Sony Delivers Big Sound In Micro Home Theater System

Delivering big sound in a small package, Sony today introduced the DAV-IS10 micro home theater system.

The 5.1 channel home-theater-in-a-box system features five tiny speakers – each about the size of a golf ball. The system, matched with a compact, single disc DVD/CD player/receiver, includes a unique subwoofer that helps the tiny speakers create sounds typically reserved for full size speakers.

While the system features small speakers, it packs all the power of conventional home theater-in-a-box systems with 450 watts of total system power (satellite speakers 50W x 5, plus 2-way subwoofer 100W x 2). The system is specially tuned to deliver a natural sound field that takes the focus off the subwoofer while supplementing mid range and lower frequencies.

“Today, consumers want home theater products that are unobtrusive and easily integrate into the home’s décor,” said Jeff Goldstein, vice president of Sony Electronics’ consumer audio group. “The IS10 delivers superb surround sound in a form factor that is so small that it is basically a non-factor for people who are conscious of space.”

The system also features Sony’s new BRAVIA® Theatre Sync technology, which utilizes the HDMI™ interface to communicate with select Sony BRAVIA televisions. With the touch of a button, users can automatically turn on and switch inputs, synchronizing connected devices making operation easier.

The system’s compact DVD/CD player can upscale DVDs to 720p or 1080i output when connected via HDMI to a compatible high-definition television. The DVD/CD unit also features touch sensitive controls that illuminate and disappear on touch for navigating DVDs and CDs without using the included universal remote control.

It is also equipped with Sony’s Digital Media Port input. This makes the system compatible with various optional accessories, including a PC WiFi client for streaming digital music (TDM-NC1), a Bluetooth® receiver that allows users to connect various Bluetooth-enabled devices to the system (TDM-BT1), and audio docking stations (TDM-NW1 and TDM-iP1) compatible with select Network Walkman™ and iPod® products.

Additional features include Sony’s Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (DCAC), which simplifies multi-channel surround sound setup with the use of an included microphone for a balanced home theater experience.

The DAV-IS10 system will be available in July for about $800 at Sony Style stores, online at www.sonystyle.com and at authorized dealers nationwide. Digital Media Port accessories and thin antenna speaker stands are also available at Sony Style stores and online at www.sonystyle.com.