High-End Multi-Channel Sound and Mobile Multimedia to the car

The shift into multi-channel sound is as dramatic as the evolution from mono to stereo. This year, Alpine Electronics will be the leader in bringing multi-channel solutions to the mobile marketplace with a variety of systems that work together to meet individual consumer needs.

In 2004, Alpine will introduce a high-end multi-channel surround sound system that pairs its new IVA-D901 in-dash DVD/CD/AM/FM receiver featuring a motorized, high resolution WVGA display with its PXA-H701 multi-channel audio processor with integrated support for Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Pro Logic II and DTS. Together, these components serve as the centerpiece for multi-channel sound playback of music and video and offer virtually unlimited variations for building a personalized mobile multimedia system.

Achieving the finest multi-channel sound quality in the vehicle is heavily dependent upon sophisticated automotive-based sound tuning tools. Alpine's PXA-H701 Multimedia Manager sound processor delivers in-vehicle tuning capabilities that rival Alpine's ultra-premium AlpineF#1Status system.

With the PXA-H701 users can maximize the sound quality of their system with 165 band equalization or 27 band parametric equalization, eight channel digital crossover and eight channel auto/manual time correction -- all from the controls of the IVA-D901.

For DVD-based multi-channel content, the PXA-H701 delivers high performance 5.1 surround sound decoding in Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS formats. The PXA-H701 also bridges the gap from two-channel stereo content to multi-channel sound with its on-board Dolby Pro Logic II decoding. Even when utilizing only four speakers, Dolby Pro Logic II can create a phantom center image, offering a re-creation of multi-channel sound from any two channel stereo source.

With its eight-channel output, the PXA-H701 offers nearly unlimited amplifier and speaker configurations for designing a system that best fits both user sound/power preferences and any vehicle's particular idiosyncrasies.

The IVA-D901's seven-inch WVGA display, featuring technology designed for the AlpineF#1Status monitor, delivers the highest resolution on the market at 480x800 pixels. The DVD-based system enables consumers to add and control multiple components, such as an Alpine satellite-linked PowerNav system, XM Satellite Radio and DVD/CD/MP3 changers, through a centralized, intuitive user interface.

To meet the need for separate front and rear audio/video environments, the IVA-D901 has a built-in Multi-zone Audio Video Controller. This feature allows multiple sources be viewed and controlled through two separate zones of rear-seat monitors simultaneously while audio and navigation can be used in the front.

This year, the big news in mobile electronics is bringing multi-channel sound to the car, said Stephen Witt, Alpine's vice president of Brand Marketing. Our goal is to provide consumers with a variety of solutions that enable them to 'mix and match' different premium components to design the system that works best for them.

About The Author:

Chris Peck is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.booming-car-audio.com. Get the car audio system you want plus accessories and valuable advice.