News

High Definition Cable Box Sets New Standards in Performance and Connectivity for Home Theater; New Pace DC-550 HD Makes the HD Set-Top Connection (28/1/2004)

In the world of mass-market cable boxes high performance and connectivity have traditionally been low on the list of priorities. Pace Micro Technology (PIC.L), the largest specialist set top box company in Europe, is breaking the mould in the USA with the introduction of its DC-550. The DC-550 is a new high definition digital cable set top box designed for the performance conscious high-definition cable consumer.

The Pace DC-550 provides outstanding HD picture quality, especially when used with its DVI connector, as well as excellent audio performance, uncommon in mass-market boxes. Pace has paid considerable attention to audio performance so that it meets the high standards demanded by a high-end home theater system. In addition, the box offers both electrical and optical audio connectivity, enabling enthusiasts to decide on the best possible sound for their system.

Cable box suppliers to date have completely ignored the type of connectivity needed in today's Home Theater systems. To that end, in addition to DVI and optical and electrical audio connectivity, the Pace box also offers loop-through for multiple devices such as DVD players. An IR receiver has also been included so the box can be hidden away as part of a custom installation or built into a traditional TV cabinet.

Moreover, the DC-550 is the smallest HD box on the market but has more processing power than many of its competitors, making channel change speed and graphics performance the best in class. This has been achieved whilst being the first HD box in the world to meet the stringent low voltage requirements set by Energy Star.

"With the growth in HD cable programming, a cable set-top is fast becoming an essential part of the home theater set-up," said David Novak, vice president of marketing from Pace. "The installers and home theater enthusiasts told us that when it comes to HDTV, picture and audio performance, connectivity and ease of installation were all key.

He continued: "With our first purpose designed HD set-top for the US market we've made this happen and created a product for those people who demand the best for their HD home theater systems. If you want one, I suggest you contact your local cable company immediately as demand for it is already exceeding our expectations."

The Pace DC-550 is available through packages with local cable operators.

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