Citing the decision by four of the six major movie studios to publish high-def DVD titles only in the Sony-developed Blu-ray format, Netflix said that as of now it will purchase only Blu-ray discs and will phase out by roughly year’s end the alternative high-def format, HD DVD, developed by Toshiba.

(more…)

Samsung’s 46″ LN-T4661F LCD TV delivers the full brilliance of HDTV with decor-enhancing style - and industry-leading value. Enjoy the incredible detail of 1080p resolution, the endless color range of 16-bit processing, the finely nuanced tones of a 10,000:1 dynamic-contrast ratio, and the quick motion of an 8ms response time. With the amazing SRS-TruSurroundXT system, full-bodied sound comes from two bottom speakers. Three HDMI ports, USB 2.0 and full connectivity lets you add DVDs, camcorders, PCs and a range of other digital devices; HDMI-CEC capability lets you control all CEC-compatible devices with one remote.

The primary differences between Samsung’s LNT4661F and the step-up LNT4665F LCD HDTV is in the contrast ratio and video processing power. The pricier LNT4665F offers a 15,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio compared to this model’s 10,000:1 ratio, and also offers full 10bit video processing over this model’s 8 bit system. The more expensive model should display finer gradients of shading making for more detail in darker scenes. The video processing difference should ensure smoother motion in fast moving scenes for the LNT4065F.

The Samsung Digital Natural Image engine (DNIe) Video Enhancer refines all analog NTSC and wideband video inputs for an overall improvement in picture quality. DNIe improves contrast, white level, picture detail and incorporates digital noise reduction to improve lower quality video inputs. The 3D Y/C digital comb filter constantly analyzes the three dimensions of picture height, picture width, and picture changes-over-time to dramatically reduce edge image artifacts while improving transition detail.

High-quality virtual surround sound can be experienced with just the speakers built into the TV. SRS TruSurround XT technology delivers an amazing, simulated 3D effect with clear dialog and powerful bass through hidden side speakers. TruSurround XT audio adds three audio enhancement technologies to produce an amazingly immersive sound experience.

Check prices on Samsung LNT4661F 46″ 1080p LCD HDTV

Samsung LNT4661F 46″ 1080p LCD HDTV Main Specifications

Resolution: 1920*1080

Contrast Ratio: 10,000:1

ATSC & NTSC Tuner

8ms response time

HDMI (version 1.3): 3 (1 CEC cabaple)

Component video: 2 (Y, Pb, Pr)

S-Video input: 1 side/1 rear

A/V inputs: 1 side/1 rear

PC inout: 1

Headphone Jack: 1

USB 2.0: 1

Check prices on Samsung LNT4661F 46″ 1080p LCD HDTV

BRAVIA S-Series LCD televisions use Sony’s BRAVIA Engine full digital video processor for crisp and clear images. Several special picture enhancement technologies are integrated into the processor to create better gradations with more detail, enhance contrast, and dynamically improve color performance. > Digital Noise Reduction Circuits: Reduces block noise and mosquito noise by using pixel-level filtering to reproduce a clean and clear picture. And Motion Vector Noise Reduction reduces just the noise in the video signal for video further reducing unwanted noise and blur artifacts. Digital Contrast Enhancer circuit: Improves contrast by enhancing all areas from dark to bright in parallel with texture control providing a three dimensional picture. Color Reality signal processing enables the expression of all the colors of life in vivid detail for dark and bright scenes. Details in dark areas of the picture are there, just like they are supposed to be.

Check prices on Sony Bravia KDL-46S3000 46″ 720p LCD HDTV

Sony Bravia KDL-46S3000 46″ 720p LCD HDTV Main Specifications

HDTV with ATSC Digital Tuner

BRAVIA Engine¿ full digital video processor

16:9 HD Resolution Panel (1366×768)

Live Color Creation featuring WCG-CCFL backlight

1080p Inputs - HDMI (x2), Component (x2), PC Input (x1)

Sony Bravia KDL-46S3000 46″ 720p LCD HDTV Press Release

The HD 1080p (progressive) V-series models include 46- and 40-inch screen sizes, while 720p models include the S-series 26-, 40-, 46-inch models (all measured diagonally) and 32-inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally). Also new is the 32-inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally) KDL-32XBR4 set.

All of the new models feature the Technical Emmy(R) award-winning Xross Media Bar (XMB)(TM) user interface for enhanced navigation.

Previously, Sony announced the first of its kind BRAVIA Internet Video Link module that allows for direct television access to Internet video content, including high-definition programming, from providers like AOL, Yahoo! and Grouper, as well as Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony BMG Music.

The module mounts on the back of the compatible Sony televisions announced today, and connects to the Internet via an existing broadband Ethernet connection without the use of a computer. It provides access to such content as Internet video programs, music videos, movie trailers, user generated videos and RSS feeds - all without any additional charges.

