Panasonic Introduces Five-Disc Rotary DVD Changer
Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC) has announced its first DVD changer, model DVD-C220. The versatile new DVD/VideoCD/Audio CD player/changer is ideal for audio enthusiasts as well as those serious movie buffs. Whether you prefer viewing DVDs or Video CDs, or listening to audio CDs, the action is non-stop at the touch of a button. This new Panasonic DVD-C220 rotary changer can store up to five of the userís favorite disks, which can then be played at a momentís notice. The DVD-C220 changer features state-of-the-art DVD technology, component video out, DolbyÆ Digital and DTSÆ Digital Surround output, and many convenience features to enhance the home theatre experience. ""The DVD-C220 is perfect for consumers who enjoy viewing several movies back-to-back, or multiple-disc movies, or just want to switch between viewing movies and listening to their favorite CDs,"" says Rusty Osterstock, Assistant General Manger of Panasonicís DVD Division. ""This new DVD changer helps users enjoy all their digital entertainment media with ease and convenience."" The DVD-C220 can replace a CD player or changer, and actually produces audio that is better than CD quality. Itís the perfect complement to an existing home theater system, or the centerpiece of a new one. ""To coincide with the ever-widening number of movies available on DVD video discs,"" says Osterstock, ""Panasonic will continue to offer additional options in its cutting-edge line of DVD players."" The unitís front-loading rotary design allows the user to change any of the four non-playing discs while one disc is playing ó without disturbing the movie or music being enjoyed. A quick disc rotation system allows rapid switching from disc to disc. Up to five DVD videos can be viewed one after the other by engaging the playerís All Disc Play Mode. Or, by selecting the unitís Repeat Mode, the user may watch a single disc repeatedly. Users may also choose Sequential Play, Program Play or Random Play for their CDs. The DVD-C220 delivers all the benefits of the DVD format: brilliant digital video images with nearly 500 lines of horizontal resolution and crystal-clear audio. The unit features a 10-bit video DAC (digital-to-analog converter) for enhanced picture quality and a 96kHz, 24-bit audio DAC, for the highest sound quality the format can deliver. This DVD changer also features component video outputs. By digitally separating the video signal down to its luminance (Y) and separate chrominance (PR and PB) elements, component video outputs allow delivery of a reference-quality picture with precise color reproduction when using a compatible TV. Besides component video outputs, this model offers S-video outputs, standard audio/video outs and an optical digital audio output. In addition, the new DVD-C220 is full of many other value-added features. For example, the Chapter Preview feature conveniently refreshes your memory if you should miss part of a movie. To quickly review the previous chapters, just press the Play button twice. The player automatically shows the first three seconds of each chapter in sequence until it catches up to the point where you left off. You can also scan forward or backward in up to 100 times normal speed, in five smooth-motion steps, with virtually no video distortion. Many of todayís movies rely on a soundtrack that envelopes the viewer, bringing all the action to life. The DVD-C220 incorporates the latest audio technology and enhancements to make sure the users get as much enjoyment in listening to a movie as in watching one. Outputs for optional Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround sound decoders provide six discrete channels of exhilarating audio. For action-packed movies, you no longer have to strain to hear the dialogue in a noisy scene. The new Dialogue Enhancer feature boosts the volume of the center channel ñ where most of the principal dialogue emanates when playing a Dolby Digital 5.1 disc ñ by 6dB. This feature greatly enhances the overall viewing experience. Further contributing to audio performance is Advanced Virtual Surround Sound (VSS). When active, viewers can enjoy a simulated 5.1 channel effect, downmixed from either a 5.1 channel or two-channel Dolby Digital soundtrack, from the stereo speakers of any home audio system. This feature is ideal for anyone who wants the superior video quality and film buff extras that DVD offers, but doesnít have the room or the budget for a full surround sound system. A front panel LED conveniently displays the location of loaded discs, which disc is playing and the position of the disc tray when the drawer is open. Additional features include Skip Forward/Reverse and Auto Power Off/Resume Play. The DVD-C220 also includes Title/Chapter Search with marker function. The DVD-C220 five-disc rotary changer DVD player will be available in July 1999 at a manufacturerís suggested retail price of $549.95. Consumers seeking more information on the companyís products can call Panasonicís Customer Call Center at 800-211-PANA, or access Panasonicís home page at www.panasonic.com.