Yamaha Expands Sound Projector Line

By Joseph Palenchar -- TWICE, 7/2/2008

Buena Park, Calif. —Yamaha expanded its selection of digital sound projectors, which deliver multichannel surround sound from a single active sound bar that fits underneath a flat-panel television.

The $1,399-suggested YSP-3050 incorporates speakers, amplifiers, surround decoders, and virtual surround processing in a single horizontal enclosure. It is available and joins the $1,799-suggested YSP-4000, $1,199 YSP-3000 and $899 YSP-900.

The $1,399-suggested YSP-3050 incorporates speakers, amplifiers, surround decoders and virtual surround processing in a single horizontal enclosure.

Compared to the 3000, the step-up 3050 adds 1080i up-scaling, up-conversion of analog video to HDMI, and a slightly larger chassis at 31.5 inches by 6.09 inches by 5.97 inches.

The 3050 features 21 beam drivers, two woofers, 23 digital amplifiers, three Cinema DSP programs (movie, music and sports), and a 1080p (24Hz and 60Hz) compatible HDMI 1.3 interface with two inputs and one output. The 3050 also offers Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic II and DTS Neo:6 surround decoding as well as proprietary Cinema DSP technology. A Night Listening Enhancer mode allows dialog and quiet passages to be heard clearly, even at low volumes. The TV Equal Volume mode prevents sudden startling bursts of sound from TV programs and commercials. The model also features SRS TruBass technology.

The 3000 is XM-ready and features an integrated FM tuner, XM HD surround sound powered by Neural Surround, and connectivity to an optional $99 YDS-11 iPod dock. Once docked, the iPod can be operated from the 3000’s remote control and onscreen display. Yamaha’s proprietary compressed music enhancer technology compensates for the lost detail in compressed audio.

The My Surround mode delivers surround sound to even the most difficult installation environments where walls may not be present or are covered with unsuitable materials. The My Beam mode focuses the sound at a specific listening position so the listener hears all program audio clearly, including dialog, without disturbing others in the room.