformers, matching the 300i to 16 through to 4ohm speaker designs. The amplifier’s compact design is instantly recognisable as part of the Nagra family of high-end components – beautiful to behold, delicious to hear. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-photo-software-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-photo-software-2011-2012 Silver Efex Pro 2 software brings together the worlds of film and digital photography by providing the processing techniques of the darkroom in a much more convenient form. As well as features such as adding the grain and contrast of a fast film, this software package has an excellent set of image-editing controls, especially the U-Point Technology, that will reduce your reliance on other mainstream packages, such as Photoshop. The software is able to divide its operations between the computer’s CPU and the graphics card so that even complicated actions can be processed very quickly. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-advanced-slr-camera-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-advanced-slr-camera-2011-2012 At the head of Nikon’s semi-professional line of cameras, the D7000 is packed with the high-end features it inherited from the company’s D300 and D300S models. The solid body offers high-speed autofocus, a bright 3-inch LCD, dust control, dual SDXC card slots and Full HD Video. An exceptionally good noise-control system means the 16.2-million-pixel-sensor can be used at ISO 3200 and still produce high quality, clean images - even at ISO 12800 noise is not much of an issue. This is a camera that can give amateur photographers professional-looking images. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-all-weather-camera-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-all-weather-camera-2011-2012 The stainless steel Olympus TOUGH TG-810 is a water-, crush- and shockproof camera that is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts as well as for families. Although its rugged build is the principal feature of the camera, it also delivers good picture quality. With a 14-million-pixel sensor and a 5x zoom lens (28-140mm), it is suitable for almost every situation. The camera is easy to operate in both very bright and dark conditions thanks to the clarity of the 3-inch LCD screen, and the Super Macro mode allows you to take pictures just 3cm from the subject – above and under water! A dual-mode digital image stabilisation system makes sure that pictures appear sharp even in low light and when you are shooting a moving subject. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-compact-system-camera-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-compact-system-camera-2011-2012 The LUMIX DMC-G3 is a very small interchangeable-lens camera, which, as it is fitted with a built-in flash and an electronic viewfinder, is as easy to use indoors as it is outside on a sunny day. The camera offers excellent image quality, and it is capable of resolving very fine details and working in low light without producing excessive image noise. A new contrast-detection autofocus system finds and tracks the subject very quickly, and the responsive touch-screen allows not only focus pin-pointing, but also touching the subject can trigger the camera’s shutter to take the picture. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-plasma-tv-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-plasma-tv-2011-2012 This top of the range Plasma brings a whole host of technologies together to offer breathtaking picture quality for 2D and 3D viewing. Customers are treated to stunning black level, striking contrast and realistic colours. Fast movements manage to look smooth and sharp simultaneously, while the VIERA Connect network features offer a comprehensive range of the latest web-based services. A built-in subwoofer ensures that audio is very rich and convincing. Digital programme material can be recorded to SD card, HDD or flash disc and a wide range of multimedia codecs can be played back via the USB port. Panasonic VIERA TX-P50VT30 delivers TV and movie entertainment at its best! Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-professional-camera-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-professional-camera-2011-2012 With the introduction of the Pentax 645D, the medium-format market has gained a much anticipated and highly competitive member that offers exceptional image-quality and handling. The 645D is a joy to use in the field, and although it is big and somewhat heavy, its ergonomic grip, large viewfinder, fast and accurate autofocus, and well-made controls make it perfectly usable without a tripod. With its 33x44mm, 40-million-pixel, Kodak CCD-sensor it is a landscape photographer’s dream, creating absolutely stunningly sharp and detailed pictures with very attractive colours and a huge dynamic range. As a serious photographer’s tool, the Pentax 645D is second to none. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-green-tv-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-green-tv-2011-2012 In its quest for energy efficiency, the Philips 46PFL6806 reaches a power consumption of just 56 Watts in standard-mode, outperforming the direct competition. Chemical analyses of the PCB’s by SIMS Mirec Recycling Solutions, the world’s largest electrical and electronics recovery and recycling company, proved that the Philips 46PFL6806 is less of a burden on the environment than other TV’s. The holistic approach to eco-design from last year’s winner is surely not met, but the more affordable Philips 46PFL6806 clearly succeeds in implementing some radical steps from last year into a more ‘general’ design. