"Jan 05, 2011 20:30 ET
New Sony Blu-ray Players and Home Theater Systems Deliver Connected Entertainment Experience
Models Offer Advanced Features Including Internet Video Streaming, Wi-Fi, Wireless Multi-room Audio, and Blu-ray 3D Compatibility
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- (CES Booth #14200) -- Sony today introduced its new Blu-ray Disc™ line featuring access to online entertainment, Wi-Fi® Internet connectivity, Blu-ray 3D™ playback, and compatibility with Sony's new HomeShare™ Network speakers for wireless multi-room audio streaming throughout the home.
The full HD 1080p new Blu-ray Disc™ line includes four stand alone models (BDP-S780, BDP-S580, BDP-S480, and BDP-S380) and three integrated home theater systems (BDV-E780W, BDV-E580, and BDV-E280), as well as a 5.1 channel home theater audio system (HT-SS380). All of the models play back DVD, CD and SACD discs in addition to Blu-ray Discs.
The company also introduced its first portable Blu-ray Disc player, BDP-SX1000, which features a 10.1-inch WSVGA screen.
When connected to a broadband Internet network, all models offer access to over 40 free and premium movies, video, and music services through the BRAVIA Internet Video platform including Sony's Video On Demand and Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity™, as well as Netflix™, Pandora®, HuluPlus™, Amazon Video on Demand, YouTube™, Slacker® Internet Radio, Crackle and Blip.tv.
Video On Demand powered by Qriocity is a premium video streaming service with instant access to Hollywood blockbusters, and Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity is a cloud-based, streaming music service which gives music lovers access at anytime to a constantly expanding catalog of over six million global music tracks from major labels.
"Leveraging our strengths in hardware and content, only Sony can bring consumers devices that deliver the very best of entertainment," said Brian Siegel, vice president of Sony Electronics' home audio and video business. "Our new Blu-ray Disc devices not only playback high-quality 1080p 2D and 3D content from Blu-ray, but they offer access to the widest array of online video and audio entertainment from across the Internet."
The line is also compatible with Sony's new HomeShare wireless audio products such as the new SA-NS400 Wi-Fi network speaker allowing users to easily stream audio from the devices through the home wirelessly via Wi-Fi. With Sony's unique PartyStreaming feature, you can share music throughout the home without wires and complicated set up.
Blu-ray Disc Players
Sony's BDP-S780 Blu-ray Disc player is Blu-ray 3D capable and compatible with DVDs, CDs, and SACDs. The model features built in Wi-Fi wireless (802.11n) with Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) as well as an Ethernet jack for easy access to BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE™.
Compatible with Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA®) devices, the model serves as a DLNA client and allows you to wirelessly share digital photos, music, and video media from your PC using your home network. It also includes a front USB input for convenient access to photo, music, and video playback. The model is also compatible with Sony's new HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speakers.
The player also has Skype™ embedded. When connecting a USB TV camera, purchased separately, users can enjoy free widescreen Skype-to-Skype video calls with friends and family from the comfort of their living rooms.
The model also features an Entertainment Database Browser, using Gracenote™ technologies, that allows users to browse details like actor and production information from a Blu-ray disc and access related content found on BRAVIA Internet Video content.
Users with an iPhone®, iPod touch®, or Android™ mobile device can control Sony's entire Blu-ray line-up using a free application that can be downloaded from the app stores. The updated Sony "Media Remote" app allows the mobile device to function as a remote control that includes the ability to access a Blu-ray Disc's details such as jacket artwork, actor, and production information as well as search for additional video clips online. With an Android phone, consumers can also use the app to control their Sony Blu-ray and BRAVIA products with their voice. The app is also compatible with select new BRAVIA HDTVs announced today.
With the press of a button, the BDP-S780 can up convert 2D content to simulate 3D and improves standard definition and web video quality with Sony's IP Content Noise Reduction technology and Precision Cinema HD Upscaling technologies.
It also includes Super Bit Mapping, Smoothing, and Chroma Processing technologies which deliver smoother color gradation when connected via HDMI.
Building on industry leading fast load times, the model features an improved start up and disc loading performance. When the quick start feature is turned on, the start-up time is quicker and disc loading is faster than previous models.
The BDP-S780 will be available in April for about $250.
