I think they also sell LCoS chips to other manufacturers.

I think they also sell LCoS chips to other manufacturers.


So wouldn't that meant that there would be in the thousands of non-Brillian RPTV's for sale "somewhere" that use the Brillian LCOS chips? I would think that we would have heard about these mystery TV's. In Brillian's defense, possibly they are getting a large premium on a few evalation kits that include their new 1080 LCOS chip set and these add up to $3 million or so. So maybe there's a reasonable explanation.

Brillian to Showcase 65-Inch Gen II LCoS(TM) 1080P HDTV at Upcoming Electronic House Expo (EHX) 2005 Conference

TEMPE, AZ -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 11/07/2005 -- Brillian Corporation (NASDAQ: BRLC) will showcase its new six-megapixel, 1080p Gen II liquid-crystal-on-silicon (LCoS™) HDTV at the upcoming EHX 2005 Conference, November 9 - 11, 2005 at the Anaheim Convention Center and Marriott Hotel in Anaheim, California. Brillian HDTVs will be featured in the Syntax booth, #818, where prospective Custom Electronics Dealers can preview the product and sign-on to become Brillian authorized resellers. Brillian and Syntax signed a definitive merger agreement in July 2005.

Brillian's 6580iFB six-megapixel 1080p HDTV and Media Server video platform, the third in its family of UltraContrast™ HDTVs, provides on-screen contrast -- up to 4000:1 -- and highest fidelity images available today in an LCOS rear-projection TV intended for the home theater market. With its true six-megapixel light engine, 12-bit-per-color channel grayscale performance, professional-grade video processing, and custom calibration software, it was engineered specifically for custom home theater and ProAV applications.

This is good news. I am hoping we have some first hand reports by the week-end. I'm looking forward to some specifics!

I am guessing the Brillian Gen II Three Panel LCoS RPTV is the same thing minus the Veos brand. The manual says it weighs 130lbs and one of the reviews posted said it was 122lbs so maybe it went on a diet.

My friend's dad bought a Veos from Sears. It was a demo model that had on the floor. Sears sold it for $1299, 3 year warranty for 300ish, and stupid 9% tax made it roughly a couple dollars over $1800. When he brought it home, turns out the sound didn't work so he called tech support. Bad news is that the lady he talked to, apparently it seems that Sears purged all records of ever having a Veos television because the lady couldn't find any information in their systems. After pleading that it is a 'Sears Brand', a tech guy came over and we had to mail off for parts. I guess it is a refurbished model now? Yay for warranty though.

We are still trying to figure out where we should plug the inputs since we're novices. Messing with the different inputs and settings, we finally got the blacks mostly black and the colors not to be so neon. He is now waiting for the HDTV receiver to come from Dish Network to get a better signal and I think it will broadcast in widescreen. Well hopefully.

From a newbie point of view who never had a HDTV, it's pretty good. Looking at it from angles it gets kinda greyish. We're still messing with the settings. What annoys me is that my friend's dad keeps asking, "does it look better now, how about now, what about here, yadda yadda yadda."

I guess I don't have anything constructive to add. But at least you know that one tv has been sold!

Many years from now (hopefully) you can donate it to the Smithsonian because of its uniqueness! :D

Brillian Corp. Reports Third Quarter Results

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 14, 2005--Brillian Corp. (Nasdaq: BRLC), a designer and developer of rear-projection, high-definition televisions based on its proprietary liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS(TM)) microdisplays, today announced its financial results for the third quarter ended Sept. 30, 2005.

For the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2005, Brillian reported revenue of $659,000, down 10% from the year-ago quarter. Year-to-date revenue was $2.5 million, up 8% from the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2004. Net loss for the quarter was $9.6 million compared with a net loss of $6.3 million in the third quarter of 2004. Net loss for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2005 was $22.0 million compared with a net loss of $16.6 million for the comparable period of 2004. Net loss per share was $1.30 for the third quarter of 2005 compared with $0.91 for the third quarter of 2004. Year-to-date net loss per share was $3.10 compared with $2.69 for the comparable period of 2004.

Results for the third quarter of 2005 include inventory write-offs of approximately $870,000 in order to reduce inventory carrying amounts to the lower of cost or market, stock-based compensation charges of approximately $353,000 pursuant to SFAS No. 123(R), non-cash interest expense, consisting of amortization of debt discount and offering costs, of approximately $1.3 million, and a loss on investment in startup company of $1.1 million.

Brillian ended the quarter with cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments of $2.4 million, working capital of $4.9 million, stockholders' equity of $7.5 million, and $4.4 million of debt. At Sept. 30, 2005, Brillian also had $2.0 million of remaining availability under its loan agreement with Syntax Groups Corp.

"This is an exciting time for Brillian, our employees, and our stockholders. As we look forward to the stockholder meeting on Nov. 29, and completion of the merger with Syntax, we remain focused on production of our new light engine as well as our 1080p HDTVs," said Vincent F. Sollitto Jr., president and CEO of Brillian.

Separately, Syntax Groups Corp., one of the fastest growing manufacturers of TFT-LCD TVs in North America, today announced financial results for its first fiscal quarter ended Sept. 30, 2005.

For the first quarter of fiscal 2006 ended Sept. 30, 2005, Syntax announced revenue of $27.4 million compared with revenue of $9.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2005, an increase of 183%. Gross profit for the first quarter of fiscal 2006 was $5.6 million, or 20% of revenue, compared with $1.2 million, or 12% of revenue, for the first quarter of fiscal 2005. Net loss totaled $658,000 for the first quarter of fiscal 2006 compared with a net loss of $192,000 for the first quarter of fiscal 2005. Included in the net loss for the first fiscal quarter of 2006 was non-cash compensation expense of $2.2 million related to stock options granted and vested during the quarter.

Business Outlook

Brillian's efforts in the fourth quarter are centered around closing the planned merger with Syntax Groups Corp. Both Syntax and Brillian have shareholder meetings scheduled for Nov. 29, 2005, to vote on the proposed merger. Assuming both shareholder groups approve the merger, Brillian anticipates that closing can occur shortly thereafter. Upon closing of the merger, Brillian will change its name to Syntax-Brillian Corp. and will adopt Syntax's June 30 fiscal year-end. For accounting purposes, the merger will be considered a reverse acquisition application of the purchase method of accounting under which Syntax is considered to be acquiring Brillian. Accordingly, the historical financial statements of Syntax will become the historical financial statements of the combined company.

Assuming the proposed merger is approved and closes on or about Nov. 30, 2005, only one month of Brillian operations will be included in the combined financial results of Syntax-Brillian Corp. Based on this assumption, Brillian's current outlook for Syntax-Brillian for the three months ending Dec. 31, 2005, is for a range of revenue from $55 to $65 million and operating income ranging from a negative $700,000 to a positive $1.7 million.

Rogo, are you saying that the newer DLP models are "better" as you define it than the SXRD LCoS sets?

Which DLP models in particular do you think match up well with the SXRD's ???

Did anyone happen to see the Brillian 6580iFB 1080p set at the Electronic Home Expo (EHX) in Anaheim earlier this month?

I'd love to hear anyone's impressions of how it compares to the Sony SXRD.

Brillian Includes ISF Calibration With 720p and 1080p HDTVs To remedy the calibration issue and guarantee that the best image (November 21, 2005)

Brillian Corporation announced that calibration from Imaging Science Foundation (ISF) professionals will be included with each of its 720p and 1080p HDTVs purchased. Brillian is the first liquid-crystal-on-silicon (LCOS) HDTV manufacturer to offer free ISF calibration to HDTV buyers.

One of the key end user complaints about today's HDTVs is that the picture quality of their new HDTV is not as good in their home as it was in the highly controlled environment of a dealer showroom. This can be caused by a number of factors including variations in video signal quality, a weak link in their video processing chain, or poor calibration to the user's environment.

To remedy the calibration issue and guarantee that the best image is delivered for each environment, Brillian is now including ISF calibration with all 720p and 1080p HDTVs purchased. A professionally certified HDTV calibrator will assess the lighting, room dimensions and user preferences and then calibrate up two inputs on each Brillian HDTV installed. End users simply need to contact Brillian at its toll-free number (1-800-706-0154) or at sales@brilliancorp.com after purchasing their TV to be provided with an ISF calibrator in their area.

Brillian's HDTVs offer industry-leading calibration features to optimize performance for home theater and commercial applications. Gamma, color temperature control, RGB, and gain/offset are modifiable on a per-input basis with password protected access. Both PC Magazine, with its Editor's Choice Award, and Displaymate, with its Best Combination HDTV /Monitor Product award, have recognized Brillian HDTVs for their overall picture quality and ability to be fine-tuned for specific environments.

The ISF

ISF is the world's largest and most recognized organization of professional video calibrators. In order to receive certification, calibrators undergo rigorous multi-day course work, perform hands-on equipment calibration, successfully pass the certification test, and finally invest in a set of measurement equipment required to perform the work at the installation site.

"In order for the ISF to undertake this commitment, we first evaluate whether a product is properly designed to ensure that it can meet ISF Qualification standards. The Brillian product line exceeds the features required for ISF calibrators to do their work. Through this bundling of product and service, end users will receive the best possible viewing experience possible enabling their new systems to truly deliver on the promise of HDTV ," said Joel Silver, Founder of the Imaging Science Foundation.

Brillian will leverage the Imaging Science Foundation to provide these sophisticated calibration services for all of its products. The ISF has the resources and knowledge base of a nationwide network of trainers, advisors, and ISF trained calibrators to execute this program.

Syntax-Brillian Confirms LCoS(TM) Collaboration with Taiwan Kolin Company
Thursday December 1, 8:45 am ET
New Customer Relationship Bolsters Syntax-Brillian's Global Reach

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 1, 2005--Syntax-Brillian Corporation (Nasdaq:BRLCD - News; Nasdaq:BRLC - News), a designer and developer of LCD and LCoS(TM) HDTVs, today announced that it is collaborating with Taiwan Kolin Company, Ltd. (Taiwan Stock Exchange 1606), a leading Taiwanese manufacturer of consumer electronic products and one of the earliest marketers of LCOS TVs, on the creation and delivery of new 65-inch LCoS(TM) Kolin HDTVs. This relationship represents a $10 million revenue opportunity for Syntax-Brillian in calendar year 2006.