“The new BRAVIA models will soon expand the world of home entertainment with the touch of a button,” said Randy Waynick, senior vice president of the Home Products Division at Sony Electronics. “We are going to be opening a whole new avenue of programming to American consumers, which has been by and large constrained to the PC.”

At the center of the user experience is Sony’s XMB menu system. First featured in the PlayStation Portable and PlayStation 3 video game consoles, the XMB is an icon-based, on-screen menu system that helps easily navigate through program selections, regardless of whether the content is coming over the air, from cable provider, through a satellite service or via the Internet.

Waynick said the XMB is integral to the BRAVIA Internet Video Link feature, allowing easy navigation and playback functionality.

BRAVIA S-Series

Sony’s BRAVIA S-Series LCD HDTVs, including the KDL-26S3000, KDL-32S3000, KDL-40S3000 and KDL-46S3000, offer 1366 x 768 progressive screen resolution. Features include the BRAVIA Engine full digital processing system and BRAVIA Theatre Sync on all models. The KDL-32S3000, KDL-40S3000 and KDL-46S3000 sets add Live Color Creation with WCG-CCFL backlight, while the KDL-40S300 and KDL- 46S30000 models also feature Sony’s new 10-bit panel.

Check prices on Sony Bravia KDL-46S3000 46″ 720p LCD HDTV

Say Bravo to Sony Bravia XBR(R) with the 52 inch 1080p LCD KDL-52XBR4 - the ultimate in HDTV performance of the Sony TV series. Over the years XBR(R) has stood for the best home TV’s Sony has to offer and this is no exception. The XBR(R) line of Full HD 1080p televisions incorporate all of Sony’s latest technologies (including HDMI v1.3 features such as x.v.Color and Deep Color). Additional features like Motionflow 120Hz enable smoother motion when viewing movies or fast-action sports. BRAVIA Engine PRO with Digital Reality Creation(TM) upconverts all interlaced and progressive video signals including HD signals directly to 1080p for amazing detail and sharpness. And it’s only fitting that your XBR(R) make a statement not only through breathtaking picture quality, but by taking your breath away with optional color bezels. Now your LCD TV can reflect your own personal style. 24p True Cinema (24p Input Capability) - for true movie play, especially when used with optional BluRay HD drive Digital Media Extender (DMex) ready offers a digital connection path for the addition of the optional modules like the new BRAVIA Internet Video Link Sony’s award-winning Xross Media Bar(TM) (pronounced Cross) provides a logical and fast way to access set up menus, user controls, and more Dolby Digital Surround compatible outputs for ATSC and QAM tuning 2 Integrated speakers for stereo or 3D surround.

Also available from the Bravia XBR4 line is the Sony 46″ 1080p LCD HDTV - KDL-52XBR4.

Check prices for Sony Bravia 52″ 1080p LCD HDTV - KDL-52XBR4

Sony Bravia KDL-52XBR4 - Main Specifications

52″ widescreen HDTV (16:9 aspect ratio)

1920 x 1080 pixels

10-bit Processing and 10-bit Display

Motionflow™ 120 Hz with Full HD high frame rate capability

24p True Cinema (24p Input Capability)

Video Connections: HDMI Connections, 2 Component, 1 S-Video, 3 Composite, 1 D-Sub 15

Audio Connections: 5 Analog Audio Inputs, 1 Digital Audio Output, 1 Headphone Output

Supported Scan Lines: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p

Sony Bravia KDL-XBR4 - Reviews

HD Guru has a review of the Sony Bravia KDL-46XBR4 and writes, “Bottom line, this Sony, properly adjusted, produced the best LCD flat panel HD image the HD Guru™ has seen to date. A number of factors are responsible. This panel creates some of the deepest blacks and the best contrast ratio seen on an LCD display. The Samsung/Sony SPVA LCD panel it uses, is, in the HD Guru™’s opinion, is the best LCD panel in the industry. Within the LCD category, the HD Guru™ awards the KDL-46XBR4 ♥♥♥♥.”

Sony Bravia KDL-52XBR4 - Press Release

Models Compatible with BRAVIA Internet Video Link and Feature XMB Menu System

NEW YORK, June 6, 2007 – Sony today introduced nine new BRAVIA® flat-panel LCD high-definition televisions with advanced features.

The new models all feature 1920 x 1080 full high-definition resolution, 10-bit panels and, in select models, Motionflow 120Hz high frame rate technology, as well as x.v.Color™ capability. Encompassing the XBR5, XBR4 and W series, they come in screen sizes of 52, 46 and 40 inches (measured diagonally). Including the previously announced S series and V series flat-panel LCD models, the complete line of 17 models range in size from 70 to 26 inches (measured diagonally.)

