Today Bjorn’s Audio & Video sadly announces the passing of a former employee and friend. Eddie Vela, who was a salesman at Bjorn’s, has lost his valiant battle with a rare form of cancer (apendiceal carcinoma).  While at Bjorn’s, Eddie influenced many customers, fellow employees and proudly represented this store as the service oriented company that it is today.  He truly had pride in serving the store and our customers. He also started Bjorn’s first employee newsletter.

When he left Bjorn’s, Eddie moved to his hometown of Mission, Texas to pursue a career as a Border Patrol agent, proudly protecting our country.  He completed his training as an agent before being diagnosed.  After he was diagnosed with cancer he founded the Faith, Family and Friends Foundation to help others with cancer. If you would like to contribute to his foundation contact Brandy Vela at 3527 E. Truman Ave, Alton, TX, 78573 or contact Troy Trussell at 210-722-8181.

Eddie was 33 at the time of his passing, on October 29, 2010.  He leaves behind a wife and 3 year old son. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. The staff of Bjorn’s wish his family peace and comfort in this time of need.  Our prayers are with the family and friends who knew and loved Eddie. His positive attitude and never ending faith set an example to all who knew him.

Live in the Moment: The Eddie Vela Story written by Mary Nichols at Progress Times/Nov. 2009

by Darryl Wilkinson
Editor-at-Large, Home Theater Magazine

Lions eating railroad workers in Africa – that’s the kind of thing that attracted the attention of the movie-going public back in the early 1950s. Well, lions eating railroad workers in Africa in 3D anyway. That was the subject of Bwana Devil, the first 3D Hollywood movie to attract any kind of mass audience attention. Fortunately, today we have much more high-brow 3D entertainment to entice us into staying home and watching 3D on our own HDTVs: Monsters vs. Aliens, Monster House, and Shrek 3D, to name just a few. Okay, so those titles might not be considered the highest of brows, but there’ll be plenty of titles, such as IMAX: Under the Sea and Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk, to tickle your intellectual bone in the near future.

So if any of those titles (even Bwana Devil) strike your three-dimensional fancy, you might be interested in knowing what it’s going to take to add that extra dimension to your home theater. The bad news is that 3D involves an entire ecosystem of components. In other words, you can’t simply replace your DVD player with a 3D Blu-ray player and instantly get 3D video in your system. The good news is that the prices of 3D-enabled gear don’t cost that much more than the equivalent 2D versions.

So, what exactly do you need to do 3D in your living room? You’ll need to build or add on to your system the following: a 3D HDTV; 3D glasses that are compatible with your TV; a 3D source, such as a 3D Blu-ray player; and (potentially) a new AV receiver and cables. While that may seem like a lot, don’t panic. We’ll take it one component at a time – just like you can do if you want to upgrade over time.

Let’s start with the 3D HDTV. One great thing about 3D technology is the fact that you can find plasma, LCD, rear projection, and front projection versions of 3D HDTVs. So no matter what your technological preference or special requirement, you’re almost certainly going to be able to find a 3D HDTV model that will work for you. And remember, all 3D HDTVs also play 2D video sources. In fact, in order for a TV to show a great 3D image, it also has to be able to display a great 2D picture. (The reverse, unfortunately, is true, too. Start with a TV that’s lousy at 2D and you’ll get lousy 3D, as well.) That means it’s perfectly okay to get a good 3D HDTV even before you get a 3D Blu-ray player or satellite box to use with it.

Aside from needing new equipment, the biggest drawback to 3D watching for most people is the requirement that each viewer must be wearing 3D glasses in order to get the 3D effect. As a matter of fact, it’s more important than that. Anyone who tries to watch a 3D movie without the glasses will quickly wind up with a whopping headache from trying to make sense of the burry images on the screen. Some 3D HDTVs come with as many as two pairs of glasses, while others don’t include any at all (but you’re welcome to buy as many as you want). Considering glasses can run as much as $150 – $200 (per pair!), this can be a very important issue – especially around sports playoffs time when you’re likely to invite friends over to watch a game. Unless you have enough glasses to go around, everyone is going to have to watch the game in 2D mode. Glasses, by the way, are not always compatible between 3D TV manufacturers. A pair of Sony 3D glasses, for example, might not work with a Mitsubishi 3D TV. This means that even if your neighbor owns a 3D HDTV, he can’t necessarily bring his glasses over to watch your 3D HDTV. XpanD and Monster are both going to be releasing universal glasses that will work with most brands of 3D HDTVs. XpanD’s glasses will even work in XpanD-equipped movie theaters, so you’ll be able to use your own personal XpanD glasses rather than the theater’s – if you ever decide to leave your own home theater, that is.