Kolin has agreed to purchase 10,000 light engines from Syntax-Brillian in 2006 for production of 65-inch LCoS(TM) HDTVs destined for the Chinese and Taiwanese markets and also for distribution in North America by Syntax-Brillian under the Olevia brand.

"We have an excellent partner in Syntax-Brillian," said Kolin's President, Christopher Liu. "As a fellow LCOS pioneer, we're confident that Syntax-Brillian is the leader in delivering superior performance at an attractive price in the RPTV market and we look forward to a fruitful collaboration."

In North America, Syntax-Brillian will provide a broad range of LCoS(TM) platforms, including its high-end 720p and 1080p HDTVs, as well as value-priced Olevia-branded LCoS(TM) HDTVs, based on the collaboration with Kolin.

"With the Syntax-Brillian merger completed yesterday, we're very pleased to announce a great opportunity for Syntax-Brillian to leverage its LCoS(TM) expertise and continue to bring this compelling technology to the global RPTV market," said Vincent Sollitto, CEO of Syntax-Brillian. "Following meetings with our retail channel partners at the January 2006 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, we will determine appropriate volume forecasts of Olevia-branded LCoS(TM) HDTVs for the North American market."

Syntax-Brillian's merger was completed November 30, 2005. The Corporation's stock will trade for approximately the next twenty trading days under the temporary ticker symbol BRLCD, after which it will resume trading under the current ticker, BRLC.

Dec 13, 2005 08:46

Syntax-Brillian Begins Shipping Its 65-Inch 1080p LCoS(TM) HDTV/Media Center Server Display; Latest Platform will be Offered Nationally Through Network of Professional A/V and Custom Home Theater Dealers
TEMPE, ARIZ. --(Business Wire)-- Dec. 13, 2005 Syntax-Brillian Corporation (Nasdaq:BRLCD) (Nasdaq:BRLC), a designer and developer of LCD and LCoS(TM) HDTVs, today announced that it has commenced shipment of its 6580iFB 1080p platform. The six-megapixel, 65-inch diagonal HDTV and Media Center Video Platform provides the highest commercially available native LCoS(TM) display on-screen contrast ratio(1) -- up to 4000:1 -- and the highest fidelity images available today in an LCoS rear-projection TV, including support for full-HDTV resolution 1080p input sources.

The first units of Syntax-Brillian's 6580iFB have commenced shipment to national distributors, including Starin Marketing and Electrograph, and to select regional distributors.

"The momentum behind our high-end LCoS(TM) offerings continues to build," said Vincent Sollitto, CEO of Syntax-Brillian. "Our 720p HDTV monitor recently was named product of the year for 2005 in the HDTV category by PC Magazine, topping a number of other leading brands, and our 1080p platform is generating tremendous interest for home theater, professional audio/video, Media Center server, and other applications where image quality and the highest level of HDTV performance are critical. We're pleased to have commenced shipment of the 6580iFB system and we're excited about its potential."

The Syntax-Brillian 1080p HDTV light engine uses three two-megapixel UltraContrast(TM) Gen II LCoS(TM) microdisplays that meet the highest (1920 x 1080) HDTV format. The 12-bit grayscale rendering delivers unprecedented precision of imaging accuracy. With an exceedingly fast average response time of 4ms, even the fastest sequences are projected without blurring or tearing artifacts. The 6580iFB supports 14 analog and digital inputs including ATSC-terrestrial broadcast tuner and Digital Audio (S/PDIF). It features a 170-degree viewing angle, integration for leading automation control providers, and free ISF Professional Calibration with each set purchased(2).

(1) Without special optical compensation.

(2) Terms apply. Contact Syntax-Brillian for additional details on this program.

Now I can't wait until mine arrives.

Brillian is giong to swab the deck with their high end TV's.

Rock the house BRLCD!

I just called them to find out if they will have any displays to see in the Seattle area. They guy I spoke with told me they were finalizing something right now. He is going to e-mail me a pdf of the set,specs and where I will be able to see one. I am 99.9% convinced that I will be getting one very soon.... :)

I was looking at the Brillian internet site. In their specifications for their new LCoS chips they say the projected lifetime in RPTVs is greater than 20,000 hours. Now 20,00 hours is not bad (about 3 bulbs) but the half life of Plasma displays is over 30,000 hours and the projected lifetime of DLP chips is 100,000 hours. For a sizeable investment such as this 20,000 hours seems a bit short.

http://www.brilliancorp.com/products/projection.html

Ths page has a listing of the Brillian RPTV PDFs:

http://www.brilliancorp.com/products/hdtv.html

Drool! I am glad that I invested in BRLC prior to the merger.

I wish I was rich. That is the most promising TV on the market. It will only lead the industry until the big boys come out with 1080P/HDMI though.

I was looking at the Brillian internet site. In their specifications for their new LCoS chips they say the projected lifetime in RPTVs is greater than 20,000 hours. Now 20,00 hours is not bad (about 3 bulbs) but the half life of Plasma displays is over 30,000 hours and the projected lifetime of DLP chips is 100,000 hours. For a sizeable investment such as this 20,000 hours seems a bit short.

snip....



Unfortunately, the only way they can come up with that number is through accelerated temperature tests as there isn't enough time to do actual lifetime testing. Since this is a new technology (and it's not easy to figure out the temperature acceleration factor), it probably doesn't reflect the actual lifetime rating, hence they use the ">" symbol. I guess we'll find out in about 5 years.

PC Magazine Names Syntax-Brillian's 6501m 720p Gen II LCoS(TM) HDTV Product of the Year

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 13, 2005--

"... it has the potential to be the perfect home theater centerpiece."


In its annual ranking of the year's best technology products, PC Magazine has named Syntax-Brillian Corporation's (Nasdaq:BRLCD) (Nasdaq:BRLC) Gen II liquid-crystal-on-silicon (LCoS(TM)) 720p HDTV, Product of the Year in the rear-projection HDTV category.

The 65-inch diagonal 6501m received 4.5 of a possible five stars in the annual ranking of the year's best technology innovations. In the December 27 issue, now on newsstands, the review states: "With a three-panel LCoS(TM) light engine at its heart, the 6501m has great views from most angles and an outstanding contrast ratio. Though it's far from a plug-and-play TV, it has the potential to be the perfect home theater centerpiece."

"We are one of the pioneers and strongest proponents of LCoS(TM) technology for rear-projection HDTV," said Dr. Robert Melcher, Syntax-Brillian Chief Technology Officer. "We began shipping the 720p in February and are extremely pleased with the response of both our distributors and the technology reviewers and industry experts who have had a chance to evaluate its performance relative to other top brands in the RPTV category."

In another recent review of the Syntax-Brillian 6501m, Dr. Raymond Soneira, President of DisplayMate Technologies Corp. said, "Brillian produces the very finest 720p HDTVs available at any price and these same HDTVs make outstanding large screen living room computer monitors for surfing the web, digital photography, even fine detail work like spread sheets and word processing. It's the Holy Grail of convergence and we've awarded Brillian a special Five-Star DisplayMate Best Video Hardware Award and Trophy for this impressive achievement."

The 6501m HDTV monitor, based on Syntax-Brillian's proprietary Gen II LCoS(TM) microdisplay technology, features a three-megapixel light engine and a contrast ratio of up to 2000:1. The HDTV features exceptional grayscale performance, deep black levels, high brightness, a 170-degree viewing angle, an ultra-fine-pitch 16:9 widescreen, artifact-free full-motion video, outstanding audio performance, and an upgradeable hardware and software architecture, all in a sleek pedestal-mounted design. It also includes free ISF Professional Calibration with each set purchased.

The only problem with the Brillian is if you want the best possible TV for watching current HD formats.

Brillian treats 1920x1080i video as 1920x540p frames. They say that they
use highest quality scaling filters to vertically scale the 1920x540 fields to 1920x1080. However, bottom line is that 1080i loses half the original resolution unlike the SXRD's which deinterlace directly from 1080i to 1080P. Per Brillian, their next generation 1080p units will incorporate hardware to perform the same high quality pixel by pixel
motion adaptive deinterlacing on 1080i inputs that Brillian currently only uses on 480i inputs.

One of the DLP sets has a seven segment color wheel. I guess it's kind of like the new multi ink ink jet printers. RGB just doesn't produce the whole color spectrum correctly with the current technology.

Actually instead of bashing Brillian, I wonder what the future holds for any of the projection-based technology (DLP, poly panel, or even LCOS) now that spectacular HDTV plasma sets are available in the $4K range for 50" - as well as the slightly smaller sets for $3K? Plus with the Gen 7 LCD fabs coming on line - large screen TFT-LCDs may even not be too far off. Possibly I'm in the minority, but I've never liked the softer picture on the projection-technology TV's when compared to flat panel (i.e., un-magnified) TVs. Granted the optics will likely improve - But the HDTV plasmas sure look great.
I went shopping for for a new set last month, expecting to buy a plasma. I ended up with a Sony LCOS. Better blacks, better contrast, more detail, and certainly not softer then plasmas. To each his own.
J

The only problem with the Brillian is if you want the best possible TV for watching current HD formats.

Brillian treats 1920x1080i video as 1920x540p frames. They say that they
use highest quality scaling filters to vertically scale the 1920x540 fields to 1920x1080. However, bottom line is that 1080i loses half the original resolution unlike the SXRD's which deinterlace directly from 1080i to 1080P. Per Brillian, their next generation 1080p units will incorporate hardware to perform the same high quality pixel by pixel
motion adaptive deinterlacing on 1080i inputs that Brillian currently only uses on 480i inputs.

That would make sense for the 720p LCOS display (most 720p displays do the same) but not for their new 1080p display.

From the other Brillian thread:

Hi, That info is false as I just got off the phone with the Director of marketing at Brillian. The new 1080p 6580iFB does do true 1080i deinterlacing.

That would make sense for the 720p LCOS display (most 720p displays do the same) but not for their new 1080p display.

