Integra Research Announces THX Ultra2 And DTS 96/24 Upgrade For RDC-7 A/V Preamp/Processor

7-May-02

When Integra Research first introduced its RDC-7 A/V preamp/processor two years ago, it featured a future-proof upgradeable architecture, that protected consumers from having their processor rendered obsolete each time a new home theatre processing technology was introduced. In 2001, the company offered an upgrade that added DTS-ESÆ and DolbyÆ Pro Logic II.Integra Research has announced a program to upgrade these processors to accommodate the new THXÆ Ultra2 processing and DTSÆ 96/24 multichannel audio sound format, and to add a variable subwoofer crossover for improved bass accuracy. The upgrade will be incorporated into all new RDC-7 units.""With this upgrade, the two-year-old Integra Research RDC-7 is equipped to decode the latest in audio processing formats,"" said Eric Harper, Integra and Custom Installation Product Manager. ""This gives our customers and installers the ability to keep pace with state-of-the-art technology, without having to buy a new preamp/processor every six months.""Like the earlier THX Ultra standard, THX Ultra2 certifies that the Integra Research RDC-7 meets stringent audio and video specifications, which have been updated to reflect new technology. In addition, because many multichannel titles lack Surround EXô encoding, the Ultra2 standard specifies sophisticated cinema mode processing, which automatically detects any program of 5.1 channels or more, and optimally reproduces it on a 7.1-channel system.The addition of DTS 96/24 technology also provides a dramatic upgrade to the Integra Research RDC-7's capabilities. The DTS 96/24 standard allows conventional video DVDs to include 5.1-channel soundtracks with audio quality comparable to wide bandwidth, high dynamic range formats like DVD-Audio and SACD, while still allowing for full-motion video. The upgrade also provides a variable subwoofer crossover can be set at 80, 100, or 120 Hz, except when using THX processing, which fixes the low-pass filter at 80 Hz.The upgrade, which will be available in June with a retail price of $500, requires internal hardware and software modifications that will be performed by regional service centers. An introductory $200 discount will be offered until August 30, 2002. Customers who purchased the DTS-ES and Dolby Pro Logic II upgrade last year will be given an additional $50 credit, because those features are also included with the new upgrade. The price includes the cost of shipping and insurance to the service center. The updated Integra Research RDC-7, which incorporates this upgrade, will be available in June with a suggested retail price of $4,500.For more information on this and other Integra Research products, visit www.integraresearch.com.

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