[BrunoB]

Sharp has announced new 1 bit digital amps with
SACD/DVD-A compatibility !!!!




http://www.sharpusa.com/products/FunctionPressReleaseSingle/0,1080,380-13,00.html

SHARP INTRODUCES REVOLUTIONARY FLAT, VERTICAL 1-BIT™ DIGITAL HOME THEATER SYSTEMS

New slim, sleek, wall-mountable design complements Sharp AQUOS™ Liquid Crystal Televisions and provides unmatched sound quality with SACD and DVD-audio compatibility

INDIANAPOLIS, IN, September 5, 2003 -- More and more consumers are integrating stylish flat-panel televisions into the home. To provide users with a surround sound audio solution that matches the design and quality of these TVs, Sharp Electronics is launching the first vertical 1-Bit audio home theater systems that can easily be mounted on a wall or placed on a narrow shelf. Sharp’s patented 1-Bit digital amplification technology is paired with a multi-format progressive scan DVD/SACD/DVD-audio player in these powerful and luxurious new home theater systems:

SD-HX500 – vertical, sleek two-piece design featuring a powerful 100 watt per channel amplifier section and an innovative single-disc loading mechanism
SD-HX600 – integrates sophisticated video switching capabilities into the design of the SD-HX500 by adding an audio/video selector system, which houses the inputs away from the main unit for a clean, clutter-free appearance
SD-PX2 – compact home theater system that combines five 1-Bit amplifiers and a unique front-loading disc mechanism into a single slender package
All models are designed for audio enthusiasts who prefer to choose their own speakers, or already own a high-quality speaker system.

“Consumers are searching for high performance home theater solutions that are as stylish as the latest flat panel displays,” said Mark Knox, Director, Digital Media Devices, Sharp Electronics Corporation. “These new 1-Bit audio systems answer the call with the latest digital amplification technology, combined with exceptional style. Just as the Sharp AQUOS line redefined the world of television, these new systems will revolutionize home theater while creating real consumer excitement and new business opportunities for our retail partners.”

SD-HX600 and SD-HX500
The SD-HX500 and SD-HX600 both have a unique vertical chassis that hides the DVD/CD loading mechanism behind a motorized front panel. When loading a disc, the entire front panel tilts forward automatically as the disc is lifted for easy access. The newly loaded disc moves down into the unit as the front panel closes, concealing the mechanism while protecting the disc from dust.

Both the amplifier and disc units are formed from luxurious anodized aluminum and polished Plexiglas, while strategically placed blue LEDs illuminate the sleek side controls. A smooth silver rotary-volume control on the disc unit rounds out the extraordinary design. The vertical orientation of the amplifier section and disc unit means these products are ideal to be placed on a shelf, or wall mounted with the included brackets. On both models, bottom-mounted speaker terminals are hidden in any installation, featuring sturdy binding posts that easily connect the latest high performance speaker cables.

The SD-HX600 adds a separate A/V selector system that sports a vast array of audio and video connections. Four complete A/V connections are provided, including composite, S-Video and component video inputs, and both analog audio and digital audio via optical TosLink terminals for every set. In addition, a stereo audio input is provided for connection to the TV sound source. A complete set of video monitor outputs is also provided, and the advanced cross conversion system ensures that all inputs are visible on all outputs. Thanks to this innovative feature, users can enjoy composite video from a VCR, S-Video from a satellite receiver, or progressive scan component video from the DVD player without changing connections or selecting inputs on their TV. The cross conversion system also delivers video from component and S-Video sources to the dedicated composite record out for use with a VCR.

The SD-HX600 and SD-HX500 are compatible with the latest multi-channel disc formats including SACD and DVD-Audio. Dolby® Digital and DTS decoders are included along with a full complement of controls that optimize sound balance and bass management. Additional features on both 1-Bit systems include an AM/FM synthesizer tuner, composite, component and S-Video output terminals, digital and analog audio input terminals, and a universal remote control.

The systems use 1-Bit digital amplification to sample audio signals at an ultra-high speed rate of 5.6 MHz, or 128 times faster than a CD. The faster sampling rate ensures that the SD-HX600 and SD-HX500 will produce excellent transient response, providing accurate reproduction of fast, percussive sounds and complex multi-instrumental timbers.

SD-PX2
The new SD-PX2 integrates five 35-watt 1-Bit amplifiers and the SACD/DVD-A compatible disc mechanism into a single slender chassis. The DVD/CD disc mechanism uses a polished door that slides to the right to expose the disc bay, then returns to seal the mechanism against dust. A Plexiglas side panel and blue LED complements the sleek anodized chassis and identifies the burnished side-mounted controls. A large rotary volume control rounds out this unique design.

