LOS ANGELES, June 1, 2006 – Strengthening its leadership in the microdisplay market, Sony Electronics today introduced five full 1920 x 1080 high-definition Grand WEGA™ rear projection models based on its acclaimed Silicon X-tal (Crystal) Reflective Display (SXRD™) technology.

The new SXRD models feature 1920 x 1080 resolution, HDMI™ inputs with 1080p capability and range in screen sizes from 50 to 70 inches.

 "Thanks to outstanding picture quality and overall performance, the response to our SXRD Grand WEGA TVs has been nothing short of phenomenal" said Randy Waynick, senior vice president of the Home Products Division for Sony Electronics.  "We expect the new line-up to keep up the positive momentum by offering greater flexibility, deeper features and incredible picture quality."

SXRD XBR Line

            Sony's SXRD XBR® line features two new models that represent the pinnacle of performance.  The 70-inch KDS-R70XBR2 and 60-inch KDS-R60XBR2 benefit from the refinements of Sony's three 0.61-inch SXRD chips (one each for red, green and blue color reproduction), delivering more than 2 million native pixels (1920 X 1080) for a full high-definition picture.

            Video signal process enhancements include Sony's WEGA Engine HD™ system and Digital Reality Creation® Multi Function Version Two Point Five (DRC-MFv2.5), high resolution video processing technology which provides crisp and clear pictures.  This technology enables the digital mapping of not only conventional NTSC sources, but also 1080i HD signals.

Working with Sony's Cinema Black Pro mode, the sets deliver up to 10,000:1 contrast based on overall light levels of the original signal. 

The new models are digital cable-ready with an integrated CableCARD™ slot and TV Guide® on screen program guide. Other features include two HDMI inputs with 1080p capability, front HDMI HDV camcorder connection, and a PC input.  The XBR models feature side speakers, which are removable on the KDS-R70XBR2 model.

 The KDS-R70XBR2 and KDS-R60XBR2 units will ship in early fall and be available for about $7,800 and $5,300, respectively. 

SXRD A2000 Line

            Offering 60-, 55- and 50-inch models, Sony's new A2000 line delivers outstanding SXRD picture quality and a new compact, bottom speaker cabinet design.  The KDS-60A2000, KDS-55A2000 and KDS-50A2000 models feature the WEGA Engine system and the same 0.61-inch SXRD chips found in the XBR line, as well as such picture technologies as Cinema Black Pro that delivers a contrast of up to 10,000:1 based on overall light levels of the original source.  The line also offers two HDMI inputs with 1080p capability and a front component input for HDV camcorder and PC input.

 The KDS-60A2000, KDS-55A2000, and KDS-50A2000 models ship this summer for about $4,500, $4,000, and $3,500, respectively.

All models will be available through sonystyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores (www.sonystyle.com/retail) and at authorized dealers nationwide.  More information on the new line can be found by visiting www.sony.com/2006TV