Official Panasonic Blu-Ray release details

[Phil Hinton]

Information from the recent Valencia press conference which has been embargoed until now.

Originally Posted by Panasonic Press Release BD30

Blu-ray Disc Player
DMP-BD30

Panasonic Introduces the Blu-ray Disc Player with Final Standard Profile.

The DMP-BD30 Blu-ray Disc Player recently introduced by Panasonic combines Blu-ray Disc specifications, which were created to achieve stunning 1920 x 1080 image resolution and high-quality surround sound from advanced formats such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD, with Final Standard Profile to bring entirely new features to Blu-ray disc playback. The DMP-BD30 is the world's first Blu-ray Disc player to support Final Standard Profile.

Final Standard Profile adds a variety of new and enhanced features* to Blu-ray disc media produced using BD-ROM Profile 1 Version 1.1. For example, a Picture-in-Picture feature displays a sub-screen, and an Audio Mixing function lets the user switch the playback sound between the main screen and the sub-screen.

The DMP-BD30 incorporates the same unique Panasonic P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD) technology that gained widespread popularity in the DMP-BD10/10A. In addition, the PHL Reference Chroma Processor in the DMP-BD30 expresses the fine details and nuances of movie scenes by reproducing clearer colour boundaries, and the 1080/24p Playback function provides Blu-ray disc movies with the same 24-fps (frames per second) playback used in movie theatres. The DMP-BD30 is also compatible with HDMI V.1.3 /Deep Colour function for superbly smooth gradation and 4,096-step gradation. These and other features greatly boost image processing performance.

To enhance the sound quality, HDMI V.1.3 compliance enables the DMP-BD30 to output Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD audio in bitstream form with no degradation, and brings re-mastering to the Blu-ray Disc for the first time ever. The new Blu-ray Disc Player is also equipped with high-speed 50 Mbps optical output elements and a 192kHz 24bit digital-analogue converter (DAC). Sound enhancing capacitors are used to reinforce the power supply and reduce noise, to enable higher quality low- and medium-range sound reproduction.
These high quality image and sound technologies are incorporated in the UniPhier chip, a Panasonic created system LSI developed by applying 45 nanometers processing to a consumer product for the first time in the world. This single chip integration technology also contributes greatly to the DMP-BD30's slimmer dimensions and lower power consumption.

For networking convenience, the DMP-BD30 comes with an SD Memory Card slot. This enables easy data transfer with an HD camcorder or digital still camera. AVCHD video images and JPEG photos can be viewed on a large screen TV at a high 1920 x 1080 resolution by simply inserting an SD Memory Card into the DMP-BD30’s SD Memory Card slot. JPEG photos recorded onto an SD Memory Card can be viewed in a slide show complete with background music from a music CD.

The new DMP-BD30 Blu-ray Disc Player both maximizes Blu-ray disc media enjoyment and links with other High Definition products such as camcorders and digital still cameras to serve as a vital hub for HD entertainment.

The DMP-BD30 is produced in Europe to meet the specific needs of European markets and users. Through its continued support of the company's European production system, Panasonic is committed to making further contributions to the European economy while providing customers with products that enhance their lifestyles.

* Features vary depending on Blu-ray disc media.










[Main Features]

Final Standard Profile*1
Final Standard Profile – an advanced function added to BD-ROM Profile 1 Ver.1.1 - creates a range of exciting new entertainment possibilities. It opens the door to new functions such as Picture-in-Picture (which displays a second image in a sub-window) and Audio Mixing (which lets you switch the sound between the main and sub windows). A function that will allow new kinds of bonus movie content is also a possibility.

*Actual functions vary depending on the Blu-ray disc media.

Picture In Picture
With Picture-in-Picture, a small sub-window is displayed over the main image. There are four Picture-in-Picture modes, each offering distinct functions. They include Enhanced Commentary, Backstage Pass Function, Peek Behind The Animation and Audio Mixing.

Enhanced Commentary*2
Blu-ray disc media goes a big step beyond the kind of audio commentary provided in many DVD movies, such as a director discussing the film. Enhanced Commentary makes it possible, for example, for the director or actors to appear in the sub-window (as if they are standing in front of the screen) and point to actors or equipment as they make their comments.

Backstage Pass Function*2
This lets you access additional information provided about people, places or things in a Blu-ray disc movie. Just use the remote control to select an element highlighted on the screen, and a sub-window opens with the information. For example, there could be notes about the clothing or accessories an actor is wearing or the restaurant in which a scene is set.

Peek Behind The Animation*2
While playing back a movie with dubbed-in voices – for example, a feature-length animation – this feature lets you watch in a sub-window as the voice actors read their parts. You can see the voice actors' gestures and expressions as they speak, giving you an inside look at a whole facet of moviemaking you've never seen before.


Audio Mixing*2
The Audio Mixing function lets you choose which soundtrack to listen to: the one from the content playing in the main window, the one from the sub-window, or both at the same time.