From the other Brillian thread:

Please see my following: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6718818&&#post6718818

I may be wrong, but I was "corrected" today by someone who is considered an expert on HD technology (writes and speakes extensively on the subject) and had his info edited by Brillian before he spoke at a conference.

Please see my following: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6718818&&#post6718818

I may be wrong, but I was "corrected" today by someone who is considered an expert on HD technology (writes and speakes extensively on the subject) and had his info edited by Brillian before he spoke at a conference.

But notice the guy never said anything about the 6580iFB (now shipping 1080p). I think he was talking about the 720p set that was "current" in production, not the "next generation 1080p" set that just started shipping two days ago.

You might want to check with him about that to clarify.

But notice the guy never said anything about the 6580iFB (now shipping 1080p). I think he was talking about the 720p set that was "current" in production, not the "next generation 1080p" set that just started shipping two days ago.

You might want to check with him about that to clarify.

Quote included "vertically scale the 1920x540 fields to 1920x1080". That's 1080P for the Brillian.

Quote included "vertically scale the 1920x540 fields to 1920x1080". That's 1080P for the Brillian.

I happen to have the actual Brillian 6580iFB owner's manual in my possession. Here's what it says about 1080i input:


1080i is the highest-resolution, high-definition broadcast format.
480p programs are upscaled to 1080i by the video component. The
resulting 1080i is deinterlaced by the HDTV.
720p programs are upscaled to 1080i by the video component. The
resulting 1080i is deinterlaced by the HDTV.
1080i programs have little or no resampling by the video component. The
resulting 1080i is deinterlaced by the HDTV.

Each 1080i frame is composed of two 540p fields which are interlaced to get 1080i. Most 720p sets will take each field and expand it to 720p. A 1080p set can either take each 540p field and double it to 1080p or uses a buffer and combine the two fields using certain techniques to produce a high quality 1080p picture. I would think Brillian would use the second method on their high quality sets.

Each 1080i frame is composed of two 540p fields which are interlaced to get 1080i. Most 720p sets will take each field and expand it to 720p. A 1080p set can either take each 540p field and double it to 1080p or uses a buffer and combine the two fields using certain techniques to produce a high quality 1080p picture. I would think Brillian would use the second method on their high quality sets.

That's the whole point. You would think so because you only get half the vertical resolution if you deinterlace to 540P and then scale to 1080P. If sets were capable of creating valid resolution, upconverted 480i would look just as good as actual 1080i/p. The technical expert I quoted talks to the engineering execs, not PR types. He says that Brillian provided him with input for his publication/presentations that they deinterlance to 540P and then scale to 1080P. He may be wrong; but this is his business.

Brillian is not alone. Almost all the 1080P sets do the same. I'm only sure about the Sony's (Qualias, SXRDs, and Ruby) deinterlacing directly from 1080i to 1080P.

As someone else said, guess we'll get confirmation with the next WSR review.

rlb is correct. But remember the Brillian takes 1080p, so having a scaler that does the true 1080i deinterlacing, noise reduction, and other solutions that most likely won't be inside the TV will give a great picture. The sony SXRD RP do 1080i deinterlacing right, but don't take a 1080p input. So, yeah, more $ will be needed, but the Brillian + external scaler for 1080i and 1080p material will be more advanced than the SXRD with no 1080p source playback

How does the Brillian handle over the air 1080i signals that are received through its internal HD tuner?

rlb is correct. But remember the Brillian takes 1080p, so having a scaler that does the true 1080i deinterlacing, noise reduction, and other solutions that most likely won't be inside the TV will give a great picture. The sony SXRD RP do 1080i deinterlacing right, but don't take a 1080p input. So, yeah, more $ will be needed, but the Brillian + external scaler for 1080i and 1080p material will be more advanced than the SXRD with no 1080p source playback


There are processors and there are processors. Implementation is everything. Its not accurate to assume that all external processors are better than all internal processing because some of them won't be.

Then you get into cost and the decreasing benefits of a higher end system. How many would be willing to pay double the cost for a system that is only 6% better? Some will while others won't.

Don't misunderstand, not having an internal processor that does proper 1080i deinteracing is not good news. But if the display can take 1080p , then using such a 1080p outputting scaler that DOES do 1080i proper deinterlacing, will allow the Brillian to look its best with PS3 1080p and HDTV at 1080i. But I won't run out and buy a Realta chipped video processor until i see the brillian and how it displays 1080 HDTV.

How does the Brillian handle over the air 1080i signals that are received through its internal HD tuner?

It would handle it via it's deinterlacing process (i.e., same as it handles 1080i received via HDMI).

Somewhat related question. All HD OTA tuners, per the specs, must handle 1080P/24 or 30fps (just not 1080P/60 which is not in the spec). If we ever have OTA 1080P broadcasting, will both the SXRD's and Brillians (as well as the other 1080P sets) receive via the OTA tuners and show the 1080P/24 or 30 programming? Current limitation for sets that won't receive via HDMI (like the SXRD) is the HDMI chip.

Syntax-Brillian Ship 65-Inch 1080p LCOS HDTV/Media Center Server Display

December 20, 2005 -- Syntax-Brillian Corp has commenced shipment of its 6580iFB 1080p platform -- the 6-Mpixel, 65-inch diagonal HDTV and media center video platform.

It is said to provide the highest commercially available native LCOS display on-screen contrast ratio -- up to 4000:1 -- and the highest fidelity images available today in an LCOS rear-projection TV, including support for full-HDTV resolution 1080p input sources.

The first units of the company's platform have commenced shipment to national distributors, including Starin Marketing and Electrograph, and to select regional distributors.

The Syntax-Brillian 1080p HDTV light engine uses three 2-Mpixel UltraContrast Gen II LCOS microdisplays that meet what is claimed to be the highest (1,920 x 1,080) HDTV format. The 12-bit grayscale rendering delivers precision of imaging accuracy. With a fast average response time of 4ms, even the fastest sequences are said to be projected without blurring or tearing artifacts.

The platform supports 14 analog and digital inputs including ATSC-terrestrial broadcast tuner and digital audio (S/PDIF). It features a 170-degree viewing angle, integration for leading automation control providers, and free ISF professional calibration with each set purchased.

Syntax-Brillian Shares Tumble on Rating
December 20, 2005 03:03 PM ET

NEW YORK (AP) - Syntax-Brillian Corp. shares took a sharp dive Tuesday after an analyst gave the company a neutral rating and a tempered short-term outlook.

Following the late November merge of Syntax Group and Brillian Corp., the combined firm has set the stage for long-term earnings growth in the high-end television market, said CIBC World Markets analyst Matthew Smith.

The company is the nation's fifth-largest maker of liquid-crystal display televisions, and has an opportunity to commercialize its proprietary liquid crystal on silicon technology as a market for that type of product emerges, Smith said.

However, "we believe investors will look for evidence that Syntax-Brillian is making tangible progress in the commercialization of the LCoS TV platform before significantly re-rating the company's shares," Smith wrote in a research note.

Smith pointed to the Consumer Electronics Show in early January as a potential price catalyst, where the company could provide better visibility on LCoS orders and prompt him to expand his revenue estimate.

The analyst rated Syntax-Brillian at "sector performer" or "neutral" and set a $6 target price.

Shares of Syntax-Brillian were down 29 cents, or 6 percent, to $4.58 in late afternoon trading on the Nasdaq, after earlier dropping as low as $4.34.


Syntax-Brillian Announces $16 Million Institutional Financing

TEMPE, Ariz. --(Business Wire)-- Dec. 29, 2005 -- Syntax-Brillian Corporation (Nasdaq:BRLCD) today announced that it is selling up to $16 million of 6% Redeemable Convertible Preferred stock to a few select institutional investors.

The shares of 6% Convertible Preferred stock become redeemable on December 29, 2007, and have an initial conversion price of $5.00 per share, subject to certain anti-dilution provisions. The purchasers of the Convertible Preferred stock have also been granted five-year warrants to purchase up to approximately 1.65 million shares of Syntax-Brillian Common Stock beginning immediately.


Syntax-Brillian has agreed to register the shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of the Redeemable Convertible Preferred stock and upon exercise of the warrants for resale under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The securities have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under such act and applicable state securities laws or an applicable exemption from those registration requirements.

C.E. Unterberg Towbin acted as Placement Agent in this transaction.

"Our momentum continues to build with volume manufacturing and supply chain progress, excellent product reviews, and shipping commencement of our 1080p HDTV product," said Vincent F. Sollitto, Jr., Syntax-Brillian's Chairman and CEO. "Closing this financing is another very positive step forward. The proceeds from this transaction will strengthen our cash position and provide working capital as well as added funding for volume manufacturing of our light engine."

About Syntax-Brillian

Beginning in December 2005, with the merger of Syntax Groups Corporation and Brillian Corporation, Syntax-Brillian is one of the world's leading manufacturers of LCD and LCoS(TM) HDTVs and digital entertainment products. With its extremely successful Olevia brand of widescreen HDTV-ready LCD TVs, one of the fastest growing global TV brands, and its highly acclaimed Gen II LCoS(TM) 720p and 1080p rear-projection HDTVs, for the high-end video/audio market, Syntax-Brillian is uniquely positioned to deliver quality digital entertainment products that span from high-end, specialty applications to the fast-growing global mass market. Syntax-Brillian has established retail and distributor sales channels in North America, a global supply chain, and operations in Asia that allow it to leverage economies of scale to deliver both extraordinarily high-quality products and outstanding value.

Brillian, UltraContrast, and LCoS are trademarks or registered trademarks of Syntax-Brillian Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Syntax-Brillian Signs with The Advantage Group for Distribution of Its 720p and 1080p LCoS(TM) HDTVs to the Custom Installation and Custom Retail Distributor
Wednesday January 25, 8:45 am ET
HDTVs to Be Sold on a National Basis Through TAG's 10 Regional Stocking Locations

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 25, 2006--Syntax-Brillian Corp. (NASDAQ: BRLC - News), a designer and developer of rear-projection, high-definition televisions based on its proprietary liquid-crystal-on-silicon (LCoS(TM)) microdisplays, has signed an agreement with The Advantage Group (TAG) for national distribution of its HDTVs. Syntax-Brillian's full line of rear-projection, 65-inch Gen II LCoS(TM) 720p and 1080p HDTVs are now available through all U.S. member distributors of TAG, a national value-added distribution organization servicing custom installers, system integrators, and installing retailers. Brillian's UltraContrast(TM) HDTVs will be the first LCOS-based HDTVs in TAG's video product lineup.

