Dav-S300 Review By Simon lawrence (Sony DAV S300)

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Product:	Sony DAV S300
Date:	15/02/03 (403 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great 3D Virtual Sound

Disadvantages: None

The Sony DAV-S300 Digital Audio Video System provides a stylish, user-friendly all-in-one solution for your home entertainment, including a compact DVD Video/CD/Receiver and a full specification five-channel satellite speaker system complete with passive subwoofer. For those that wish to integrate DVD technology within their homes but are confused by the broad range of products and systems available, Sony has developed the ideal one-stop solution. Developed to provide an easy entry into the world of home entertainment, major design considerations of the DAV-S300 include living room ergonomics plus ease of installation and use. A compact (355 x 70 x 365mm) DVD Video/CD/Receiver with its stylish polished aluminium front panel fits neatly under the TV. The DAV-S300's five-channel satellite speaker system features Sony's colour-coded connecting terminals, claimed to be capable of installation by a novice within minutes. The satellite speaker system's compact (160 x 355 x 355mm) passive sub-woofer unit shares the same stylish design as the main player/receiver and looks completely at home in any living room. Once installed under the TV, users can control the DAV-S300 from their armchair using the traditional supplied remote commander or operate the unit through an on-screen menu system displayed on the TV. Using either mode, users can watch a DVD, access the additional information placed on the DVD video, adjust detail settings or just listen to a CD or the radio. This amazingly compact unit features a radio tuner with 30 pre-set FM and MW channel settings.

The DAV-S300 integrates a unique, newly developed digital amplifier, which provides high-power efficiency and low signal distortion at all audio frequencies and output levels. A high signal-to-noise ratio from the digital amplifier provides a warm, natural sound in any domestic setting. Despite its high performance, Sony has succeeded in miniaturising the amplifier, enabling its board-level integr
ation within the main receiver unit, whilst retaining a very slim and stylish profile. This board-mounted digital amplifier creates several advantages in the design of the DAV-S300--it features lower power consumption than traditional units, requiring a smaller transformer. Cooling fans are not required in the cabinet. The overall effect is to create an amazingly high sound quality from a very compact cabinet. Further, the DAV-S300 is fitted with Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Digital and DTS decoders. For those wishing to transform their living room into a miniature theatre, the DAV-S300 incorporates Sony's proprietary Digital Cinema Sound (DCS) technology. If, having installed the DAV-S300 system, users catch the AV bug and wish to develop still further the sound profile created by their loudspeaker speaker system they can do so easily. One of the features of Sony DCS is virtual 3-D technology, enabling a range of surround sound speaker arrays to be added to the system, further enhancing the film's "larger than life" audio experience.

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