The SD-PX2 supports several disc types and surround formats. Dolby Digital and DTS surround decoders are included as well as Dolby Pro-Logic II to produce 5.1 channel sound from stereo discs. Both SACD and DVD-Audio decoding is also included, enabling listeners to enjoy the full fidelity of these advanced formats under the most severe space restrictions. Sharp’s patented 2.8 MHz 1-Bit amplifier reproduces signals and complete controls are included to optimize performance in any listening environment.

The SD-PX2 offers a complete array of connections including sturdy spring-loaded speaker terminals, composite, S-Video and progressive scan component video output, as well as digital and analog audio terminals. All connections are located along the bottom pedestal of the unit which can be easily placed on a shelf, bookcase or table. The new system’s superior performance and compact footprint create an ideal sound solution for home theater rooms, bedrooms, and home office spaces.

About 1-Bit Technology
Sharp’s 1-Bit technology is based on an innovative digital amplification system offering high-fidelity playback combined with highly efficient energy use in a compact size. The unique 1-Bit process converts analog signals into digital signals, thus creating a pure digital signal path from the source to the listener. This virtually eliminates the subtle degradations that occur with conventional analog amplifiers.

Pricing and Availability
The SD-HX600, SD-HX500, and SD-PX2 will be available in early 2004 for manufacturer’s suggested retail prices of $1,499.95, $1,199.95, and $599.95 respectively.

[BrunoB]

http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=1084

http://sharp-world.com/corporate/news/030827-1.html

[WerTicus]

its a bit sexy isnt it?

so 600w... mmm thats bearable  but can we put it to 300w x 2?

[JoshK]

f'in cool!  It will be interesting to see if it keeps the SACD and DVD-A in the digital realm (i.e. without any A/D D/A conversions like the Sony).   Definitely sexy.

[_scotty_]

This stuff passes the totally COOL test. I wonder what the street price will wind up being.

[Carlman]

I like it... a lot!  In fact, I am looking for the SD-SH111 at the moment.. I can't find it in stock anywhere.  If anyone knows where I can get a good deal on that one, I'd appreciate it.  I'll be using it as a standalone HT so, I don't really care about the SACD or other new formats..

I like the way all of the Sharp products look, though.  Excellent direction for Sharp.

-C

[Rob Babcock]

Count me in as interested.  If it'll keep DVD-A & SACD digital all the way it could be a real breakthrought product.  I hope that everyone goes that route sooner as opposed to later.

[BrunoB]

I like it... a lot!  In fact, I am looking for the SD-SH111 at the moment.. I can't find it in stock anywhere.  If anyone knows where I can get a good deal on that one, I'd appreciate it.  I'll be using it as a standalone HT so, I don't really care about the SACD or other new formats..

I like the way all of the Sharp products look, though.  Excellent direction for Sharp.

-C

Forget about the SD-SH111. Unless you want to pay the high price or there is one on Ebay. I ordered one at 5 different places. Only one could deliver!

I would not recommend it for HT because it has only 25w per channel and because the video is not very good, at least when compared to my Sony AVD-S50ES.

Otherwise, this Sharp is really a cool little machine for playing CD's.

Bruno

[JLM]

More like "Sharper Image" than "Sharp" eh?    

[Carlman]

Forget about the SD-SH111. Unless you want to pay the high price or there is one on Ebay. I ordered one at 5 different places. Only one could deliver!

I would not recommend it for HT because it has only 25w per channel and because the video is not very good, at least when compared to my Sony AVD-S50ES.

Otherwise, this Sharp is really a cool little machine for playing CD's.

Bruno

Thanks for that tidbit... guess it's back to the Panny or Sony....

[BrunoB]

Count me in as interested.  If it'll keep DVD-A & SACD digital all the way it could be a real breakthrought product.

I hope that it does. Sharp's integrated digital amps (expensive) have a 13 pins input that accept DSD 1 bit signal from a dedicated SACD player.

The SD-HX500 is already available in Japan. Here is a pict of the back of the units:

http://www.sharp.co.jp/products/sdhx500/text/shiyou.html#

At least, I cannot see any RCA inputs on the amplifier, unlike the SD-SG11 (small 25 w stereo unit), that was discussed in another thread in AC.


Unlike the Sony's, Sharp specifications show frequency responses way above 20KHz, which is a good sign for a direct DSD input.


Bruno

[F-100]

[Thanks for that tidbit... guess it's back to the Panny or Sony....

