NAD Introduces New VISO FIVE DVD/CD Surround Sound Receiver

Compact Command Centre Combines HD Picture, 5.1-Channel Audio, FM/AM Reception, DAB, XM and iPod Readiness

NAD Electronics has introduced the VISO FIVE DVD/CD Surround Sound Receiver, the ideal command centre for an advanced surround sound system. The VISO FIVE delivers the uncompromising performance associated with NAD's acclaimed full-size separate components in an elegant, compact design created to complement today's advanced video displays. Its graceful proportions and fine details combine a DVD/CD Player and Digital Surround Sound Receiver in a single sophisticated package requiring only the addition of a TV monitor and surround sound speakers to bring cinema quality sound and video to any room in a home, or to a dedicated Home Cinema.

Its compact dimensions and outstanding performance make the VISO FIVE ideal for those of us with minimal space, but who still have the craving for a total cinematic experience. Its numerous features and versatility give owners complete freedom to select speakers that fit their decor and sonic preferences. The VISO FIVE delivers superb DVD picture quality in both interlaced and progressive modes up to 720p or 1080i resolutions. Also included are an HDMI digital video output, a simplified set-up process using the On Screen Display, and a broad range of video capabilities, such as Multi-Angle, Multi-Sound, Multi-Subtitle, Frame, Zoom, and Repeat, all easily accessed with the supplied remote. The intuitive On-Screen-Display lets users change settings and parameters as they wish for optimum performance.

On the audio side, the VISO FIVE offers the latest surround formats, including DVD-Audio with 24-bit, 196-kHz resolution, and full bass management for superb sound. There is also DTS, Stereo Enhanced mode for all-channel stereo, ProLogic II; and NAD's exclusive EARS (Enhanced Ambience Retrieval System) mode, widely praised for its ability to enhance two-channel audio sources played through a surround sound system. The VISO FIVE includes Dolby Virtual Speaker mode, which provides a convincing surround effect with only two front speakers; and Dolby Headphone mode, which provides a remarkable "holographic" surround effect when using headphones. In all instances, the sound is pure and undistorted, never fuzzy or unclear as is sometimes the effect from modes with lofty sounding names like "stadium" and "cathedral."

The sensitive FM/AM tuner includes a 30-station preset memory, which allows listeners to save their favourites for fast, easy recall, and RDS capability, which shows information about all broadcasts from RDS-compliant channels, including station IDs and song and artist information. An XM Ready input allows an XM Satellite module to be easily connected for XM Radio reception, and a rear-panel Data Port accepts NAD's optional new IPD-1 Dock for connecting an iPod®. Moreover, the VISO FIVE is DAB ready for use with the optional NAD DB-1 Digital Audio Broadcast tuner module. The VISO FIVE delivers its exceptional audio and video performance in part by the using high-quality components, such as high-resolution analogue-to-digital and digital-to-analogue converters from renowned manufacturer Crystal. It also only employs discrete amplifier output stages, as do NAD's many acclaimed amplifiers and receivers. Most products in this category use digital IC amplifier modules, which fail to meet even basic hi-fi specifications for noise and distortion.

The supplied HTR-7 Remote Control makes running any A/V system straightforward and enjoyable. Pre-programmed codes allow the remote to operate virtually any TV, VCR, Satellite or Cable Tuner, and other IR-controlled device. Its ability to learn the commands for up to eight different devices eliminates the clutter of multiple remotes, and its logical layout and illuminated keys make it easy to use regardless of whether a room is brightly lit or dark.

The VISO FIVE's flexibility is on full display at its rear connection panel. It has inputs for three additional video sources, accommodates S-Video and Component Video, and includes a front-panel input ideal for cameras and game consoles. A six-channel audio source can be connected, and two digital inputs accept optical and coaxial sources.

Outputs are provided for the monitor, S-Video and Composite Video. A digital output makes it easy to transfer content to a CD recorder or other digital recording device. Instead of the spring clips usually included for connecting speakers to compact systems, the VISO FIVE comes equipped with the high-quality binding posts usually found in top-level, full-size A/V receivers. A line-level output for connecting a powered subwoofer is also provided, and an RS-232 data port allows the system to be connected highly advanced automated control systems.

The VISO FIVE DVD/CD Surround Sound Receiver is expected to be available in the UK in late February at an anticipated suggested basic price from around £900.00 including VAT. The optional NAD DB-1 Digital Audio Broadcast tuner module will retail separately at around £120.00