Panasonic Ships First Set-Top DTV Decoder

Widescreen Review will be reviewing in an upcoming issue the first complete HDTV system brought to market by Panasonic. The system is composed of two units, a set-top DTV decoders which is capable of receiving, decoding and processing signals for the nationís new digital and high definition television broadcast system that started operation on November 1, 1998. The first shipment of the TU-DST50 DTV decoder was allocated to broadcasters, who are preparing their new digital program service, and to retailers who have planned digital television events in conjunction with the rollout of DTV. But according to Bill Mannion, General Manager of Panasonicís Television and Network Systems Division, confirms that decoder units are being made available to retailers for sale to consumers. The TU-DST50 will carry a suggested minimum retail price of $1,499.For more information contact Panasonic at http://panasonic.com