"The recent industry accolades about Brillian HDTVs from PC Magazine and Displaymate simply confirm what we have experienced: Brillian offers extraordinary image quality, contrast and performance in a platform optimally designed for maximum installation flexibility," said Ted Green, executive director, TAG. "Brillian's cutting-edge technology is exactly at the level of sophistication that our members' customers are seeking -- making the brand a perfect fit in the TAG product lineup."

The HDTV monitors, based on Brillian's proprietary Gen II LCoS(TM) microdisplay technology, feature a three- or six-megapixel light engine and offer the highest commercially available on-screen native LCOS contrast ratio (without special optical compensation) -- up to 4000:1 -- in a rear-projection HDTV. The Brillian HDTVs feature exceptional grayscale performance, deep black levels, high brightness, a 170-degree viewing angle, an ultra-fine-pitch 16:9 widescreen, artifact-free full-motion video, and outstanding audio performance. Brillian HDTV products also provide software upgradeability and a wide range of calibration features designed to optimize the viewing experience for home theater and commercial applications. Gamma, color temperature control, RGB, and gain/offset are modifiable on a per-input basis with password-protected access. Free Imaging Science Foundation (ISF) calibration is included with each set purchased.(1)

Beginning in January 2006, TAG will leverage its 10 distribution centers, located across the United States, to distribute the Brillian Gen II LCoS HDTVs to its network of nine member distributor companies, representing more than 8,000 custom installers, system integrators, and installing retailers. TAG offers its dealer members on-site education and, with inventory in each location, the ability to deliver product to end users in one to two days.

"Founded by industry veterans, TAG is one of the most widely respected and trusted distributors of high-end digital entertainment products," said Vincent Sollitto, CEO of Syntax-Brillian Corp. "TAG has the reach, expertise and target audience optimally suited to our UltraContrast HDTV products."

OK....But whare do I go and see a TAG distributors.........I am still waiting to buy since the new sonys will be coming soon (4-6 months)

Here's a list of TAG members & locations
http://www.tadvantageg.com/members.aspx

Thank you, it helps, but looking at that link I would have to drive to Atlanta, Georgia to see my dealer. Thats along sales call or even a long service call at that fact. That is; if I am understanding this information right?

Thank you again

I'm not sure how service would be done ,there also may be qualified service folks in your area. There are non-TAG resellers as well. You might want to email Brillian to see if there are any other resellers closer.

One of the local HT resllers here has added Brillian and I hope to go look at one in the next week or two.

The Brillian 6501mFB 720p is available for delivery in Southern California and the 6580iFB 1080p is expected in stock by mid February.

Merger gives Tempe TV firm better chance to survive

Yvette Armendariz
The Arizona Republic
Feb. 6, 2006 12:00 AM

Vincent Sollitto's company owns an award-winning technology that delivers a crisp, colorful television image.

But for more than two years since its founding in 2003, the Tempe-based maker of rear projection high-definition television, then known as Brillian Corp., struggled to gain attention from retailers and consumers.

Losses mounted as sales limped along. Cash dwindled quickly.

Brillian reported a total of almost $65 million in losses over nine quarters of business, and the company was teetering close to failure.

"There were so many mornings I got up and said, 'Can I really keep this thing alive?' It was a really tough period," said Sollitto, chief executive officer.

Mega-companies Samsung, Sony, Sharp, Panasonic and JVC dominate the fast-growing, fiercely competitive digital television industry, which tallied an estimated $14.1 billion in sales in 2005. The market is set to explode as the government requires networks to switch from analog broadcasting to digital signals by the end of this year.

Product selection is growing, screens are getting bigger and buyers no longer need to part with several thousand dollars for even a small set. Prices among the popular 32-inch televisions are falling to less than $1,000, attracting many prospective buyers previously on the fence.

Brillian's technology kept it in the game, barely. The company got its first break into the mainstream HDTV market in 2004, with a $6 million order from Sears Roebuck and Co. Production troubles from a supplier of its light engines kept Brillian from delivering on time, and Sears canceled the order.

Down to $2.4 million in cash in September 2005, Sollitto knew the company needed a big sale, or an infusion of money, to keep the business operating.

"In the end, we needed a catalytic event," he said.

Brillian's Nov. 30 merger with an obscure private California company, Syntax Groups Corp., was born out of conversations started at a raffle event the year before.

Though it's still very much a roll of the dice whether the company will carve out a niche in the cutthroat television market, where about 70 brands fight for sales, Sollitto remains optimistic.

Syntax has been successful with volume production of its LCD television line, Olevia,and it's gaining favor with value-conscious buyers.

So Syntax-Brillian was born, focused both on high-end buyers and value shoppers.

Niches and challenges
Although analysts seem positive about the marriage, Dale Cripps, founder and co-publisher of HDTV Magazine, cites well-financed, big-name competition as a major challenge.

Consumer openness to shopping the Internet for deals is helping lesser-known brands, he said, as are megadiscounters who give space to brands such as Akai, Vizio and Initial in their stores.

"The overall situation in the industry is unless you are big, you're wiped out," he said. "The only thing going for (Syntax-)Brillian right now is we're in an Internet instant-branding universe, and that's a good thing for them."

Challenges include competing mega-electronics companies that are spending billions on research and investing in manufacturing plants. In addition, numerous computer companies such as Dell, HP and Gateway are getting into the game, as well as computer monitor maker ViewSonic.

If Syntax-Brillian is able to create enough broad appeal, Cripps said, it could create momentum.

"I think Vincent is a very smart guy," he said. "He's very determined to get past go."



Quality accolades
Brillian, which spun out of the now-bankrupt Three-Five Systems in September 2003, continues to focus on high-end 65-inch rear-projection HDTVs that use the company's trademarked liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) technology.

Videophiles and several trade publications have praised its 720p and 1080p sets, which retail for $5,999 and $7,999, respectively. The 6501mPB television recently received an award for technical excellence in the display category from PC magazine.

Still, sales have been too low to get the company out of the red. Only twice did Brillian report sales above $1 million during a quarter, and that included revenues from other microdisplay products and services.

"We were never going to get where we wanted to go without volume, and that's what Syntax brings us," he said.

The growth of LCD is a key reason Sollitto saw a good fit with Syntax.

"They believe, like we do, LCD up to about 50, 60 inches and LCoS rear projection (for bigger displays) are the two most exciting technologies for this HDTV space for at least the next five years," he said.

Sollitto is pleased Sony and JVC also have invested in their own LCoS technology for their premium products. Sony is heavily marketing it under SXRD, while JVC calls it D-ILA.

Meanwhile, consumer focus on value gives Sollitto hope that his company can carve out a larger piece of the LCD market.



Raffle, then merger
Brillian, which had about $20 million on hand at the end of 2003, found itself down to just about one-tenth of that last September.

Sollitto had gotten to know Syntax at an HDTV conference in Los Angeles in spring 2004. The Olevia line was debuting, and Sollitto attended a casino-night event, where executives played for raffle tickets. He coveted the top prize, a 30-inch Olevia LCD television made by Syntax. As luck would have it, he won, and the courting began.

Syntax, run by CEO James Li, was trying to manage rapid expansion, and Li was considering an initial public offering. Li said merging with Brillian met several of his needs, and the mounting losses at Brillian weren't a deterrent.

"A lot of investors asked the same question," Li said. "Brillian had only burned pennies compared with (investments by companies in) Asia."

Another big factor in Li's interest in Brillian was his belief that the merged company could capitalize on growing interest in LCoS technology among customers in China.

Li, who became president and chief operating officer at the merged company, is considered Sollitto's understudy, even though the 38-year-old Li founded Syntax.

"I still have a lot to learn in North America," he said.

The combined company has about 200 workers split between California, Colorado and Arizona.

The high-end Brillian televisions continue to be produced in Arizona, while Olevia LCD televisions are made in Taiwan. The California office handles sales, customer support, engineering and other functions.

Sollitto, 57, said he is looking to bring manufacturing to Mexico or California. He also mentioned China as a possibility.

Fast-growing brand
Syntax's Olevia brand isn't easily found in the Valley, but it has a large distribution base in the Midwest and East Coast. And it's growing.

"The name is becoming more well-known to the new TV buyer," said Matthew Smith, who follows the stock for CIBC World Markets in New York. "It is one of the fastest-growing TV brands."

Syntax reports that it is a top-five brand for LCD televisions in North America, with a market share of 5 percent to 7 percent.

More consumers seeking flat-panel television technology at an affordable price spur the brand's growth, said Smith, who doesn't own any Syntax-Brillian stock.



The Olevia brand 32-inch LCD runs about $1,300. A similar Sony 32-inch goes for $2,000.

"They don't care about the brand, they want the technology," he said.

Now, that's not to say brand isn't important to all buyers. Smith even notes buyers tend to be a bit choosier about the brand they have in the living room. But the market keeps growing for bedrooms, dens, kitchens and basements.

A sampling of Valley shoppers looking for televisions seemed to be equally divided between brand and price for their reasons behind their purchases.

No profits . . . yet
Syntax sold $27.4 million in products in its latest quarter, that ended Sept. 30, 2005. That's up from $9.7 million in revenues the same time a year earlier. The then-private company released financials in advance of the merger.

Olevia's strength in selling is expected to help the combined company's financial picture. However, Syntax also didn't show profitability. It reported a net loss of $658,000 for the quarter that ended Sept. 30, which included $2.2 million expense for stock options. A year earlier, it lost $192,000 during the same quarter.

Brillian sales are much smaller, and losses run deep.

