Sherwood America Inc. is introducing five high-performance AV receivers, three of which bring HDMI connectivity and switching to new entry-level price points.
Sherwood America’s RD-7405HDR AV receiver
The RD-5405 becomes Sherwood’s lowest-priced 5.1 channel receiver, with two step-up companions — the Dolby Digital/DTS-enabled 5.1 RD-6505 and the 7.1 channel RD-7405. Joining them are Sherwood’s first receiver with HD Radio capability, the RD-7405HDR, and the RD-7505, which is the brand’s first receiver to incorporate the new HDMI 1.4 standard. Each of these products will be on display in booth 21232, South 1 hall, at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
“Sherwood has long dominated the sub-$100 stereo receiver category, and we are now setting our sights on bringing the same high-performance value proposition to entry-level surround receivers,” Sherwood’s senior VP for marketing and product development Jeffrey Hipps said. “These new receivers make Sherwood’s superior audio quality and HDMI switching available to virtually any listener, with a choice for both 5.1 and 7.1 channel systems, and highly affordable options for HD Radio and Dolby Digital and DTS processing. We are also very pleased to be among the first to bring to market a receiver compliant with the advanced functionality of the new HDMI 1.4 spec, which means that the RD-7505 is fully 3D TV ready.”
RD-5405 Receiver
At an expected street price of under $150, the RD-5405 brings Sherwood’s high-performance audio quality to a new entry-level price point for 5.1 channel receivers, featuring HDMI switching, Dolby Digital processing, and a total of 350 watts. MSRP is $169.95.
High-quality audio in ensured through the use of 192 kHz/24 bit digital to analog converters and totally discrete amplifier stages used for all five amplifier channels, which are rated at 70 watts per channel at less than 0.7%
THD
Two HDMI inputs and one HDMI output allow for optimal HD source and display connectivity. Audio connections include two digital inputs, five analog inputs and two outputs. For non-Dolby Digital audio sources, Dolby Pro-Logic II processing creates the surround listening experience, with additional synthesized surround options available through five DSP modes.
For nighttime and other low-level listening conditions, the receiver has a multi-stage Dynamic Range control. Its quartz PLL synthesized AM/FM tuner offers 30 presets, and a wireless remote control is provided.
RD-7405 Receiver
With an expected street price at under $200, the RD-7405 is Sherwood’s most affordable 7.1 channel receiver. Expected to ship in March 2010, MSRP is $219.95. The RD-7405 delivers 70 watts per channel to all seven channels with no more than 0.7-percent THD. Totally discrete amplifier stages and 192 kHz/24 bit D to A converters for all channels ensure audiophile quality sound, and both Dolby Digital and Dolby Pro Logic II processing are provided, with five DSP surround modes also selectable.
For listening in a second room, the receiver’s multi-source DualZone with Automatic Room-2 Mode switches the main system from 7.1 to 5.1 channels and uses the center back surround amplifiers to power the Zone 2 speakers in the second room. When Zone 2 is turned off, the main room reverts to 7.1.
Two HDMI inputs and one HDMI output accommodate HD sources and displays, and for legacy components, 2 composite inputs and 1 composite output are available. Audio connections include 2 coaxial and 1 optical digital, 5 analog inputs and 2 analog outputs. A multi-stage Dynamic Range control allows listeners to listen at low playback levels and still hear the dialogue. Its Quartz PLL Synthesized AM/FM tuner has 30 presets.
RD-7405HDR Receiver
Sherwood’s first receiver with HD radio capability, the RD-7405HDR adds the digital radio capability to the stock RD-7405 model, otherwise sharing the same features and specifications, including the AM/FM stereo tuner. Its HD Radio tuner can display real-time song and artist information on its front panel, and it can also receive multi-cast programming for stations that broadcast a secondary signal on an HD2 channel.
RD-6505 Receiver
Bringing Sherwood’s high-performance audio quality and Dolby Digital EX and DTS processing to an entry-level price, the RD-6505 also features three HDMI inputs with repeater, a single HDMI output and 110 watts per channel for each of its five channels. With THD below 0.2 percent and 192 kHz/24 bit D to A converters, high-resolution audio quality is assured. In addition to HDMI, two component video inputs (with one output) and three composite inputs (one output) are provided, with two coaxial and one optical digital input, three analog audio inputs, and direct 5.1 channel analog inputs.
Using the optional Sherwood Bluetooth adaptor that plugs into the receiver’s front panel, the receiver can receive streaming audio from any Bluetooth-enabled audio source component.
Additional functions include three synthesized DSP surround modes, a multi-stage Dynamic Range Control for night listening, Cinema EQ to equalize bright-sounding film soundtracks and a Tone Direct tone control bypass. Its Quartz PLL Synthesized AM/FM tuner has 30 presets.
Expected delivery for the RD-6505 is April, with an MSRP of $219.95.
RD-7505 Receiver
The first Sherwood receiver with HDMI 1.4 capability, the 7.1 channel RD-7505 provides support for the new connectivity standard’s 3-D picture capabilities. With HDMI repeater, it can internally process Dolby TruHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, in addition to Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic II and DTS 96/24.
Using discrete amplifiers rated at 110 watts RMS for all seven channels, at less than 0.7-percent THD, superior audio quality is achieved through 192 kHz/24 bit D to A converters and TI 32-bit DSP audio processing chips.
In addition to the three HDMI inputs and single output, two component inputs and two composite inputs are provided, with one output for each video format. Audio inputs include two digital coaxial and two digital optical. With an optional plug-in Sherwood Bluetooth adaptor, the RD-7505 can receive streaming audio from Bluetooth components such as smart phones and PCs.
System setup is easy and automated, thanks to Sherwood’s SNAP system, which performs all system calibration and setup, including room equalization, using a provided test microphone. The receiver also incorporates Sherwood’s new SNAP Volume, which eliminates volume fluctuations when switching sources or when programs go into or out of commercials.
The RD-7505 also provides an option for playback in a second room through its independent Dual Zone Room 2 stereo audio capabilities. Conventional radio reception is well supported, with both AM and a 4 Gang Quartz PLL Synthesized FM Tuner, with 30 station presets. It provides connection to Sherwood’s DS-10 iPod dock and the receiver is DigiLink-i.
The receiver’s preprogrammed IR remote controls up to eight components, and the unit has an IR input and output to facilitate control of other gear. In addition, a 12V trigger can be used for to operate other components
The RD-7505 has a suggested retail price of $349.95, and initial shipments are scheduled for May 2010.
