Sony Launches First All-in-One Flat Panel Plasma TV

Nov. 12, 2001 - Following the recent introductions of the 40-inch FD Trinitron® WEGA® television with the industry's largest flat-screen CRT, and the innovative 60-inch Grand WEGA LCD rear-projection television, Sony continues to stretch the boundaries of television technology with today's debut of its first widescreen, high-resolution flat panel plasma televisions. Sony's new plasma TVs, with integrated NTSC tuner and stereo speakers, feature ultra slim cabinetry and a chic, frame-like design, making them picture-perfect for viewing in the media room, living room, bedroom or home office.

The new flat-panel TVs utilize Sony's pixel-by-pixel conversion system, resulting in precise, detailed images regardless of the video source. This exclusive technology automatically identifies the characteristics (film, video or both) and resolution (480i, 480p, 720p, or 1080i) of the video content and instantly reproduces accurate, sharp images. Proving that not all high- resolution plasma screens are created equal, the new sets display crisp, stable picture images without video noise even when connected with non-HD video sources.

In addition, with Sony's CineMotion™ reverse 3:2 pulldown technology, the sets deliver an outstanding cinematic viewing experience by automatically detecting and minimizing motion artifacts caused when 24 frame-per-second film is transferred to 30 frame-per-second video. The new units also boast high resolution of more than 1 million dots resolution by using a unique technique where more pixels are packed into a tighter area. The result is breathtaking color contrast, brightness and pixel uniformity. These plasma sets showcase images in either 4:3 or theater-like 16:9 picture formats from DVDs, cable/satellite receivers, set-top boxes and high-definition receivers.

"We are pleased to bring such an advanced, professional quality product to the consumer market," said Hiro Maeda, senior vice president of marketing for Sony Electronics' Visual Network Products Company. "Sony's new plasma TVs signal the next step in the evolution of television technology. Following the success of the innovative WEGA flat-screen TVs, our new plasma sets featuring high-pixel resolution, beautiful design, and convenient feature package are the cutting-edge product videophiles are looking for."

The 32-inch (KZ-32TS1) and 42-inch (KZ-42TS1) sets with 16:9 screens and brushed silver bezels also include a universal remote control and a matching, detachable tabletop base. When placed on a coffee table or in an entertainment center, the tabletop stand helps to conceal wire connections, creating an elegant, stylish look. The KZ series can be wall mounted with an optional mounting bracket.

Additional benefits include built-in speakers with TruSurround™ sound processing with SRS® 3D audio effect that deliver plenty of audio power. The plasma TVs also allows display of standard and digital video (including HD) signals, as well as computer signals, by offering wide range of connections that include component, S-video, and computer inputs.

The Sony KZ-32TS1 and KZ-42TS1 plasma TVs will be available in January for about $6,000 and $8,000, respectively.

SOURCE Sony