Posted Thu Jun 3, 2010 at 11:00 AM PDT by Dick Ward
They've got HDMI 1.4 outputs, can pass 3D right through, and the HTB500 even sports a wireless sub.
The first ever soundbars from Panasonic, who prefer the term "surroundbar," are about what you'd expect. They're nice and slim and fit nicely in front of a TV. They're geared towards folks who aren't looking for a full surround system, and they're simple to set up.
You'll get clear dialogue with the SC-HTB10 and SC-HTB500 thanks to a bamboo cone speaker design and a Clear-Mode Dialogue feature which acts as a virtual center channel.
The HTB10 measures 31.5 inches wide and is designed for use with televisions measuring up to 42 inches. The HTB500 is built for bigger sets, and unlike the 10, it comes with a wireless subwoofer to fully flush out the sound.
You'll be able to get the HTB10 this month for a retail price of $199, while the $349 SC-HTB500 won't be available until August.
Source: eCoustics
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