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CNET Editors' Take
January 5, 2011 9:47 PM PST
Sony has announced two midrange Blu-ray HTIBs, with the BDV-E280 offering up two HDMI inputs for only $400.
Sony BDV-E280
(Credit: Sony)LAS VEGAS--Along with its flagship BDV-E780W, Sony also announced two additional Blu-ray home-theater-in-a-box (HTIB) systems. Here's a quick rundown of the key features of the two systems.
Key features of the Sony BDV-E280:
- 5.1 home theater system
- 1,000 total watts
- 3D Blu-ray compatible
- Two HDMI inputs
- Bravia Internet Video streaming media suite (Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, Hulu Plus, Pandora, YouTube, Slacker, Qriosity)
- SACD playback
- Wi-Fi ready (requires USB adapter, sold separately)
- iPhone/iPod dock included
- Quick start mode
- $400 list price; available in April
Key step-up features of the Sony BDV-E580:
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Two HDMI inputs
- DLNA compliant
- USB port for media playback
- Controllable via iPhone/Android app
- $500 list price; available in March
Other manufacturers haven't offered pricing yet, so it's hard to compare. Although the BDV-E280 appears to be relatively inexpensive at first glance, it's worth pointing out that last year's LG LHB535 offered built-in Wi-Fi and two HDMI inputs for less than $400.
