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CEA Study Finds Consumers Yearn for Audio Quality

The CEA study, Notions of Quality: Audio Expectations of Consumers, also found consumers have varying opinions on which content formats provide the best sound quality. For example, 43 percent of consumers consider FM radio to provide superior sound quality while a similar number (46 percent) consider the audio from HDTVs to be high quality.

"Sound quality depends on both the audio source and listening device, and. manufacturers and retailers have the unique ability to educate consumers on what constitutes high-quality audio," said Ben Arnold, CEA's senior research analyst. "Similar to HD and 3D video technology, quality audio is experiential, so we encourage consumers to do in-the-field research. Hearing the difference among superior audio products can effectively sway consumers to consider and purchase high-quality audio technology."

CEA will reveal further results and insights of the study in a webinar on Wednesday, August 10^th from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. EST. Arnold will lead the webinar and will address topics such as the profile of audio enthusiasts, what consumers consider elements of a quality audio listening experience, which elements of the experience are most important, and perceptions of which audio formats and devices provide high quality sound.

The webinar is specifically recommended for individuals in the business of selling or marketing audio electronics or content. Webinars are free for CEA members and available for a fee for nonmembers at the CEA Store. Registration is limited so please RSVP by Monday, August 8^th. If you have any questions please email Webinar Team or call (703) 907-4354.

The study, Notions of Quality: Audio Expectations of Consumers was conducted between June 16 - 25, 2011. It was designed and formulated by CEA Market Research, the most comprehensive source of sales data, forecasts, consumer research and historical trends for the consumer electronics industry. Please cite any information to the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). The complete study is available free to CEA member companies at members.CE.org. Non-members may purchase the study at the CEA Store.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $186 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES - The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA's industry services. Find CEA online at CE.org and Innovation-Movement.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• CEO Summit and Board Retreat
  October 1-3, 2011, Stresa, Lake Maggiore, Italy
• CEA TechHome Mediterraneo 100 Summit
  October 3-5, 2011, Stresa, Lake Maggiore, Italy
• Digital Hollywood Fall
  October 17-20, 2011, Marina Del Ray, CA
• CEA Industry Forum
  October 23-28, 2011, San Diego, CA
• CES New York Press Preview featuring CES Unveiled @ NY
  November 8, 2011, New York, NY
• Digital Hollywood New York City
  November 15-17, 2011, New York, NY
• Future of Television East
  November 18, 2011, New York, NY
• 2012 International CES
  January 10-13, 2012, Las Vegas, NV

Consumer Electronics Association
Grace Ellis, 703-907-5292
gellis@CE.org
CE.org
or
Laurie Ann Phillips, 703-907-7654
laphillips@CE.org