Other Possibility of Final Standard Profile
The future is expected to bring a host of imaginative new features. For example, you may be able to purchase and download additional content from the website to an SD Memory Card, and play the Blu-ray disc movie and the content on the SD Memory Card at the same time, for new entertainment possibilities.

HIGH-DEFINITION PICTURE QUALITY
UniPhier
Combining a Reference Chroma Processor with advanced P4HD imaging technology, Uniphier, the Precise Digital Video processor reproduces crisp, natural colours that are extremely faithful to the original movie. The beautiful images are complemented by an exceptionally pure, accurate sound achieved through Audio Re-master and other leading-edge sound technologies. Uniphier reflects the advanced encoding and authoring technologies developed by Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory (PHL) in collaboration with film industry professionals. With Uniphier at its heart, the DMP-BD30 provides a level of image and sound quality that meets Hollywood's stringent demands – so you experience movies just the way they were meant to be experienced.

Precise Digital Video
PHL Reference Chroma Processor
The PHL Reference Chroma Processor up-samples (4:2:0 to 4:2:2) the colour information in decoded video signals. Using proprietary Panasonic technology, this innovative circuit faithfully reproduces the fine details and nuances of Blu-ray video streams that have been recorded with high quality image compression system. It generates images with all the clarity and depth that BD-Video movies have to offer.

P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD)
To get the best HD images from a BD-Video disc, you need a player that renders high-quality progressive images, expresses motion smoothly, and draws sharp diagonal lines. The DMP-BD30's P4HD processes more than 15 billion pixels per second and applies the optimum processing to every pixel in the video data on the disc. The result is images with exceptional resolution.

HDMI V.1.3 with Deep Colour*
The DMP-BD30's HDMI output is Deep Colour compatible. While the earlier HDMI V.1.2 offers 8-bit, 256-step gradation, HDMI V.1.3 bumps it all the way up to 12-bit, 4,096-step gradation. This helps the DMP-BD30 reproduce natural looking colours with smooth gradation and minimal colour banding.
*An HDMI V.1.3 with Deep Colour compatible TV is required.

1080/24p Playback
The DMP-BD30 provides 1080/24p output (via HDMI). It reproduces movie images from a Blu-ray Disc in their original 24p form, with no need for conversion. You see movies in the same format used in movie theatres.

DivX Playback*3
The DMP-BD30 is able to play video data recorded onto a CD-R/CD-RW or DVD-R/DVD-R DL in the DivX format.

HIGH-DEFINITION SOUND QUALITY
Precise Digital Audio
HD Audio Codec Bitstream Output
The DMP-BD30 supports HDMI V.1.3 specifications, so it can output high bit rate audio signals (Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD) encoded on Blu-ray Discs in bitstream. If used with a compatible AV amp, the resulting audio is studio-master-quality sound.

Sound-Enhancing Technology
In addition to a highly precise 192kHz 24bit DAC, the DMP-BD30 features both coaxial digital output and high-speed 50Mbps optical output. Top-end acoustic components are used to produce high-resolution low- and medium-range sounds. An ultra-low-impedance electrolytic capacitor with polyolefin sleeve and OFC lead also provide powerful bass and a high S/N ratio.

Audio Re-master for All Media
The DMP-BD30's Audio Re-master function compensates for data lost in the compression process used in Blu-ray disc and DVD recording. This helps create a fuller, richer sound that is extremely faithful to the original. It also brings re-mastering to the Blu-ray Disc for the first time ever.


HD Networking
HD Networking with SD Memory Card
The DMP-BD30 comes equipped with a slot for SD Memory Cards. Just take the SD Memory Card from your digital still camera or HD camcorder, and you're ready to view high resolution photos and motion images on your TV.

Linking with an HD Camcorder
The DMP-BD30 can play back AVCHD-format images shot with an HD camcorder, such as the Panasonic HDC-SD9. Images recorded onto the camcorder's SD Memory Card are output directly from the DMP-BD30's HDMI terminal in their original, high-quality 1920 x 1080 resolution. The DMP-BD30 also provides an AVCHD Direct Navigator function that makes it easy to search for particular scenes.

Linking with a Digital Camera
The DMP-BD30 can play back JPEG still images on an SD Memory Card, such as those recorded with a Lumix DMC-TZ3 digital camera. The DMP-BD30 can output the images to 1920 x 1080 resolution – ideal for a full-HD TV – and output them via the HDMI terminal*. Using the Slideshow playback feature, you can play a music CD at the same time you're showing the photos, so viewers enjoy both beautiful images and your favorite music.

VIERA Link
Seamless GUI
You Can Control Your Blu-ray Disc Player with the TV Remote Control*
When the TV is on, the VIERA Link function lets you switch to home theatre mode using just VIERA’s remote control unit. Simply press the VIERA Link button on the TV’s remote control and select "BD Player" on the VIERA Link Menu screen. The BD player's menu will display on the TV screen, and you can begin playback of a Blu-ray Disc or select from the Blu-ray disc menu.

