Taiko Audio, a Dutch high-end audio manufacturer, has unveiled what might be the most over-engineered music server ever created—the Extreme Server. With a starting price of €28,000 (US$29,600), this meticulously crafted device embodies either the pinnacle of audio engineering or the epitome of audiophile excess. The Extreme's most distinctive feature is its unique dual-processor architecture, using two Intel Xeon Scalable 10-core CPUs. This unusual configuration isn't just for show—Taiko claims it solves a specific audiophile dilemma: the impact of Roon's music management interface on sound quality. By dedicating two processors to Roon and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 interface, they've made Roon's processing "virtually inaudible", addressing a concern most music listeners probably never knew existed.

Perhaps the most striking technical achievement is the server's cooling system, or rather, its complete absence of conventional cooling. Taiko designed a custom 240 W passive cooling solution with absolutely no fans or moving parts. The company machined the CPU interface to a mind-boggling precision of 5 microns (0.005 mm) and opted for solid copper heat sinks instead of aluminium, claiming this will extend component life by 4 to 12 years. The attention to detail extends to the memory configuration, where Taiko takes an unconventional approach. The server uses twelve 4 GB custom-made industrial memory modules, each factory pre-selected with components matched to within 1% tolerance. According to Taiko, this reduces the refresh rate burst current by almost 50% and allows for lower operating temperatures. The PSU that powers the PC is a custom 400 W linear power supply, an in-house development designed specifically for the Extreme's unique needs. It combines premium Mundorf and Duelund capacitors for sonic neutrality, Lundahl chokes selected by ear, and extensive vibrational damping using Panzerholz (a compressed wood composite) for durability, low temperature operation, longevity, and exceptional sound quality.

NVIDIA today announced incoming changes to its GeForce Now game streaming service, some of which are not likely to sit well with gamers. The biggest, and likely most controversial change coming to GeForce Now is the addition of monthly playtime caps for all GeForce Now users, regardless of which plan they're on. According to the blog post announcing the changes, GeForce Now gamers will be limited to 100 hours of gameplay per month in addition to the daily playtime caps. NVIDIA will allow gamers who don't use their whole monthly cap to roll 15 hours of game time into the following month.

It's not all bad news, however, as NVIDIA also announced that it will be increasing the resolution and image quality of the GeForce Now Performance tier—previously Priority—from 1080p to 1440p. The Ultimate and Basic tiers remain unchanged in both name and feature set. NVIDIA says the playtime limit was necessary in order "to continue providing exceptional quality and speed—as well as shorter queue times." Of course players can buy extra playtime at a rate of $2.99 for 15 hours of GeForce Now Performance and $5.99 for 15 hours of GeForce Now Ultimate. The playtime limits will come into effect on January 1, 2025, and anyone that signs up for a paid GeForce Now subscription before then won't be subjected to the new playtime limits until January 2026.

After spending some time testing the feature in the Steam Beta client, Valve has finally made native recording via the Steam game overlay public in the mainline Steam client. In the latest Steam client update, which landed on November 5, game recording finally went live for all versions of Steam. While the new feature is undoubtedly helpful for gamers on all platforms, it's particularly useful for Linux and Steam Deck gamers, who have, until now, had to rely on myriad third-party software, which can be a hassle to set up and present additional overhead that may cause issues in games.

Similar to the likes of NVIDIA's GeForce Experience (soon to be replaced by the NVIDIA App) and AMD's Adrenaline Software, Steam offers a number of different options to record entire sessions or just short gameplay clips. Unsurprisingly, Steam game recording works with the Steam Deck (and thus many other Linux distributions), but perhaps not as expected is that it also works with non-Steam games that allow the Steam overlay to work. Valve also put some thought into the technical side of things, with optimizations to minimize CPU usage and rely on NVIDIA and AMD GPU video encoding wherever possible. This should minimize any performance impacts and increase power efficiency where applicable—as in the case of gaming handhelds. Valve does note that non-AMD and -NVIDIA GPUs may see significant performance impacts, which is not great news for Intel Xe owners.

ASUS today announced ZenScreen Smart MS27UC, the brand's first Google TV smart monitor. Google TV brings together movies, shows, and more from a variety of streaming services and offers users a personalized entertainment experience. ZenScreen Smart MS27UC boasts a 27-inch 4K (3840 x 2160) IPS panel with wide 178° viewing angles, a 99% sRGB gamut, VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification, and dual front-facing 5 W Harman Kardon-certified speakers. Plus, a source control feature enables viewers to easily switch between Productivity or Play modes.

