Those disturbed by the conspicuous volume difference between television programs and commercials can go install the GefenTV Auto Volume Stabilizer and breathe a sigh of relief. The maker promises that the device can eliminate the noticeable rise in volume levels during commercials.
The stabilizer uses Dolby Volume technology, which works with most audio/video and multimedia systems. The technology works to sustain a full-range audio experience where low frequencies are boosted and high frequencies are adjusted to optimal levels that the user sets. While doing this, the device also prevents loss of fidelity, regardless of audio level.
In addition to broadcast and cable television, the GefenTV Auto Volume Stabilizer works to level the volume on CDs and audio mixes, not to mention movies that have vast differences in volume between quiet moments and explosions.
The GefenTV Auto Volume Stabilizer is a small box about the size of a Wi-Fi router. It has three inputs and outputs for both analog (L/R) and digital (optical, coax) audio devices. It accepts and outputs L/R two-channel audio input, and has a TOSLINK digital audio input and S/PDIF digidial audio inputs.
This is certainly a nice fix for now. However, in December, commercial volume should no longer be an issue. The Wall Street Journal reported last month that the FCC passed new rules that will stop loud TV commercials from broadcast and cable stations. This will go into effect at the end of 2012.
In addition to the GefenTV Auto Volume Stabilizer, Gefen will be showing a number of new and upcoming products this week at CES. The company is planning to debut the USB Audio Amplifier; professional automation control systems (PACS); mini PACS; an Gefen Audio/Video Automation System (GAVA); the GefenTV Wireless for HD 1080p Extender; the Gefen ToolBox 8x8 Matrix for HDMI with FST; an 8x8 Matrix for HDMI ELR with POL; and a Mini Pattern Signal Generator for HDMI 3DTV.
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