"...Sony plans to launch a new version of its high-end audio system known as SACD next month at about one-fourth the current product price, the Japanese electronics giant said on Wednesday.

Sony said the third version of its SACD (Super Audio CD) system will be priced at 80,000 yen ($730), against 350,000 yen ($3,200) currently, aiming to reach mainstream CD consumers rather than an initial high-end target of audiophiles.

The new system will first be released in Japan on June 10 with plans for monthly production of 2,000 units. Launches are planned for Asia and Europe later this year and a U.S. release date has not been decided..."