Sony Electronics today introduced eight new DVD-Video systems designed to maximize the home theater experience for any lifestyle and budget, showcasing its broadest range of DVD systems ever. All the new systems feature single- or multi-disc Sony DVD players, Dolby Digital(TM) 5.1 channel surround sound processing, pre-programmed A/V remotes, and six-piece speaker packages. Specifically, these new DVD home theater products include the DVD Dream System(TM), a fully featured lifestyle system combining DVD/CD functionality with a digital multi-channel amplifier and Dolby Digital decoding, a newly designed five-disc DVD/CD SAVA(TM) sound system, two “Home Theater in a Box” packages, three full size A/V rack systems and a mini-system.

Integrating high quality video and audio into one easy-to-use, affordable package, the new Sony DVD Dream System is a new approach to home theater solutions. The DAV-S300 features an all-in-one DVD/CD/Receiver with subwoofer and five satellite speakers that delivers home theater picture and sound in a compact system that’s easy to select, install, use, and afford. Its sleek, compact design is ideal for a den, bedroom or apartment as well as a vacation home or college dorm. The full 5.1 channel system incorporates an advanced digital amplifier that provides 180 watts of total system power. In addition to a combination DVD/CD player, the DAV-S300 features an AM/FM receiver along with both Dolby Digital and dts decoding. User-friendly features such as color-coded speaker connectors simplify installation, while a pre-programmed a/v remote commander with one-touch play button makes system use a snap. Available in April, the DAV-S300 is expected to sell for about $600.

For home audio enthusiasts seeking to combine the benefits of high quality audio with the popular DVD format, Sony introduces a new five-disc DVD/CD SAVA sound system. The SA-VAD900 combines a five-disc DVD/CD changer with built-in high-powered floor standing speakers, bringing a simple, easy-to-use package into the home theater. With 200 watts of total power, the system contains built-in amplifiers and Dolby Digital decoding. The SA-VAD900 integrates a full-size speaker system with a built-in subwoofer. The front, rear and center speakers have a slim profile for maximizing living space. Additionally, the system includes a digital AM/FM tuner, an optical input as well as two video inputs, making it simple to hook up additional components such as a Digital Satellite System, VCR or other source. Available in July, this system is expected to sell for approximately $1,000.

Sony adds DVD functionality to two new “Home Theater in a Box” models delivering high-impact surround sound and the high-quality video of DVD. Each package combines a Sony DVD player, A/V receiver, Dolby Digital and Dolby® Pro Logic® decoding, and a complete set of front, center and surround speakers plus subwoofer. Sony’s new “Home Theater in a Box” packages include the HT-5000D with a five-disc DVD/CD changer and the HT-1200D with a single-disc player. Both DVD models share some of Sony’s exclusive technologies, including the Precision Drive(TM) System, which provides faster, more accurate tracking and playback, Advanced SmoothScan(TM) Picture Search for seamless transitions between video frames. The Custom Parental Control system allows DVD-Video titles to be individually selected and locked. The HT-5000D will be available in August and will sell for approximately $800. Available in May, the HT-1200D is expected to sell for approximately $700.

For enthusiasts looking for performance and flexibility, Sony is introducing a new concept in full size A/V component systems, as well as two new traditional rack systems. The DAV-L8000 was developed with the A/V enthusiast in mind. Housed in a beautiful and sleek rack with metallic posts and tempered glass shelves are A/V components to match. With silver components to complement Sony Wega(TM) TV designs, the DAV-L8000 includes a DVD/CD player, a Dolby Pro Logic® receiver with 5.1 channel inputs and digital tuner, micro satellite speakers and a separate subwoofer. The TV stand is wide enough to accommodate a 36-inch FD Trinitron® Wega TV. Available in June, the DAV-L8000 is expected to sell for approximately $1000.

For consumers considering traditional, high-powered (100 watts x 5) A/V rack systems, Sony is also introducing two models, the R-7000 that features a five-disc DVD/CD changer, receiver with built-in Dolby Digital and Pro Logic decoding, and high-speed dubbing cassette deck housed in a 37-inch vertical rack. Additionally, the system has three-way 12-inch front speakers as well as surround speakers for optimal high-powered audio. Available in June, the R-7000 is expected to sell for approximately $1000.

The R-6000 features a single-disc DVD/CD player, receiver with built-in Dolby Digital and Pro Logic decoding and 5.1 channel inputs for enhanced sound quality. The model includes front, center and surround speakers. Housed in a 35-inch vertical rack, the model will be available in June and is expected to sell for approximately $800.

For younger enthusiasts looking to enhance their entertainment experience, this sleek, new mini-system with built-in five-disc DVD/CD changer adds style to almost any environment. Ideal for bedrooms, college dorm rooms, apartments, or vacation homes, the DHC-ZX70DVD mini-system features 300 watts of total system power and built-in Dolby Digital decoding. The system also
includes satellite speakers for the surround sound experience. Other features include full Logic dual cassette decks, a digital tuner with 20 FM and 10 AM station presets, CD text for compatible discs, and a video input for VCR hook-up. Available in July, this model is expected to sell for approximately $700.