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-3d-tv-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-3d-tv-2011-2012 Philips takes a giant step forward with the sleek 46PFL9706 promoting it to the position of the best 3D television on the market today. Left to right image crosstalk, an annoying characteristic with active 3D, is reduced to a level you hardly notice anymore and you can adjust the depth of a native 3D picture in detail. Image quality is improved to the highest possible level without losing the natural look and finally you can carry out ISF calibration. Irritating screen reflection is dramatically reduced with the application of an effective ‘Moth Eye’ filter and black is real black without loss of detail. As always, movement compensation is best in class - what’s more, the price is really attractive for such a top set. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-compact-system-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-compact-system-2011-2012 As an evolution of its Streamium series, Philips has added touchscreen operation and a pair of rather impressive loudspeakers to create a multiroom music system from its MCi8080 and NP3700. A DVD player is included for the main room while, in up to five separate zones, it delivers audio from a variety of sources including internet/FM radio and DLNA streaming from a home network. Included in the package is a 160GB external USB drive for storing your personal music and photos. At its heart is a 2x50W Class D amplifier, ushering an exceptionally smooth and detailed sound from the speaker’s glass-fibre bass/mid and top-mounted treble units. And the icing on Philips’ cake – you can control this system via free Android and iPhone apps. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-compact-system-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-compact-system-2011-2012 Rarely do you find such striking industrial design, intelligent answers to customer demands and great performance packed together so neatly in one system as is the case with Philips ‘SoundHub’ HTS9221.This all-in-one 2.1 system combines a 3D Blu-ray player, full DLNA network capability, web radio, a concealed iPod dock, USB and SD card slots. Partnering this tour-de-force of features is a pair of elegant, tabletop speakers with inverted titanium dome tweeters and a punchy 230W active subwoofer. To complement this stylish system, Philips even offers a free iPad/iPhone app for full remote control. This is a modern product that’s dressed to impress. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-head-unit-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-in-car-head-unit-2011-2012 Pioneer’s SPH-DA01 marks the start of a new generation of head units. Finally, the entire fantastic functionality of your smartphone reaches the car with the Pioneer AppRadio, a double-DIN head unit offering control of apps installed on current and future generations of iPhone or iPod Touch from its 6.1-inch touchscreen display. Owners of such mobile devices can look forward to using apps for example listening to internet radio, web browsing, running GPS navigation with much more to come. The Pioneer SPH-DA01 also includes standard features, like Bluetooth hands-free calling, AM/FM tuner with RDS, a rear view camera input, a 12-band graphic equalizer and a preamp output for connection to additional amplifiers. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-receiver-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-receiver-2011-2012 In the modern home theatre environment, features and connectivity are as important as sound and picture performance. The Pioneer VSX-921 excels in all these areas. It combines four 3D-compliant HDMI inputs with DLNA streaming of HD audio files over a wired network, internet radio and wireless music streaming via AirPlay. Under the bonnet there a total of seven discrete amplifiers with sufficient power to drive the vast majority of home theatre systems. Pioneer’s familiar MCACC room correction regime is included, with the added flexibility of further fine-tuning via a PC application over the network. Last but not least, Pioneer’s new AirJam iPad app offers an interactive way for friends to fill the party with music. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-2-channel-system-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-2-channel-system-2011-2012 Designed to be the perfect pair, Primare’s matching USB-equipped CD player and amplifier promise some very sweet Swedish sounds. Their deceptively simple and elegant appearance belies their versatility, as all functions, including volume control and display brightness, are accessible via Primare’s system remote. Audiophile’s will be keen to learn of the CD player’s balanced outputs and amp’s inputs, the latter employing a bespoke Class D technology to deliver a rated 2x125W/8ohm and with plenty in reserve to drive some very difficult loudspeaker loads. A plug-in media module is also available, adding digital inputs, DAB/FM radio, iPod, Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections for streaming media. Most important of all, this pair offers a crystal clear sound, always bubbling with engaging musical detail. