More good stuff for the States and more hope that we lowly Brits may one day see it all too, Sony has unveiled a range of new ES AV receivers due an August onwards release.
All new models will be fully compatible with all the major next-gen formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD alongside 7.1-channel audio support, iPod integration via Digital media Port and an optional iPod dock (the TDM-IP1), signifying a quantum shift in Sony's thinking regarding the good ol' Pod.
The range-topping $1,700 STR-DA5300ES houses a 120W amplifier with 8ohm impedance, 20Hz to 20KHz frequency range and eight-channel linear PCM. It's the first Sony receiver capable of delivering HD content to a second zone, with picture-in-picture monitoring of multi-zone output or external video source and six Active Intelligence HDMI inputs plus one output.
Next up is the $1,300 STR-DA4300ES featuring a slightly less weighty 100W amplifier and all the same features as the 5300 with the exception that it only houses three Active Intelligence HDMI inputs and one output.
Other combined features include support for 1080/60p and 24fps video formats, video upscaling via HDMI to 1080p, Bluetooth receiver and docking station (TDM-NW1) for Sony's extensive Walkman range.
These US models will also be Sirius and Connect-and-Play ready, but as yet there's no news on UK pricing, stats or availability.
www.sony.com