With ZenScreen Smart MS27UC, there's no need for a dedicated PC. Users can conduct online meetings and browse content via the web browser, and logging in to a Google Account allows them to create and sync work and documents on Google Workspace. The monitor also offers seamless connections to multiple devices, including PCs and smartphones through Miracast or Google Cast, with the multi-control feature enabling seamless navigation via a single Bluetooth mouse and keyboard.

NEXiCONN Technology Corp. has launched an advanced game capture device—the AI Pixel-Plus CaptureX NV601/NV501, now available for purchase on Amazon in the U.S. This product utilizes the company's proprietary deep learning AI technology, which enhances game visuals to 4K ultra-high-definition resolution, delivering significantly improved image quality. It offers next-gen support for streamers and content creators. One of the standout features of the AI Pixel-Plus CaptureX NV601/NV501 is its capability to stream on four platforms simultaneously, a breakthrough that is revolutionizing the live streaming industry.

Feature 1: Supports Up to 4K144 Capturing & Pass-through
The AI Pixel-Plus CaptureX NV601/NV501 not only enhances resolution to 4K and boosts image quality but also features powerful capture functionality. It seamlessly integrates gaming devices like PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch with software such as OBS and Streamlabs OBS, making content creation easier than ever. Additionally, the NV601 supports pass-through and capturing in up to 4K144, ensuring high-frame-rate video while capturing through external monitors connected via HDMI.

Committed to providing high-quality entertainment solutions that deliver immersive and shared viewing, Epson today unveiled new Epson EpiqVision Mini models designed to Make Every Event Epic. Featuring an all-new premium, compact and portable design available in a range of modern color options, the new projectors offer a Full HD HDR picture up to 150-inches, along with outstanding audio, built-in streaming capabilities and a simple setup. Whether at home or outside, the new Epson EpiqVision Mini family makes it easier than ever to bring family and friends together and create memories that last a lifetime.

"At Epson, we are consistently pushing technology boundaries, and the new Epson EpiqVision Mini models are no exception," said Kenny Tang, product manager, Epson America, Inc. "In today's always-on culture, these compact projectors pack the latest tech to make it easy for anyone to host an epic home screening, underscoring the power of a big screen to bring people together."

GeForce NOW makes gamers' fantasies a reality by bringing top titles to the cloud. This week, the award-winning FINAL FANTASY XVI is available for members to stream at launch. Catch 11 bit studios' city-survival game Frostpunk 2 before it launches with early access on GeForce NOW. It's part of seven new games joining the expansive GeForce NOW library.

Eikonic Adventure
Dive into the richly crafted world of Valisthea in FINAL FANTASY XVI, the latest mainline entry in Square Enix's renowned role-playing game series. This epic action RPG unfolds in a once-glorious land blessed by the light of the Mothercrystals that's now slowly succumbing to the mysterious Blight. Play as Clive Rosfield as he navigates a dark fantasy filled with political intrigue and magical battles against Eikons, powerful manifestations of elemental forces. Eikons are wielded by Dominants, individuals who possess incredible strength and abilities. Featuring exhilarating real-time combat, the game allows players to unleash devastating moves by chaining together attack combos with seamless fluidity. With its gripping story, stunning visuals and intense gameplay, FINAL FANTASY XVI offers an unforgettable experience for new and longtime fans of the series alike.

While it was keen to show off its earlier released Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 (GC553G2) USB and Live Gamer 4K 2.1 (GC575) PCIe HDMI 2.1 capture cards which have recently got a big firmware update, giving them 4K144 capture, support for 5.1 multi-channel audio, and support for Windows 11 Dynamic Lighting, AVerMedia had a lot of other new things to show at the Computex 2024 show, including the new Premium Go Series, which includes the world's first Capture Dock, the X'tra Go GC515, the Elite Go GC313Pro and Core Go GC313 GaN charger and capture device, new AVerMedia Streaming Center software, and a couple of NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX-based Box PCs for edge AI.

As said, the new AVerMedia Premium Go Series kicks off with the X'tra Go GC515, which is the world's first Capture Dock for various handheld devices. The Xtra Go GC515 does exactly what you think it does, and that is record 4K30 or 1080p120 footage from a handheld gaming device with just a simple click and without a computer. It is compatible with popular models like Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and probably most other handheld consoles. Of course, since it does not require a PC, it records everything on a microSD card. The Premium Go Series also features GaN chargers with video capture capability, including the Elite Go GC313Pro, a 100 W charger with HDMI 4K60 output, USB-C 1080p60 capture, and an ability to charge multiple device. There is also the Core Go GC313 GaN charger and capture device, which allows users to display their video signal on a monitor at up to 4K60 via HDMI while the device is charging.

