Sony Professional Solutions Europe has introduced a new reference standard 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player that will revolutionise image display for a range of professional applications. The new ES Series model (UBP-X1000ES) offers full Custom Installation (CI) compatibility and incorporates a number of features and technologies to make it the centrepiece of the most advanced home theatre audio-video systems. The player is scheduled for shipping this summer.
“The UBP-X1000ES Blu-ray player was developed to meet the growing demand for a 4K Ultra HD solution that not only provided excellent image quality, but is also a “one stop” solution for a broad range of applications across the home entertainment sphere, in addition to home cinema,” said Thomas Issa, Product Manager for B2B Displays at Sony Professional Solutions Europe. “The new model will meet the needs of even the most demanding A/V enthusiasts by delivering excellent video and audio quality.”
One Player Does It All
The X1000ES Universal Player is compatible with Ultra HD Blu-ray discs as well as video streaming in full 4K resolution and High Dynamic Range (HDR), for greater detail, brightness and contrast that fully captures the content creator’s intended vision. Features include Ultra HD Blu-ray playback with stunning 4K resolution, twice the colour range of existing conventional Blu-ray players and HDR technology with up to 100 times dynamic range, to enjoy realistic picture quality like never before.
In addition to support for Ultra HD Blu-ray discs, the X1000ES uses a Sony developed Precision HD drive to help maintain consistent performance with virtually every optical disc format, including DVD Video and DVD Audio, CD and SA-CD, Blu-ray 3D and BD-ROM media. The player also incorporates a variety of video codecs that can deliver 4K streaming from services including Netflix, Amazon Video[2] and YouTube.
A dedicated picture mode for HDR content is provided, along with advanced video processing that upscales 1080p content to near 4K 60p resolution. Additionally, when playing 4K HDR content on a 4K SDR television, the X1000ES uses a unique Sony algorithm to reproduce the intended brightness and colour gradations, to provide the best picture possible.
To deliver the most immersive audio experience possible, the UBP-X1000ES is a great match to Dolby Atmos™ and DTS:X™ object-oriented audio compatible receivers. Plus its 32-bit processing DAC is compatible with both native DSD (at up to 11.2 MHz) and LPCM (at up to 192kHz) Hi-Res Music files, which are available in a number of different formats.
The UBP-X1000ES reflects the legendary build quality associated with the coveted ES brand. Its Frame and Beam (FB) chassis helps to increase structural rigidity and its honeycomb top plate, sf heat sync and offset insulator feet reduce the effects of both airborne and mechanical vibration. Even the player’s removable rack-mount ears (to be sold separately) are designed to reduce vibration and electrical noise.
The X1000ES offers a number of other ES refinements, including dual HDMI outputs with separate audio and video signal paths and its HDMI, 2ch analogue and coaxial digital outputs are gold plated for better conductivity.
Conceived for Custom Installation
Unlike conventional 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray players, Sony plans to have the X1000ES fully certified by such leading home control and automation system vendors as Control4, Crestron, Savant, and others. Furthermore, the UBP-X1000ES provides virtually every connectivity option required for today’s complex custom installations, including IP Control over CAT 5 cable or Wi-Fi networks; RS232C two-way control and IR-IN. A web browser interface is also offered, along with support for ihiji, a cloud-based network management solution used by custom installers for remote maintenance.
Pricing and Availability
The new UBP-X1000ES is being offered exclusively to the custom installer channel and a 3-year limited parts and labour warranty is included. It will be available from authorised Sony AV dealers and custom installers this summer. Pricing will be announced at a later date.