Once you have your 3D HDTV (and glasses), you’re going to need a source for 3D content. DIRECTV is already broadcasting several 3D channels, and Time Warner Cable has had a smattering of offerings so far. But for most of us, a 3D Blu-ray Disc player will be the most convenient and affordable source for 3D content. Just as prices have dropped dramatically on BD players in general, prices of 3D BD players already start at under $250. If you’re one of those lucky people who own a Sony PS3, a free firmware change can be done to upgrade your machine to make it 3D capable – although it may not fully support all 3D extra features. Unfortunately, older standalone BD players are not upgradeable.

Now that you have the two most important pieces in the 3D ecosystem (the 3D HDTV and the 3D source), you could begin watching 3D immediately – as long as you have an HDMI cable that’s capable of handling the bandwidth required by the 3D TV signal. It has to be HDMI, by the way. Analog video, component or otherwise, simply won’t do. If you’re buying a new cable, make sure it’s labeled “High Speed”; but you don’t need to rush out and buy a new cable automatically. If you have an existing HDMI cable, you might want to try it first to see if it works. If so, you’ve saved yourself a couple of bucks you can spend on a new BD movie or two.

Although you could use the speakers in the 3D HDTV and start watching a movie right away, it’s really better to hook everything up to a surround sound receiver in order to take advantage of the high definition audio signal present on most BD discs. In order to make sure everything works the way it should, your new receiver should be HDMI 1.4 ready. If you have an older AV receiver with HDMI 1.3, you might still be able to see a 3D picture when you pass the signal through your AVR, but you probably won’t have access to some of the special features. Don’t worry if you’re not ready to replace your AVR yet. There’s at least one way of connecting everything to get around this issue and get the best picture along with the best sound. Your salesperson is the best one to talk to about your particular situation.

So that’s what you need to bring yourself into the third dimension of television. If you’re putting together a brand new system, it’s relatively easy to make your home theater ready for 3D. If you’re upgrading one piece at a time, just make sure that each piece you add is 3D capable. Then once you have at least the 3D HDTV and 3D source, you’ll be able to start enjoying all the excitement of those 3D lion attacks in Bwana Devil…well, maybe Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs would be a better choice.

Bjorn’s Audio Video will host a free 3D TV Expo from October 21^st, to the 24^th at their store in San Antonio, Texas.

Over the four days of the 3D TV Expo, leading manufacturers, distributors, and providers of programming for 3D products will hold demonstrations for the public, in what is expected to be the one of the largest consumer 3D technology shows in the country.

Among the highlights of the event will be several new projectors. Sony will display its $10,000 front projector to consumers for the first time. Runco will demonstrate a $50,000 prototype dual-lens front projection system using polarized glasses on a 110-inch Stewart Filmscreen projection screen. Mitsubishi will show the largest rear projection 3D HDTVs that are currently available.

Samsung, Toshiba and Panasonic will each demonstrate their latest 3D TVs, and consumers will get to see XpanD introduce its new universal 3D TV glasses.

There will be plenty more highlights including Gamestop demonstrating the 3D capabilities of its PlayStation 3 gaming system with its new PlayStation Move motion controller.  We will also be discussing DIRECTV 3D programming options. (via Dealerscope.com)

And be certain to plan to attend our FREE, fun, entertaining and informative seminars on 3D TV, hosted by factory representatives, Bjorn’s expert staff members and, of course Bjorn himself. When you attend, register for the chance to win a 3D Blu-ray DVD player. One to be given away at each seminar. Click here to register for any of our upcoming seminars!

Click Here for Full Details!

ATTENTION ALL SONOS OWNERS! The Sonos iPad App was released recently and it is a simple to use, very reliable must have app! Best of all it’s free! Check out the video below to see it in action.

So what do you think? Will you be downloading this beautiful app for your Sonos system? And if you don’t have an iPad yet, will this get you to buy one?

