| LAS VEGAS, (1/8/04)
– Audiophiles, video enthusiasts, and custom installers
will soon be able to choose their own ideal combination of features
on Integra Research’s build-to-order RDC–7.1 card-based
modular audio/video controller. With the help of the dealer and
a configuration wizard on Integra Research’s web site, customers
will be able to pick and choose among eight different optional
modules to create their personal ideal system. This platform will
also allow for ongoing upgrades to reflect new technology, program
sources, and connection options. The first planned upgrade modules
will be introduced in the fall of this year.
There are several important new technologies represented in
the initial modules available in April, including HDMI (high definition
multimedia interface) for compatibility with the new DVI (digital
video interface) components, and iLink (IEEE-1394) for direct
digital inputs from DVD-Audio and SACD players. The modular configuration
makes forthcoming upgrades as simple as replacing modules and
upgrading software.
A few of many possible configurations include: (1) a full-ticket
system with all the audio and video options, (2) a high-end multichannel
audiophile system for SACD and DVD-Audio with no video options,
(3) a videophile system leaving out some audio features, and (4)
a custom installer system focusing on networking and multi-room
connectivity and perhaps leaving out some of the higher-end features.
The base platform of the Integra Research RDC-7.1 is THX Ultra2
certified and has processing for every surround sound mode offered
by THX, Dolby, and DTS. It has a rugged aluminum chassis, with
oversized high-current power supply, eight balanced XLR outputs,
multichannel RCA preamp outputs, two additional RCA subwoofer
outs, three-zone multiroom capability, bidirectional RS-232, plus
extensive remote control interface and remote trigger options.
The base model includes modules for digital audio, analog audio
and iLink.
The included iLink module provides two direct digital inputs
for high-resolution SACD and DVD-Audio from iLink-equipped source
players such as the Integra Research RDV-1.1. This allows the
RCD-7.1’s extensive digital bass management capabilities
to be applied to these signals just as they are for all other
inputs. iLink also prevents direct digital copying to protect
musicians’ intellectual property rights.
The Integra Research RDC-7.1’s fixed digital audio module
has six optical and six coaxial digital inputs, and two optical
and two coaxial digital outputs. It uses top grade 192 kHz/24-bit
Wolfson DACs (digital/analog converters) on all channels for no-compromise
sound quality. The module also includes processing for THX Surround
EX, Dolby Digital EX and Dolby Pro Logic IIx, and DTS, DTS-ES,
DTS Neo:6, and DTS 96/24. Other digital audio features include
Dolby Headphone and Dolby Virtual Speaker that create surround
sound effects using headphones or two speakers. The fixed analog
audio module has nine stereo inputs, a phono input, and five outputs.
The inputs are all assignable, and the outputs can be configured
for recorders and various multizone options. Both fixed and variable
outputs are supported through menu selection.
The optional HDMI module is used to connect to other HDMI equipped
components and is compatible with components that use DVI (Digital
Video Interface). This module has two HDMI inputs and one output.
The optional video module has three high definition component
video inputs and one output as well as six composite and S-video
inputs and four assignable outputs. All inputs are upconverted
to component video to avoid the need for redundant cables when
using older video source devices. Additionally all video inputs
sources including 480i component video are upconverted to 480p
for HDMI.
The third key option is Integra’s Net-Tune™ Ethernet
client receiver module for accessing digital music files over
a local PC network (TCP/IP). Net-Tune plays MP3, WMA, and PCM
files stored on a PC or Integra NAS-2.3 music server. It also
has Internet Radio capability for networks with broadband Internet
access. Up to 12 Net-Tune client receivers can independently access
the same server simultaneously.
The fourth option is for an extra component video input/output
pair with a choice of either RCA or BNC connectors. The fifth
option provides a choice between two additional audio input modules.
One has dual 7.1 analog inputs and the other has one 7.1 analog
and one professional AES/EBU digital input.
An optional radio module includes a high quality AM and FM tuner
with discrete tuning and presets station recall supported for
multiple zones via IR and RS-232 interfaces. An elegant aluminum
faced remote control with a scroll wheel and LCD display provides
full control over the receiver and can be set up to control other
AV components as well.
The Integra Research RDC-7.1 will be available in April, with
a suggested retail base price of $4000.
Integra Research designs and manufactures premium Home Theater
electronics that offer the highest levels of audio and video quality,
including advanced circuitry and features not normally found on
consumer grade products. Developed jointly with highly respected
U.S. audio and video technology firms such as Apogee Electronics
Corp., Balanced Audio Technology, and THX®, the company's
product line offers audiophile-quality performance suitable for
critical music listening, with professional-grade video to match.
As the advanced research and engineering division of Onkyo Corporation,
Integra Research has access to vast technical resources, and bears
a proud heritage of over 50 years of audio engineering excellence.
For more information about Integra Research and its products,
visit www.integraresearch.com or call 800 225-1946.
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RDC-7.1 Features
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