“Our BRAVIA flat-panel LCD HDTVs have the leading market share because they deliver an outstanding level of picture quality and style that people appreciate,” said Randy Waynick, senior vice president of Sony’s Home Products Division. “The new line elevates our commitment to full HD1080p televisions displays, while offering many more choices.”

All of the new models in the line feature Sony’s Digital Media Extender (DMeX), offering a digital connection for the BRAVIA Internet Video Link module (sold separately), which allows users to view select Internet video, including high-definition content, from the comfort of their living room from providers like AOL, Yahoo! and Grouper, as well as Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony BMG Music.

The module mounts on the back of a compatible Sony television and connects directly to the Internet via an existing broadband Ethernet connection (3 Mbps or higher) without the use of a personal computer. The feature will give users access to select Internet video, music videos, movie trailers, user generated videos and RSS feeds without additional charges.

Sony’s Emmy® Award-winning Xross Media Bar™ (XMB) interface provides seamless access to various Internet video channels, as well as traditional broadcast, cable and satellite offerings, in addition to any user-generated content. The XMB incorporates an advanced but simple to use HD graphic user interface to maneuver through the menu systems easily and quickly.

Also simplifying operation is Sony’s BRAVIA Theatre Sync™ feature with its one-button command, which integrates the operation of the television with supporting external components connected via an HDMI™ input (based on industry standard HDMI-CEC). Through a simple one-button click of the remote, users can easily enjoy viewing a Blu-ray Disc™ movie, listening to surround sound audio via an AV receiver, and controlling other components, all over just one single cable connection avoiding the hassle of powering on individual components, changing AV receiver audio input, switching TV video inputs, etc. (HDMI cable sold separately.)

Developed in consultation with the Sony Pictures Entertainment movie studio, the new BRAVIA HDTVs feature Theater Mode that adjusts the TV to display movies, better preserving the mood and detail that the filmmaker intended. When the Theater button on the television’s remote control is selected, the TV automatically adjusts settings to one that has been specifically optimized for BRAVIA LCD and SXRD display technology. Sony’s Theater Mode is the result of consultation with the people who bring Blu-ray disc and DVD for home viewing to reproduce an exceptional cinematic experience of the movie theater in your living room..

BRAVIA TVs are not just optimized for movies, however. Increasingly, people want to view photos from their compatible digital cameras on their large-screen HDTV sets, expanding beyond just viewing them on computer monitors. The new Photo TV HD mode brings the look of actual printed photography to the set reproducing high quality digital photos by fine-tuning parameters, including sharpness, gradation and color.

XBR4 and XBR5 Series

Sony’s new 52-inch KDL-52XBR4, 46-inch KDL-46XBR4 and 40-inch KDL-40XBR4 feature an elegant floating glass frame design with the ability to swap the standard black bezel out for any of eight other optional colors including Scarlet Red, Pacific Blue, Arctic White, Sienna Brown, Titanium Silver, Midnight Black and new for 2007, Rose Metallic and Champaign Gold. The 52- inch KDL-52XBR5, 46-inch KDL-46XBR5 and 40-inch KDL-40XBR5 televisions also feature the floating glass design with an elegant piano black-finished bezel (non interchangeable.)

Both XBR model lines offer Sony’s Motionflow 120Hz high frame rate. The Motionflow technology creates 60 unique frames between each of the existing 60 frames, doubling the frames displayed per second in real-time, further improving images for fast action sports and other programming. Motionflow 120Hz high frame rate effectively eliminates motion artifacts (“judder”) while watching content filmed at 24 frames-per-second. This means with all of your existing DVDs or broadcast movies and prime-time TV series, you can enjoy all the detail even with moving objects.

The XBR models also add BRAVIA Engine Pro circuitry with Digital Reality Creation-MultiFunction v2.5 which upconverts non-1080p signals, including 720p and 1080i.

The KDL-52XBR4, KDL-46XBR4 and KDL40-XBR4 models will be available in August for about $4,800, $3,800 and $3,000, respectively. Also shipping in August, the KDL-46XBR5 and KDL-40XBR5 will be about $4,100 and $3,300. The KDL-52XBR5 model will come out in September for about $5,100. Sony’s KDL-46W3000 and KDL-40W300 models will debut in July for about $3,500 and $2,700, respectively, while the KDL-52W3000 will be available in August for about $4,300.

All models will be offered direct at sonystyle.com and at Sony Style stores nationwide, as well military base exchanges and authorized Sony retailers throughout the country.

Check prices for Sony Bravia 52″ 1080p LCD HDTV - KDL-52XBR4

Whole-home HD Video Connectivity Net Now Unwired and Uncompressed;
WHDI HDTVs To Be Demonstrated at the IFA Consumer Electronics Show

Santa Clara, Calif. - August 28, 2007 - AMIMON Inc., an emerging leader in semiconductor technology for wireless transmission of high-definition (HD) video, has today announced the availability of its Wireless High-definition Interface (WHDI™) chipset. The WHDI chipset (AMN2110 and AMN2210) enables CE display and device manufacturers to develop home entertainment products that connect wirelessly.