* This function is available for 2007 home theatre systems used with 2007 flat-panel TV models. A Panasonic Blu-ray Disc player is required for this function.

*1 BD-ROM Profile1 version1.1
*2 Depending upon program contents.
*3 Official DivX® Certified product. Plays all versions of DivX® video (including DivX®6) with standard playback of DivX® media files. Certified to the DivX Home Theater Profile. GMC(Global Motion Compensation) is not supported. DivX®, DivX® Certified, and associated logos are trademarks of DivX®, Inc. and are used under license.
Maximum number of folders recognizable: 300 folders. (including the root folder)
Maximum number of files recognizable: 200 files

[Phil Hinton]

Originally Posted by Panasonic Press Release BD50

Blu-ray DiscTM Player
DMP-BD50

High-Quality Images and Sounds in the World's First Blu-ray DiscTM Player with BD-Live Function

Blu-ray media offers a wide range of next-generation functions, like 1080p image quality, lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD sound, and versatile PiP (Picture-in-Picture) applications. Now, these are joined by the new BD-Live function, which uses the Internet to further enhance movie entertainment. Panasonic's DMP-BD50 Blu-ray DiscTM Player breaks new ground with its BD-Live function.
In the future, BD-Live will let users connect the DMP-BD50 to the Internet to download data such as images and subtitles, and to join in quizzes and multi-player interactive games that are linked to bonus movie content contained on Blu-ray discs. This fusion of movie content and the Internet will open the door to countless new possibilities.
For optimum image quality, the DMP-BD50 also features the PHL Reference Chroma Processor and P4HD i/p conversion processor, both original Panasonic technologies. In addition, users can enjoy Blu-ray disc titles with 1080/24p playback and Deep Colour, x.v. colour compatibility.
Dynamic sound is provided by integrated decoders for the lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD audio formats, and the DMP-BD50 can be combined with a 7.1-channel amplifier and speakers for full 7.1-channel surround sound. The resulting audio quality rivals many studio master systems. The DMP-BD50 is also equipped with high-speed 50 Mbps optical output elements and a 192kHz 24bit digital-analogue converter (DAC). Sound enhancing capacitors are used to reinforce the power supply and reduce noise, to enable higher quality low- and medium-range sound reproduction.

Networking is versatile as well, with an SD Memory Card Slot for easily transferring images from an HD camcorder or digital still camera via an SD Memory Card. Simply inserting the card into the DMP-BD50 fills a large-screen TV with AVCHD-format video images or JPEG stills in full 1920 x 1080 resolution. Slide shows are easily presented, complete with background music.
The DMP-BD50 promises to transform the way people watch movies from conventional living room entertainment into a new form of Internet-enhanced communications.

[Main Features]
BD-Live*
The DMP-BD50's Ethernet terminal is a gateway for Internet connection, which paves the way to an entirely new form of movie-plus-Internet entertainment. In the future, BD-Live users will be able to participate in quizzes and challenge each other to interactive games that are linked to bonus movie content on Blu-ray discs. BD-Live also supports other interactive functions, such as Picture-in-Picture and Audio Mixing.
*BD-ROM Profile 2.
*Actual functions vary depending on the Blu-ray disc media.

Final Standard Profile (Picture-In-Picture)
With Picture-in-Picture, a small sub-window is displayed over the main image. There are four examples of Picture-in-Picture modes, each offering distinct functions. They include Enhanced Commentary, Backstage Pass Function, Peek Behind The Animation and Audio Mixing.

Enhanced Commentary*
Blu-ray disc media goes a big step beyond the kind of audio commentary provided in many DVD movies, such as a director discussing the film. Enhanced Commentary makes it possible, for example, for the director or actors to appear in the sub-window (as if they are standing in front of the screen) and point to actors or equipment as they make their comments.

Backstage Pass Function*
This lets you access additional information provided about people, places or things in a Blu-ray disc movie. Just use the remote control to select an element highlighted on the screen, and a sub-window opens with the information. For example, there could be notes about the clothing or accessories an actor is wearing or the restaurant in which a scene is set.


Peek Behind The Animation*
While playing back a movie with dubbed-in voices – for example, a feature-length animation – this feature lets you watch in a sub-window as the voice actors read their parts. You can see the voice actors' gestures and expressions as they speak, giving you an inside look at a whole facet of moviemaking you've never seen before.

Audio Mixing*
The Audio Mixing function lets you choose which soundtrack to listen to: the one from the content playing in the main window, the one from the sub-window, or both at the same time. The sub-window soundtrack can also be reproduced in 5.1channel surround sound.
*Depending upon program contents.

Other BD-Live Possibilities
The future is expected to bring a host of imaginative new features. For example, the DMP-BD50 will someday be able to connect directly to the Internet and download additional content from the websites such as Hollywood Studio’s website to an SD Memory Card for more viewing and playing enjoyment.

