Surroundablog

Pioneer to Introduce New Smart Theater Systems with Wireless Rear Speaker

By Dale Hug, JCNN Aug 26, 2004 Tokyo (JCNN) -

The Smart Theater S2, due out in mid-October, is Pioneer's latest 5.1ch home entertainment surround sound system that features a 2.4GHz digital wireless rear speaker. The product employs the company's proprietary DIRECT DIFFUSE sound technology to deliver high-fidelity 5.1ch sounds. The product supports a wide variety of the latest surround formats, such as MPEG-2 AAC, Dolby Digital, DTS and Dolby Pro Logic II. It packages an AV amplifier, two front speakers, a center speaker, a sub woofer, a wireless rear speaker, and a transmitter. The transmitter measures 255x58.5x121mm and weighs 0.6kg. Also available is the Smart Theater HT1, which includes a digital wireless speaker and a transmitter. The company will produce 2,000 units of the S2 and 4,000 units of the HT1 per month. All models are open-priced.

For Concerts in the Car, Surround Sound Wraps Passengers in Music

By IVAN BERGER Published: August 16, 2004 REALITY is a good model for a sound system, and in the real world sound comes at us from all directions. Even in a symphony hall, where the orchestra performs front and center before an audience, much of the sound that reaches listeners doesn't come directly from the stage; first, it reflects off the walls and other solid surfaces of the auditorium. It makes sense, then, that surround-sound audio technology, already a fixture in millions of family rooms with home theater systems, is becoming an increasingly popular option for cars. Next year, about 30 models will offer surround sound as factory-installed equipment, including luxury sedans like the Acura RL and Cadillac STS.