The WHDI chipset can be embedded into CE devices such as LCD and plasma HDTVs, multimedia projectors, A/V receivers, DVD players (HD-DVD and Blu-ray), set-top boxes (STBs), game consoles, PCs and HD video accessories (wireless for HDMI dongles), allowing wireless streaming of uncompressed HD video and audio.

“With WHDI chipsets in hand, CE manufacturers will now be able to offer consumers wireless HDTVs and other HD wireless video devices based on the WHDI standard,” said Noam Geri, vice president of marketing and business development at AMIMON.

“Consumers should see initial WHDI-based products at the end of this year, with a wide variety of WHDI-based CE products available in 2008.”

AMIMON’s WHDI makes it possible for a wireless whole-home HD video connectivity net that allows the devices to share HD content throughout the entire home, up to 30 meters (100 feet) through walls, while maintaining superb, wire-equivalent quality and robustness with no latency. WHDI is the only uncompressed wireless technology with the capability of covering the entire home.

“Home entertainment enthusiasts are asking for wireless HDTVs that can be hung on the wall without having to run cumbersome and unaesthetic audio/video wires,” said Roland Bohl, Loewe’s director of R&D. “AMIMON’s WHDI technology enables us to meet this demand while maintaining the high quality of HDTVs.”

CE manufacturers Loewe and Funai will be demonstrating wireless HDTVs based on AMIMON’s WHDI technology at the IFA Consumer Electronics tradeshow in Berlin, August 31 - September 5, 2007.

AMIMON’s WHDI technology is based on a unique video modem approach. WHDI supports delivery of uncompressed 1080p (with equivalent video rates of up to 3 Gbps) in a 40MHz channel in the 5GHz unlicensed band, in compliance with FCC regulations. Uncompressed 720p, 1080i and 1080p 24/30p (with equivalent video rates of up to 1.5 Gbps) can be delivered in a 20MHz channel, conforming to worldwide 5GHz regulations. Range is beyond 100 feet through walls (entire home), and latency is less than 1 millisecond.

More than just a wire replacement, AMIMON’s WHDI enables a connectivity matrix of multipoint-to-multipoint connections, allowing consumers to eliminate all the A/V wires and cables in the entire home.

AMIMON’s WHDI chipsets and reference designs are available now. Companies, engineers and developers interested in additional information on WHDI chipsets should contact AMIMON at info@amimon.com.

For further technical details of AMIMON’s WDHI technology, please visit: www.amimon.com/technology.shtml.

About AMIMON
AMIMON is a fabless semiconductor company pioneering wireless uncompressed high-definition video for universal connectivity among CE video devices. AMIMON’s uncompressed Wireless High-definition Interface (WHDI™) allows flat-panel televisions and multimedia projectors to wirelessly interface to all HDTV video sources at a quality equivalent to that achieved with wired interfaces such as component video, DVI and HDMI™.

The company is headquartered in Herzlia, Israel, with offices in Santa Clara, Calif., USA, and Tokyo, Japan. More information is available at www.AMIMON.com.

WHDI is a trademark of AMIMON, Ltd. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are those of their respective holders.

Over the years XBR has stood for the best consumer TV’s Sony has to offer and this year’s line up, including the Sony Bravia 46 inch 1080p LCD KDL-46XBR4, is no exception. The XBR line of Full HD 1080p televisions incorporate all of Sony’s latest technologies (including HDMI v1.3 features such as x.v.Color and Deep Color). Additional features like Motionflow™ 120Hz enable smoother motion when viewing movies or fast-action sports. BRAVIA Engine PRO with Digital Reality Creation upconverts all interlaced and progressive video signals including HD signals directly to 1080p for amazing detail and sharpness. And it’s only fitting that your XBR make a statement not only through breathtaking picture quality, but by taking your breath away with optional color bezels. Now your LCD TV can be as distinct as your own personal style.

Also available from the XBR4 line is the Sony Bravia KDL-52XBR4 52″ 1080p LCD HDTV.