CHERRY XTRFY, the specialist for high-quality gaming peripherals, presents the Ngale microphone series, designed specifically for gamers, streamers and content creators. Ngale X and Ngale R are the first two microphones to be launched under the CHERRY XTRFY brand. The Cherry group, which is particularly known for the production of mechanical high-end keyboard switches, continues to expand its portfolio of gaming peripherals.

Ngale R: USB Microphone With Retro Innovative Design and High Sound Quality
This Ngale R not only impresses with its design, but also with its performance. The standalone USB microphone prioritizes sound quality over multiple polar patterns, featuring one large, high-quality cardioid capsule for streaming, voiceovers and solo recordings with greater detail. When gaming intensively, a low-cut filter can be activated to reduce noise.

Today, Logitech International introduced Mevo Core, the next generation live streaming camera in the Mevo ecosystem. Mevo Core is a new intuitive 4K camera, built for live streaming and content creation, which can be fully controlled from a smartphone or tablet. Featuring a compact, sleek design with versatile mounting options, Mevo Core's interchangeable lens design gives streamers the freedom to accomplish high-quality results every time.

"We are on a journey to democratize live content creation for everyone at any skill level. Mevo Core embodies this value by bringing beautiful 4K DSLR level quality but with a fraction of the complexity of a traditional camera," said Otto Cedeno, head of Mevo. "Every single aspect, from adjusting the optical zoom, to setting the right focus are simple taps, making it an incredibly accessible pro-level camera, even for beginners."

Today, Logitech unveiled MX Brio/MX Brio 705 for Business, a revolutionary high-end webcam for end users and enterprises, designed to meet the demanding needs of advanced users. MX Brio is Logitech's most advanced webcam yet and joins the Master Series ecosystem alongside MX keyboards and mice to deliver outstanding performance and streaming experiences, while fostering quality collaboration. The Ultra HD 4K webcam helps creative professionals and developers elevate their virtual presence and efficiently share results and ideas.

"We know that MX users collaborate and communicate from many different environments, and need a versatile webcam offering the best video and sound quality," said Anatoliy Polyanker, General Manager of the MX Business at Logitech. "MX Brio is our highest quality webcam, featuring customization and the ability to show themselves or their work in the best possible way."

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today unveiled two new additions to their audio lineup: the Razer Seiren V3 Chroma and the Seiren V3 Mini. These microphones are a fusion of Razer's iconic aesthetics with cutting-edge functionality, tailored to be the centerpiece of any gaming setup, streaming studio, or content creation space.

"We are thrilled to launch the Seiren V3 Chroma and Seiren V3 Mini, showcasing Razer merging top-tier audio quality with the dynamic flair of Razer Chroma RGB," says Nick Bourne, Head of Razer's Mobile, Console & Streaming Division. "These microphones are designed to cater to the multifaceted demands of modern content creators, offering unparalleled customization, control, and clarity that truly stands out."

Apple has just been hit with a massive €500 million fine by the European Union over a complaint filed by Spotify over anti-competitive practices. The crux of the complaint is that while Spotify subscriptions purchased on its website are competitive to those of Apple Music, subscriptions purchased on Apple devices via the App Store incur a 30% commission to Apple, which would result in Spotify having to increase its subscription prices, making Spotify lose competitiveness to Apple Music, which comes pre-installed on iOS devices, is deeply integrated with the operating system, and costs less. The Spotify complaint was filed with the European Commission way back in 2019, with the ruling coming out just now. Apple is already facing the EU's heat over barriers to App Store alternatives in the Epic Games case. The company is implementing several platform-level changes with the upcoming iOS 17.4 update scheduled for March 2024, as well as changes to its terms of service. Hopefully Spotify gets its due.

Hi everyone, 2024 has just begun and it's time for our very first State of Play! The broadcast will be over 40 minutes long, and feature guest appearances from some of the most talented minds in gaming. Among many other updates, we'll feature extended looks at Stellar Blade and Rise of the Ronin, two great games coming to PS5 this year. And we'll give you a new look at other titles coming to PS5 and PS VR2 in 2024 and beyond. The show begins Wednesday, January 31 at 2pm PT / 5pm ET / 10pm GMT on YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok. Here's to a new year of great games!

