Sony Unveils New ES Receiver Lineup

10-Jul-03

Sony announced its 2003 ES series of multichannel audio/video (A/V) receivers.Leading the new receiver lineup is the STR-DA9000ES, which incorporates proprietary audio technology with a new cosmetic design and enhanced user interface, and is equipped with a seven-channel Direct Drive Digital Amplifier using Sony'sÆ S-Masterô Pro processing, and multi-room capabilities. ""The growth of DVD and multichannel surround systems has dramatically altered the home audio/video landscape,"" said David Bent, Marketing Director for the Home Audio Products Division at Sony Electronics Inc. ""As consumers continue to expand their home entertainment systems, our new ES receivers provide the latest technology to drive even the most discerning consumers home entertainment needs while providing simplicity and elegance that integrates with their lifestyle."" The new STR-DA9000ES features a high-power, seven-channel amplifier design, and decodes a multitude of the latest audio formats, with dual 32-bit DSPs for DolbyÆ Digital EX, Dolby Digital, DTSÆ, DTS-ESÆ, Dolby Pro Logic II, and Sony's Digital Cinema Sound.The STR-DA9000ES utilizes Auto Channel Grouping to convert 5.1- or 6.1-channel material to 7.1 channels of surround sound reproduction. The STR-DA9000ES also has the ability to simulate a 9.1-channel listening experience. The STR-DA9000ES employs a new digital amplifier design, with simplified signal paths minimizing cross-distortion and providing linear current and voltage characteristics. The newly designed amplifier features the Sony S-Masterô Pro processing, which utilizes clean data cycle and S-tactÆ for jitter reduction during the processing of all digital signals. The STR-DA9000ES offers a variety of connectivity options including a DVI interface, video upconversion from composite to S-video and component video, and assignable digital inputs. The STR-DA9000ES has second-A/V and third-zone audio outputs with independent source selection, flexibility in custom control, and an RS-232C port that communicates with automation systems and enables future firmware upgrades. In addition, the new model features infrared repeater input and outputs, as well as 12-volt triggers. The STR-DA9000ES also offers a comprehensive remote control device with a touch-panel design. The STR-DA9000ES receiver will be available for around $4,500 this fall. Sony's new ES line also includes the following models: - STR-DA5000ES: Offers 170 watts, a seven-channel Direct Drive Digital Amplifier, and includes three-zone/three-source output, RS-232C, assignable digital inputs, and component video upconversion. The STR-DA5000ES includes a two-way, pre-programmed LCD remote with learning and macro capability, and has the new cascading silver front-panel design. It will be available this fall for $1,500. - STR-DA3000ES: Provides 150 watts of power, a seven-channel Direct Drive Digital Amplifier, and includes two-zone/two-source output, RS-232C, assignable digital inputs, and component video upconversion The STR-DA3000ES is equipped with a pre-programmed LCD remote with learning and macro capability, and has the new cascading silver front-panel design. The STR-DA3000ES will be available this fall for $1,000. - STR-DA2000ES: Features 120 watts of power, a seven-channel Direct Drive Digital Amplifier, two-zone/two-source audio output, RS-232C, assignable digital inputs, S-video transcoding, and a pre-programmed learning remote with macro capabilities. The STR-DA2000ES will be available in August for about $800. - STR-DA1000ES: Includes construction found throughout the ES receiver lineup. The STR-DA1000ES offers 100 watts of power, seven-channel amplifier, component video switching, S-video transcoding, assignable digital inputs, and is equipped with a pre-programmed remote with learning and macro capabilities. The STR-DA1000ES will be available in July for about $600. For more information, visit www.sony.com.

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