Parasound Debuts Comprehensive A/V Surround Processor/Preamplifier

Building on the success of its acclaimed AVC-2500, Parasound is introducing the AVC-1800 Audio Video Controller, a sophisticated yet easy-to-operate surround processor/preamplifier designed to bring the excitement of multichannel home entertainment to novice and advanced consumers alike. ""We've combined our recognized expertise in audio design with forward-thinking video and convenience features,"" said Richard Schram, Parasound's President. ""As a result, the AVC-1800 combines performance, flexibility, and sheer utility in a way that makes it truly unique."" The AVC-1800 handles today's 5.1 surround formats - Dolby Digital and DTS, for example ñ by automatically detecting the source's digital ""ID flag"" and changing decoding strategies accordingly. Advanced digital-domain Dolby ProLogic decoding, sometimes thought of as an unnecessary ""retro"" touch, allows the AVC-1800 to accurately decode the thousands of Dolby Surround-encoded videotapes and TV broadcasts that comprise the bulk of programming most enjoyed by many consumers. The AVC-1800 also provides a clear upgrade path for future format development, thanks to a rear panel 5.1 analog input. In addition, LucasFilm/THX's Cinema Re-EQ reduces the often-excessive high frequency content of many video soundtracks for optimum enjoyment when these sources are played back over high quality home theatre systems. The AVC-1800 has inputs for seven external analog sources (three audio-only, four audio/video). The audio/video inputs handle both composite and S-video signals. In addition, there are four digital inputs: two coaxial, two TOSlink. Supplementing these inputs are two sets of audio/video analog outputs for use with whatever recording device a consumer may want. The AVC-1800 also includes a highly sensitive AM/FM tuner with 29 programmable presets and ""preset scan"" for easy retrieval of favorite broadcasts.Convenience features abound. Users may program a particular source selector to automatically enable a specific digital input and operating mode, thus greatly simplifying day-to-day use. Initial set-up and configuration is easy thanks to rear panel switches that route bass signals properly for the best sound regardless of what other speakers being used. An intuitive on-screen display complements information available on the AVC-1800's front panel. Sound quality, in keeping with Parasound's long tradition of providing affordable alternatives to the world's most costly components, is superlative. The power supply, the basic building block from which all other circuits draw operating current, is based on an oversize toroidal transformer. Specifically designed for minimal flux leakage that could affect adjacent circuitry, the transformer is epoxy-coated for vibration damping. Burr-Brown 24 bit digital-to-analog converters provide high-resolution audio to satisfy even the most demanding audiophile. Circuit bards are high quality ""FR4"" glass-epoxy designs with substantial ground traces for exceptional low-noise performance. Separate bass and treble controls with bypass allow the user to tailor the sound to any taste. A detachable IEC-type high quality AC line cord removes a power bottleneck that may otherwise impede performance as well as provides additional convenience during installation. A backlit programmable remote control simplifies system operation, even in darkened rooms and when the system is composed of components from different manufacturers. Recognizing that many consumers prefer to enjoy good sound in more than one room of their home, the AVC-1800 boasts dual zone ""multi-source"" capability with dedicated rear panel jacks and internal routing for infrared control signals. Separate 12 volt trigger circuits, independent for each zone, turn associated components like power amplifiers on and off as required for improved efficiency, convenience, and safety. The AVC-1800 will debut in late November with a suggested retail price of $1,195.Founded in 1981, Parasound is a privately owned U.S. company that specializes in providing affordable audio and home theater components to the critical listener.For more information, contact the company at 415 397 7100 or visit the Web site at http://www.parasound.com.