Its latest financial report shows net losses of $22 million on $2.5 million in net sales for the nine months ending Sept. 30, 2005. That's up from a $16.5 million loss on $2.3 million in sales the same time in 2004.

Data for the October through December quarter are expected on Feb. 14. The combined company has adopted a fiscal year that starts July 1.

"We can't pre-announce, but it was a very, very good quarter for consumer electronics in general and, of course, that's very good for us as well," Sollitto said.

He pointed to adding distribution for its Olevia televisions in Circuit City, Office Depot and Kmart during the quarter, and that Office Depot and Circuit City sold out their orders.

Booming market
Digital television sales, meanwhile, are booming. The market, which in 2003 pulled in $6.5 billion, grew to an estimated $14.1 billion last year, according to data from eBrain Market Research. It's expected to grow to $18.9 billion this year and $23.4 billion by 2008.

LCD television sales have the largest segment of the HDTV market, said Jeffrey Joseph, spokesman for the Consumer Electronics Association. About 4 million LCD sets sold in 2005, and this year, they are expected to hit 7.1 million sales worth $5.8 billion.

Analysts who follow the stock are split on the company's outlook.

C.E. Unterberg, Towbin acted as the placement agent in Syntax-Brillian's recent $16 million financing deal, announced in December. Rick Faust of C.E. Unterberg, Towbin's California office gave the stock a buy rating, predicting solid sales for December.

He writes favorably about the LCoS technology in Brillian's newest 1080p television.

Sollitto's team is making presentation rounds with institutional investors. His ideal is to bring in more of these investors to create stability for Syntax-Brillian's stock. It's traded between $1.12 and $7.20 a share in the past year. It closed at $5.39 on Friday.

And the executives believe the outlook is bright.

Li said, "We have a lot of goods news coming later."

Brillian TV Added To Space Center
By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 2/6/2006 8:36:00 AM

Tempe, Ariz. — Advanced television supplier Syntax-Brillian announced that Peoria, Ariz.-based Challenger Space Center recently integrated a Syntax-Brillian 720p LCoS HDTV into its innovative space exploration and science learning center.

The HDTV monitor is currently being used as a showcase for interactive learning sessions designed for both students and corporate team-building events.

Participants come to the center and form emergency response teams with the mission of managing a natural disaster scenario that is showcased on the Syntax-Brillian HDTV.

The monitor is also used to display the Jet Propulsion Lab's Celestia software, a real-time, 3-D space simulation program featuring more than 100,000 stars, as well as galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets and spacecraft. The Celestia software is part of the center's astro-biology curriculum.

The center will also use the TV to show NASA feeds during real space flights and events.

Is the Brillian a monitor only? Or in other words, it does not have a HDTV tuner built in?

Thanks

Is the Brillian a monitor only? Or in other words, it does not have a HDTV tuner built in?

ThanksThe 1080p has a ATSC tuner, the 720p does not.

Feb 21, 2006 16:03

Syntax-Brillian Corp. Reports Record Results for Its Second Fiscal Quarter Ended Dec. 31, 2005
TEMPE, Ariz. --(Business Wire)-- Feb. 21, 2006 Syntax-Brillian Corp. (Nasdaq: BRLC), a manufacturer and marketer of LCD and LCoS(TM) HTDVs and digital entertainment products, today announced its financial results for its second fiscal quarter ended Dec. 31, 2005.

For the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2005, Syntax-Brillian reported record revenue of $60.2 million, up 109% from the year-ago quarter. Year-to-date revenue was $87.5 million, up 128% from the six months ended Dec. 31, 2004. Net loss in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, or GAAP, for the quarter was $1.3 million compared with net income of $414,000 for the second fiscal quarter of 2004. GAAP net loss for the six months ended Dec. 31, 2005, was $2.0 million compared with net income of $222,000 for the comparable period of 2004. GAAP net loss per share was $0.04 for the second quarter of fiscal 2006 compared with net income per share of $0.01 for the second quarter of fiscal 2005. Year-to-date net loss per share was $0.06 compared with net income per share of $0.01 for the comparable period of fiscal 2005.

Results for the second quarter of fiscal 2006 include non-cash compensation charges of $1.4 million related to employee stock options, including $1.2 million resulting from stock options and restricted stock units that vested upon completion of the merger between Syntax and Brillian; depreciation and amortization expense of $396,000, including amortization of intangible assets recorded as part of the purchase valuation of $87,000; and non-cash interest expense of $643,000 as a result of conversion of Convertible Debentures into common stock. Results for the six months ended Dec. 31, 2005, included non-cash compensation charges of $3.7 million, depreciation and amortization expense of $485,000, and non-cash interest expense of $643,000.

Adjusted EBITDA (a) for the second quarter of fiscal 2006 was $1.6 million compared with $803,000 for the second quarter of fiscal 2005. Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended Dec. 31, 2005, was $3.5 million compared with $672,000 for the comparable period of the prior year.

The merger of Syntax and Brillian was completed on Nov. 30, 2005. As a result, the results of operations for the three and six months ended Dec. 31, 2005, include only one month of the operations conducted by Brillian prior to the merger.

Syntax-Brillian ended the quarter with cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments of $10.1 million, working capital of $24.3 million, stockholders' equity of $56.1 million, and $9.6 million of long-term debt and redeemable convertible preferred stock, net of discount. At Dec. 31, 2005, Syntax-Brillian had used its entire borrowing capacity under its $20 million line of credit. On Jan. 31, 2006, Syntax-Brillian entered into a revised agreement with its lender to increase the amount of availability under its line of credit to $28.0 million.

"Our first month as a combined company proved both exciting and challenging. We enjoyed record revenues during the holiday season, added new retail customers, commenced shipment of our new 1080p LCoS RPTV and booked more LCoS-based revenue than any period in Brillian's prior history. At the same time, as resources necessary to support reorders of our sold out products were stretched thin, we were successful in raising $16 million over the holiday season from a small group of institutional investors. Our performance as it relates to LCD unit shipments came in on plan and did not include units shipped in the last week of the quarter because our revenue recognition criteria had not been met. Adjusted EBITDA came in ahead of our expectations. Response to our new products at the Consumer Electronics Show in January was outstanding. All in all, I am very pleased with the start of Syntax-Brillian and look forward to 2006 as a high growth year for our company," said Vincent F. Sollitto, Jr., chairman and CEO of Syntax-Brillian.

Highlights for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2005

The highlights and accomplishments for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2005, include the following:

-- Successful completion of the merger of Syntax and Brillian on the originally planned timetable.

-- Record revenue of $60.2 million, a 109% increase over last year's comparable quarter.

-- Record unit shipment volume of approximately 95,000 units represented a 144% increase over the prior year comparable quarter.

-- Positive Adjusted EBITDA of $1.6 million and $3.5 million for the three and six months ended Dec. 31, 2005, respectively.

-- Expanded our distribution channel by making first shipments to three new retailers.

-- Completed $16 million Preferred Stock financing.

-- Received an order for LCoS microdisplays in excess of $1 million.

-- Received first order for sale of LCoS light engines.

-- Introduced 65" 1080p LCoS Rear-Projection Television and began shipments.

-- Syntax-Brillian's 65" 720p LCoS Rear-Projection Television won "Product of the Year" award from PC Magazine.

-- Hollywood's world-famous Shrine Auditorium selected Olevia LCD TVs as the official flat panel displays of their newly renovated arts and entertainment center.

-- Olevia continued to garner media and industry awards, including a "Top 10 Home Theater Products of 2005" from About.com, Tech living's "Hot List" 2005, and winner of the "Best Multi-Room Video Display" at the 2005 Electronic House Expo Multi-Room Audio/Video Awards.

Business Outlook

Syntax-Brillian also provided the following business outlook for its third quarter of fiscal 2006, ending March 31, 2006, its full fiscal year ending June 30, 2006, and for the full calendar year ending Dec. 31, 2006.

For the quarter ending March 31, 2006, Syntax-Brillian anticipates revenue to be in the range of $48 million to $53 million, predominately from sales of LCD TVs on shipment volumes of 70,000 to 75,000 units. For the quarter ending March 31, 2006, gross margins in the range of 12% to 13% for the LCD TV segment are anticipated. The quarter ending March 31, 2006, will include a full quarter of LCoS operations. Because of low manufacturing volumes and the fixed-cost nature of the LCoS operations, it is anticipated that combined gross margins will be approximately 7% to 9%. Net loss for the quarter ending March 31, 2006, is anticipated to be in the range of $5.8 million to $6.3 million or $0.13 to $0.14 per share. Adjusted EBITDA for the three months ending March 31, 2006, is anticipated to be in the range of negative $3 million to negative $3.5 million.

For the fiscal year ending June 30, 2006, Syntax-Brillian anticipates revenue to be in the range of $190 million to $210 million, predominately from the sales of LCD TVs on shipment volumes of approximately 290,000 to 310,000 units. Gross margins for the LCD segment for the full fiscal year are anticipated to be in the range of 13% to 15%. Full year combined gross margins, including the LCoS operations, are anticipated to be in the range of 10% to 12%. Net loss for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2006, is anticipated to be in the range of $10 million to $12 million or $0.23 to $0.27 per share. Adjusted EBITDA for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2006, is anticipated to be in the range of negative $1.5 million to positive $0.5 million.

Brillian, Costar Reach LCoS Deal
By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 3/8/2006 1:50:00 PM

Tempe, Ariz. — TV manufacturer Syntax-Brillian said it has reached an agreement in principle with Henan Costar Group to form a joint venture company in China for the manufacture of LCoS-based light engines.

Henan Costar Group is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Chinese Government-owned China South Industries Group (Costar). The agreement calls for the development of production facilities for the assembly and sales of LCoS light engines for microdisplay projection televisions.

Costar will own 51 percent stake in the venture, which has not been named, with Syntax-Brillian owning the remained 49 percent.

According to a statement on the deal, the joint venture will assemble and sell LCoS-based light engines to TV manufactures initially in China and eventually to the rest of the world. The company will use Syntax-Brillian's proprietary LCoS imagers exclusively in the light engines to be manufactured by the joint venture.