Go with the Panny.
I have the Sony S50ES .. Bought this one on impulse and there is nothing to write home about  

[asdfeproiu]

Do the Sharps play DVD-A, or DVD Audio?  The PX2 seems to be extremely cheap for an all-digital universal player.  I wouldn't get my hopes up.

[OBF]

My SD-SH111 kicked the bucket after about 5 weeks.  It gives a "fan lock" error message and then shuts off, even though there is nothing obstrucing the fan.  Must be a loose connection or bad fan circuit because a knock on the back made it go away for a bit.  I almost had to break the disc tray to remove a rental DVD that I had to return because the thing won't even power up because the fan is "locked".  I haven't bothered to look at the warranty yet and I don't know if the person I bought it from of Ebay was authorized.

[BrunoB]

Here is a review of the SD-HX500 Sharp digital amp:

http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/article.asp?section_id=3&article_id=653

IMO, one of the key comment in this review is:

"Ultimately, I preferred the sound using my regular receiver. It offered more presence and noticeably more guts in the low end. However, on bright recordings, the receiver tended to sound brash and sibilant, while the Sharp seemed butter smooth. "


Unfortunately, the review is not very complete. There is no report on SACD and DVD-A sound.

[BrunoB]

Review by AVguide (August 2004  issue):
 
http://www.avguide.com/AVG_monthly/index.jsp

[8thnerve]

Review by AVguide (August 2004  issue):
 
http://www.avguide.com/AVG_monthly/index.jsp

I'm sorry, but any online magazine that thinks they are going to be able to charge customers to read the reviews is insane.  Especially when 99% of all reviews are available for free.  It's not as though they have reviews that are anything other than the reviewers opinion based on the other stuff he has heard and his musical tastes.  And we should pay for that, pshaaww!  Subscription based services are only effective for premium content.  It's only premium if you can't get it elsewhere for free.

[BrunoB]

Review by AVguide (August 2004  issue):
 
http://www.avguide.com/AVG_monthly/index.jsp

I'm sorry, but any online magazine that thinks they are going to be able to charge customers to read the reviews is insane.  Especially when 99% of all reviews are available for free.  It's not as though they have reviews that are anything other than the reviewers opinion based on the other stuff he has heard and his musical tastes.  And we should pay for that, pshaaww!  Subscriptio ...

Sorry for the inconvenience.
I did not pay for the review. I have a free membership (look at the bottom of the registration page for "I just want a free membership for now" ). I receive a monthly Email that includes a link to the magazine that I can download for free for a month, after that it would cost $6. Once you are registered, I think it is possible to download the review for free from the avguide website.

[BenF]

[Thanks for that tidbit... guess it's back to the Panny or Sony....

Go with the Panny.
I have the Sony S50ES .. Bought this one on impulse and there is nothing to write home about  

Yes. I tried the Sony and didn't like it, so I returned it. I have not heard the more recent Sonys or the receivers, which are probably better.

I have two SD-SG11 and they sound good on good recordings and not so good on less quality recordings. The poor sound from the recording is not smoothed over at all. I appreciate the miniDisc in these units also.

But I have a XR45 stock which is better, in my opinion, if you can feed it with a direct digital signal. The analog is not bad*, but the digital direct is great.

My order of preference: Panasonic XR45, Sharp SD-SG11, Sony

Ben

*It is sensitive to cables. I improved the cables and the difference was very noticable and now close to the digital. I guess I need a comparison with some other units analog vs. digital to say the analog in is not worth it and so significantly inferior as others have heard, but I've never owned any "high end" stuff   so that lets you know my limited experience.

[BrunoB]

I bought a Sharp SD-HX500. I have had it for two weeks.  I love the treble of this amp (cymbals, strings, bells ... ) - it is very very smooth and extended on my home-modified VMPS 626R's (ribbon speakers). It can even  smooth some harsh sounding CD's. Even when playing movies, I enjoy its treble presentation. Unfortunately, I don't have any high end  tube amp or SS amp to compare it to. The treble is WAY better than my Sony AVS-50ES and even better than my Sharp SM-SX1.  I don't undestand why: a slight different frequency response or  may be the 5.6Mhz switching frequency? On the negative side, it does not handle the dynamics of large orchestral works well, at least compared to the 50 w SM-SX1.  The SM-SX1 feels much more powerful and dynamic. The SD-HX500  is rated 100w, but it is more like a 50 w amp (my rule is that 100  mass market watts <= 50 audiophile watts). Unfortunately, the unit I have a strong hiss problem when it is warmed up. I'll have to send it for repair.

Just some preliminary impressions,

Bruno