Cambridge SoundWorks and Creative Technology introduced the world`s first fully integrated Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound system for multimedia computers. Cambridge SoundWorks` DeskTop Theater 5.1 amplified six-channel speaker system, along with Creative`s new Sound Blaster AWE64 Gold CMS2, for the first time provides full-fledged Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound for the personal computer. Designed in the tradition of Cambridge SoundWorks` critically acclaimed PCWorks, SoundWorks and MicroWorks systems, DeskTop Theater 5.1 offers the consumer an affordable, high-performance surround sound speaker system for use with multimedia computers. It consists of an integrated multi-channel amplifier; five compact, shielded satellite speakers (for left-front, center, right-front, left-rear and right-rear channels); and a powered subwoofer, which deliver extremely realistic, high-performance audio. When used with Creative`s new Sound Blaster AWE64 Gold CMS2 and Creative`s second-generation PC-DVD Encore Dxr2 solution, DeskTop Theater 5.1 can create a totally immersive home theater system experience with unbelievably realistic sound - including thunderous bass - at an unprecedented low price. Cambridge SoundWorks today also introduced the DeskTop Theater 5.1 Upgrade, which is designed to let owners of stand-alone, three-piece multimedia speakers add Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound to their existing systems. It consists of two rear speaker satellites, a center speaker and a dedicated amplifier module. "DeskTop Theater 5.1 is a simple, elegant way to add theater-quality surround sound to a desktop system," said Thomas J. DeVesto, president and chief executive officer of Cambridge SoundWorks. "The small satellite speakers can be adapted to the existing computer workspace with a minimum of intrusion. Yet the sound quality is comparable to much more expensive home entertainment systems." Sound Blaster AWE64 Gold CMS2 Building upon the success of its popular Sound Blaster AWE64 Gold product, Creative`s Sound Blaster AWE64 Gold CMS2 has the same great features as the AWE64 Gold plus new technology which provides for a truly integrated, high-quality surround sound experience. This technology combines a true, built-in Dolby Digital 5.1 (AC-3) decoder with WAV, MIDI and CD audio playback. This not only allows consumers to enjoy a home theater surround audio experience, it lets gamers enjoy the new generation of interactive DVD games as well as existing PC games with an enveloping 5.1 speaker system. The Sound Blaster AWE64 Gold CMS2 is the perfect companion to Creative`s PC-DVD solutions. "DeskTop Theater 5.1 when combined with the AWE64 Gold CMS2 represents true convergence technology and delivers on the promise of providing an awesome, realistic, surround sound experience for the customer," said Sim Wong Hoo, chairman and chief executive officer of Creative Technology Ltd. "Sound has never been better - regardless from where it emanates - whether it be from a PC for gameplay, from CD audio or a home theater system, this combined technology truly makes sound come alive." Creative`s Sound Blaster AWE64 Gold CMS2 is a unique step forward in solving a major industry and consumer audio issue: That of converging multiple, separate sound systems with one simple solution. For instance, today`s home stereo systems are comprised of separate, discrete components such as amplifiers, CD-players, processors and speakers that are used for a single purpose. With the AWE64 Gold CMS2 installed in a PC, these disparate systems can be combined easily and inexpensively to be used for gaming, watching movies as well as listening. This technology, which will be demonstrated along with DeskTop Theater 5.1 at the Creative Technology booth at COMDEX Fall `97 (booth #S2620), replaces the need for an expensive, external amplifier/receiver and provides the flexibility, expandability and cost savings of a PC. The technology has outputs for all six Dolby Digital 5.1 channels and can exploit this capability in PC-DVD playback as well as standard games and multimedia applications. Thorough, Elegant Design In overall sound quality and tonal balance, DeskTop Theater 5.1 is very similar to Cambridge SoundWorks` critically acclaimed PCWorks speaker system. The speakers are exceptionally compact in design and are engineered to provide high-performance output even when put under a heavy workload such as that delivered through Dolby encoded material. They also offer the flexibility to be moved around for maximum effectiveness. For instance, the left and right front speakers can be monitor-mounted or tucked away on either side of the monitor on their supplied stands. The rear speakers can be mounted underneath or on the outer edges of the desktop, creating a truly separate sound field from the front three speakers. Additionally, compact floor stands are included for the rear speakers. These stands are small enough to allow "discretionary" placement, fitting to the side or underneath a desk if necessary, but allowing easy repositioning when sound is of paramount concern. The subwoofer is designed to be placed out of the way, under the work surface. The system`s amplifier has two sets of six inputs (one set of six RCA jacks, and one mini-DIN 8-pin jack) for use in connecting to the Dolby Digital 5.1 output of the Sound Blaster AWE 64 Gold CMS2. Unprecedented Low Price The suggested retail target price of DeskTop Theater 5.1 is US$199.99. The target retail price of the DeskTop Theater 5.1 Upgrade is US$99.99. Both Cambridge SoundWorks speaker systems and the Sound Blaster AWE 64 Gold CMS2 are expected to ship in the first quarter of 1998.
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