Syntax-Brillian will pay for its stake in the company, which is valued at $2.45 million, “through the contribution of light engine technology and certain light engine manufacturing equipment,” the statement said.

Under the deal, Costar will contribute assets, including cash and a manufacturing facility located in China's Henan Province, valued at approximately $2.55 million.

Formation of the joint venture is subject to execution of a final agreement, which is expected to executed by March 31. The parties have signed a short-form agreement, which has been ratified by the boards of the respective parties.

The company is expected to begin limited production by May 31, ramping up to volume production in July. The targeted production volume of the joint venture is 300,000 light engines annually.

According to the statement, Costar believes that at least two major Chinese domestic television manufacturers will adopt the light engine design before Sept. 30.
“The significance of this joint venture to us is fourfold,” said Vincent F. Sollitto, Jr., Syntax-Brillian's CEO and chairman. “First, it provides a volume source of light engines for our use domestically as we introduce the Olevia-branded LCoS RPTV this year. Second, we have secured a high volume customer for our proprietary LCoS imagers. Third, we now have a vehicle to tap the burgeoning RPTV market in China as they prepare for the Beijing Olympics in 2008. And fourth, it gives us a platform to be the high volume light engine supplier to other television manufacturers throughout the rest of the world.”

Brillian, Costar Reach LCoS Deal
By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 3/8/2006 1:50:00 PM

Tempe, Ariz. — TV manufacturer Syntax-Brillian said it has reached an agreement in principle with Henan Costar Group to form a joint venture company in China for the manufacture of LCoS-based light engines.

Henan Costar Group is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Chinese Government-owned China South Industries Group (Costar). The agreement calls for the development of production facilities for the assembly and sales of LCoS light engines for microdisplay projection televisions.

Costar will own 51 percent stake in the venture, which has not been named, with Syntax-Brillian owning the remained 49 percent.

According to a statement on the deal, the joint venture will assemble and sell LCoS-based light engines to TV manufactures initially in China and eventually to the rest of the world. The company will use Syntax-Brillian's proprietary LCoS imagers exclusively in the light engines to be manufactured by the joint venture.

Syntax-Brillian will pay for its stake in the company, which is valued at $2.45 million, “through the contribution of light engine technology and certain light engine manufacturing equipment,” the statement said.

Under the deal, Costar will contribute assets, including cash and a manufacturing facility located in China's Henan Province, valued at approximately $2.55 million.

Formation of the joint venture is subject to execution of a final agreement, which is expected to executed by March 31. The parties have signed a short-form agreement, which has been ratified by the boards of the respective parties.

The company is expected to begin limited production by May 31, ramping up to volume production in July. The targeted production volume of the joint venture is 300,000 light engines annually.

According to the statement, Costar believes that at least two major Chinese domestic television manufacturers will adopt the light engine design before Sept. 30.
“The significance of this joint venture to us is fourfold,” said Vincent F. Sollitto, Jr., Syntax-Brillian's CEO and chairman. “First, it provides a volume source of light engines for our use domestically as we introduce the Olevia-branded LCoS RPTV this year. Second, we have secured a high volume customer for our proprietary LCoS imagers. Third, we now have a vehicle to tap the burgeoning RPTV market in China as they prepare for the Beijing Olympics in 2008. And fourth, it gives us a platform to be the high volume light engine supplier to other television manufacturers throughout the rest of the world.”


What do you own their stock or something? ;)

What do you own their stock or something? ;)

Just trying to show where LCoS technology is going. My current assessment is their financial position is pretty shaky.

Syntax-Brillian Fiscal Q3 Revenue Up 115%

By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 5/16/2006 1:34:00 PM

Tempe, Ariz. — Syntax-Brillian reported record revenue of $45.7 million, up 115 percent from a year ago, for its fiscal third quarter, which ended March 31.

The company said revenue for the period — the first full quarter since the formerly separate Syntax and Brillian companies merged — did not include approximately $4.1 million of products shipped prior to March 31, which had not been received by customers.

On a unit basis for the period, Syntax-Brillian said it shipped a record 67,500 units, representing an increase of 137 percent year-over-year. An additional 5,300 units were shipped in March but had not been received by customers.

Year-to-date revenue was $133.2 million, up 123 percent from the nine months, ended March 31, 2005.

The company showed an $11.4 million net loss for the quarter, compared with net income of $143,000, registered in the third fiscal quarter of 2005. The net loss for the nine months, ended March 31, was $13.4 million, compared with net income of $365,000 for the comparable period of the previous fiscal year.

The company said gross margins in the LCD segment improved to 16.19 percent from 12.63 percent in the prior quarter.

The average selling price of an LCD TV was $659 per unit from $632 per unit in the prior quarter, while cost of goods sold per unit remained unchanged, the company said.

The company also reported the addition of two new retailers and five distributor/installers to its sales channel in the period.

Syntax-Brillian said revenue exceeding $1 million from its LCoS rear-projection TV unit in the period.

In other developments, the company said it raised $15 million through sale of common stock to Taiwan Kolin, entered into a joint venture agreement with China South to manufacture LCoS light engines in China. The joint venture has already received purchase orders from five Chinese TV manufacturers.

It also entered into a joint venture agreement for the assembly of LCD TVs in China, and reached a strategic supply agreement for the purchase of LCD panels from LG Phillips LCD.

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) for the quarter was negative $2.9 million, compared with positive $337,000 for the third quarter of fiscal 2005. Adjusted EBITDA for the nine months, ended March 31, was $403,000, compared with $1 million for the comparable period of the prior year.

Since the merger of Syntax and Brillian was completed on Nov. 30, 2005, results of operations for the nine months, ended March 31, included four months of the operations conducted by Brillian.

Vincent F. Sollitto, Jr., Syntax-Brillian chairman and CEO, said, “On the LCD side of the business, we have been successful in stabilizing prices and increasing margins. We have negotiated an outstanding volume purchase agreement with LG Phillips LCD for tier-one panel supply this year, and we have received tremendous response to our new product strategy and added channel partners as well.

“On the LCoS side of the business, with Sino-Brillian, our new joint venture, on track to build light engines this summer, the Olevia 565 LCoS TV starting the certification process for summer release.”

Syntax-Brillian Gains Momentum in China

Syntax-Brillian Corp manufactures and markets LCD and LCoS HDTVs and digital entertainment products, including its Olevia brand of widescreen HDTV-ready LCD TVs, and its next-generation Gen II LCoS 720p and 1080p rear-projection HDTVs for the high-end video/audio market. Vincent F Sollitto Jr, chairman and chief executive officer of Syntax-Brillian, talks to NE Asia about the significant inroads the company has made into the North American and China markets.

Much of the success we've had in terms of market penetration in North America and China is down to the strength and quality of our products. Since introducing Olevia liquid crystal display (LCD) televisions to North American consumers in 2004, the brand has steadily increased its popularity and is has gone on to become a leading LCD TV brand. And, according to recent research from DisplaySearch, since we entered it into the Hong Kong and China markets in August 2004, the Olevia brand has grown quickly and has gone on to become one of the top three selling LCD TV brands in the 25-inch to 29-inch category, and is among the top ten brands in the 35-inch to 39-inch category in China.

We recently entered into a strategic alliance with a consortium of Asian-based companies to accelerate expansion of Olevia LCD TVs in China and the Pacific Rim. The joint venture firm - called Nanjing Huahai Display Technology Co Ltd - has been created to manufacture the full line of Olevia LCD TVs in Nanjing, China, and to conduct ongoing research and development.

The Nanjing manufacturing facility is scheduled to begin volume production in July 2006, with an initial production capacity of 150,000 units for the year. The ultimate goal with this facility is for total output capacity of 300,000 units annually.

Broader Market Penetration
Our strategy in China has been to combine the attributes of our products with key strategic alliances to help us to broaden market penetration, and our president and COO, James Li, has done much to enable us to implement this strategy.

Earlier this year we announced a strategic partnership with China South Industries Group Corp, a state-owned enterprise under the administration of China's Central Government. This has resulted in the creation of a joint venture, Sino-Brillian Display Technology Corp, established to produce liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS)-based light engines for Chinese and international TV makers.

The announcement of this joint venture has generated a terrific market response in China. For instance, two Chinese TV makers - Shenzhen Auto Digital Video Technology Co Ltd (Actochina), and Skyworth Optical & Electronical Co Ltd - have already ordered LCoS-based light engines from the joint venture for the LCoS high-definition TVs (HDTV) they are making. One major goal is that through this joint venture, and through bringing LCoS into China, local TV makers will start producing China-made LCoS rear-projection TVs (RPTV) before the end of 2006.

We see this joint venture is a fantastic opportunity for us. First, it provides a volume source of light engines for our use domestically as we introduce the Olevia branded LCoS RPTV this year. Second, it means that we have secured a high volume customer for our proprietary LCoS imagers. Third, it enables us to tap the burgeoning RPTV market in China as preparations are underway for the Bejing Olympics in 2008. (Our products are enormously popular for viewing sports; our 42-inch model, for example, is used by ESPN.) And fourth, it gives us a platform to be the high-volume light engine supplier to other TV manufacturers throughout the world.

With Sino-Brillian Display Technology Corp, limited production of LCoS light engines is scheduled to begin May 31, 2006, and we expect volume production to start in July 2006.

Supply Agreement with LG.Philips
One other recent announcement concerns our recent strategic supply agreement with LG.Philips LCD. Through this, LG.Philips LCD will significantly expand its supply of large and wide LCD TV panels to Syntax-Brillian. This means that LG.Philips LCD will acquire a steady demand base in the LCD TV panel market, while Syntax-Brillian will secure a stable supply of high quality LCD TV panels.

