Sony launches the STR-DA6400ES network-receiver. This receiver features DLNA to allow sharing of music, photos and videos from PCs or servers in the network. The STR-DA6400ES also has access to internetradio services SHOUTcast and Last.fm without requiring a pc. All audio signals, including the internetradio, can be played back in up to three different rooms simultaneously. The company also introduces three new DH-series receivers, which will be replacing the DG line-up.
The STR-DA6400ES receiver is to provide a crystal clear theater sound thanks to Dolby True HD, DTS-HD Master Audio and Sony's digital cinema sound processing (Digital Cinema Sound). The automatic calibration function will take care of the settings for the 7.1-channel output to the speakers. The receiver has two HDMI-outputs and six HDMI-inputs, one being located on the front of the device.
As mentioned, Sony also introduces three new DH-receivers. The first model, the STR-DH800, features HD audio-decoding, four HDMI-connectors, 1080/24P video switching, xvColour, Deep Colour, 7.1-channel surround and both Digital Cinema Sound and automatic calibration. The receiver also supports wireless rear-speakers. Sony's S-AIR allows signals to be transmitted to the rear speakers from a wireless adaptor to the WAHT-SA1 S-AIR surround amplifier.
The STR-DH800 offers individual sound amplification (BI-Amp) for respectively the lower frequencies and the mid/high frequencies. The speakers that are compatible with this system will share the signal. This model has four HDMI-inputs and a single HDMI-output.
The STR-DH700 is also part of the high-end receiver line-up and has individual sound amplification for low and mid/high frequencies. This receiver also has the S-AIR wireless system to power the rear speakers, 1080/24P videoswitching and Digital Cinema Sound.
The STR-DH500 has 5.1-channel audio with Digital Cinema Sound-amplification. Sony reports that the DCS-calibration, three HDMI-ports and a Digital Media Port to connect devices such as an Mp3 player, make this device an entry model.
The STR-DA6400ES will become available in May, bearing a pricetag of € 300. The STR-DH500 and STR-DH700 will also be released in May, these feature respective prices of 250 and 350 Euro, while the STR-DH800 will be introduced in July, at a price of 450 Euro.
