New Sony Receivers Hit High Notes With Performance, Convenience And Expanded Control

Sony is introducing eight new audio/video receivers for enthusiasts looking for performance and flexibility. The company is continuing to extend its line of 24-and 32-bit Digital Steam Processors to deliver high quality, multichannel surround sound to consumers.The two-phase process starts with the decoding of DolbyÆ Digital and DTSÆ Digital Surround with the 24-bit DSP chip. Then, the signal is sent to a separate chip where Sony applies its Digital Cinema Sound system to a high performance 32-bit processor. The result, claims Sony, is multichannel surround sound with improved resolution and detail.Sony is also continuing its expansion of the Digital Cinema Sound system, which Sony says replicates the acoustic environments from the post-production dubbing stages at Sony Pictures Entertainment by adding new levels of depth and clarity. The DCS system also has virtual 3D technology, giving users ""virtual"" multiple rear speakers, creating what Sony describes as a more theatre-like environment in the home.These features can be found in five of Sonyís newest receivers, ranging from the STR-DE825 ($480 MSRP) to the STR-DA777ES ($1,499 MSRP), which employs 24-bit decoding and two 32-bit DSP engines dedicated to DCS processing.The STR-DA777ES and STR-DE935 also offer multi-room capability, providing users with independent source selection in a second room.Five models in the lineup of A/V receivers feature Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround decoding utilizing 24-bit plus 32-bit DSP. The models, which also feature 5.1 channel inputs and preamp outputs and multiple video and audio inputs/outputs (including S-Video switching), include:- STR-DA777ES has 120 watts per channel in all five channels and can be configured to operate at 200 watts per channel in stereo mode. A pre-programmed, two-way, touch panel LCD controls all of the receiverís functions. This model also includes 24-bit plus 32-bit x 2 DSP, multi-room independent switching, and multiple video inputs/outputs with S-Video switching. Available in September, the STR-DA777ES has a $1,499 MSRP.- STR-DA555ES features 120 watts per channel x 5 and a pre-programmed, two-way, touch panel LCD remote control. It also includes four optical and one coaxial digital input, and one optical output, multiple video inputs/outputs with S-Video switching. It will be available in August at a $999 MSRP.- STR-DE935 is powered at 110 watts x 5 and includes multi-room, independent source selection for a second room. The pre-programmed LCD remote enables system control as well as CD title, tuner preset and sound-field status download capacity. The STR-DE935 has an MSRP of $600 and will be available in July.- STR-DE835 features 100 watts x 5, three optical and one coaxial digital input and a pre-programmed remote control with DSS and DVD menu control. The receiver ($480 MSRP) will be available in June.For those just starting a home theater or adding DVD to an existing system, Sony provides a solution with three models that include Virtual Dolby Surround Sound. And new for 1999, these three models have 5.1 inputs with surround control and also offer the user the ability to control DSP modes and surround effect level by using the 5.1 inputs. The additional of Virtual Dolby Surround Sound provides the user with the ability to create ""virtual"" rear speakers from using only two front speakers.More information about Sony products can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.sony.com/professional, or readers may call 800 686 SONY.For more direct information, contact Mary Abram, Sony Electronics Inc., at 201 930 7160 or email mary_abram@mail.sel.sony.com or Gary Wind, Technology Solutions, at 212 320 2221 or email gwind@tsipr.com.