Acoustic Technology Co-Developed with Meridian Audio Applied

LG Electronics is targeting the global audio market with speakers featuring premium sound quality.

LG Electronics will unveil its 2018 audio product lineup including soundbars, portable speakers, and AI audio at CES 2018. Key models among the new products incorporate high-quality acoustic technology co-developed with Meridian Audio, a British high-end audio brand (hereinafter Meridian).

These products are characterized by implementing optimal sound by combining LG Electronics' proprietary audio technology with Meridian's superior signal processing technology and sophisticated tuning technology.

Meridian is a leading British high-end audio specialist that has developed speakers, digital sound processing technology, and digital audio formats and standards. It has earned a reputation for seamlessly integrating analog audio technology with digital audio technology.

Soundbar with Advanced Spatial Audio Technology 'Dolby ATMOS' Applied

LG Electronics is expanding its soundbar lineup featuring the spatial audio system 'Dolby ATMOS' functionality. The Dolby ATMOS function, which was previously applied to one model, is now equipped in three new models (model names: SK10Y, SK9Y, SK8Y), allowing more consumers to experience immersive sound.

Dolby ATMOS creates sound that appears to come from in front of, behind, or above the user depending on the movement and position of objects on screen. For example, when an airplane flies over the protagonist's head, the sound is heard from above the viewer's head, providing more three-dimensional and realistic spatial perception.

The flagship product (model name: SK10Y) co-developed with Meridian features a powerful 5.1.2 channel 550-watt (W) output. The 5.1.2 channel configuration means 5 built-in speakers, 1 subwoofer, and 2 up-firing speakers, optimized for implementing Dolby ATMOS. In particular, the up-firing speakers that emit sound toward the ceiling implement spacious sound. The up-firing speakers' volume can be adjusted separately depending on ceiling height. For example, if the ceiling is high, you can keep the overall soundbar volume the same and increase only the up-firing speaker volume.

This product can play lossless audio files that capture the original sound. In particular, with the Up-bit function, standard audio sources are also enhanced to high-quality 24-bit resolution. Supporting Google Chromecast, it can also directly play audio from YouTube, TuneIn and other services by connecting to a smartphone.

'Portable Speaker' with Powerful Sound Despite Compact Size

LG Electronics also unveils the 'PK Series' portable speakers with three models (model names: PK7/PK5/PK3) integrating Meridian's sound technology. The PK Series portable speakers, despite their small size, produce rich bass and clear treble that fill the space with sound.

The flagship product (model name: PK7) features the aptX™ HD audio codec, a Bluetooth transmission technology that prevents audio loss, enabling playback of 24-bit high-quality audio sources in their original form. It boasts 40 watts (W) of output and a battery that can operate for up to 20 hours for outdoor enjoyment. Most smartphone built-in speaker outputs are around 1 watt or less.

With a single-hand design that maximizes portability, it also supports LED mood lighting functionality to set the atmosphere.

AI Speaker 'LG ThinQ Speaker' with Google Assistant Built-in

LG Electronics also introduces the 'LG ThinQ Speaker' equipped with Google's artificial intelligence assistant 'Google Assistant'. This is the first time LG Electronics is presenting a speaker with Google Assistant built-in.

This product also features Meridian's advanced acoustic technology, maximizing audio functionality. It delivers warm and rich bass along with clear and clean sound quality. It can play lossless audio files and supports the Up-bit function that enhances standard audio quality to a maximum of 24-bit resolution.

The LG ThinQ Speaker is also rich in artificial intelligence functions. Equipped with AI that can converse with users, this product easily operates home appliances and reports their status through voice commands. For example, when a user says "OK Google, Talk to LG, start washer," it operates the washing machine, and when the user says "OK Google, Talk to LG, what's remaining time of washer?", it responds "Your washer is washing with 20 minutes remaining." The LG ThinQ Speaker is scheduled to launch first in the United States.

Additionally, LG Electronics also unveils a high-output speaker (model name: OK99) suitable for parties and events. This product features 1800-watt high output and DJ functions such as section repeat and scratch that enhance the party atmosphere.

Seo Young-jae, Executive Director of LG Electronics' HE Division CAV Business, emphasized, "We will target the global market with an audio product lineup that supports high-quality sound optimized for consumer usage environments and various convenience features."