P&F, which markets Philips-brand HTiBs and TVs, will expand its selection of Blu-ray HTiBs with the addition of three new models to join its current one. All new models are the brand’s first HTiBs with Internet radio and video streaming (via vTuner Internet radio and the Netflix movie-streaming service).
Like the current BD-equipped HTiB, all three new models incorporate Profile 2.0 BD players, play DivX HD-encoded discs, and come with 5.1-channel speaker system. All add AVCHD playback. The top model will be the brand’s first HTiB with wireless surround speakers in several years.
The lineup starts with the HTS3251B at a tentative suggested $399. It features Dolby Digital Plus/TrueHD, Dolby Pro Logic II, and DTS 5.1 decoding. Other features include iPod/iPhone dock, 24fps native playback and playback of discs encoded with JPEG pictures and with MP3 and WMA music files. Class D amplification is promoted at 1,000 watts. All speakers are compact.
The HTS5560B, at a tentative suggested $449, offers taller upgraded left-right speakers with angled drivers and a digital algorithm to create a more immersive sound stage, said P&F marketing VP Cesar Martinez. The top-end HTS5251B, at a tentative suggested $599, adds Wi-Fi 802/11b/g/n, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) certification, and wireless surround speakers.
All three ship in the first quarter and will be in stores in March or April.
The current BD HTiB is the HTS5100 at an everyday $499. It will be phased out in the first quarter.