The agreement includes the full line of LG.Philips panels: 20-inch, 23-inch, 32-inch, 37-inch, 42-inch and 47-inch, with the majority of panels in the high-demand 37-inch and 42-inch form factors.

http://neasia.nikkeibp.com/neasia/004292

From a review in the July/August issue of "The Perfect Vision"

http://www.avguide.com/index.jsp

Performance
I was lucky enough to have an engineer from Brillian help me unpack and
set up the 6580. While he was here, he helped me understand some of the
incredibly complex video tweaks that are possible. Via DVI, the set looked
okay as delivered, but later, as I began trying different inputs, I realized why
Brillian wants these sets field-calibrated. The two HD component inputs
were so green that they were virtually unwatchable. Whether or not this
sample was typical is impossible to say, but with an ISF grayscale calibration
included in the sale, it’s a moot point. Normally, I evaluate sets primarily
on how they look as delivered, but with this one, I did most of my viewing
and evaluating after I calibrated it. There was one operational glitch:
Moving connections from one input to another would occasionally lock up
the set, requiring me to unplug it for a few seconds.
Bright scenes on Dish Network’s Voom channels looked great in HD.
The Brillian is very bright, and I had to pull CONTRAST down from the default
setting to eliminate an unwanted shift in white balance in the brightest
whites. Even after this adjustment, it was still brighter than most RPTVs.
The color decoder is remarkably accurate, even without calibration. I liked
the NORMAL and MOVIE gamma settings. MOVIE was initially much darker,
requiring a significantly higher BRIGHTNESS setting to optimize black
level and correct the excessive overall darkness.
Edge enhancement is virtually nonexistent with HD inputs, so the picture
can look a bit soft (some might say too soft) compared to a set with
artificial sharpness added; the Brillian has no SHARPNESS control.
Make no mistake though—the resolution is there, whether you use the
DVI or HD component inputs. The focus test pattern on my Sencore
VP403 signal generator has never looked sharper at 1080i, provided
noise reduction was kept at its lowest value and the EXACT PIXEL mode was
used. Still, most people would want a well-designed SHARPNESS control to
add just a touch of “pop,” especially to low-rez programs coming in at
HD scan rates. All modern sets should have two
digital-video inputs, either DVI or HDMI. The Brillian only has one, and
it provides no COLOR and TINT controls. Ideally, these parameters should
be perfect as broadcast, but in reality, you often need these controls. Oddly,
the color was consistently oversaturated when BRIGHTNESS was too low, and
there was no easy way to correct tint errors in some broadcasts. On this set,
I’d use the component inputs for HD sources and save DVI for the DVD
player or computer. Black level was the weakest part of
the 6580 in our measurements. It was about the same as the JVC HD-
52G786 720p LCoS set (see review in Issue 64) or the Sony KDF-55XS955
720p LCD RPTV (see review in Issue 59), but it was considerably worse
than some of this year’s 1080p RPTVs that we’ve tested. Dark scenes simply
look drab, washed out, and lacking in detail for a set this expensive, in spite
of the fact that they’re remarkably free of ugly dark-scene posterization. For
comparison, the Sony SXRD-based RPTV has black levels only 5 percent
as high. To make matters worse, the “color” of black has a slight greenishblue
tint—it isn’t a pure dark gray. Brillian needs to include an automatic
iris to get those black levels down in dark scenes. This one weakness negatively
affects the picture from all sources, which can otherwise look superb.
COMPONENT VIDEO 1 is a special input for 480i sources only. Using this
input, Brillian’s deinterlacer/scaler did a remarkable job with the Silicon
Optix HQV Benchmark test disc, producing the fewest jaggies in the various
torture tests of any display I’ve tested. Its 3:2 pulldown was also the fastest
and best I’ve tested. The only problem I found was with the automatic 3:2
pulldown when the source wasn’t filmbased. Scrolling text had intermittent
severe artifacts unless the feature was turned off. This input is a bit soft
looking, but it may be the input you’ll want to use for your DVD player.
(Interestingly, there is a SHARPNESS control for this input, but it didn’t
seem to do anything.) Run the player in interlaced mode, not progressive.
My reference player looked slightly sharper (with more artifacts) into the
DVI input, but it was very close. The 6580 has no CableCARD slot,
and no onscreen program guide is included. You can still receive digital
cable directly, but you won’t be able to get all the channels and features without
the cable company’s set-top box.

Conclusion
Brillian’s high-end entry into the RPTV market is a commendable effort
with many useful capabilities and features that cheaper competitors lack,
though it’s missing a few important ones that many of them do have. It’s a
videophile tweaker’s delight. In addition, Syntax-Brillian Corp. is a small
American company that’s intent on giving their customers the full whiteglove
treatment to ensure their productperforms at its very best in each
home. Few sets by other manufacturers perform at their best as delivered.
For showing multiple HD images at once or using the computer alongside
HD, it probably has no equal. For custom installations, its flexibility is outstanding.
Technically, it’s easily as good as any competitor out there, but
the high black level hinders its ultimate picture quality. With bright programs
like sporting events, you might rarely notice it, but for the best possible
picture in a darkened home theater, there are better choices.

http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/article.asp?section_id=3&article_id=1624&page_number=1&print_page=y

Sound and Vision review of the Brillian 6580iFB03 65-inch LCoS HDTV.

http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/article.asp?section_id=3&article_id=1624&page_number=1&print_page=y

Sound and Vision review of the Brillian 6580iFB03 65-inch LCoS HDTV.

Review includes the fact that the set won't show all lines on a 1080i input.

For the price, I would have expected a more flawless product. That's just unreasonable to settle for the shortcomings for that price.

Demand Grows for Syntax-Brillian LCoS(TM) Technology
Wednesday August 9, 8:30 am ET
Syntax-Brillian and China South Collaborate to Fill Orders for LCoS(TM)-Based Light Engines

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 9, 2006--Syntax-Brillian Corp. (Nasdaq: BRLC - News) announced that it has received an order to supply 15,000 sets of LCoS(TM) imagers to Sino-Brillian Display Technology Corp. ("Sino-Brillian"), a joint venture with China South Industries Group Corp. ("China South") in which Syntax-Brillian holds a minority stake. Last month Syntax-Brillian, which supplies LCoS(TM) imagers to the joint venture, announced that Sino-Brillian had commenced production of 1,500 light engines, with a target production volume of 300,000 units annually.

From its facility in Tempe, the company's LCoS(TM) imagers will be sent to Nanyang, China, where they will be used by Sino-Brillian in the manufacture of light engines. Light engines manufactured by Sino-Brillian are expected to be delivered to television manufacturers in China, North America and Europe for integration into independently manufactured microdisplay TVs. They will also be integrated into production of Olevia-brand LCoS(TM) HDTVs for the North American market.

According to Vincent Sollitto, CEO of Syntax-Brillian, Sino-Brillian is expected to be a significant supplier of LCoS(TM)-based light engines to the booming Chinese consumer electronics market.

"Working with China South, we have been able to complete a rapid and impressive ramp of volume production of light engines that will be the heart of TVs destined to impress viewers throughout China and North America," said Sollitto. "The joint venture is particularly well positioned to serve the demand for LCoS(TM) HDTVs in China, which is expected to significantly increase in advance of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and in conjunction with initiatives sponsored by the Chinese government to establish rural, communal viewing venues featuring LCoS(TM)-based microdisplay televisions."

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/060809/20060809005181.html?.v=1

Ok!

Syntax-Brillian Opens U.S. TV Assembly Plant

By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 10/24/2006 6:52:00 AM

Tempe, Ariz. - Syntax-Brillian formally opens today a new TV production facility in Ontario, Calif. to produce the company’s full line of Olevia LCD and LCoS TVs for distribution in the United States and Canada.

Syntax-Brillian partnered with Solar Link Technologies, a wholly owned subsidiary of Taiwan-based Pou Chen Group, to develop the about 50,000 square-foot plant. Production capacity was said to be “in excess of 200,000 LCD and LCoS TVs annually.” The assembly plant will focus on screen sizes ranging from from 32 to 65-inches.

The factory includes a semi-automated production line and a Class 10,000 clean room for LCoS component assembly. It began operations with a pilot line in September and will begin volume production shortly, the company said. The facility currently employs 120 workers on one shift with plans to increase production and employment to two shifts by early 2007.

Olevia products made at the factory will carry the “Made in USA” label. Olevia LCD TVs will carry the “Designed and Assembled in USA” label.

“The opening of this facility is a milestone for the growth of Syntax-Brillian Corp. and for the success of the Olevia brand as it continues to expand throughout North America, the Asia-Pacific region and into South America,” said Syntax-Brillian CEO Vincent Sollitto. “The Ontario location creates key economic advantages including cost reduction associated with shipping and import duties and the opportunity to build a true just-in-time inventory, manufacturing and distribution system in the United States to further support our valued domestic retail partners.”

The Ontario plant is the second production and assembly facility opened by Syntax-Brillian this month. On Oct. 16 the company announced the opening of an over 30,000 square foot LCD TV production facility in Nanjing, China with a projected output of 300,000 units annually. The Nanjing facility supports and operates under the auspices of the company’s involvement in the Nanjing Huahai Display Technology Co., Ltd. joint venture.

http://www.twice.com/article/CA6384118.html

Any recent Brillian LCOS 1080p HDTV news? I don't see any evidence of the 1080p HDTV's being for sale anywhere or any recent press releases indicating any availability date.

Any recent Brillian LCOS 1080p HDTV news? I don't see any evidence of the 1080p HDTV's being for sale anywhere or any recent press releases indicating any availability date.That program died.......... It was to be resurrected in the Olevia line. First version is the 565H and they were talking about a 765H with more features.

That program died.......... It was to be resurrected in the Olevia line. First version is the 565H and they were talking about a 765H with more features.


Thanks. The Olevia web site has info on the 565H. However, a quick search for the Olevia 565H didn't turn up any evidence of it (the 565H) actually being for sale.

http://www.olevia.com/jsp/products/detail.jsp?pid=565h

I wonder what's going on?

Thanks. The Olevia web site has info on the 565H. However, a quick search for the Olevia 565H didn't turn up any evidence of it (the 565H) actually being for sale.

http://www.olevia.com/jsp/products/detail.jsp?pid=565h

I wonder what's going on?My guess is their focus is on the LCDs. My distributor that had a 565H pre-production model at CEDIA doesn't have it listed.

Thanks. The Olevia web site has info on the 565H. However, a quick search for the Olevia 565H didn't turn up any evidence of it (the 565H) actually being for sale.

http://www.olevia.com/jsp/products/detail.jsp?pid=565h

I wonder what's going on?


