JVC Introduces Upgraded D-VHS Digital VCR

7-Oct-03

JVC announced a new, upgraded digital VHS (D-VHSÆ) recorder, the HM-DH40000, capable of recording high-definition (HD) video broadcasts at full quality and playing feature films recorded in HD, available in the D-Theaterô format. The new digital HD recorder/player offers several enhancements while delivering high-definition video. The HM-DH40000 offers a new LS5 mode that provides up to 40 hours of VHS-quality programming on a single cassette, two-channel PCM audio, and a new color on-screen menu display and tape navigation system. In addition, the HM-DH40000 features a new design with a flip-down panel that conceals most controls, providing a contemporary appearance. ""At a time when there is strong demand for HD televisions and an expanding range of HD programming hitting the airwaves, D-VHS stands alone as the only way for consumers to play back, record and archive HD programs in full HD-quality for viewing at their convenience, and the only way to enjoy Hollywood movies recorded in high-definition D-Theater,"" said Craig Geiger, JVC Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. ""With our new D-VHS deck we offer even more versatility while boosting ease of use."" The HM-DH40000 records digitally from any source--HDTVs, HD cable boxes, and satellite receivers (requires an HD tuner with IEEE 1394 output), HD camcorders such as JVC's GR-HD1, and standard-definition digital camcorders. It can also digitally record from analog sources such as a VCR, analog camcorder, or conventional broadcast through the use of a built-in MPEG-2 decoder that converts any analog NTSC source to digital. The JVC HM-DH40000 also plays D-Theater movies--pre-recorded high-definition movies. Dozens of major motion pictures from Artisan Home Entertainment, DreamWorks Home Entertainment, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, and Universal Studios Home Video are available in D-Theater for viewing in 1080i HD resolution. The HM-DH40000 features the HS recording mode, which records high-definition MPEG-2 digital sources at up to 28.2 Mbps. This mode offers digital-to-digital recording of 1080i, 720p and 480p, and high-definition playback (up to a maximum of four hours using DF-480 D-VHS cassette). The deck can also record a standard definition (SD) digital broadcast at 14.1 Mbps (STD mode) up to a maximum of eight hours; store up to 24 hours of material recorded at 4.7 Mbps for better than typical DVD performance (LS3 mode); and store up to 40 hours of VHS-quality programming at 2.8 Mbps (LS5 mode). To accommodate users' VHS collections, the deck also has full analog recording and playback capabilities. Super VHS, Super VHS ET, and conventional VHS are all supported. The HM-DH40000 includes an i.LINKÆ (IEEE 1394) interface that allows connection of a compatible ATSC set-top box (or upcoming digital satellite and cable set-top boxes equipped with the i.LINK interface) for digital-to-digital recording, and a separate set of i.LINK terminals that route the input signal through a DV/MPEG-2 converter so MiniDV video camera owners can dub footage to a higher-capacity, high-quality format for permanent storage. There are also S-video and composite video inputs. Output options include an HD component video output (Y/Pb/Pr, HD output for 1080i/720p/480p/480i). Viewing of video recorded in HD on conventional standard-definition televisions is also possible. The deck can also output a digital signal through an IEEE 1394 terminal. The HM-DH40000 is equipped with DolbyÆ Digital, DTSÆ, and 48 kHz/16-bit PCM optical digital audio output.The video navigation system, which stores information for more than 1,000 titles, allows for quick on-screen tracking of the desired program, followed by automatic search and playback. To watch a recorded program, the user browses through the program lists--listed by tape number, program category (e.g. movies, sports, news, etc.), or date of recording. The JVC HM-DH40000 comes with a multi-brand glow remote that provides control of a TV, cable box, or satellite receiver, in addition to operational control of the deck. It is available immediately and carries a nationally advertised value of $999.95. For more information about JVC Company of America, visit www.jvc.com.

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