Audio Video News

Onkyo has introduced what it describes as the world's first THX-certified 3D-ready a/v receiver.

The TX-SR608 ($599, April) is THX Select2 Plus certified and offers Audyssey DSX width/height listening modes as well as the Dolby Pro Logic IIz height mode. It is being unveiled at the same time as the TX-SR508 ($399, April) and TX-SR308 ($299, March). All have HDMI 1.4, the version that supports 3D, and boast an HDMI Thru feature, which allows content to pass from receiver to TV even when the receiver is in standby.

Onkyo also announced three HTiB systems. The unusual one is the HTX-22HDX ($349). It is 3D and HDMI 1.4 capable and uses proprietary processing to create surround effects with 2.1 channels.

See press release.

In other 3D related news, Fox has announced the release of Avatar on Blu-ray and DVD. However, the April 22 release is only 2D for the time being. The studio is waiting for more 3D hardware to materialize in the home before it pursues a 3D release. Director James Cameron, among others, has predicted a November release of the full edition but we'll believe that when we see it. See TWICE.