Also new to Sony's Blu-ray Disc player line is the BDP-S580 Blu-ray Disc player featuring built in Wi-Fi (802.11n) with WPS. Other features found on this model include:
Full HD 1080p playback
Blu-ray 3D, DVD, CD and SACD compatibility
IP Content Noise Reduction
BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE functionality
Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote technology
DLNA Client and photo, music, and video playback
Photo, music, and video playback via front USB
HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speaker compatible
"Media Remote" (iPhone/iPod touch/Android BD Remote Control application)
Quick start and loading
Available in March for about $200
Rounding out the line, other new Blu-ray Disc players include:
BDP-S480 Blu-ray Disc Player
Full HD 1080p playback
Blu-ray 3D, DVD, CD, and SACD playback
Wi-Fi-ready (USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately)
BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE functionality
Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote technology
DLNA Client and photo, music, and video playback
Photo, music, and video playback via front USB
HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speaker compatible
"Media Remote" (iPhone/iPod touch/Android BD Remote Control application)
Quick start and loading
Available in March for about $180
BDP-S380 Blu-ray Disc Player
Full HD 1080p playback
DVD, CD, and SACD playback
Wi-Fi-ready (USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately)
BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE functionality
Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote technology
Photo, music, and video playback via front USB
"Media Remote" (iPhone/iPod touch/Android BD Remote Control application)
Quick start and loading
Available in February for about $150
Blu-ray Disc Home Theater Systems
Sony's new Blu-ray Disc home theater line feature three models that are Blu-ray 3D capable and all offer access to Sony's BRAVIA Internet Video and BD-LIVE™ technology.
The flagship BDV-E780W is a full HD 1080p 5.1 channel 1000 watt Blu-ray Disc home theater system that features built-in Wi-Fi (802.11n), wireless rear speakers, 2-way front speakers that can deliver a wider audio sweet spot ideal for family viewing and an improved subwoofer.
The model also features a universal remote, as well as the "Media Remote" control app available for iPhone/iPod touch and Android devices.
It includes Sony's Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote® technology to access disc cover art, actor, and production information, as well as IP Content Noise Reduction technology and Precision Cinema HD Upscaling to improve standard definition and web video quality.
Serving as a DLNA client, the model is compatible with DLNA devices and includes a front USB input for photo, music, and video playback and is compatible with Sony's new HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speakers.
The model also comes with an iPhone/iPod dock and offers two HDMI inputs and will be available in May for about $600.
Other new Blu-ray Disc home theater systems include:
BDV-E580 Blu-ray Disc Home Theater System
Available in March for about $500
1000 watt, 5.1 channel home theater system
Blu-ray 3D, DVD, CD, and SACD playback
Two HDMI inputs
Integrated Wi-Fi (802.11n) with WPS
BRAVIA Internet Video
Entertainment Database Browser with Gracenote technology
USB and DLNA Client and photo, music, and video playback
HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speaker compatible
"Media Remote" (iPhone/iPod touch/Android BD Remote Control application)
iPhone/iPod touch dock included
Quick start and load
BDV-E280 Blu-ray Disc Home Theater System
Available in April for about $400
1000 watt, 5.1 channel home theater system
Blu-ray 3D, DVD, CD, and SACD playback
Two HDMI inputs
Wi-Fi-ready (USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately)
BRAVIA Internet Video
iPhone/iPod touch dock included
Quick start and load
Portable Blu-ray Disc Player
Sony's new BDP-SX1000 is the company's first portable Blu-ray Disc player. The 10.1-inch wide, WSVGA model plays back both Blu-ray and DVD discs, as well as USB media.
It features 180-degree swivel display, five hour battery life from the built-in, rechargeable battery and offers built-in speakers and a headphone output.
The model will be available this spring for about $300.
Home Theater Audio System
Sony also announced the HT-SS380 5.1 channel home theater audio system with Blu-ray Disc player matching design. The 1000 watt model includes three HDMI inputs and one output featuring an HDMI repeater (3 inputs/1 output), stand-by pass through, 3D pass through, and audio return channel allowing the television to send audio signals back to the unit for playback.
The models ship with an iPhone/iPod dock included for playback of audio, video, and photos.
The HT-SS380 will be available this spring for about $350.
All new Blu-ray Disc players and home theater systems will be available at Sony Style stores, online at
www.sonystyle.com, at military base exchanges, and at authorized retailers nationwide.
Jan 05, 2011 18:45 ET
Panasonic's 2011 Blu-ray™ Line Up Focuses On High-Quality Picture and Sound, Ease-of-Use, Connectivity and Energy Efficiency
New Models Introduce Skype™ Video/Voice Communication Service to Blu-ray Disc™ Players Feature Touch-Free Sensor, iPhone® Remote, Built-In WiFi System and Reduced Power Consumption
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic Corporation of North America, a major developer and contributor to the success of the Blu-ray format, today introduced an expanded Blu-ray Disc™ player lineup with three new Full HD 3D models – the DMP-BDT310, DMP-BDT210, DMP-BDT110 – and a new 2D model, the DMP-BD75.
