Kinergetics Research Debuts Chiro Audio/Video Receiver And A/V Pre-Amp/Processor By Gary Reber
During a visit to the Kinergetics Research in Vernon, California I was shown the final stages of two new Chiro-branded home theatre electronics products, the C-802 Audio/Video Pre-Amp Processor and the C-902 Audio/Video Receiver which incorporates all the craftsmanship and engineering excellence found in the C-802 and includes five built-in 100-watt power amplifiers. ""Both of these models, with deliveries in late September will be strong contenders with innovative features and unsurpassed engineering excellence,"" says Tony Di Chiro, Kinergeticsí President. The Chiro C-802 Audio/Video Pre-Amp Processor has been designed to be the heart of any great home theatre system with the ability to decode and process Dolby Digital, DTS Digital Surround, Dolby ProLogic, Stereo and Stereo Enhanced modes. The system includes a 6-channel pre-amp design and the front output stages are all class-A discrete incorporating Kinergeticsí patented award-wining KDP (Hysteresis Distortion Canceling) circuitry. Features include Kinergeticsí unique diagnostic computer interface port that allows computer-controlled installation and setup, maintenance and diagnostics with a backup file to reinstall or make adjustments down the road. Custom software is provided to permit assigning audio inputs as analog or digital, video inputs as S-video or composite, different bass levels for each input, or various combinations as required. A simple Quick Setup procedure is included to automatically set time delays, crossovers, output modes, down mixing and more while saving all data in the program. An installer can even diagnose and correct system problems via e-mail. Additional details include automatic switching between Dolby Digital, DTS and PCM digital data. Designed for future plug-in via upgrade modules, the C-802 includes seven A/V inputs with composite and S-video, six digital inputs an done digital output, two A/V record outputs with composite and S-video, two composite and one main video output and six audio outputs (left, right, surround left, surround right, center and subwoofer). The AM/FM tuner includes 10-station presets featuring Kinergeticsí unique Global Tuner. On-screen programming features Quick Setup and input assignments, second-zone with auxiliary input, a fixed and variable output (with optional credit card sized remote control) and three 12-volt remote triggers: instant, delay and zone 2, an external IR sensor input. Full-function direct access remote control and calibration microphone are included. Suggested retail for the C-802 is $2,198. The suggested retail for the C-902 is $2,998. We will be reviewing in a future issue of ""Widescreen Review"" the C-902 and C-802. For more information, phone Tony Di Chiro at 323 582 9349.