Hi, my name is Jeff Griffin and I am the Store Trainer here at Bjorn’s. Two weeks ago I was lucky enough to attend the company’s annual trip to the CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association) convention in Atlanta, GA. While I was there I took some notes on some of the new technology that caught my eye. Below you will find those notes – keep in mind that some of this technology may not be out yet and/or Bjorn’s may not end up stocking. This is a list of just some the hundreds of upcoming products I thought you should know about. Enjoy!

Sonos
Sonos is introducing a wireless iPod dock that integrates into the Sonos architecture. With the dock, consumers can listen to their music without a PC or having to boot up their PC. Another benefit is that friends can now bring their music to a Sonos household for playback thru the system. The dock is due in October.

Runco
Runco is introducing a new slew of 3D projectors they are billing as The 3Dimension Series. They have developed what they call a “revolutionary” approach to 3D using a proprietary technique called Constant Stereoscopic Video (CSV) that merges stereo images while delivering a constant HD image to each eye. They do this by having stacked projectors in a single chassis so that each eye essentially has its own HD image. The system uses Passive glasses technology which is reported to be “superior” to the viewer and is used widely in public theaters today. The model is the D-73d which uses Runco’s lampless LED lighting technology that was released last year in the company’s QuantumColor projectors.

XpanD / Monster
With all the various 3D capable displays out there it becomes somewhat difficult to know which glasses will or won’t work with other brands displays. In most cases the glasses are proprietary to their own brands TV’s. This may pose a problem if friends come over to your house and you don’t have enough glasses for the big game. “Oh, no problem, I will bring over my 3D glasses”, says your neighbor…well they most likely won’t work unless they are the same brand that you use as a display. Those issues just might be forgotten with new “universal” active shutter glasses coming from both Monster and XpanD. These glasses reportedly will work with 3D ready LCD, DLP and plasma displays. Time will tell just how truly universal these glasses are.

Epson
Epson has long been the leader of LCD based projectors. They are now releasing a new (to Epson) technology that is called 3LCD Reflective. Traditional LCD projectors let light pass through them in that they are transmissive. The trio of new projectors that fall in their “high-end” line up will use reflective LCD similar to what is found in Sony’s SXRD and JVC’s D-ILA technologies. The new crop of projectors has improved black levels and insane contrast ratios. Epson has yet to announce a 3D projector but that probably won’t be far off.

Seura
Seura makes some of the best looking and most custom applications of “vanishing TV mirrors” I have ever seen. They not only supply the TV (due to the picture quality issue of showing thru the mirror) they also build the entire bracket, power supply and all necessary parts, you just have to get the wiring in place. They have multiple models to chose from that include non-vanishing, vanishing, water-proof and illuminated mirrors. Their Hydra TV is available in hundreds of colors and is rated IP-65 water-proof. Once you tell them the size of the mirror, choose your mirror trim you simply tell them the size and placement of the TV in the mirror… they do the rest. Most sizes of TV’s will be 1080p with built-in tuners, 4 ms response time, 120Hz frame rate and wide viewing angles.

The predominate buzz of the show was 3D, and rightly so. But however, as you can see, there were quite a few other products that made an impression on me, 3D or not. So, from HD to 3D, what’s next? Our next big convention is in Las Vegas in January. What will the manufacturers have up their sleeves for CES (Consumer Electronics Show)? We’ll see!

Experience audio with no boundaries.

I remember looking at the Soundcast OutCast wireless speaker and thinking that it reminded me of one of those car audio bass cannons that are placed in trunks to improve sound performance.  Much to the contrary, this upright pillar is a full-range powered speaker designed for outdoor use and utilizes super smart, super simple wireless technology.

Listening to the OutCast for the first time was amazing. I couldn’t help but think of how far wireless technology has evolved. From cell phones, computer networks, televisions and everything in between – now outdoor speakers!

How great is this piece?

For many years we advised people to stay away from wireless speakers as an option, due to possible interferences from other common wireless frequencies. Now we have a real solution for you to enjoy your favorite music. Use your iPod, iPhone, CD player, stereo tuner or any other auxiliary device, even a cable box! (Just in case you wanted to listen to the big game while sipping iced tea by the swimming pool.)

Genius.

The OutCast weather-resistant, wireless speaker lets you enjoy rich multi-directional stereo sound throughout your house, in your yard, on your patio and even on your boat. With broadcast range of up to 350 feet, this powerful wireless speaker receives transmissions through walls, floors, and ceilings without the hassle of running wires.

Come in and listen to the crystal clear sound of the Soundcast OutCast today, only at Bjorns…just Bjorns!