HIGH-DEFINITION PICTURE AND SOUND QUALITY
UniPhier®
Combining a PHL Reference Chroma Processor with advanced P4HD imaging technology, Uniphier®, the Precise Digital Video processor reproduces crisp, natural colours that are extremely faithful to the original movie. The beautiful images are complemented by an exceptionally pure, accurate sound achieved through Audio Re-master and other leading-edge sound technologies. Uniphier® reflects the advanced encoding and authoring technologies developed by Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory (PHL) in collaboration with film industry professionals. With Uniphier® at its heart, the DMP-BD50 provides a level of image and sound quality that meets Hollywood's stringent demands – so you experience movies just the way they were meant to be experienced.

Precise Digital Video
PHL Reference Chroma Processor
The PHL Reference Chroma Processor up-samples (4:2:0 to 4:2:2) the colour information in decoded video signals. Using proprietary Panasonic technology, this innovative circuit faithfully reproduces the fine details and nuances of Blu-ray video streams that have been recorded with high quality image compression system. It generates images with all the clarity and depth that BD-Video movies have to offer.

P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD)
To get the best HD images from a BD-Video disc, you need a player that renders high-quality progressive images, expresses motion smoothly, and draws sharp diagonal lines. The DMP-BD50's P4HD processes more than 15 billion pixels per second and applies the optimum processing to every pixel in the video data on the disc. The result is images with exceptional resolution.

Deep Colour*
HDMI V.1.3 with Deep Colour*
The DMP-BD30's HDMI output is Deep Colour compatible. While the earlier HDMI V.1.2 offers 8-bit, 256-step gradation, HDMI V.1.3 bumps it all the way up to 12-bit, 4,096-step gradation. This helps the DMP-BD30 reproduce natural looking colours with smooth gradation and minimal colour banding.
*An HDMI V.1.3 with Deep Colour compatible TV is required.

x.v.Colour
The DMP-BD50 supports x.v.Colour, which features a colour expression range that is about 1.2 times the conventional sRGB colour range. When connected to a TV that supports x.v.Colour, the DMP-BD50 can render colours more naturally and with enhanced depth.
*This function is effective only when reproducing AVC-HD data recorded with x.v.Colour technology. The function cannot be used with BD-ROM or DVD-ROM discs. HDMI connection is required.
1080/24p Playback
The DMP-BD50 provides 1080/24p output (via HDMI) for Blu-ray titles. It reproduces movie images from a Blu-ray disc in their original 24p form, with no need for conversion. You see movies in the same format used in movie cinema.

DivX Playback
The DMP-BD50 is able to play video data recorded onto a CD-R/CD-RW or DVD-R/DVD-R DL in the DivX format.

HD Audio Format Decoding and Output
The DMP-BD50 is equipped with decoders for the high-quality, lossless Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD audio formats. These formats theoretically contain the information to reproduce original sound sources in their entirety. Connection to an AV amplifier with 7.1-channel input capability enables sound quality on the level of a studio master system.

Sound-Enhancing Technology
In addition to a highly precise 192kHz 24bit DAC, the DMP-BD50 features both coaxial digital output and high-speed 50Mbps optical output. Top-end acoustic components are used to produce high-resolution low- and medium-range sounds. An ultra-low-impedance electrolytic capacitor with polyolefin sleeve and OFC lead also provide powerful bass and a high S/N ratio.

Audio Re-master for All Media
The DMP-BD50's Audio Re-master function compensates for data lost in the compression process used in Blu-ray disc, DVD and CD recording. This helps create a fuller, richer sound that is extremely faithful to the original. It also brings re-mastering to the Blu-ray disc for the first time ever.

HD Networking
HD Networking with SD Memory Card
The DMP-BD50 comes equipped with a slot for SD Memory Cards. Just take the SD Memory Card from your HD camcorder or digital still camera, and you're ready to view high resolution photos and motion images on your TV.

Linking with an HD Camcorder
The DMP-BD50 can play back AVCHD-format images shot with an HD camcorder, such as the Panasonic HDC-SD9. Images recorded onto the camcorder's SD Memory Card are output directly from the DMP-BD50's HDMI terminal in their original, high-quality 1920 x 1080 resolution. The DMP-BD50 also provides an AVCHD Direct Navigator function that makes it easy to search for particular scenes.

Linking with a Digital Camera
The DMP-BD50 can play back JPEG still images on an SD Memory Card, such as those recorded with a Lumix DMC-FZ3 digital camera. The DMP-BD50 can output the images to 1920 x 1080 resolution – ideal for a full-HD TV – and output them via the HDMI terminal*. Using the Slideshow playback feature, you can play a music CD at the same time you're showing the photos, so viewers enjoy both beautiful images and your favorite music.

