JVC Expands Sound Bar HTiB Systems

by Joseph Palenchar -- TWICE, 12/14/2009

Wayne, N.J. - JVC is expanding its selection of sound-bar-based home theater in a box (HTiB) systems with the shipment of two models, one equipped with virtual surround, and the other equipped with wireless surround speakers.

Both incorporate wireless subwoofer and decoding of 5.1-channel Dolby Digital, DTS and Dolby ProLogic II. Either can be connected directly to TVs, set-top boxes, and DVD or Blu-ray players via analog and optical digital inputs. Neither features HDMI connections.

The $599-suggested TH-BA3 is promoted as the industry's first sound-bar-based HTiB to transmit sound wirelessly not only to an included subwoofer but also to included surround speakers. The left, center and right channels are delivered through the sound bar's own embedded drivers. The sound bar itself incorporates amplification, controls, wireless transmitter for the surrounds and wireless subwoofer, and decoding of 5.1-channel Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby ProLogic II. Total output is said to be 280 watts

The TH-BS7 is the sound bar with integrated virtual surround processing. It retails for a suggested $549. The sound bar itself, only 1.4 inches tall, contains left, right and center-channel drivers. The system delivers two virtual surround channels via JVC's proprietary Front Surround technology. Amplification, decoding and processing occur within a small wall-mountable amplifier/control unit that delivers 80 watts of power. A wireless 6-inch subwoofer is powered by its own integrated 100-watt amplifier. The surround bar's drivers use a proprietary voice-coil design and neodymium magnets to deliver 200Hz-20kHz frequency response.

Earlier this year, JVC launched its first sound-bar-based HTiB, which features 3.1-channel sound bar, virtual surround, wireless subwoofer and outboard Blu-ray 2.0 player. Also this year, the company launched its first 5.1-speaker HTiB with wireless surround speakers, the TH-G51.