Tech Shout!

Panasonic has introduced SC-BT100, its first home theater in a box (HTiB) system with an integrated Blu-ray Disc player.

The Blu-ray player features the Final Standard Profile for advanced functions including Bonus View and audio mixing that allows users to switch the sound between the main and sub windows.

Apart from a Blu-ray Disc player, the system also includes iPod dock that plays music or video through the home theater system and simultaneously charges the iPod too. Audio tracks and menus on the TV screen and iPod operate with the supplied remote control. Besides, the system also features an SD memory card slot offering simple playback of digital images or original video footage in either standard or High Definition AVCHD format.

Simple digital 5.1 channel audio connection for a set-top box, digital video recorder and a game system is offered through optical input.

The SC-BT100 system is further equipped with Viera Link HDAVI control, HDMI digital A/V connectivity for one-touch operation of all the components including a Panasonic High Definition TV.

Moreover, the system is compatible with the state-of-the-art audio codecs, such as Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby True HD, DTS-HD, DTS-HD High Resolution, DTS-HD Master Audio, and Linear PCM.

The SC-BT100 comes along with the Kelton-design subwoofer that boasts a driver anchored to the cabinet and a passive radiator to reduce vibration and noise while delivering a more dynamic bass. Furthermore, front and center channel speakers are made with a bamboo diaphragm to enable greater accuracy.

Also, the system features Whisper-mode Surround, which dynamically boosts bass and surround-channel levels as the volume is turned down to provide a full surround effect even at low volume. Hence it enables users to enjoy surround sound effects without disturbing others.

“The Panasonic SC-BT100 home theater system is the best of both worlds,” said Paul Sabo, national marketing manager for Panasonic Home Audio. “It combines the installation ease and user-friendly operation of an HTiB plus the features and performance of high-end audio/video components, including full High Definition 1080p resolution Blu-ray video, wireless rear speakers and 7.1channel upgradeability. This is the simple, ideal solution for those embarking on the high definition home theater experience.”

Panasonic’s SC-BT100 will be available in the US market from Spring at $999.95.