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-mobile-phone-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-mobile-phone-2011-2012 The Samsung GALAXY S II should attract huge interest due to its stunning Super AMOLED Plus 4.3-inch (10.9 cm) display as well as the speed of operation offered by a 1.2 GΗz dual core processor. With this device in your hands you feel like you can do whatever you want whether this is browsing the Internet, shooting Full HD video, playing back all kinds of media (most codec’s are included), gaming or taking pictures even in subdued light thanks to the integrated LED flash and 8 megapixel sensor. The super slim 8.49mm body, Android v2.3 operating system and the delightfully user-friendly Touch Wiz UX interface all combine to offer users an exciting and highly competent product. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-compact-system-lens-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-compact-system-lens-2011-2012 When you have chosen to buy a camera because it is small it is important that the lenses that you use are also small. In this new category it is not true that all optics are as compact as the bodies on which they fit, but here Samsung has produced a very useful set of standard focal lengths in a form that is actually pocketable. It is not enough just to be small, of course, and this is a lens that produces exceptional image quality throughout its aperture and zoom ranges. Samsung’s i-Function is an important feature of this lens and allows the user to access the main mode settings of the camera just by pressing the button on the lens barrel. The lens collapses when not in use to make itself really compact, but expands to become a highly efficient optic capable of very high resolution. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-social-media-camera-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-social-media-camera-2011-2012 This is a very small 14.2MP compact camera that makes it really easy to share your pictures and videos. Thanks to built-in Wi-Fi, as soon as you have taken a picture you can use the 3-inch touch-screen to get connected to a public or private hotspot. You can then email your masterpiece to your friends, or upload it to social networking websites such as Facebook or Picasa – and your videos can be sent directly to YouTube. DLNA technology allows the camera to be wirelessly linked to your TV, smartphone or tablet, and the camera can automatically back-up your images to your computer when you come within range. Samsung has created apps for iPhone and Android mobile phones, which let you connect the camera and the phone so the camera can be controlled remotely from the screen of the phone. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-best-buy-tv-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-best-buy-tv-2011-2012 The Samsung UE40D6500 offers best in class features, quality and design at a stunning price. The edge LED TV incorporates 3D, DLNA-connectivity and is prepared for WLAN. Smart TV functionality offers access to a whole new world of online entertainment and useful applications like Skype and social media services. The picture quality is very good for this class of product whether viewing in 2D or 3D. LED technology means the TV is slim and keeps power consumption to an absolute minimum - extremely important for the environmentally conscious customer. Additional fun and convenience is provided with the ability to control TV features from Apple and Android devices. The Samsung UE40D6500 has DVB-T, DVB-C and DVB-S tuners built-in making additional set top boxes obsolete. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-lens-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-lens-2011-2012 In the 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM, Sigma has produced a telephoto zoom lens that offers professional features and exceptionally good image quality at a very reasonable price. Even at the maximum aperture of F2.8 the lens delivers excellent sharpness and, combined with an effective image stabilizer (OS) and fast, silent autofocus (HSM), it is well suited to demanding photographic subjects such as nature, sports and documentary. Available with fittings for most camera brands, and covering APS-C and full-frame sensors, this lens is a perfect choice for both demanding amateurs and professional photographers. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-blu-ray-player-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-blu-ray-player-2011-2012 As the first Sony Blu-ray player to benefit from an all-Sony chipset, the BDP-S780 succeeds in offering a new level of performance at this entry-level price. Its superb picture performance is aided in no small measure by Sony’s proprietary ‘image engine’ while the viewing experience is enhanced with access to an on-line Entertainment Database Browser. The player even converts 2D movies to 3D and features DLNA streaming via both wired and wireless networks. Fast loading times are a given, even with Java-heavy BDs, while the same transport also plays CD and SACD music discs. Skype-ready and equipped with a basic, in-built web browser, the BDP-S780 opens up a new world of entertainment in your home. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-lcd-tv-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-lcd-tv-2011-2012 This beautiful piece of furniture looks good even when the set is turned off and is clearly designed to fit into the modern hi-tech home. The perfect viewing angle is easily achieved by simply tilting the set. Black level is as deep as can be without losing small details in the black, important for enjoying full-scale gradation in dark movie scenes whilst ‘out of the box’ the colours are well calibrated. Among an impressive set of ‘features’ you’ll find an old friend: Super Bit Mapping (SBM), introduced by Sony to improve the standard 16 bit CD quality. With Super Bit Mapping Video (SBMV), as used in this TV-set, the standard 8 bit video is processed with 14 bits with a visibly better colour gradation as a direct result. Faces especially benefit from this. Finally, you get 3D capability for free. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-compact-camera-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-compact-camera-2011-2012 The Sony Cyber-shot DSC–HX9V is a powerful 16.2MP compact camera with a 16x (24-384mm) zoom lens. It records 1080/50p Full HD video and has built-in GPS and compass functions. This is a really feature-rich camera with a 10fps burst rate, a wide range of manual controls, 3D Sweep Panorama mode and an effective optical stabilization system. This new generation Cyber-shot camera brings high-quality photography to users at every level of experience. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-camera-phone-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-camera-phone-2011-2012 With 8.7mm at its thinnest part the Xperia arc/arc S is a fine superslim mobile phone which attracts the eye and easily slips into the pocket. Featuring a 4.2-inch (10.7 cm) display LED backlighting and driven by a Bravia engine for optimized video and pictures playback. The camera part is designed around the Sony’s Exmor R sensor at 8.1 megapixels which produces detailed photos even when the light is low. The Xperia Arc has video recording at 720p, LED flash and geo tagging. It is an Android v2.3 phone driven by an 1GHz (arc) and 1.4GHz (arc/arc S) processor. The device provides micro HDMI output not only to watch movies and photos on a television, but also mirroring it’s display at a larger screen. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-green-smart-phone-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-green-smart-phone-2011-2012 Energy consumption is a hot topic amongst users of smart phones and that’s where the Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini outperforms the direct competition, be it used as a mobile phone, music machine, mobile internet device or even photo camera. Recycling by SIMS Mirec Recycling Solutions, the world’s largest electrical and electronics recovery and recycling company, clearly shows that when it comes to chemical analyses, the Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini scores best also. Despite its compact size and weight, the Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini is a clear Green winner in the mobile phone market of today. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-family-camcorder-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-family-camcorder-2011-2012 The Sony Handycam HDR-PJ10E is unique in offering customers a camcorder that is ready for shooting, easy automatic movie story creation and big screen presentation in a single product. The wide angle lens with powerful optical zoom, highly sensitive image CMOS sensor and excellent automatic system combine to make this camera extremely flexible in a great variety of shooting conditions. Stored in 16 GB of internal memory, content can be easily edited down for presentation as a short movie with added background music. A tiny but powerful built-in DLP-projector allows instant playback for the whole family to enjoy even projected on to a light coloured wall in a darkened room. This fantastic combined camcorder/projector is the best family-oriented product on the market today enabling the whole family to enjoy sharing their own movies instantly. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-subwoofer-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-ht-subwoofer-2011-2012 Whether used for multichannel home cinema or pure audio, in the SDS-12 the US subwoofer specialist Sunfire offers a perfectly equipped and deceptively compact solution for the enthusiast on a budget. Sunfire’s combination of a very efficient 300W Class D amplifier, proprietary DSP and both active and passive 300mm drivers is key to achieving such an impressively deep bass from its modest 423x370x394mm (WHD) enclosure. It’s a little sub that’s big on thrills. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-zoom-lens-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-zoom-lens-2011-2012 This compact zoom lens is an excellent tool for travel photographers, who can now carry a single all-in-one zoom lens instead of the multiple lenses that would normally be needed to cover this range of focal lengths. Designed for the popular APS-C sensor format, it delivers a focal range that is suitable for anything from landscapes to wildlife photography. The lens is small and light, and the main zoom ring is comfortable and easy to operate. The maximum aperture at the wide-angle end is well suited for working in low-light conditions or when a shallow depth of field is required, and Tamron's new piezoelectric motor achieves near-silent autofocus. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-photo-accessory-2011-2012 http://www.eisa.eu/awards.html#european-photo-accessory-2011-2012 This ball-and-socket tripod head has a pistol-grip-style handle that enables you to quickly put your camera into almost any position, and it locks firmly once the trigger is released. The pistol grip itself can be fixed in eight different positions to suit your shooting style. It is easy to adjust the level of friction on the ball head to accommodate heavier camera and lens combinations. Photographers who enjoy shooting panoramas will appreciate the 72-click head rotation, designed to space pictures 5 degrees apart, that makes the process of creating a joiner easier and more accurate. This is a versatile accessory that is very well made and extremely useful. Mon, 15 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200