15-Jan-00

Pioneer Electronics Introduces The Industryís First 301 Disc DVD/CD Media Changers

Pioneer Electronics, the industry leader in optical disc technologies, introduces at CES 2000 the worldís first 301 disc DVD/CD changers ñ the Pioneer DV-F727 and Pioneer Elite DV-F07. These two new models are truly the first media servers available for consumer use. They store up to 301 DVDs or CD and, through a unique on-screen-cataloging system, both models achieve a new level of simplicity for managing such a large catalog. Discs can be sorted by format (DVD or CD), disc title, or disc number. As new discs are added to the player, an Auto Update feature scans each new disc in the machine and decides whether it is a DVD or CD and checks to see if it contains CD or DVD text information. For added convenience this feature can be activated and left alone, and once completed it will power down the player. If the consumerís collection grows larger than the 301-capacity of the DV-F727/07, a second unit can be added. Once connected both machines operate as one, holding up to 602 discs. To make operation as easy as possible, the DV-F727/07 can be controlled either by a supplied remote control, a keyboard, or a mouse. The remote controls all player operations as well as disc titling. A PS/2 style interface is provided on the front of the unit, allowing connection of a mouse or keyboard for player control or disc titling. To provide the highest quality video and audio the DV-F727 offers component video, S-video, and composite video outputs. Optical and coaxial digital outputs are provided to supply either Dolby Digital, DTS, or 96kHz 24-bit audio information to an outboard receiver while analog left and right outputs are provided for non digital receiver/TV connections. The DV-F07 also employs the Elite exclusive Hi-Bit Conversion process with Legato Link. This process requantizes a compact discís current 16-bit resolution into an equivalent 24-bit resolution. Legato Link restores frequencies above 20khz that are lost during the digital recording process. For those consumers with just a stereo audio system at home the DV-F727/07 features Virtual Dolby Digital processing providing a three-dimensional sound field with independent rear channel effect without the need for rear speakers. For the ultimate in convenience, the DV-F07 features an RS-232 port for connection to either a PC or disc management system such as the Escient TuneBase system. The DV-F727 comes finished in traditional black finish while the DV-F07 comes finished in Eliteís trademark Urushi high-gloss black finish complimented with rosewood side-panels. The DV-F727 is available in January at a suggested retail price of $1,100. The DV-F07 is available in February at a suggested retail price of $1,300. Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc., headquartered in Long Beach, California, is a leader in optical disc technology and a preeminent manufacturer of audio and video products for the home and car. Visit the Web site at http://www.pioneerelectronics.com.