Next Gen DirecTV boxes. Hitachi again??????????????????????????
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Hughes Readies 1st Dolby Digital DirecTv Receiver
- -January 25, 1999
Hughes Network Systems unveiled at CES its next-generation receiver line for the DirecTv System, including its first model with Dolby Digital surround sound output, which is expected to ignite new interest in its complementary D-VHS VCR.
The two new integrated receiver descrambler (IRD) models, which are scheduled to ship next month, include the HNS Gold and HNS Platinum.
Both utilize 128-bit graphics accelerators to increase the speed of the onscreen program guide to "blazing fast," according to the company.
The Gold edition ($100-$199 average shelf price) includes a backlit RF remote, while the Platinum unit ($299-$350) adds Dolby Digital surround-sound capability, meaning it will pass signals on to an external DD decoder via fiber-optic or coaxial digital outputs.
Hughes said it expects a new level of demand to be generated for its D-VHS video recorder (HDR-205, $599) with the addition of DD surround-sound capability. The VCR is capable of recording DD-enhanced bitstream signals for playback through Platinum IRD.
The company is exploring a method for bundling the VCR and Platinum IRD. But a spokesman pointed out that at proposed prices, a consumer can purchase a Platinum IRD and D-VHS VCR for less than $1,000.
Hughes had shown the Hitachi-built D-VHS deck at previous shows, but without a DD-capable IRD volume distribution had been slow to start, the company said. |
