Big Picture Big Sound

Many of you out there want the full HD 3D experience, but don't want to deal with bargain shopping, retailers and the potentially complicated installation process. Sony knows this, and has just announced four new products in their high-end ES (Elevated Standard) line.  These components are designed to integrate with home automation and control systems, and are targeted towards those 3D-seeking consumers who want to hire a custom installer to hook everything up for them.

First up, Sony has a brand new Blu-ray 3D player, the BDP-S1700ES. Designed to work with a variety of control systems, this device features an IR control input right on the back. Other features include 1GB of internal memory and built-in Wi-Fi (802.11n) capabilities, so you can easily access Sony's BRAVIA Internet Video platform as well as Sony's Qriocity video service.  

The player also includes iPhone and iPod touch support, so you can use the free BD Remote app to display artwork, actor and production info. It also allows that portable device to function as a good old remote. (FYI: The Android version is coming soon!)

Sony says that the BDP-S1700ES will be available in August, for about $400.

To round out your home theater, Sony has also announced three new receivers, including the STR-DA5600ES, STRA-DA4600ES, and STR-DA3600ES. As part of the company's ES line, each of the products can tie into multi-room setups, as well as third-party control systems. All three have IR inputs and two-way serial control, as well as control-over-IP support.

Other features across all three models includes 3D pass-through and capabilities to connect to Digital Life Network Alliance (DLNA) sources. That means you can hook the receiver up to your network, via the device's Ethernet port, and stream photos, music and video to the receiver. The STR-DA5600ES also acts as a hub, which means you can stream that same content to other DLNA clients.

In case you need more content on the network, each model also offers access to streaming music services, such as Shoutcast and Rhapsody, although subscription fees may apply. If you've got an iPod touch or iPhone, you've also got the perfect remote; each receiver has support for an app, which features zone control, a GUI menu, and Sony's Quick Click remote function.

Individual features on each receiver includes:

• STR-DA3500ES (MSRP: $1100): 100 watts x 7 @ 8 ohms and four HDMI outputs. Available in August.
• STR-DA4600ES (MSRP: $1500): 120 watts x7 @ 8 ohms, four HDMI outputs and two switched or simultaneous HDMI outputs. Available in August.
• STR-DA5600ES (MSRP: $2000): 130 watts x 7 channels @ 8-ohms, six HDMI 1.4 inputs and and two switched or simultaneous HDMI outputs. Available in September.

In case you want to save a bit of money and go the DIY route, Sony has also added a 3D-capable receiver to its standard line: the 110-watt, networked STR-DN2010. This receiver will be available in August for about $800. That might be a nice option if you aren't into the custom install thing. Because Sony is trying to get the specialty retailers and custom installers involved, ES products will only be available through custom installers, and no longer offered online or through telesales.

"By focusing on seamless integration with custom home theater control partners, Sony is working to deliver products that support the custom and specialty retail business like no other manufacturer," said Brian Siegel, Sony's VP of home audio and video business. "Because Sony is involved in every stage of the 3D ecosystem, specialty dealers and installers can rest assured that our AV components leverage that deep expertise to deliver the most technically advanced experience possible."

For More Information:

• Sony's Custom Installation Center