Sensory Science Slates 2nd DVD/VCR

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. — Sensory Science introduced its second Dual-Deck DVD player and VCR deck.

The dual-deck (model DVR-4000) will be marketed under the Sensory Science Go-Video brand, and is positioned as a step-down complement to the DVR-5000, the company's first dual-deck DVD/VCR.

The DVR-4000 will omit a built-in Dolby Digital decoder, headphone jack and CD-R playback capability that are all included on the DVR-5000. The new unit will carry a $349 suggested retail price when it ships in June. The DVR-5000 is currently available at a $399 suggested retail.

The DVR-4000 will output un-decoded Dolby Digital and DTS signals to an external decoder or Dolby Digital A/V receiver, and is equipped with component, S-Video, and composite video outputs for high connection flexibility and optimum performance.

Additionally, RF inputs and outputs located on the back of the unit allow for connections to both new and older model televisions. Most DVD players lack RF connectors.

"The success of last year's DVD+VCR product sent a clear message that consumers want an affordable, high performance, easy-to-use integrated product," said Paul Fredrickson, Sensory Science's executive vice president of marketing. "The DVR-4000 combines the versatility and convenience of a VCR with the advanced features and capabilities of a DVD player, offering a compelling home theater experience."

The DVR-4000 features a 10-bit video digital to analog converter and 27MHz advanced digital filter. Also included are 96KHz/24-bit audio digital to analog decoders.

As with the DVR-5000, users can also record non-copy-protected DVD to VHS at the touch of one button, but Macrovision protected content will not be recordable.

The VCR is a four-head hi-fi model that automatically adjusts tape speed to fit a program onto a tape.

Other features include DVD and VHS menus for easy programming and an Auto-Clock Set feature.

In other news, the company plans to launch its next-generation lineup of side-by-side configured Dual-Deck VCRs. This year the three-model lineup will include the Commercial Advance, Movie Advance and new Commercial Free Copying features.

Commercial Advance automatically fast forwards recordings through commercials, putting up a blue screen until a program is resumed. Movie Advance provides a similar function for trailers and commercials at the start of pre-recorded VHS movies.

The newest feature — Commercial Free Copying — will automatically edit out commercials when recording a Commercial Advance program played from the source deck. A company spokesman said the three-model line is expected in July at prices to be announced later.

Meanwhile, Sensory Science continues to finalize its merger into SonicBlue, the company said.