Sony launched three new audio/video receivers in its “Elevated Standard” (ES) line featuring compatibility with the latest audio formats including Dolby Labs’ Dolby Digital +/Dolby TrueHD and dts High Resolution Audio and dts HD Master Audio. The Sony STR-DA5300ES, STR-DA4300ES and STR-DA3300ES 7.1 channel models offer iPod intergration through the receiver’s Digital Media Port feature and optional iPod audio dock (TDM-iP1), sold separately. Users can then access digital music from most iPod players as well as the device’s playlists, artist, album and track information through the receiver’s Xross Media Bar (XMB) inspired icon-based, on-screen menu system.Additionally, the Digital Media Port feature allows users to add other optional accessories such as a PC WiFi client for streaming digital music (TDM-NC1), a Bluetooth receiver that allows users to connect to various compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices to the receivers (TDM-BT1), as well an additional audio docking station (TDM-NW1) that is compatible with select Network Walkman products. All Digital Media Port accessories are sold separately.
The STR-DA5300ES will be available in September for about $1,700, while the STR-DA4300ES ships in October for about $1,300. The STR-DA3300ES will be available in August for about $1,000.