Check prices for the Sony Bravia 46″ 1080p LCD HDTV - KDL-46XBR4

Sony Bravia KDL-46XBR4 - Main Specifications

46″ widescreen HDTV (16:9 aspect ratio)

1920 x 1080 pixels

10-bit Processing and 10-bit Display

Motionflow™ 120 Hz with Full HD high frame rate capability

24p True Cinema (24p Input Capability)

Video Connections: HDMI Connections, 2 Component, 1 S-Video, 3 Composite, 1 D-Sub 15

Audio Connections: 5 Analog Audio Inputs, 1 Digital Audio Output, 1 Headphone Output

Supported Scan Lines: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p

Sony Bravia KDL-46XBR4 - Reviews

HD Guru has a review of the Sony Bravia KDL-46XBR4 and writes, “Bottom line, this Sony, properly adjusted, produced the best LCD flat panel HD image the HD Guru™ has seen to date. A number of factors are responsible. This panel creates some of the deepest blacks and the best contrast ratio seen on an LCD display. The Samsung/Sony SPVA LCD panel it uses, is, in the HD Guru™’s opinion, is the best LCD panel in the industry. Within the LCD category, the HD Guru™ awards the KDL-46XBR4 ♥♥♥♥.”

Tech Kills has a review of the Sony Bravia KDL-46XBR4 and writes, “The Sony KDL-46XBR4 can be considered the best performing flat panel LCD because of its fantastic picture quality. This magnificent picture quality is due to the deep black levels, accurate colour and strong video processing. However there is a small room for improvement where its standard – def performance is concerned.”

ZDNet has a review of the Sony Bravia KDL-46XBR4 and writes, “Although not quite as impressive as the best plasmas, the 46-inch Sony KDL-46XBR4 outperforms any flat-panel LCD we’ve tested so far.”

Sony Bravia KDL-46XBR4 - Press Release

SONY ADDS NINE MODELS TO BRAVIA® FLAT-PANEL LCD LINE

Models Compatible with BRAVIA Internet Video Link and Feature XMB Menu System

NEW YORK, June 6, 2007 – Sony today introduced nine new BRAVIA® flat-panel LCD high-definition televisions with advanced features.

The new models all feature 1920 x 1080 full high-definition resolution, 10-bit panels and, in select models, Motionflow 120Hz high frame rate technology, as well as x.v.Color™ capability. Encompassing the XBR5, XBR4 and W series, they come in screen sizes of 52, 46 and 40 inches (measured diagonally). Including the previously announced S series and V series flat-panel LCD models, the complete line of 17 models range in size from 70 to 26 inches (measured diagonally.)

“Our BRAVIA flat-panel LCD HDTVs have the leading market share because they deliver an outstanding level of picture quality and style that people appreciate,” said Randy Waynick, senior vice president of Sony’s Home Products Division. “The new line elevates our commitment to full HD1080p televisions displays, while offering many more choices.”

All of the new models in the line feature Sony’s Digital Media Extender (DMeX), offering a digital connection for the BRAVIA Internet Video Link module (sold separately), which allows users to view select Internet video, including high-definition content, from the comfort of their living room from providers like AOL, Yahoo! and Grouper, as well as Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony BMG Music.

The module mounts on the back of a compatible Sony television and connects directly to the Internet via an existing broadband Ethernet connection (3 Mbps or higher) without the use of a personal computer. The feature will give users access to select Internet video, music videos, movie trailers, user generated videos and RSS feeds without additional charges.

Sony’s Emmy® Award-winning Xross Media Bar™ (XMB) interface provides seamless access to various Internet video channels, as well as traditional broadcast, cable and satellite offerings, in addition to any user-generated content. The XMB incorporates an advanced but simple to use HD graphic user interface to maneuver through the menu systems easily and quickly.

Also simplifying operation is Sony’s BRAVIA Theatre Sync™ feature with its one-button command, which integrates the operation of the television with supporting external components connected via an HDMI™ input (based on industry standard HDMI-CEC). Through a simple one-button click of the remote, users can easily enjoy viewing a Blu-ray Disc™ movie, listening to surround sound audio via an AV receiver, and controlling other components, all over just one single cable connection avoiding the hassle of powering on individual components, changing AV receiver audio input, switching TV video inputs, etc. (HDMI cable sold separately.)

Developed in consultation with the Sony Pictures Entertainment movie studio, the new BRAVIA HDTVs feature Theater Mode that adjusts the TV to display movies, better preserving the mood and detail that the filmmaker intended. When the Theater button on the television’s remote control is selected, the TV automatically adjusts settings to one that has been specifically optimized for BRAVIA LCD and SXRD display technology. Sony’s Theater Mode is the result of consultation with the people who bring Blu-ray disc and DVD for home viewing to reproduce an exceptional cinematic experience of the movie theater in your living room..

BRAVIA TVs are not just optimized for movies, however. Increasingly, people want to view photos from their compatible digital cameras on their large-screen HDTV sets, expanding beyond just viewing them on computer monitors. The new Photo TV HD mode brings the look of actual printed photography to the set reproducing high quality digital photos by fine-tuning parameters, including sharpness, gradation and color.