VIERA Link
Seamless GUI
You Can Control Your Blu-ray DiscTM Player with the TV Remote Control*
When the TV is on, the VIERA Link function lets you switch to Blu-ray DiscTM player mode using just the Panasonic Flat TV’s remote control unit. Simply press the VIERA Link button on the TV’s remote control and select "Player" on the VIERA Link Menu screen. The Blu-ray DiscTM player's menu will display on the TV screen, and you can begin playback of a Blu-ray disc or select from the Blu-ray disc menu.
*This function is available for Panasonic products that support VIERA Link (HDAVI Control 3 or above).


Blu-ray Disc Player with SD Memory Card Slot
DMP-BD50

1. Compatible with BD-Live
2. High Quality Picture Technology and 1080/24p Playback for Movie Theater Experience
3. HD Audio Decoding and Bitstream Output for High Quality Sound

Video Features　
• PHL Reference Chroma Processor
• P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD)
• Precise Pixel Generation
• 16-Level Motion Detection with Pixel-Based Motion Adaptive
• Diagonal Processing
• Detection of 3:2/2:2 Pull-Down Progressive Processing
• i/p Conversion for 1080p* Playback
• Up-Conversion to 1080p* Playback
* HDMI connection required.
• 1080/24p Playback (Blu-ray disc)
• HDMI V. 1.3 with Deep Colour and x.v.Colour
• 148.5MHz/12bit Video D/A Converter
• Digital Noise Reduction (3D-NR/ Integrated NR)
• Picture Mode (Normal, Soft, Fine, Cinema, User)
• Picture Adjustment (Contrast, Brightness, Sharpness, Colour, Gamma Correction)

Audio Features
• Built-in Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD*1 Decoder
• High Quality 192kHz/24bit Audio D/A Converter
• Pure Audio Components
• High-Speed 50Mbps Optical Output
• Audio Re-Master for All Formats (BD, DVD, CD, MP3 and DviX®*2)
• Advanced Surround (V.S.S.) Creates a Surround Effect for BD and DVD from Only Two Speakers (2 Modes)
• Dialogue Enhancer
• Dynamic Range Compression

Output
• HDMI AV Output
• Component Video Output
• S-Video Output
• Video Output
• 5.1ch Audio Output
• 2ch Audio Output
• Digital Audio Output (1 Optical, 1 Coaxial)

Convenience Features
• VIERA Link for Panasonic BD Product Line-up
• Movie (AVCHD) & JPEG View with SD Memory Card Slot
• JPEG Slide Show with Music
• Multi-Format Playback [BD-Video(BD-Live*3), DVD-Video, DVD-RAM, AVCHD (SD Memory Card/DVD), DVD-RW*4, DVD-R*4, DVD-R (Dual Layer)*4, +R*4, +R (Double Layer)*4, +RW*4, CD, CD-R/RW*5, MP3*6,
JPEG, DivX*3]
• Super Hi-Speed Scan: 5 Speeds up to x200
• Easy Setting Guide
• Graphical User Interface
• Audio/JPEG Navigation Menu
• Remote Control

*1 DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS-HD Master Audio
*2 Official DivX® Certified product. Plays all versions of DivX® video (including DivX®6) with standard playback of DivX® media files. Certified to the DivX Home Theater Profile. GMC(Global Motion Compensation) is not supported. DivX®, DivX® Certified, and associated logos are trademarks of DivX®, Inc. and are used under license.

[Phil Hinton]

Originally Posted by Panasonic Press release SC-BT100

The Panasonic SC-BT100 Full-HD Blu-ray DiscTM Home Cinema System Maximizes Enjoyment of the Blu-ray Disc and Other New HD Media

Panasonic recently introduced the SC-BT100 Full-HD Blu-ray DiscTM Home Cinema System as a powerful home cinema system that takes maximum advantage of the remarkable image and sound quality of the Blu-ray Disc to provide a viewing experience that surpasses even actual cinema. The SC-BT100 features the UniPhier®, which combines Panasonic's original PHL Chroma Processor and P4HD image-processing technologies onto a single chip. And it supports the Final Standard Profile, which plays special content, such as the director's comments, along with the actual movie. This level of enjoyment is possible only with the Blu-ray Disc.
Panasonic has also provided the SC-BT100 with special audio technologies that complement the superb quality of its Blu-ray Disc images. The Bamboo Diaphragm Speaker, which was developed by an extensive study of speaker cone materials, achieves high sound quality. The Kelton Subwoofer produces rich, robust bass tones to match the large-screen, high-resolution images. And by aligning the two woofers directly above and below the tweeter, the Vertical Symmetrical Configuration Speaker achieves sharp, clear sounds. These high-quality audio technologies combine to reproduce the superb sounds of the lossless compressed Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD formats. Also, by adding the optional Wireless Kit for Rear Speakers (SH-FX67) and surround speakers (SB-HS100A), the exciting ambience and superb sound of a surround sound system* with up to 7.1 channels can be enjoyed. The Whisper-mode Surround function provides a powerful surround sound effect even when watching late-night movies with the sound volume lowered.
A full complement of networking functions prepare the SC-BT100 for the new age of entertainment, such as the Integrated Universal Dock for iPod®, which allows simple connection of an iPod to the Blu-ray DiscTM Home Cinema System, an SD Memory Card Slot that makes it easy to exchange data with an HD camcorder or digital still camera, and new VIERA Link functions for smooth operation using only the VIERA TV's remote control. The Panasonic SC-BT100 Full-HD Blu-ray DiscTM Home Cinema System clearly brings a host of new AV possibilities to HD entertainment.