The BDT310, BDT210 and BDT110 are all high-quality Blu-ray Disc players with 2D-3D Conversion, which can convert 2D images from DVDs and Blu-ray discs into 3D with natural depth perception. With the 3D Effect Controller the user can control the leaping effects of 3D images, as well as allowing one to adjust the amount of depth. This permits the user to view expansive images and enjoy 3D content with exactly the kind of 3D effects they want. Also contributing to higher picture quality is the new UniPhier chip, which, simultaneously lowers power consumption. Vertical color reference process has also been increased by 1.5 times, to express fine details and nuances in movie scenes with the Adaptive Chroma Processing. The HDMI Pure Audio improves sound quality, delivering pure and robust bass sound reproduction with minimal noise compared to previous models.
The newest addition to VIERA CAST™, Panasonic's proprietary internet solution, on the BDT310, BDT210 and BDT110 is the video/voice communication service, Skype™(1). With this new application and optional camera, users can engage in long distance video/voice conversations with family and friends right from their TV. Panasonic has made it even easier to access this through the Blu-ray Disc player with a devoted Skype button on the remote control. Other features of Skype include Standby Mode, Auto Answering Video Message, which allows users to create a personalized message when away, and Video Voice Mail Recording which automatically records messages left onto an SD card. These three models are also DLNA-certified, allowing users to enjoy content with their Blu-ray Disc player, from a computer or other DLNA compatible device.
VIERA CAST's popular sites, including Netflix™, Amazon VOD™, You Tube™, Pandora, twitter, Bloomberg News, a weather channel and Skype continue on the 2011 models and are joined by a host of exciting features and apps, all optimized for the best possible user experience. Included in VIERA CAST's 2011 roster are such apps as Napster, CinemaNow, and access to popular sports sites including the NHL, NBA, MLB and MLS(2).
"Panasonic's 2011 Blu-ray Disc player lineup incorporates the successes of its 2010 line, while adding innovative features that meet the demand of consumers and new trends in technology," said Richard Simone, Vice President, Panasonic, Consumer Electronics Company, Merchandising, Imaging and Entertainment Products. "Features such as the Touch-Free Sensor, Home Screen Wallpaper and Skype allow consumers to easily personalize their entertainment experience to fit their lifestyle. And now the consumer can enjoy the benefits of Skype from any HDTV."
The BDT310, BDT210, BDT110 and BD75 feature a unique updated design, making operation simple with icons and text indications. They also have ultra-quick playback. The BDT310 and BDT210 feature a Touch-Free Sensor to open and close the disc tray for smooth operation, perfect for dark rooms. Additionally, each of the 3D Blu-ray Disc players works with an iPhone as a remote.
New networking capabilities are among the highlight features of the new 2011 Blu-ray Disc player lineup. All four players allow users to customize their own home screen using your favorite photo or wallpaper. Simply insert an SD card into the Blu-ray Disc player to transfer over the image. The BDT310 and BDT210 feature a built-in Wi-Fi System, while the BDT110 requires an optional wireless adaptor for local area network connections.
Energy efficiency and sustainability are also important to the overall design and functionality of these models. All four models have compact slim designs and packaging reduction (50% less from 2010 models), significantly reducing CO2 emissions. The BDT310, BDT210 and BDT110 have an energy-saving design which saves on electricity bills and natural resources with a 48 % power reduction.
The Panasonic DMP-BDT310, DMP-BDT210, DMP-BDT110 and DMP-BD75 will be available in the spring of 2011.
About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a market and technology leader in High Definition television, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Information about Panasonic and its products is available at
www.panasonic.com and its Full HD 3D site at
www.panasonic.com/3D.
Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. Information about Panasonic Eco Ideas initiatives is available at
http://panasonic.net/green_innovation. Additional company information for journalists is also available at
www.panasonic.com/pressroom.
(1) Skype video calling requires access to a broadband Internet connection as well as a Skype-compatible camera available from Panasonic, sold separately, to make video calls.