XBR4 and XBR5 Series

Sony’s new 52-inch KDL-52XBR4, 46-inch KDL-46XBR4 and 40-inch KDL-40XBR4 feature an elegant floating glass frame design with the ability to swap the standard black bezel out for any of eight other optional colors including Scarlet Red, Pacific Blue, Arctic White, Sienna Brown, Titanium Silver, Midnight Black and new for 2007, Rose Metallic and Champaign Gold. The 52- inch KDL-52XBR5, 46-inch KDL-46XBR5 and 40-inch KDL-40XBR5 televisions also feature the floating glass design with an elegant piano black-finished bezel (non interchangeable.)

Both XBR model lines offer Sony’s Motionflow 120Hz high frame rate. The Motionflow technology creates 60 unique frames between each of the existing 60 frames, doubling the frames displayed per second in real-time, further improving images for fast action sports and other programming. Motionflow 120Hz high frame rate effectively eliminates motion artifacts (“judder”) while watching content filmed at 24 frames-per-second. This means with all of your existing DVDs or broadcast movies and prime-time TV series, you can enjoy all the detail even with moving objects.

The XBR models also add BRAVIA Engine Pro circuitry with Digital Reality Creation-MultiFunction v2.5 which upconverts non-1080p signals, including 720p and 1080i.

The KDL-52XBR4, KDL-46XBR4 and KDL40-XBR4 models will be available in August for about $4,800, $3,800 and $3,000, respectively. Also shipping in August, the KDL-46XBR5 and KDL-40XBR5 will be about $4,100 and $3,300. The KDL-52XBR5 model will come out in September for about $5,100. Sony’s KDL-46W3000 and KDL-40W300 models will debut in July for about $3,500 and $2,700, respectively, while the KDL-52W3000 will be available in August for about $4,300.

All models will be offered direct at sonystyle.com and at Sony Style stores nationwide, as well military base exchanges and authorized Sony retailers throughout the country.

Check prices for the Sony Bravia 46″ 1080p LCD HDTV - KDL-46XBR4

Exclusive Program To Begin with Release of “Blades of Glory,” Followed by “Transformers” and “Shrek the Third,” Films Representing

More Than $1.5 Billion in Combined Worldwide Box Office

Los Angeles, CA, August 20, 2007 - Paramount Pictures, a unit of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B) and DreamWorks Animation SKG (NYSE:DWA), each announced today that they will exclusively support the next-generation HD DVD format on a worldwide basis. The exclusive HD DVD commitment will include all movies distributed by Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Nickelodeon Movies and MTV Films, as well as movies from DreamWorks Animation, which are distributed exclusively by Paramount Home Entertainment.

The companies each said that the decision to distribute exclusively in the HD DVD format resulted from an extensive evaluation of current market offerings, which confirmed the clear benefits of HD DVD, particularly its market-ready technology and lower manufacturing costs. Paramount Home Entertainment will launch its exclusive HD DVD program with the release of the blockbuster comedy hit “Blades of Glory” on August 28th and follow with two of the biggest grossing movies of the year “Transformers” and “Shrek the Third”. These three titles alone represent more than $1.5 billion in box office ticket sales worldwide.

“The combination of Paramount and DreamWorks Animation brings a critical mass of current box office hits to consumers with a line-up of live action and animated films that are perfect for HD DVD,” stated Brad Grey, Chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures, which is currently the leading studio in domestic box office. “Part of our vision is to aggressively extend our movies beyond the theater, and deliver the quality and features that appeal to our audience. I believe HD DVD is not only the affordable high quality choice for consumers, but also the smart choice for Paramount.”

“We decided to release “Shrek the Third” and other DreamWorks Animation titles exclusively on HD DVD because we believe it is the best format to bring high quality home entertainment to a key segment of our audience - families,” stated DreamWorks Animation CEO, Jeffrey Katzenberg. “We believe the combination of this year’s low- priced HD DVD players and the commitment to release a significant number of hit titles in the fall makes HD DVD the best way to view movies at home.”

With the rapid increase of HD TV screens in households, and audiences wanting to enjoy the total entertainment experience, HD DVD has emerged as the most affordable way for consumers to watch their movies in high definition. In addition to pristine quality, HD DVD also offers consumers the chance to personalize the movie-watching experience, to interact with their movies and even to connect with a community of other fans.

Paramount Home Entertainment will issue new releases day and date as well as catalog titles exclusively on HD DVD. Today’s announcement does not include films directed by Steven Spielberg as his films are not exclusive to either format.

About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. The company’s labels include Paramount Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, MTV Films, Nickelodeon Movies and DreamWorks Studios. PPC operations also include Paramount Digital Entertainment, Paramount Home Entertainment, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., Paramount Studios and Worldwide Television Distribution.