*The 7.1-channel surround sound system requires the optional two Wireless Kit for Rear Speakers (SH-FX67) and two sets of surround speakers (SB-HS100A). The 5.1-channel surround sound system requires the optional Wireless Kit for Rear Speakers (SH-FX67) and one set of surround speakers (SB-HS100A).

[Main Features]
High Quality Picture
UniPhier®
Combining a PHL Reference Chroma Processor with advanced P4HD imaging technology, Panasonic's original digital consumer electronics integration platform, UniPhier® reproduces crisp, natural colors that are extremely faithful
to the original movie. UniPhier® reflects the advanced encoding and authoring technologies developed by Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory (PHL) in collaboration with film industry professionals. With UniPhier® at its heart, the SC-BT100 provides a level of image and sound quality that meets Hollywood's stringent demands – so you experience movies just the way they were meant to be experienced.
*UniPhier is a trademark/a registered trade mark of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. in Japan and other countries.

PHL Chroma Processor
The PHL Reference Chroma Processor up-samples (4:2:0 to 4:2:2) the color information in decoded video signals. Using unique Panasonic technology, this innovative circuit faithfully reproduces the fine details and nuances of Blu-ray video streams that have been recorded with high quality image compression system. It generates images with all the clarity and depth that BD-Video movies have to offer.

P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD)
P4HD processes more than 15 billion pixels per second and applies the optimal processing to every pixel. So that it can render progressive images superbly, expresses motion smoothly, and draws crisp diagonal lines.

Deep Colour
The SC-BT100's HDMI output is Deep Colour compatible. While the earlier HDMI V.1.2 offers 8-bit, 256-step gradation, HDMI V.1.3 bumps it all the way up to 12-bit, 4,096-step gradation. This helps the SC-BT100 reproduce natural looking colours with smooth gradation and minimal colour banding.
*An HDMI V.1.3 with Deep Colour compatible TV is required.

1080/24p Playback
The SC-BT100 provides 1080/24p output. It reproduces movie images from a Blu-ray Disc in their original 24p form, with no need for conversion. You see movies in the same format used in movie cinemas.
*24p stands for 24 frame/sec.
*1080/ 24p supported TV is required

Premium Sound Quality
Kelton Subwoofer
Thanks to a Kelton subwoofer, the SC-BT100 outputs deep, thunderous bass sounds that make viewing Blu-ray Discs a truly awesome entertainment experience. The Kelton subwoofer has two internal chambers. A drive unit mounted in the rear chamber vibrates the front chamber, causing a large, 25cm Passive Radiator in the front chamber to vibrate and produce bass sounds. Because the front chamber functions as an acoustic filter, there is minimal unwanted noise. The thinness and high compliance of the passive radiator help achieve an extremely clean, powerful and responsive bass sound.

Bamboo Diaphragm Speaker
Use of rigid, low-density bamboo in the woofer and tweeter cones of the center and front speakers helps achieve a highly responsive sound. This system reproduces sounds from sources in high definition audio formats of Blu-ray disc with stunning clarity and fidelity.

Bamboo Paper
Sound Velocity (m/s) 2380 1900
Specific gravity 0.37 0.40

Vertical Symmetrical Configuration
The SC-BT100's front and center speakers feature a vertical symmetrical configuration, with the tweeter in the center and the woofers arranged directly above and below it. The sound seems to emanate from a single point. This reproduces a sound so clear and transparent that when you're listening to an orchestra, for example, you can easily pinpoint the location of each instrument.

Whisper-mode Surround
In the past, when you were watching a movie late at night with the volume turned down, the surround effect would be lost. Not with Whisper-Mode Surround. It compensates for the sound pressure level of the low-frequency component (which contains the signals that affect the surround effect), so you're enveloped in a rich surround sound even when watching movies at low volume.


Virtual Surround
The SC-BT100 incorporates original Panasonic technology that makes it possible for a 3.1 channel speaker system to accurately reproduce 5.1channel surround sound. You can enjoy virtually the same kind of powerful, lifelike sound and dynamic acoustic presence you get with a 3.1 channel system, even if you don't have enough space for eight speakers. For a 5.1 channel speaker system, it is also possible to accurately reproduce Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD 7.1 channel surround sound with a 5.1 channel speaker system.

5.1/7.1ch Surround Sound Available with Optional Kit
You can also create a multi-channel surround sound system with up to 7.1 channels by separately purchasing the SH-FX67 for a wireless system and the SB-HS100A for surround speakers.

