Acoustic Research Debuts A/V Interconnects

Staff On May 28 2001 - 6:00am

LAKE MARY, FLA. — Acoustic Research (AR), a subsidiary of Recoton, is offering two new series of audio/video interconnects that address both the high-end and entry-level markets and are designed to deliver the latest and best technologies available at very compelling price points, the company said.

The Master Series from AR has been engineered with cutting-edge technologies and materials that meet the performance demands of high-end home theater components.

Among AR's proprietary technologies that go into its Master Series, FNT provides an extra level of protection against noise and interference, in addition to shielding. AWF is a specially woven fiber for optic audio cable designed to overcome the common problem of kinking, which adversely affects the integrity of the audio signal. AdaptaTip speaker cable connectors provide a total contact surface for secure connections.

Other high-tech Master Series interconnect features include locking 24K gold-plated RCA connectors for superior fit and signal transfer. Speaker cable combines oxygen-free copper and precious silver, while larger-gauge wire construction includes more fine strands than typical speaker wire. Speaker cables feature pre-installed 24K gold-plated AdaptaTip banana connectors and Adapta Terminators, which also are sold separately. Suggested retails range from $49.99 to $179.99, and the Master Series will be available in June.

AR's Performance Series represents the entry level to its premium cable lines. Features include extra shielding against interference for noise-free picture and sound and twisted pair conductors for improved sound accuracy. Precision-machined gold-plated connectors provide high-quality corrosion-free connections. Suggested retails range from $9.99 to $44.99, and the Performance Series is available in May.

"Home theater equipment is moving away from being a luxury item," said Len Davi, VP/marketing for Recoton. "It is more important than ever that retailers offer premium cable options to every customer interested in getting the most out of their home entertainment investment.

"Performance Series premium cables are ideal for use with value priced digital audio and video equipment. The goal is to significantly increase attachment rates in this segment," Davi said.

"Our mission is to make cutting-edge technology available to consumers at affordable, sensible price points, which, in turn, offers retailers the opportunity for increased sales and outstanding profit margins. At any given price point, AR is offering more technology than anyone else in the business," he said.

AR introduced its first line of A/V interconnects, called the Pro Series, in 1996. The company considered it premium product at affordable pricing. "This approach of offering more value in order to increase attachment rates had not before been utilized in the premium accessories market," Davi said.