Pioneer Elite DVD Player Excels in Sight, Sound and Performance.

INDIANAPOLIS -- Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. today introduces a new Elite DVD player designed for the audiophile market that demands excellence in both sound and video performance. The DV-79AVi offers exceptional video processing as well as new structural and design improvements that limit vibrations resulting in a clean and open sound stage for enhanced audio quality. The video circuitry includes Pioneer's Advanced Digital Direct Pixel drive with full time 10-bit video processing, matching breathtaking sights and sounds.

"Making subtle improvements to how a player is built and the type of circuitry used can make a significant impact on the experience," said Russ Johnston, senior vice president of marketing and product planning for home entertainment at Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "Pioneer takes great pride in offering a DVD player that even the most discerning ear will appreciate."

Audio Quality

The following technical enhancements enable the DV-79AVi to reproduce true-to-life audio and video imagery:

--Triple layer chassis

--Separate audio transformer with dedicated power supply

--Drive transport mounted to the bottom of the chassis

--Isolated circuitry

--A low center of gravity significantly reducing vibrations

The DV-79AVi has six-channel analog audio output, bass management, Dolby Digital(TM), DTS(TM) and SRS TruSurround. As a result of its i.LINK technology the player can be connected to any of Pioneer's receivers with i.LINK connections including the VSX-59TXi and VSX-74TXVi.

Video Quality

The DV-79AVi provides an Advanced Digital Direct Pixel Drive supporting full time 10-bit digital video processing. This circuitry allows the player to output the highest quality digital signal from HDMI while also improving the analog signal output which utilizes a 108MHz/14-bit video DAC.

Pioneer's PureCinema(TM) progressive scan circuit faithfully reproduces the original film frames using 2:3 pull-down inverse telecine technology with a progressive display. If the DVD does not indicate telecine conversion, the PureCinema circuit will process the signal with advanced motion detection and create the new progressive image.

Users can directly connect the Pioneer Elite DV-79AVi to a television via an HDMI (1.1) connection; its pure digital connection takes away unnecessary processing steps. Pioneer's Two-Dimensional Resolution Expander technology up-converts traditional DVD video signals to high definition resolution.

The Pioneer Elite DV-79AVi also offers the following outstanding features:

--Playback of DVD-Audio and SACD.

--Super-Fine Focus Filter with 4:4:4 video up-sampling.

--Adjustable video parameters include: Progressive Motion, PureCinema (on, off, auto), YNR, CNR, Sharpness High, Sharpness Mid, Detail, White Level, Black Level, Gamma, Black Setup, Hue, Chroma Level and Chroma Delay. Two new adjustable video parameters for HDMI are: HDMI color and HDMI detail. Once the desired adjustments have been made, they can be saved in one of three available user memory settings.

--Three factory video settings (CRT/PDP/Professional).

--Trick play processor (smooth scan).

--Upgraded graphic user interface for easy set-up navigation.

The DV-79AVi will be available in November for an estimated market price of $1000. A limited quantity of these DVD players will also be available in silver celebrating 20 years of Pioneer Elite.

Pioneer's Home Entertainment Division is a leading manufacturer of plasma televisions and monitors, DVD players and DVD recorders, A/V receivers, CD players and CD recorders, speakers and other audio and video accessories. Its focus is on the development of new digital technologies including Digital Network Entertainment. The company markets its products under the Pioneer and Pioneer Elite brand names. When purchased from an authorized dealer, consumers receive a limited warranty for one year with Pioneer products and two years with Pioneer Elite products.

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. is headquartered in Long Beach, Calif., and its U.S. Web address is www.pioneerelectronics.com. Its parent company, Pioneer Corporation, is a leader in optical disc technology and a preeminent manufacturer of high-performance audio, video, computer equipment for the home, car and business markets. The company focuses on four core business domains including DVD, display technologies, Digital Network Entertainment(TM) and components. Founded in 1938 in Tokyo, Pioneer Corporation (NYSE:PIO) employs more than 39,000 people worldwide. Its shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange.