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The Newest Evolution of the Digital Versatile Disc
By Paul Bishow
DVD-Audio
Next generation packaged music format
Builds on the strong DVD-Video momentum
New superior quality technology
Overview
The retail-friendly music format designed by music companies
Anticipated penetration growth faster than CD players
Advanced Resolution sound and value added features differentiate format
Effective copy protection & anti-piracy technology through hardware/software voluntary cooperation
Features & Options
Easy-as-CD navigation for audio only players and onscreen menus for TV/PC displays
Flexible disc capacity: single/dual layer; single/double sided; C.d. hybrid
Discs can be played on a full range of home, car and portable players
DVD-ROM interactivity
DVD-Audio Compatibility
Like DVD-Video players, DVD-Audio players will also play C.d.'s
DVD-Audio discs will play on existing DVD-Video players if: Dolby Digital (5.1 or stereo) or LPCM stereo mix is added in video section
New DVD-Video and ROM players will add full DVD-Audio capability as chip production ramps up
How Does DVD-Audio differ from DVD-Video
Disc capacity is primarily music
Advanced Resolution, six-channel mix (up to 96 kHz, 24 bit with MLP)
Advanced Resolution, stereo mix (up to 192 kHz, 24 bit) or "SMART Content" stereo mixdown using data encoded on the disc to guide multichannel fold down
Marketing Considerations
Numerous player models expected in first 12 months: home deck, car portable, systems
Over time most disc players will be DVD-Audio capable
Title development will accelerate over the next 18 months as authoring tools move from beta and studios upgrade
Business Implications
Nntroduction of "combination" players and momentum for DVD will spur early format acceptance
New listening experience will drive hardware upgrades: home theater, car systems and "surround" headsets
DVD-Audio will help drive catalog music sales and new multi-channel recordings
DVD is a "brick & mortar" format
Marketing Considerations
Initially geared toward early adopters and baby boomers, yet expected to move quickly into the mass market
Materials available to retailers from DVD Entertainment Group:
Brochure
POP Materials
Frequently Asked Questions
Website (www.dvdinformation.com)
Hotline for consumer inquiries
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