Panasonic has expanded its Blu-ray-VHS dual player’s range with the launch of three new models, namely the DMP-BD60, DMP-BD80 and the DMP-BD70V.
These players from the 2009 Blu-ray line-up not only ensure high quality images but also boast off enhanced networking functions. All three players support VIERA Cast’s improved internet functionality, which enables users to access a wide range of titles (YouTube, Google’s Picasa Web Album, Bloomberg and a weather channel) from the Amazon VOD using an internet connection. Interestingly, there is no need of either an external box or a PC. They also employ the VIERA Link to operate audio/video components via HDMI by using a remote.
The latest Blu-ray players work on the image processing technology – the PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus to deliver clear, vivid colors while watching moving-images. Furthermore, the included image processing technology works effectively with the high precision 4:4:4 signal technology to process each pixel of the Blu-ray Disc video signal in the horizontal direction. It further complements vertical direction processing.
In addition to video playback, these players also offer an outstanding audio performance for an excellent entertainment experience. They incorporate a high definition audio decoder (Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio Essential), offering a remarkably high quality 7.1 channel surround sound now integrated in Blu-ray Discs.
Supporting the HD audio codecs, the DMP-BD60, DMP-BD80 and DMP-BD70V Blu-ray players are equipped with a 96kHz surround re-master function to augment the sound quality of CDs and other sources in addition to the quality of the multi-channel audio data on Blu-ray Discs and DVDs. The DMP-BD80 player distinguishes itself with other models in the audio performance with the compatible 7.1 channel analog out to produce true 7.1 surround sound for exceptional home theater environment. It has a playback information window to show detailed image information while a movie is playing.
Besides, the DMP-BD70V is touted to be the world’s first dual deck VHS-Blu-ray player that supports multi-format playback to access VHS, CD, DVD and 1080p high definition Blu-ray Discs. It provides premium 1080p up-conversion for all video formats.
“With the expansion of the unique VIERA Cast functionality and the introduction of the industry’s first dual VHS-Blu-ray deck, Panasonic’s 2009 line cements our position as technology leaders and places Panasonic in the forefront of the Blu-ray arena,†noted Richard Simone, Director, Panasonic, the Entertainment Group. “Panasonic was the first company to produce a Blu-ray player with Bonus View and the first to incorporate BD Live functionality into a stand alone player. Now we are the first to bring to market a dual VHS-Blu ray player. When coupled with a Panasonic HDTV, Blu-ray gives the consumer the essential 1080p high definition experience.â€
Additionally, the DMP-BD60, DMP-BD80 and DMP-BD70V come integrated with P4HD technology (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD) for superior picture, 16-level motion detection to sort out the image motion of each pixel into one of the levels and diagonal processing to identify diagonals and correct the pixels accordingly. They also offer 1080p up-conversion to up-convert content recorded in the 480i/p or 720p format to 1080p. All three models also support an SD Memory card slot and USB to view and share both digital still images and HD video recorded with an HD camcorder in the AVCHD format.
The models from Panasonic also reproduce cinema images in the same format used in cinema with a 1080/24p compatible TV via 1080/24p output.
Ensuring low power consumption, the latest 2009 Blu-ray players from Panasonic take full advantage of Auto Power Stand-By that has the ability to automatically turn off the player when users switch back to TV operation using the VIERA Link menu. The DMP-BD60 claims to consume 16% less power in standby mode as compared to its predecessor, the DMP-BD35.
Slated to hit the stores by April 2009, the Panasonic DMP-BD60 is priced at $299.95 (approx. Rs. 15,485); whereas the DMP-BD80 and the DMP-BD70V carry a price tag of $399.95 (approx. Rs. 20,645).