Compatible for New All Audio Codec
The SC-BT100 is compatible with the newest Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD 7.1-channel surround sound formats. Sit back and enjoy the incredibly rich, clear and faithful surround sound these high-data formats make possible.

New Medial Friendly
Integrated Universal Dock for iPod
Just slip your iPod into the built-in cradle and enjoy. With the Blu-ray DiscTM Home Cinema system's awesome picture and sound quality, you'll love listening to the music and watching the images on your iPod. There are no iPod or USB cables to connect, so it's super easy and your room stays tidy and uncluttered.

iPod Music / Video Capability
iPod Music Playback and iPod On-Screen Display for Music Menu
Panasonic's Blu-ray DiscTM Home Cinema System is a great way to listen to the music on your iPod. The list of songs on your iPod can be displayed on the TV screen, and you can use the remote control from the home cinema system or a VIERA TV to select and play them.

iPod Video Playback
Use the iPod's screen to select a video, then sit back and enjoy awesome large-screen viewing and virtual surround with powerful sound (3.1ch).
*To enjoy iPod Video contents, please connect your home cinema system with composite video cable.

Enjoy Multi Channel Contents of Set-top Box
Connect a set-top box to your Blu-ray DiscTM Home Cinema System with an optical audio cable, and you can view cable programs and other content on your large-screen TV, while enjoying 3.1-channel surround sound.
*The video output of the set-top box must be connected to the TV, and the set-top box must be connected to the SC-BT100 via an optical audio cable.

HD Networking with SD Memory Card
Linking with an HD Camcorder
The SC-BT100 can play back AVCHD-format images shot with an HD camcorder, such as the Panasonic HDC-SD9. Images recorded onto the camcorder's SD Memory Card are output directly from the SC-BT100's HDMI terminals in their original, high-quality 1920 x 1080 resolution. The SC-BT100 also provides an AVCHD Direct Navigator function that makes it easy to search for particular scenes.

Linking with a Digital Camera
The SC-BT100 can play back JPEG still images on an SD Memory Card, such as those recorded with a Lumix DMC-FZ3 digital camera. The SC-BT100 can output the images to 1920 x 1080 resolution – ideal for a full-HD TV – and output them via the HDMI terminal* Using the Slideshow playback feature, you can play a music CD at the same time you're showing the photos, so viewers enjoy both beautiful images and your favorite music.
*JPEG and other still image sources converted to 1920 x 1080 resolution, while of high quality, will exhibit somewhat lower subjective image resolution than true, native 1080p full HD sources.


Easy to Use & Set-Up with VIERA Link
New Seamless GUI
As the types of media continue to increase, the VIERA Link capability continues to evolve. The newly enhanced VIERA Link displays a menu on the TV screen, making it easier to operate the connected equipment. For example, you can display a menu with a list of the music stored on your iPod, and use the VIERA remote control unit to select one and begin playback.

Auto Theater Setup
When you connect your Blu-ray DiscTM Home Cinema System to a VIERA TV via an HDMI cable, the TV settings (menu language, aspect ratio, and so on) are automatically loaded into the home cinema system. This saves you the trouble of making those settings manually.
・Not All 2008 VIERA Link features are compatible with all 2006/2007 VIERA Link products.

Blu-ray Global Site
http://panasonic.net/blu-ray/

Blu-ray DiscTM Home Cinema Sound System
SC-BT100

1. Enjoy Full Audio Codec for Blu-Ray DiscTM: Dolby True HD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio with Powerful "Kelton Subwoofer" & Clear Sound "Bamboo Diaphragm Speakers"
2. Full-HD 1080/24p Playback, HDMI, P4HD Accurate 1080i to 1080p conversion, Final Standard Profile for picture-in-picture function
3. Enjoy additional Inter-Operability with Panasonic Products which have VIERA Link, Enjoy Precious memories in HD with SD Memory Card Slot

Home Theater Receiver
• Home Theater Mode: Total Output Power of 1000W (RMS)
• Digital Amplifier
• Whisper-mode Surround
• H.Bass
• Surround Enhancer
• Real Center Focus
• EQ (Flat, Heavy, Clear, Soft)
• Subwoofer Boost
• Subwoofer Level Control
• RDS
• Quartz-Synthesized Digital Tuning System (FM)
• AV Remote Control

