Technics Makes 5.1-Channel Surround Easy With New DVD-Audio Ready Solution

With the dawn of DVD-Audio and the proven and ever-growing popularity of DVD-Video, Technics makes it simple to enjoy the full 5.1-channel surround capabilities of both formats with a minimum of fuss. Technics now offers a full line of DVD-Audio-ready components. Each component meets the specifications of the next-generation audio standard and, when used together, listeners will reap the format's full benefits. DVD-Audio is expected to become the music standard for the next century, and lives up to that billing by offering lush, lifelike sound - the result of unparalleled dynamic range (192kHz max.) and a significantly higher oversampling rate (24-bit max) than compact disc. The SF-DX7 package includes the SA-AX7 DVD-Audio-ready receiver and SH-ACSOOD DolbyÆ Digital/DTSÆ Digital Surround processor, two of several Technics components specially engineered to give consumers untarnished enjoyment of this new high-resolution audio format. ""As 5.1 channels becomes the de facto audio presentation standard for movies and music, buyers of this package will have the confidence that they're getting everything they need to take full advantage of DVDs, digital television and DSS systems,"" says Alberto Reggiani, National Marketing Manager for Technics Home Audio. For encompassing, well-defined 5.1-channel audio, consumers who also own a DVD-Audio or DVD-Video movie player need only connect the receiver to five speakers and a subwoofer. Not only is the SA-AX7 receiver capable of delivering a powerful 100 watts to each of the six Dolby Digital/DTS Digital Surround channels (20Hz - 20kHz, 6 ohms, 0.09% THD), it was specially engineered to make the most of the new DVD-Audio format. For example, its proprietary Variable Gain Control Amplifier (VGCA) technology is said to render amp circuit noise virtually non-existent, in order to convey the rich, subtle frequencies that are the hallmark of the new standard. Additionally, the receiver's frequency response extends to 100kHz on the high-end, more than sufficient to handle DVD-Audio's extreme high range reproduction capability. The receiver includes a deluxe universal remote, which can operate a wide variety of audio/video components, including Panasonic and Technics DVD and DVD-Audio products. The SH-ACSOOD, meanwhile, lets users select either Dolby Digital or DTS Digital Surround, based on personal preference or the source material. The decoder also features a dynamic range compression on/off switch to help ensure that the full range of sound is audible even when listening at low volume; a test noise generator to help the user set audio quality and volume to appropriate levels; and Center/Surround Channel Delay, which compensates for a variety of room sizes and configurations, for optimal DTS output regardless of the physical setting. The SF-DX7 package will be available in September 1999, at a suggested retail price of $699.95. Consumers seeking more information on the company's products can call Panasonicís Customer Call Center at 800-211-PANA or access Technicsí home page at www.technicsusa.com.