[May] Innovative use of digital signal processing and speaker arrays lets one cabinet substitute for five.

The YSP-1 Digital Sound Projector ($1,500) — being replaced this winter by the $1,700 YSP-1000 — has innovation written all over it. Surround sound is terrific, but many rooms just can’t accommodate five (or more) main speakers. So clever Yamaha engineers designed a single cabinet holding 42 individually amplified speakers and powerful signal processors. By varying the levels and time delays among the tiny speakers, the YSP-1 can produce a sound field that extends well beyond the cabinet’s physical dimensions. Because success hinges on placement, there’s an onscreen setup guide where you can indicate your room’s dimensions and layout. The result is a stereo or surround sound field from one cabinet. Sure, it can’t replace a full-tilt home theater system, but when even two speakers are too much, the YSP-1 is a sleek, compelling alternative — not to mention a great accompaniment to any flat-screen TV. Give those Yamaha engineers a raise. —Ken C. Pohlmann
yamaha.com/yec

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Retail Innovation Award: Best Buy
Visionary Award: Mark Cuban

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