Click Here for Pricing and More Info

Bjorn’s is proud to announce that we have been chosen as one of 35 dealers in the country to display and sell Denon’s limited special-edition 100th Anniversary Product Collection! Below is a condensed version of their press release from earlier today.

Atlanta, GA, September 23, 2010 — Denon Electronics, a premier manufacturer of high-quality home entertainment components celebrating 100 years of innovation and technology leadership, is proud to announce its 100^th Anniversary Special-Edition Dealers. This select group of dealers are authorized to carry Denon’s new special-edition Anniversary Product Collection (A100), seven new home entertainment components that offer discriminating consumers an opportunity to become a part of Denon’s century-old legacy of innovation and craftsmanship. The roster of specialty dealers and custom integrators were selected by Denon based on their longstanding commitment to the brand and their ability to accurately present the Special Edition Products and Denon Legacy to consumers.

As Denon 100th Anniversary Special Edition Dealers, each of these selected retailers will be featured in Denon’s 100th Anniversary marketing campaign beginning at CEDIA. More details about each dealer can be found at www.Denon100.com beginning on October 1st, the official kick-off date of Denon’s 100th Anniversary. They will also work with Denon to help develop and execute a multi-tiered marketing and merchandising campaign that will include advertising, contests, giveaways and in-store events.  Additionally, they will receive a specially created Denon 100^th Anniversary Dealer logo for use in merchandising the Special Edition products.

Denon Anniversary Product Collection (A100)

The limited special-edition Denon Anniversary Product Collection includes:

• PMA-A100 Integrated Amplifier (SRP: $2,499)
• DCD-A100 CD/SACD Player (SRP: $2,499)
• DP-A100 Direct-Drive Turntable (SRP: $2,499)
• DL-A100 Cartridge (SRP: $499)
• AVR-A100 9.2 Channel A/V Receiver (SRP: $2,499)
• DBP-A100 Universal Blu-ray Player (SRP: $2,499)
• AH-A100 Over-Ear Headphones (SRP: $499).

All A100 products will be available beginning in November 2010 at select Special Anniversary Denon dealers, who can be found at www.Denon100.com.

The Bjorn’s Audio Video
Warehouse Sale
September 16, 17 & 18

SPECIAL EXTENDED SALE HOURS:
Thursday 12–7, Friday 10–7, Saturday 10–6

OK people, if you’ve been holding out, waiting for a really exceptional deal on top quality consumer electronics,your opportunity is finally here. Bjorn’s is a busy place, and over time, stuff accumulates. Demonstrator units, returns, exchanges, open box and discontinued models…that kind of thing. Well, we now have a lot of it stacked up at our warehouse and we need to move it.

THIS IS THE REALLY GOOD STUFF AT REALLY LOW PRICES: HDTVs, Blu-ray players, A/V receivers, loudspeakers and more, from brands such as Samsung, Toshiba, Mitsubishi, Definitive Technology, Sony, etc. Special purchases made just for this sale!

WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO SHOP EARLY FOR THE BEST SELECTION. QUANTITIES ARE LIMITED TO STOCK ON HAND.

Get all of your 3D questions answered during National 3D Demo Days. Visit Bjorn’s this weekend to see and hear for yourself what 3D is all about. Advances in digital production technologies have improved how 3D movies and programs are created. If you haven’t experienced 3D recently, come in and see how much richer and more comfortable the experience is now.

During National 3D Demo Days, ESPN 3D will provide continuous 3D programming to retail outlets across the country, including live coverage of the Miami vs. Ohio State football game on September 11 at 2:40 p.m. CST and highlights from the 2010 FIFA World Cup, X Games 16, and the Boise State vs. Virginia Tech game from Sept. 6.

Learn how to enjoy the third dimension from the comfort of your couch!

What You’ll Need to Get 3D at Home
Our step-by-step checklist guides your launch into a three-dimensional paradise.

FAQs
With all of the hoopla surrounding 3DTV you probably have questions. We’ll try to answer them, as well as some of which you may not have thought.

Don’t Forget the Audio!
Your 3DTV experience isn’t complete without the best in surround sound audio.

How 3DTV Works
Cardboard red and blue glasses? That’s old school. This primer explains the technology behind 3DTV and how it’s different – and better – than what came before.

3D Content
A quick glimpse at the 3D movies, cable/satellite TV channels and shows now or soon to be available.