Regarding Co-streaming and Video-On-Demand (VOD)
Please note that this broadcast may include copyrighted content (e.g. licensed music) that PlayStation does not control. We welcome and celebrate our amazing co-streamers and creators, but licensing agreements outside our control could interfere with co-streams or VOD archives of this broadcast. If you're planning to save this broadcast as a VOD to create recap videos, or to repost clips or segments from the show, we advise omitting any copyrighted music.

Video interface and IP workflow innovator Magewell has announced that the company has joined the Q-SYS Technology Partner Program. This program enables software and hardware technology partners to create market-ready solutions that integrate seamlessly with Q-SYS, a cloud-manageable audio, video and control platform. The first result of the initiative—the Q-SYS Control plugin for Magewell's USB Fusion video capture, mixing and presentation device—has been endorsed with Q-SYS Certified status and is now available for download through the Q-SYS Designer Asset Manager found in Q-SYS Designer Software.

Magewell will showcase USB Fusion among other innovations in stand 5E710 at the ISE 2024 exhibition in Barcelona from January 30 to February 2. Magewell's USB Fusion hardware and accompanying app let users easily combine cameras, wired or wireless screenshares, and media file sources into visually compelling live presentations for streaming, live event production, online lectures, webinars, video conferencing and other applications. Users can switch between sources or combine inputs into attractive scene layouts.

Roland announces BRIDGE CAST X, the latest addition to the growing family of BRIDGE CAST products for online gaming and livestreaming. BRIDGE CAST X is a powerful desktop interface and connection hub that allows streamers to simplify their setups and improve their content with Roland's renowned pro AV features. Multiple USB-C, HDMI, and audio ports provide simultaneous connectivity for computers, gaming consoles, and other devices, eliminating the need to repatch for different streaming scenarios. BRIDGE CAST X also includes an XLR mic input, assignable control pads, and support for thousands of royalty-free backing music titles via the BGM CAST service on Roland Cloud.

From online gaming to podcasting, vlogging, and other video content, BRIDGE CAST X keeps users focused on creating rather than fussing with cables and different pieces of specialized gear. The integrated design simplifies connections and reduces clutter, while the friendly panel is filled with controls for executing actions in real time while streaming.

SteelSeries, the worldwide leader in gaming and esports peripherals, today unveiled its newest franchise and the first microphone solution that's been purposely built for gamers. With over 20 years of design and engineering expertise dedicated to solving problems for gamers and making every gaming session glorious, the #1 premium gaming audio brand introduces Alias microphones powered by Sonar for Streamers. Now "Gamers Finally Have a Voice."

When gamers stream, they get animated, move around their gaming setups and battlestations, shout with unbridled excitement and enthusiasm, narrate gameplay, and tell stories with style and personality. The current offering of microphones on the market does not address these needs and doesn't allow users to be dynamic, while Alias microphones allow for the freedom and true range that gamers seek. Others have introduced microphone solutions that are 4-in-1, but they are a master of none.

AVerMedia Technologies, a leading provider of audio and video solutions, is excited to announce the launch of Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 (GC553G2), the world-leading HDMI 2.1 USB capture card. This state-of-the-art device aims to revolutionize the streaming experience for gamers across the globe. Game streamers have been eagerly awaiting a solution to meet the demands of the latest games and next-gen consoles, and the Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 is here to fulfill that need. This high-performance capture card leverages the power of HDMI 2.1 technology, offering uncompromising video quality with up to 4K144 pass-through HDR/VRR, ensuring that every moment of the gameplay is transmitted with stunning clarity and fluidity. Additionally, it supports up to 4K60 capture, providing streamers with the option of capturing their memorable gaming moments in pristine clarity.

"We believe every gamer deserves the best tools to showcase their skills and passion. With this new HDMI 2.1 USB capture card, we're taking game streaming and capturing to a whole new level," says Michael Kuo, President and CEO of AVerMedia. "Our goal is to empower gamers to create content that truly reflects their talent and dedication."

TRIBIT, a global audio brand, drops the latest crop of StormBox Flow Bluetooth Portable Speaker that takes the music experience up a notch. Equipped with TRIBIT's proprietary XBass and RunStretch technology, this brand-new speaker delivers a remarkable 25 W output power and up to 30 hours of playtime. The sleek yet robust design makes it perfect for outdoor activities, like hiking, camping and everything in between.

Small yet Mighty
With the TRIBIT's proprietary XBass and RunStretch technology coming in, the 25 W StormBox Flow unleashes the pulsating sound like never before. Better still, users can double up the audio experience by pairing two StormBox Flow to create a one-of-a-kind immersive sound experience.