(2) Available to subscribers of individual sites
SOURCE Panasonic
CES 2011 • BOOTH #11018 • LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER
SHARP® INTRODUCES THREE 3D BLU-RAY DISC™ PLAYERS
WITH MANY WIRELESS STREAMING OPTIONS
BD-HP75U, BD-HP35U, and BD-HP25U offer maximum picture resolution and full enjoyment of 3D/2D Blu-ray™ content with advanced installation and control features
• HD 3D 1080p/24 fps video output with Dolby® True HD and DTS® HD audio format decoding
• Wireless LAN Ready for Netflix® / VUDU™ / Pandora® / YouTube Streaming
• Playback video content streamed from DLNA® servers throughout the home
• BD-HP75U and BD-HP35U feature IP control
• All models are ENERGY STAR® qualified
LAS VEGAS, January 5, 2011 – Sharp Electronics Corporation today introduces three 3D wireless Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) players with full HD 1080p/24 fps video output, the maximum picture resolution available, for superior 3D and 2D home entertainment experiences, as well as advanced installation and control features. In addition to 3D Blu-ray discs, the BD-HP75U, BD-HP35U and BD-HP25U provide consumers access to content from a wide variety of Internet sources, including Netflix®, VUDU™, Pandora® and YouTube via Wireless LAN. (The BD-HP25U requires optional Wireless LAN dongle VR-WL25). These models also enable consumers to take advantage of the latest surround sound formats such as Dolby® TrueHD, with lossless 7.1 channel audio reproduction that is bit-for-bit the equivalent of the master recordings, and DTS®-HD Master Audio.
Each also plays standard-definition DVDs and files stored on USB drives, as well as AVCHD, DIVX Plus HD, JPEG and MP3 files. The HDMI® upscaling capability of each model even enhances the picture quality of standard definition DVDs by upconverting content to 1080p pixel-by-pixel, not just frame by frame as is the industry standard through Sharp Super Picture function.
“Our latest 3D Blu-ray players offer a formidable combination of high performance, access to entertainment content from a wide array of sources, content distribution and convenience features,” said Bruce Tripido, associate vice president, Entertainment Products Division, Sharp Electronics Corporation. “At the top of the line, advanced control options including RS232C and IP control provide great installation and control flexibility.”
When paired with a Sharp AQUOS® LCD TV, the BD-HP75U, BD-HP35U and BD-HP25U enable consumers to take advantage of exclusive performance and convenience features. Sharp AQUOS LINK and AQUOS PURE Mode provide seamless interoperability between Sharp AQUOS TVs and these Blu-ray Disc™ players via a simple one cable HDMI® connection as well as enhanced image accuracy.
The wireless LAN compatibility of each model also enables BD-Live™ access to real-time content from the Internet such as movie scene extras, new previews, games, chat and more. The Bonus View function delivers picture-in-picture special features, allowing for viewing of favorite movie scenes and added bonus features simultaneously on compatible Blu-ray discs. Each model in the line can playback video stored on DLNA® servers located anywhere in the home.
All models also provide two USB ports, one each in the front and rear, which enable easy playback of still and video images recorded in Divx Plus HD, JPEG and MP3 audio files. All models can perform auto software updates over the Internet to quickly enable the latest features and enhancements.
The flagship BD-HP75U model features home theater control via an RS232 port. Both the BD-HP75U and BD-HP35U feature IP control.
Pricing and Availability
• The BD-HP75U will be available in March for MSRP $329.99.
• The BD-HP35U will be available in February for MSRP $299.99.
• The BD-HP25U will be available in February for MSRP $249.99.
For more information on Sharp’s full line of consumer products, contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J., 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP. For online product information, visit Sharp’s Web site at sharpusa.com. Become a fan of Sharp at
www.facebook.com/SharpUSA,follow us on Twitter @Sharp_USA. and view us on YouTube
www.sharpelectronicsusa.com# # #
Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of one-of-a-kind home entertainment products, appliances, networked multifunctional office solutions, solar energy solutions, LED lighting and mobile communication and information tools. Leading brands include AQUOS® Quattron™ LCD televisions and 3DTVs, SharpVision® projectors, Insight® Microwave Drawer® ovens, Notevision® multimedia projectors and Plasmacluster® air purifiers. For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at
www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.
Sharp and all related trademarks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sharp Corporation and/or its affiliated entities.
ENERGY STAR® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Dolby and Dolby True HD are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
DTS and DTS HD are registered trademarks of DTS, Inc.
Netflix is a registered trademark of Netflix, Inc.
VUDU is a trademark of VUDU, Inc.
HDMI, the HDMI logo and High Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC in the United States and other countries.
DLNA is a registered trademark of the Digital Living Network Alliance.
Pandora is a registered trademark of Pandora Media, Inc
Blu-Ray Disc™, Blu-ray™ and Blu-ray 3D™ are the logos and trademarks of the Blu-Ray Disc Association. "
