The widespread commercial release of the CD/DVD-Audio flip disc is “imminent” and “coming to stores in the next 30 days” says a high-level executive at one of the major record labels. Two other sources high atop the record business tell AudioRevolution.com that the flip disc (CD on one side and DVD-Audio on the other) has passed critical functionality tests that earlier discs had failed this past fall. The big concern with the flip disc is that the width of the multi-layer discs may cause them to physically get stuck in car players. According to sources, disc manufacturers have overcome this problem and the discs are now very close to production. Reportedly, test marketing is to be done in Seattle and Boston in Q1, 2004. A spokeswoman from Warner Music Group refused to confirm the rumor. However, she reemphasized WEA’s support for the DVD-Audio format.

Silverline Records has entered into a long-term licensing deal with Artemis Classics to release 39 DVD-Audio recordings. Under the terms of the agreement, Silverline Records has obtained exclusive license rights for all six-channel formats for 39 master recordings originally released under the Vanguard Classics and Omega record labels founded by Maynard and Seymour Solomon. Much of the repertoire features seminal recordings by the Utah Symphony Orchestra conducted by Maurice Abravanel from the mid-‘60s through the late ‘70s, in addition to performances by the Baltimore Symphony, among others.

Rotel has just introduced two new products – a DVD Receiver and an affordable DVD-Audio player. The new RSDX-2 combines a DVD player, a 5.1-channel surround-sound processor, an AM/FM tuner, and a 80 watt per channel power amplifier into a single chassis receiver. Surround processing include Dolby Digital and DTS for multichannel, Dolby Pro Logic II and DTS Neo:6 for two-channel sources, and an All-Channel Stereo mode. The unit can play DVD-Video discs, DVD-Audio discs, CDs, and MP3-encoded CDs. It can also display JPEG files from encoded discs, such as those used for storing digital photo albums.

Bel Canto Design recently announced the release of its first ever, digital source component, the PLayer. Priced at $8,900 the PLayer is compatible with all current digital formats—DVD, DVD-Audio, Super Audio CD (SACD), standard CD, and MP3. Paired with the Bel Canto PrePro preamplifier/processor and eVo amplifiers, the PLayer offers the audio and video enthusiast the opportunity to have it all in one source component. The audio section of the PLayer offers design that isn’t currently found in most combo DVD-Audio/SACD players. The PLayer builds on the DAC technology used in the DAC2. Performance enhancements have been made in several key areas including: • Proprietary internal CLOCK-LINK function which slaves the transport to low-jitter DAC clocks • Multiple stages of power supply regulation and isolation for the audio, video, digital and transport functions • Ultra-high spec components surround the latest generation of multi-bit delta/sigma Audio DACs, insuring true audiophile performance.

Meridian Audio has just announced a new, more affordable line of AV components called the G Series. “The G Series designs mark an important payoff on the promise of ‘digital theatre’ we’ve been working toward for nearly a decade,” says Meridian chairman and chief designer Bob Stuart. Meridian’s newest range comprises three basic families of all-new designs: four variations of optical-disc CD and CD/DVD player/transport/controller—two with extended, preamp-like capabilities; four components including surround processor/tuner, preamps, and a two-channel receiver; and three power-amplifiers including stereo and multichannel models. The distinctive look an feel of each G Series model begins with new industrial designs by Meridian co-founder Allen Boothroyd, featuring full-width, all-metal construction with Meridian’s traditional black-glass accents—and its level of finish quality. The finish, available in pearly silver or all-black, has an all-new user interface accessed by front panel or remote, rotary volume controls and key layouts.