Audio Video News

Never say Aiwa doesn't pay attention to the market. Noting the widespread popularity of MP3 audio downloads, the company has included the ability to decode and play MP3s in its new XD-DV370 DVD player. Music fans can now make compilation CDs of their favorite MP3 audio tracks on CD-R or CD-RW discs and play them back over their home theater systems.

MP3 decoding is but a small part of the full performance package with the XD-DV370. Aiwa's latest creation also offers high-resolution audio with its 96kHz/24-bit audio D/A converter. Audio versatility is the name of the game with this new player: it also includes dual stereo RCA outputs, and a Dolby Digital/DTS digital output to feed an external surround-sound processor.

The video performance of the XD-DV370 has plenty to brag about, too: a 10-bit video D/A converter with both optical and coaxial connections; as well as component, S-Video and composite video outputs. Forward and reverse search modes operate at X2, X4, X16 and X100 speeds; forward slow play runs at 1/2, 1/4, 1/8 and 1/16 normal speed. Reverse slow play offers the choice of 1/2, 1/8 and 1/16 normal speed. Special features not seen in a machine at this price point---the XD-DV370 sells for $300---is a zoom capability with X4 and X16 magnification.

The fully remote-controllable XD-DV370 has a multi-language on-screen display for ease of setup almost anywhere in the world. Aiwa's new DVD player will be on display at dealers beginning this month.