[Blu-ray Disc Features]
Video Features
• PHL Reference Chroma Processor
• P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD)
• Precise Pixel Generation
• 16-Level Motion Detection with Pixel-Based Motion Adaptive
• Diagonal Processing
• Detection of 2:2 Pull-Down Progressive Processing
• i/p Conversion for 1080p* Playback
• Up-Conversion to 1080p* Playback
* HDMI connection required.
• 1080/24p Playback (Blu-ray Disc)
• Deep Colour
• 148.5MHz/12bit Video D/A Converter
• Digital Noise Reduction (3D-NR/ Integrated NR)
• Picture Mode (Normal, Soft, Fine, Cinema, User)
• Picture Adjustment (Contrast, Brightness, Sharpness, Colour, Gamma Correction)
• Advanced Progressive Scan* (PAL/NTSC) (4:4:4 Signal Processing/4:3 Shrink Function/Letterbox Zoom & Shift)
* To enjoy a progressive scan picture, a TV with progressive scan capabilities must be used.
• Variable Zoom
• Multi-Format Playback (BD-ROM, BD-RE, BD-RE DL, BD-R, BD-R DL, DVD-RAM, DVD-RW*1, DVD-R*1, DVD-R Dual Layer*1, +R*1, +R Double Layer*1, +RW*1, CD, CD-R/RW*2, MP3*3, AVCHD and JPEG)
• Monitor Selector for optimum picture quality according to monitor type

Audio Features
• Built-in Dolby True HD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio and Linear PCM
• Dolby Virtual Speaker (5.1ch & 7.1ch)
• Dolby Pro Logic IIx (Movie, Music) (for Disc/iPod/Digital In/FM/AUX) with optional surround speakers.
• DTS Neo :6 (Cinema, Music) (for Disc/iPod/Digital In/FM/AUX) with optional surround speakers.
• 192kHz/24bit Audio D/A Converter
• Dynamic Range Compression

Other Media Features
• On-Screen Display for iPod Music Menu
• iPod Music Playback
• iPod Video Playback4
• High Definition Movie & Picture Playback via SD Memory Card Slot


Input/ Output
• 1 HDMI Terminal with VIERA Link
• 1 Video Out
• 1 S-Video Out
• 1 Component Video Out
• 1 Digital Input (Optical)
• 1 Digital Output (Optical)
• 1 Analog Audio Input for AUX
• 1 Phone Out
• 1 Wireless Rear Terminal

Speaker System
• 3 New Satellite Speakers
• Wall Mounting Holes

Front:
• 6.5cm Woofer x 2, 6cm Cone Tweeter (Bamboo Diaphragm)
• Magnetic Shielding for Home Cinema Use

Center:
• 6.5cm Woofer x 2, 6cm Cone Tweeter (Bamboo Diaphragm)
• Magnetic Shielding for Home Cinema Use

Subwoofer:
• 25cm Passive Radiator /16cm Woofer (Kelton Type)

*1 Discs recorded and finalized on DVD video recorders/cameras.
*2 This unit can play CD-DA format audio CD-R and CD-RW. It may not be able to play some CD-R or CD-RW due to the condition of the recording.
*3 For contents recorded on CD-R/RW media from CDs for personal use. Playability may vary depending on conditions and discs.
*4 To enjoy iPod Video contents, please connect your home cinema sound system with composite video cable.


Wireless Kit for Rear Speakers
SH-FX67

1. Provides Wireless Rear Audio with a Wireless-Ready Home Cinema
2. High-Power Home Theater Sound
3. Easy-to set-up Compact Receiver


Wireless Receiver Unit
• Output Power: 125W x 2 (Home Theater Mode)
• Digital Amplifier
• 2 Speaker Jacks
• 3-Position Switch for flexible setting [Left Surround/Right Surround (5.1ch), Left Surround /Left Surround Back (7.1ch), Right Surround/ Right Surround Back (7.1ch)]
• ID Set Switch

Digital Transmitter Card
• Easy-Insert Adaptor Terminals
• Frequency: 2.4GHz

[Optimas Frag]

Very nice.... very nice indeed. Like the idea of a all in one with full HD sound capabilities. Shudder to think of the price mind you.

[sbowler]

Would have to be sub £500 to interest me.

[marty2005]

Whatever the price, it'll be double of the USA price.

In reality £1+ = $1.

[Broadsword]

So no pricing or release dates yet?

Or did I miss that in those posts?

The BD50 is what Ive been waiting for but alas I think it will be £500+.

[hornydragon]

Phil any info on the Component output format and specs? 1080p? BD-50 Is it HMDI only on the BD-30? Also no mention of ethernet on either??? Are they ethernet or wifi?

[Phil Hinton]

Originally Posted by hornydragon

Phil any info on the Component output format and specs? 1080p? BD-50 Is it HMDI only on the BD-30? Also no mention of ethernet on either??? Are they ethernet or wifi?

No pricing or release dates (other than BD30 whichis available now from certain stockists) and I don't have any further info on any of the models, you see everything thats been revealed above. Will update when I get further details.

[sbowler]

BD50 sounds the ideal machine for me HD audio decoders, via bitstream, Yummy.

[B1ack_Magic]

The cinema system sounds sweet! Wireless speakers ftw!

Any idea on pricing, when it will be avalable etc?

What model is the Blu-ray player? Will it just be one of their normal Blu-ray players like the DMP-BD50?

[Ricky27]

Just to confirm, does the 30 have on board audio decoding or not? as i have a denon 2307 amp which accepts HD audio but doesnt decode it from bitstream.