CORSAIR, a world leader in high-performance gear for gamers and content creators, today launched a new addition to its illustrious VIRTUOSO headset line: the VIRTUOSO PRO open back streaming/gaming headset. Boasting state-of-the-art graphene driver technology and a striking open back design, VIRTUOSO PRO delivers true-to-life audio that rivals studio-grade headphones. Whether you're streaming, gaming, creating, or all three at once, you can hear what matters most with VIRTUOSO PRO.

VIRTUOSO PRO is tailor-made for streamers and gamers alike. Its airy open back ear cups create a natural, spacious sound stage, giving your games and media new dimension and realism. You're also tuned-in to your environment - you can speak and interact while wearing the headset just as you would normally. With VIRTUOSO PRO, streaming and content creation is more natural than ever.

Whether it's the ultimate sound system in the home or a single point of sound, Beolab 8 can be used as a system speaker to create an immersive home cinema setup using the latest high-end Bang & Olufsen speakers or even heritage speakers dating back to 1984. Stereo pair two Beolab 8 speakers to create powerful and precise stereo sound for a high-fidelity music experience. Beolab 8 is also a stand-alone speaker delivering depth with an intense bass for its size.

"Our goal is to create powerful and immersive listening experiences for our customers. Beolab 8 provides exactly this. It is a scalable speaker that is all about flexibility, performance, and innovation", says Michael Henriksson, Vice President of Product Marketing at Bang & Olufsen and continues: "Drawing inspiration from the high-end Beolab range, our aim for Beolab 8 was to distil the acoustic essence of these impressive speakers into a compact offering that maintains the directivity and sound beam control for optimal sound reproduction in any environment. Bringing immersive experiences for every moment".

We've been focused on creating a great gaming experience for our members since 2021 when we added mobile games to Netflix. Our goal has always been to have a game for everyone, and we are working hard to meet members where they are with an accessible, smooth, and ubiquitous service. Today, we're taking the first step in making games playable on every device where our members enjoy Netflix - TVs, computers, and mobile.

We are rolling out a limited beta test to a small number of members in Canada and the UK on select TVs starting today, and on PCs and Macs through Netflix.com on supported browsers in the next few weeks. Two games will be part of this initial test: Oxenfree from Night School Studio, a Netflix Game Studio, and Molehew's Mining Adventure, a gem-mining arcade game. To play our games on TV, we're introducing a controller that we already have in our hands most of the day - our phones. Members on PCs and Macs can play on Netflix.com with a keyboard and mouse.

NVIDIA and VMware are helping professionals elevate extended reality (XR) by streaming from the cloud with Workspace ONE XR Hub, which includes an integration of NVIDIA CloudXR. Now available, Workspace ONE XR Hub enhances the user experience for VR headsets through advanced authentication and customization options. Combined with the cutting-edge streaming capabilities of CloudXR, Workspace ONE XR Hub enables more professionals, design teams and developers to quickly and securely access complex immersive environments using all-in-one headsets.

Many organizations across industries use XR technologies to boost productivity and enhance creativity. However, teams often come across challenges when it comes to integrating XR into their workflows. That's why NVIDIA and VMware are working together to make it easier for enterprises to adopt augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). Whether it's running immersive training sessions or conducting virtual design reviews, professionals can achieve the highest fidelity experience with greater mobility through Workspace ONE XR Hub and CloudXR.

Keep the NVIDIA and Microsoft party going this GFN Thursday with Grounded, Deathloop and Pentiment now available to stream for GeForce NOW members this week. These three Xbox Game Studio titles are part of the dozen additions to the GeForce NOW library.

Triple Threat
NVIDIA and Microsoft's partnership continues to flourish with this week's game additions.

Get ready for action - the first Xbox game title is now streaming from GeForce GPUs in the cloud directly to GeForce NOW members, with more to come later this month. Gears 5 comes to the service this GFN Thursday. Keep reading to find out what other entries from the Xbox library will be streaming on GeForce NOW soon. Also, time's almost up on an exclusive discount for six-month GeForce NOW Priority memberships. Sign up today to save 40% before the offer ends on Sunday, May 21.

All Geared Up
NVIDIA and Microsoft have been working together to bring the first Xbox PC titles to the GeForce NOW library. With their gaming fueled by GeForce GPU servers in the cloud, members can access the best of Xbox Game Studios and Bethesda titles across nearly any device, including underpowered PCs, Macs, iOS and Android mobile devices, NVIDIA SHIELD TV, supported smart TVs and more.