Onkyo Solidifies Its Lead In A/V Receiver Value And PerformanceAffordable New Model Combines Significant Technology Refinements, Unprecedented Features

Onkyo Corporation U.S.A., the globally respected manufacturer of home audio and video components, is consolidating its position as a leader in performance-oriented audio-video receivers with the introduction of a new star performer. The TX-DS575 A/V receiver updates the previous model TX-DS555 with important technological enhancements, and additional user-friendly functions. Built-in DTSÆ Digital Surround, DolbyÆ Digital and Digital ProLogicÆ Leading the list of built-in features in the TX-DS575 is DTS Digital Surround 5.1-channel decoding. Along with Dolby Digital processing, DTS provides full compatibility to all optical-disc, DBS, and DTV digital-surround audio program formats at a very popular price. The new TX-DS575 A/V receiver also features 96/24 digital-to-analog conversion technology, enhanced power amplifier circuitry, a discrete 5.1-channel input for future expansion, and a new, ergonomic system remote control. Powerful DSP Engine The TX-DS575 features a powerful 24-bit DSP processor from Crystal Semiconductors. This dynamic chip implements both Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround discrete 5.1-channel audio, plus digital-domain ProLogic combined with refined music- and video-surround modes using Onkyoís proprietary, ""High-Definition DSP"" algorithms. Complementing this very sophisticated system is the latest-generation 96 ldIz124-bit D/A converters, fully compatible with current and forthcoming ""96/24"" DVD software. The net result is unexcelled precision from all digital audio sources, two-channel or multichannel, whether reproduced in stereo or surround, producing exceptional clarity, dynamic accuracy, and depth. Three digital inputs accept Dolby Digital, DTS Digital Surround, or PCM bitstreams (stereo or Dolby Surround-encoded) with swift and silent automatic mode selection. The digital ports combine with three audio and four audio-video input choices, one of each analog group including a full input/output tape-loop for a recording component. The TX-DS575 allows users to set up and connect their systems to suit specific components and individual preferences. The TX-DS575 even includes a phonograph input served by a quality phono-preamp - a relative rarity among A/V receivers in its range. Wide Range Amplifier Technology To ensure that the outstanding potential quality reaches the loudspeakers, Onkyo has equipped the TX-DS575 with redesigned amplification delivering 70 watts to each of its five speaker outputs. More important than a mere ""watts-per-dollar"" factor, however, and in sharp contrast to most A/V receivers at this price range, all five channels are rated for an honest 70 watts FTC: 20Hz-20kHz at <8.08% THD. This full-disclosure, full-bandwidth power to all five main channels is of particular importance in a digital AN receiver, since discrete-5.1 digital surround recordings can (and do) make rigorous dynamic demands on all channels simultaneously, unlike phase-matrixed analog surround systems such as Dolby Surround. Onkyoís Wide-Range Amplifier Technology including its long-established low negative feedback circuit topology, promotes clean, ""fast"" transients and airy top-octave reproduction. The TX-DS575 features a massive isolated power transformer, and discrete-device output stages for all five channels to achieve superior sonics. The TX-DS575 utilizes two high quality, extruded-aluminum heatsinks and heavy-duty multi-way binding posts for front channels to ensure high-current, low-impedance drive fully rated for 6ohm loads from all five outputs. While the built-in Dolby Digital, DTS Digital Surround, and digital-ProLogic in the TX-DS575 will deliver any surround-encoded program currently available, Onkyo has ""future-proofed"" its new receiver by incorporating a discrete 5.1-channel input. Offered via a six-RCA-jack grouping, this input will accept an outboard surround decoder of any current or future format up to six channels, providing a potentially critical upgrade path. The TX-DS575 also features Onkyo's Cinema Re-EQ circuit, which can subtly compensate the overly bright sound of many film soundtracks, mixed for far larger acoustics of commercial cinemas. Improved, 20-bit delta/sigma analog-to-digital conversion raises the precision of analog sources reproduced in surround modes, enhancing clarity and detail. A ""Late Night"" mode preserves low-level nuance and detail while limiting peak levels for nighttime movie viewing. And, rotary tone controls deliver vastly better precision and more intuitive response than the up/down-pushbutton bass and treble controls utilized on many competitive receivers. Mark Friedman, Senior Vice President of Onkyo U.S.A. says, ""With the introduction of the TX-DS575 Onkyo is reaffirming and enhancing its leadership position in A/V receivers especially among those buyers who value performance and sound quality as much as features. It offers true performance sonics and useful balanced features, all at a truly accessible cost.""User Friendly Remote ControlThe TX-DS575 includes an all-new full-system ""learning"" remote control designed for ease of use from the ground up. This highly ergonomic handset incorporates an intuitive ""joystick"" control, plus macro commands that enable powerfully simple one-touch system operation. Along with its full multi-brand learning capability, the remote is Onkyo RI-ready, delivering on-board command of virtually all Onkyo components via the TXDS575ís RI intercomponent links. The receiverís bright, legible fluorescent display makes system status readable from across the room; two dimmer modes adjust brightness to personal taste or to room-lighting conditions. Another new addition is a second power switch (in addition to on/standby) for conveniently powering fully down. And the TX-DS575 incorporates a sensitive, high-selectivity FM/AM tuner equipped with 30 random-access presets and FM auto-tuning. Battery-free memory backup, a front-panel headphone jack, and a 90-minute sleep-timer are just three convenience features that are standard. The Onkyo TX-DS575 A/V receiver is constructed on a heavy, anti-resonant, all metal chassis incorporating ribbed side panels for greater strength and a vibration-resistant top cover. Large, non-resonant feet further curb unwanted vibrations that could impact signal purity, as does the receiverís impressive machined-aluminum front panel. For more information, contact Ted Green at Onkyo 201 825 7950 or Lucette Nicoll at 781 762 9300 or e-mail: nicollpr@ix.netcom.com.