Toshiba sent out a press release this morning, announcing the launch of their
third generation HD DVD players, the HD-A3, HD-A30 and HD-A35. These new players sport a sleek and compact design and offer features like
1080p/24 output, CE-Link connectivity and high bit rate audio capabilities.
Toshiba's third generation family starts
with the entry level HD-A3player featuring 1080i output capability. The other two new models,Toshiba's HD-A30 and HD-A35, will output
1080p resolution (1920 x 1080p),the highest HD signal currently available. Both models are capable ofoutputing signals at 1080p/24 frames
per second so consumers can enjoymovies in their native frame rate. The HD-A30 and HD-A35 models alsofeature "CE-Link" (HDMI-CEC),
allowing two- way control between the HD DVDplayer and a TV through an HDMI connection.
The top-of-the-line HD-A35 also adds
support for Deep Color via HDMIallowing compatible display devices to deliver outstanding video quality -displaying millions of possible
colors to billions of possible colors.
Additionally, the HD-A35 offers 5.1 channel analog output and High BitRate Audio (up to
7.1 channel) via HDMI. With content encoded in 7.1ch,this advanced surround sound is achieved through the HDMI connectionbypassing the
player's internal audio processor and sending the signal to a7.1 capable A/V receiver. High Bit Rate Audio will allow the consumer
tointegrate the HD-A35 with the latest multi-channel A/V receivers and enjoya whole new dimension of high definition home
entertainment.
Toshiba currently plays to ship the HD-A30 in September for about $399.99. The HD-A3 and HD-A35 will hit
store shelves a month later and are priced at $299.99 and $499.99 respectively. Full details can be found here.