About DreamWorks Animation SKG
DreamWorks Animation is principally devoted to developing and producing computer generated, or CG, animated feature films. With world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced CG filmmaking technology and techniques, DreamWorks Animation makes high quality CG animated films meant for a broad movie-going audience. The Company has theatrically released a total of fourteen animated feature films, including Antz, Shrek, Shrek 2, Shark Tale, Madagascar, Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, Over the Hedge, Flushed Away, and Shrek the Third. DreamWorks Animation’s newest release, Bee Movie, opens in theaters November 2, 2007.

Your favorite TV shows will never look better than they do on the Samsung FP-T5084 50″ 1080p Plasma HDTV. This 50″ Widescreen Plasma HDTV features full HD 1080p resolution and the innovative Ultra FilterBright anti-glare filter. You’ll get impressive color and sharpness, with its 18-bit color processing and amazing 15,000:1 contrast ratio. Built-in bottom speakers with SRS TruSurround XT system and 10-watt per channel audio amplifier hits you with full, powerful sound. The anti-burn technology prevents burned-in images from ruining your view. Comes with 2 rear & 1 side HDMI connections. ATSC/NTSC tuner with Clear QAM 10-watt surround sound speakers SRS TruSurround XT Surround Sound Connections - Component in (2), S-Video in (2), RGB 15-pin connector Powerful technology keeps your screen free of burned-in images Headphone jack 2 HDMI inputs USB connection Theater Game mode Consumer Electronic Control (HDMI-CEC) compliant Includes swivel stand Energy Star compliant Dimensions(HxWxD) - 36-1/10 x 50-4/5 x 12-3/5 Weight - 106.9 lbs.

Check prices on Samsung FPT5084 50″ 1080p Plasma HDTV

NAME Main Specifications

Resolution: 1920 x 1080

Contrast Ratio: 15,000:1

Brightness: 1,300cd/m2

Connectivity: 3 HDMI, 2 Component, 2 Composite, 2 S-Video, 1PC RGB, 1 USB

Samsung FPT5084 50″ 1080p Plasma HDTV Reviews

HDTV News has a review of the Samsung FPT5084 50″ 1080p Plasma HDTV and writes, “Whether you’re watching the big game, your favorite show or a nail-biting movie, you’ll enjoy home entertainment like you never have before. That’s because the FPT5084 delivers the clearest expression of natural light possible thanks to a 15,000:1 contrast ratio. That’s nearly twice as high as the average set. A high contrast ratio gives you more steps from black to white for a picture that has a better expression of detail.”

Samsung FPT5084 50″ 1080p Plasma HDTV Press Release

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Do away with bulky surround sound speaker systems while still bringing your movies and music to life with the Yamaha YSP-800 digital sound projector. Housed in a single bar-shaped body but equipped with 23 speaker drivers–each with its own digital amplifier–the YSP-800 delivers full-bodied, multichannel sound through a single elegant component. The device works by focusing the sound into “beams,” and then projecting them at optical angles into the room via the analytical IntelliBeam function. At the same time, the YSP-800 controls the driver delay times and optimizes the level and frequency response of each beam. The resulting sound waves–both direct and reflected–create a soundscape that seems to be coming from speakers placed throughout the room, but in reality is playing through the digital sound projector.

The YSP-800 isn’t just about sound, though. Its slim, contemporary design is also wildly convenient, as listeners no longer have to find complementary locations for five satellite speakers and a subwoofer, nor do they have to fuss with extra-long speaker cables running all through the house. Rather, listeners can place the YSP-800 next to or on top of their video display, or they can purchase an optional wall-mount bracket and hang it securely on the wall. The latter option is particularly handy for owners of moderate-sized flat-panel TVs and monitors, as it both saves space and visually complements the display. The projector is even versatile enough to work in corners or other unusual room configurations.

The projector’s versatility extends to its variety of sound modes, which include a five-beam mode, a three-beam mode, a stereo mode, a stereo + three-beam mode, and a target mode. Each mode produces a unique effect that varies depending on the shape of the room, the orientation of the projector, and other factors. Meanwhile, a subtle blue LCD on the projector’s base keeps listeners informed of the current surround setting and volume level.

Listeners will also dig the YSP-800’s built-in 82-watt digital amplifier, which connects directly to A/V components. The amp offers a host of valuable features, including Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic II, and DTS Neo:6 decoding and a trio of Cinema Digital Sound Processing (DSP) programs (Movie, Music, and Sports). Connectivity stems from the three digital audio inputs (one coaxial and two optical) and two analog audio RCA inputs. The device also offers a subwoofer output terminal for listeners who want to enjoy a more robust bass performance.

The YSP-800, which is outfitted with twenty-one 1.62-inch tweeter/midrange drivers and a pair of 3.94-inch woofers, measures 31.5 by 6 by 4.5 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a two-year warranty.

