Pioneer has bagun shipping its first line of Blu-ray 3D players.
Unveiled at the 2010 CEDIA Expo, the line includes the Pioneer
BDP-430 and two Elite models, BDP-41FD and BDP-43FD.
The players promise to deliver unrivaled picture and audio quality
consumers expect from the Pioneer brand in addition to faster load
times, streaming compatibility, WiFi ready, a BD-J resume feature and
the iControlAV App.
The new line offers 3D video via the latest HDMI standard, 1.4a,
allowing for passage of the high data transfer rate required by the
Blu-ray 3D format. Additionally, Pioneer's PureCinema technology
upconverts standard definition video sources to 1080p. Additionally,
36-Bit Deep Color support with compatible content and displays
features smooth gradation steps with more accurate color precision.
The 3D models also support the latest high-quality audio formats
including DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD. The three new models
also employ Pioneer-exclusive technologies such as the Precision
Quartz Lock System (PQLS) for jitter-free reproduction of Blu-ray
Disc, DVD and CD content. When paired with a compatible Pioneer A/V
receiver, PQLS syncs the audio signals between the components.
Once connected to an Ethernet connection or wirelessly through the
AS-WL200 wireless adaptor (sold separately) consumers can access
content from streaming services such as YouTube, Netflix and Pandora.
All models are WiFi Ready with an optional adaptor for a wireless
connection to home networks, streaming content services, BD-Live
content and over-the-air, auto-notification of firmware updates.
Continue Mode, a newly expanded feature, now allows users to easily
resume watching Blu-ray Discs, including most BD-J titles, where they
left off. A movie is marked using the "Continued" key on the remote,
and if the disc is not removed before turning the power off, users
can resume playback at the same place.
For convenient integration of personal devices with a home theater
system, Pioneer's free iControlAV App turns iPhone and iPod touch
devices into a fully functioning remote control for the new Blu-ray
3D players. When the players are connected via Ethernet to a wireless
router, the app allows users to control basic functions of the
players. Pioneer's iControlAV App is available for free from the App
Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/.
The Pioneer BDP-430 is currently available for a suggested retail
prices of $299. The Elite BDP-41FD, featuring an RS-232 port for
custom installation access and control, is available for a SRP of
$399. Featuring an armored chassis and high grade parts, the Elite
BDP-43FD is currently available for a SRP of $499.
