Panasonic has announced that its first surround bar home theater speaker systems, models SC-HTB10 and SC-HTB500 will reach store shelves this summer. Both models are designed to fit neatly in front of the TV and to offer an easy to install, as a stylish alternative to a home theater sound system. They are equipped with a single HDMI 1.4 input, which will pass through 3D video from a connected Blu-ray 3D player and a single HDMI 1.4 output with audio return channel. The SC-HTB10 features an integrated subwoofer and is ideal for televisions up to 42-inches, while the SC-HTB500 is designed for larger screen TV displays and comes with a separate wireless subwoofer.
Both systems aim to deliver dialogue that is crisp and clear. This is made possible by the advanced bamboo cone speaker design and Clear-Mode Dialogue, which makes the sound seem like it is coming from the center of the TV display. With more precise linking of the picture and the sound, the result is clean pure sound for dialogue voices on video and vocals on music.
The new systems boast offer a rich sound experience that belies their sleek and compact silhouettes. The SC-HTB10 measures only 31-1/2 inches wide, and the SC-HTB500 has a width of 41-1/2 inches. Both models feature 2.1-channel audio. The SC-HTB10 features an integrated subwoofer with both forward and rear firing woofers. The SC-HTB500 boasts a wireless powered Kelton Subwoofer for more robust and dynamic bass sound. The systems’ compatibility with ARC (Audio Return Channel), allows receiving audio signals from the TV. Simply place it in front of the television or wall mount for a custom installation (via supplied wall mounts) and connect it with just one HDMI cable.
Available this month, the SC-HTB10 carries a suggested retail price of $199.95. The SC-HTB500 will be available in August 2010, with a suggested retail price of $349.95.