Yamaha YSP-800 82-Watt Digital Sound Projector - Main Specifications

Digital sound projector with built-in 82-watt digital amplifier for producing full-bodied multichannel sound

Projects sound beams from 23 integrated speaker drivers at optically diverse angles to create surround sound effect

Digital amp offers Dolby Digital, DTS, Pro Logic II, and DTS Neo:6 decoding and 3 Cinema DSP programs

Product Dimensions: 31.5 by 6 by 4.5 inches (W x H x D)

BRAVIA V-Series televisions are where Full HD 1080 starts. Two sizes, 46″ and 40″ diagonally, define what Full HD 1080 (1920 x 1080) televisions are all about. Performance functions like Live Color Creation (featuring the WCG-CCFL backlight) and the 10-bit panel display assure picture quality and performance. The BRAVIA Engine EX full digital video processing system includes DRC-MF v1.0 technology, which upconverts 480i video signals to a 1080p equivalent. DMeX ¿ ready allows connection to the new DMeX (Digital Module Expander) called the BRAVIA Internet Video Link module. And BRAVIA V-Series TVs are big on ease of operation. BRAVIA¿ Theatre Sync offers one-button command for time consuming control functions and signal path routing. And we didn’t forget about connectivity. How about two 1080/24p and 1080/60p input capable HDMI connections, two HD Component YPbPr inputs, and a PC input, just to name a few. Add a sparkling new black picture frame design, quiet operation, and you have BRAVIA V-Series HD LCD TVs.

Check prices on Sony 40″ Bravia 1080p LCD HDTV - KDL-40V3000

Sony 40″ Bravia 1080p LCD HDTV - KDL-40V3000 Main Specifications

10-bit 16:9 Full HD 1080p Panel (1920×1080)

Supported DTV Resolutions: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p

BRAVIA ENGINE Full Digital Video Processor

Live Color Creation (WCG-CCFL) backlight

1080/24p and 1080/60p input capable HDMI x2

Sony 40″ Bravia 1080p LCD HDTV - KDL-40V3000 Press Release

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 27 /PRNewswire/ — Sony today took the wraps off seven BRAVIA(TM) high-definition televisions that will be compatible with the company’s recently announced BRAVIA(TM) Internet Video Link module.

The HD 1080p (progressive) V-series models include 46- and 40-inch screen sizes, while 720p models include the S-series 26-, 40-, 46-inch models (all measured diagonally) and 32-inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally). Also new is the 32-inch class (31.5 inches measured diagonally) KDL-32XBR4 set.

All of the new models feature the Technical Emmy(R) award-winning Xross Media Bar (XMB)(TM) user interface for enhanced navigation.

Previously, Sony announced the first of its kind BRAVIA Internet Video Link module that allows for direct television access to Internet video content, including high-definition programming, from providers like AOL, Yahoo! and Grouper, as well as Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony BMG Music.

The module mounts on the back of the compatible Sony televisions announced today, and connects to the Internet via an existing broadband Ethernet connection without the use of a computer. It provides access to such content as Internet video programs, music videos, movie trailers, user generated videos and RSS feeds - all without any additional charges.

“The new BRAVIA models will soon expand the world of home entertainment with the touch of a button,” said Randy Waynick, senior vice president of the Home Products Division at Sony Electronics. “We are going to be opening a whole new avenue of programming to American consumers, which has been by and large constrained to the PC.”

At the center of the user experience is Sony’s XMB menu system. First featured in the PlayStation Portable and PlayStation 3 video game consoles, the XMB is an icon-based, on-screen menu system that helps easily navigate through program selections, regardless of whether the content is coming over the air, from cable provider, through a satellite service or via the Internet.

Waynick said the XMB is integral to the BRAVIA Internet Video Link feature, allowing easy navigation and playback functionality.

BRAVIA V-Series

The full HD 1920 x 1080 progressive KDL-46V3000 and KDL-40V3000 BRAVIA LCDs deliver picture quality performance with advanced technologies, including Live Color Creation with WCG-CCFL backlight and a 10-bit panel display that increases the television’s gradation level by 64 times from 8-bit panels.

Both models also deliver advanced picture processing with the BRAVIA Engine(TM) EX full digital video processing system with its Digital Reality Creation-Multifunction v1.0 (DRC-MF v1.0) technology, which upconverts 480i video signals to HD-like picture quality.

Additionally, a feature called BRAVIA Theatre Sync offers a one-button command that integrates the operation of the television with external components connected via an HDMI cable. Through a simple one button click of the remote, users can quickly switch such programming sources as viewing Blu- ray Disc(TM) players, AV receivers, cable boxes, satellite receivers and other components.

Both of the V-series models feature 1080p input capability via HDMI, as well as PC and HD component inputs. The high-definition component and HDMI inputs are compatible with both 1080/60p and 1080/24p sources.

Check prices on Sony 40″ Bravia 1080p LCD HDTV - KDL-40V3000