I guess that I'll check again in a few months?

I have a 67" DLP set, a 60" rp lcd set, 2 plasma (one ED and one 720p/1080i), and 2 smaller (23" & 26") flat lcds.

I am interested in lcos set as it is a display tech i haven't tried yet (will prob sell the 60" rp lcd that the lcos will replace plus the ED plasma to help afford it)

What lcos sets are available out there and what the are the best for a reasonable price?

I know Sony makes lcos sets under their sxrd name and JVC as HD-ILA (or something close to that). I guess the lcos name is copyright protected so each company has to creat their own name?

I'm not a real big fan of Sony and am interested in JVC but whichever is going to be the best for the best price (usually not sony in most categories).

Are there any other manufac making lcos?

I was interested in the new slim line lcos by JVC in the 65" size as i'm looking for 61" to 70" max but 65" or so is ideal.

But so far only one merchant online has the 65" JVC slim lcos and its way too much at 4k. NFM had a Toshiba 1080p DLP for 1500 but I didn't want to do DLP again and if i did i would go with the Samsung hls 6187 as even though i have a samsung dlp its not an LED based model like the hls6187 which is also thinner (though not as thin as the JVC slim line lcos)

What other manufac make lcos sets in the 65" range that I might consider? Olevia? are they any good by that manufac? I always though they were a lower end brand.

The Olevia link that someone posted and another quoted above dont seem to work but heres one that does
http://www.olevia.com/products/detail.aspx?pid=565h

Sounds like a great lcos set and with the Brillian lcos technology. How does this set compare to lcos sets of same or similiar size by Sony and JVC?

Even though its not slim or LED, i just feel like I already have a DLP set so better to try lcos next and the price definately seems right on this Olevia as it seems like it can be found for just under 2k.

http://www.olevia.com/products/specs.aspx?pid=565h

seems to have only 1 HDMI input which is somewhat of a let down especially considering my Samsung dlp only has 2 and i already had to purchase an hdmi switch to add an hdmi input on that one. This set will be going in the finished basement where as of now i really only need 1 hdmi input and will connect Xbox360 via VGA which the Olevia 565h does seem to have according to these specs.

I do have a dvd player down there which is only component but will prob upgrade that to an upconverting player or HD player possible at w hich point i'd need another hdmi input.

why didn' tthey make this set with at least 2 hdmi ports instead of 1 and 1 dVi. DVI isn't really needed or used by much anymore and if a device has it you can use a dvi to hdmi cable. but doing that with an hdmi device is defeating half the purpose of the hdmi so it would have been smart for them just to make 2 hdmi ports and have one have the additional audio inputs like other tvs do, for using a dvi device with dvi to hdmi cable

Olevia 565H review by Consumer Reports

Product Ranking from Consumer Reports
Ranking 8 out of 12

60- to 65-inch models
Among the largest sets we've tested this LCoS TV had very good HD and standard-definition picture quality with good DVD images though black areas were a little bright and images looked a bit hazy. The screen has a native resolution of 1920x1080 so it can potentially display all the detail in the most common HD signals and in the new high-def DVDs. This TV can accept 1080p signals from external sources via the HDMI input. The remote control is excellent and is easy to use in low lighting. The rear jacks' labels are very easy to read.

There is a Olevia 565H thread but its been quiet and seems that most are waiting for the new version of it in the 765 which hasn't showed up nor has anything really been heard about it though one guy saw it at a CES show.
meantime heres an interesting review of the Olevia 565H 65" lcos set.

http://www.hometheatermag.com/rearprojectiontvs/207rptvface/index1.html

not bad but not great. dont think i'll be getting it. i need something that is best for xbox360 and that does 1080p over component and has a VGA. best bet prob still the samsung hlt6187

Syntax Brillian Unveils 65” LCoS TV
By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 9/5/2007 9:00:00 PM

Denver — Syntax Brillian (booth 822) is introducing at CEDIA Expo 2007 an Olevia-branded 65-inch 1080p LCoS TV.

The Olevia 665H ($1,999 suggested) LCoS HDTV incorporates a 6-megapixel Brillian UltraContrast LCoS light engine that produces true 1920 by 1080p resolution. The unit also includes Pixelworks DNX video processing.

Connectivity options include an ATSC/NTSC combo tuner; two HDMI with HDCP inputs; two sets of component video inputs; VGA, two S-video and two composite inputs; PC input supporting HDMI; VGA 1920 by 1080 at 60Hz; and RF inputs for standard-definition TV, 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i and 1080p.

The set produces a 4ms response time and a 2,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, Syntax Brillian said. The projection set also produces a 90 percent fill factor to eliminate pixilation.

The company will also showcase the Olevia 665i ($9,999) 65-inch LCD TV and the Olevia 747i ($2,999) 47-inch LCD TV.

http://www.twice.com/article/CA6474989.html?

Oct 22, 2007 06:30

Syntax-Brillian Signs Agreement in Principle to Sell LCoS(TM) Operations
TEMPE, Ariz. --(Business Wire)-- Oct. 22, 2007 Syntax-Brillian Corporation (Nasdaq:BRLC) announced that it has signed an agreement in principle to sell its operations in Tempe dedicated to the manufacture of LCoS(TM) microdisplays and light engines. It is anticipated that the transaction will be completed in November.

Under the terms of the agreement, the company will retain all patents and intellectual property associated with LCoS but will license the technology to Compound Photonics Ltd. (a UK-based company with an office in Portland, Ore.) in exchange for an equity interest in Compound Photonics. Compound Photonics will use its equity to acquire the LCoS manufacturing equipment and inventory and will assume the lease on that portion of the Tempe facilities used in the LCoS operations.

Jul 08, 2008 02:45

Syntax-Brillian Announces Asset Purchase Agreement, Files Voluntary Petition for Chapter 11 Reorganization to Facilitate Sale

Transaction Designed to Strengthen the Supply Chain for the Olevia Brand Vivitar Excluded From Syntax-Brillian's Chapter 11 Filing; Continues to Conduct Business as Usual Syntax-Brillian to delist from NASDAQ Announces Additional Management and Board Changes
TEMPE, Ariz. --(Business Wire)-- Jul. 8, 2008 Syntax-Brillian Corporation (Nasdaq: BRLC), a leading manufacturer and marketer of LCD HDTVs, digital cameras and consumer electronics products, today announced that, pending court approval, it has entered into an asset purchase agreement to sell certain of its assets to a newly-created company, Olevia International Group, LLC, which is under common ownership with TCV Group. TCV Group is one of Syntax-Brillian's original partners for industrial and mechanical design and it provides the plastic injection molded parts for the Olevia branded high-definition widescreen LCD televisions. Under the terms of the transaction, in exchange for the purchased assets, Olevia International Group has agreed to assume $60.0 million of Syntax-Brillian's secured debt.

Concurrent with this announcement, Syntax-Brillian filed a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The Company filed a motion pursuant to Section 363(f) of the Bankruptcy Code to seek Bankruptcy Court approval for the sale. The proposed sale is subject to higher and better offers, bankruptcy court approval and other conditions customary in a transaction of this type. The Company anticipates closing this transaction by August 31, 2008.

"Following a careful review of all of our alternatives, Syntax-Brillian's management and Board of Directors - working in close consultation with outside legal and financial advisors - unanimously determined that a sale, expedited through the Chapter 11 process, represents the best long-term solution for our retail partners, suppliers, employees and consumers," said Gregory F. Rayburn, Interim Chief Executive Officer at Syntax-Brillian. "This process will allow us to operate business as usual, even as we address liquidity and leverage issues experienced in the past year. It will allow us to honor our commitments to our retail partners, suppliers, employees and consumers, continue to advance initiatives that improve and develop our product lines, and better position us to capitalize on the demand for our products going forward."

"We believe the proposed transaction would enable us to stabilize our business and execute on our growth prospects," Mr. Rayburn continued. "Moreover, we believe the purchaser would gain a competitive advantage by being the first in the LCD TV industry to unite design, sourcing, manufacturing and delivery of HDTV products under common ownership."

The Chapter 11 filing includes all of Syntax-Brillian's subsidiaries with the exception of Vivitar, the Company's brand of digital still and video cameras. Syntax-Brillian has initiated a process for the sale of Vivitar, which will occur separately from the Chapter 11 filing announced today. In the interim, Vivitar continues to conduct business as usual.

Syntax-Brillian intends to continue normal business operations at all of its facilities, consistent with its obligations as a Chapter 11 debtor-in-possession (DIP) under the jurisdiction of the Bankruptcy Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code. The Company is currently in negotiations with lenders to secure DIP financing, which will provide the working capital and financial resources necessary to fund the transition to new ownership.

The Company is seeking, and expects to receive, approval for a variety of first day motions, including requests to make wage and salary payments, honor existing employee benefits, continue certain customer programs and pay suppliers for goods and services delivered after July 8, 2008.

NASDAQ Delisting Expected

The Company also announced today that on July 1, 2008, it received a letter from the Nasdaq Stock Market notifying the Company that for the last 30 consecutive trading days its common stock has closed below the minimum $1.00 per share requirement for continued inclusion under marketplace rule 4450(a)(5). Syntax-Brillian has been provided 180 calendar days, or until December 29, 2008, to regain compliance.

Due to filing a voluntary petition for relief under chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court, the Company does not intend to attempt to regain compliance with this marketplace rule and expects that its common stock will be delisted from the Nasdaq Global Market within the next 10 days.

Syntax-Brillian expects that shares of its common stock will have no value as a result of the reorganization and subsequent transaction.

Management and Board Changes

The Company also announced today the resignation of several directors. Effective June 30, 2008, Vincent F. Sollitto, Jr, James Ching Hua Li, Bruce Berkoff, David Chavoustie, Yasushi Chikagami, and Max Fang, resigned as directors of the Company. Following these resignations, Michael Garnreiter constitutes the sole member of the Board of Directors. Furthermore, on July 2, 2008, the Board of Directors terminated James Ching Hua Li as President and Chief Executive Officer. Gregory F. Rayburn remains Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Company.