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| Panasonic |
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New DVD Players
Panasonic is releasing a new DVD player lineup for 2000. The $279 value-price DVD-RV20 starts off the lineup. The DVD-RV30 ($299), DVD-RV60 ($349 with Dolby Digital decoder), DVD-CV40 ($349) and DVD-CV50 ($449) all feature Panasonic’s A-B-C-D enhancement package, which includes Advanced Virtual Surround Sound, a "2 Channel Plus Bass" mode for direct output to a subwoofer without an advanced amplifier, Dialogue Enhancer which boosts the center channel volume by 6dB, and Cinema Mode which enhances picture quality by reducing glare, softening resolution and improving the visibility of details in dark scenes. All models include S-Video outputs, while the RV30, RV60 andCV50 also feature composite connectors. The CV40 is a 5-disc stackable disc-changer, while the CV50 features a carousel design, Dolby Digital decoder and illuminated remote control. Single-disc models will be available this spring, while the changers will be introduced in summer 2000.
HDTV/DSS Receiver
In April, Panasonic will release the TU-HDS20 multiple-format receiver capable of receiving all 18 ATSC digital formats as well as DirecTV and DirecTV HD satellite transmissions. The receiver will also accept and integrate must-carry NTSC local cable channels into the program guide. Also available from Panasonic is an option 18"x24" oval DirecTV Plus antenna, designed to seamless view programming from multiple DirecTV satellites. The antenna can also be upgraded to allow for a third LNB. Included with the receiver is Panasonic’s illuminated Director Home Theater remote control that can operate hundreds of brands of audio and video equipment. Outputs include component, S-Video, composite video and audio, RGB-HV, Dolby Digital and a modem. The receiver will carry a suggested list price of $1099.
New VCR Lineup
New VHS and SVHS VCRs will be introduced this model year. The new SVHS PV-VS4820 features VCR Plus+ Gold, rapid fast-forward and rewind, which can rewind a 120 minute tape in 1 minute, ET recording for SVHS quality on standard VHS tapes and a stand-up illuminated remote control. The top-of-the-line VHS PV-V4660 also includes VCR Plus+ Gold and rapid tape transport, but also features DynAmorphous Metal heads. Both models include auto clock set, Commercial Advance, font A/V jacks, Time Stamp, Movie Advance, Index Search and Energy Star compliance. Both models will be available this spring.
New Digital Media Editor
Panasonic’s PV-DS1000 will allow users to digitally edit their home videos without the aid of a computer. The sophisticated device makes non-linear editing easily achievable from any analog or digital source camera. The unit holds a 17 gigabytes of information for over an hour of digital recording time. The PV-DS1000 includes a wireless jog/shuttle remote control which makes it easy to mark or define scenes with extreme accuracy. Features include add, move, copy, delete, trim, insert, audio dubbing, audio mix dubbing, audio insert and 7-speed playback for easy review of scenes during the editing process. It also includes an IEEE 1394 interface for full digital input/output capability to compatible DV camcorders. The unit will be available this spring with a suggested retail price of $2199.
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