Pittsburgh — Sony introduced today two new sets in the Grand Wega microdisplay television line based on the acclaimed Silicon X-tal (Crystal) Reflective Display (SXRD) technology, delivering full 1,920 by 1,080 high-definition resolution.
Sony made the introduction while celebrating production of its millionth rear-projection Grand Wega at its technology center, here.
Both 1,080p (progressive) KDS-R60XBR1 and KDS-R50XBR1 Grand Wega models feature three new 0.61-inch SXRD panels, which Sony claims is the world’s smallest — one each for red, green and blue color reproduction — delivering more than 2 million native pixels (1,920 by 1,080) for a full high-definition picture.
The panels produce a contrast ratio of 5,000:1. An “Advanced Iris” combines with the three panels and Sony’s Cinema Black Pro mode to maximize contrast ratio up to 10,000:1 based on overall light levels of the original signal. Additionally, the aperture of the iris shutter has been reduced in size, resulting in more faithfully reproduced blacks, the company said.
The new models are digital cable ready with an integrated CableCARD slot, Sony’s S-Master Digital Amplifier and SRS TruSurround audio effect. Other features include dual HDMI inputs, three i.LINK (IEEE 1394) inputs, a PC input, optical audio output and a Memory Stick flash-media viewer.
The KDS-R60XBR1 and KDS-R50XBR1 units will ship in September for about $5,000 and $4,000, respectively, through SonyStyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail) and at authorized dealers nationwide. Pre-orders begin on Aug. 16 at www.sony.com/WEGA-SXRD.
