press release

Take to the Road with Better Sound and Style Than Ever
Sony Introduces 2004 In Car CD Tuners With New Features and Design
Berlin, 14 January 2004 Sony Europe has announced the launch of a new range of in car CD tuners for 2004, which deliver enhanced sound quality and higher power output than equivalent 2003 models. With advanced new features including DRIVE-S, BBE-MP and SUB SWITCH, the latest products offer a dramatically improved specification and a variety of new design concepts to ensure maximum choice for consumers.

CDX-F7700

CDX-M8800
Our new 2004 range of CD tuners demonstrates our clear commitment to develop leadingedge products that raise performance standards, says Wolfdieter Griess, Vice President eVehicle Europe. Well be launching five lines across the price spectrum, with 70% of our models offering MP3 compatibility. Outstanding Sound Quality on All Models with DRIVE-S All 2004 Sony CD Tuners will feature DRIVE-S including the entry CDX-S2000 model. This new Sony concept includes the new Xplod Power IC (S-MOSFET) for a high quality sound, a thinner and quieter CD mechanism for improved durability, plus an enhanced audio circuit with new and larger audio fine tuned electrolytic capacitors. The inclusion of DRIVE-S gives Sony an edge over its competitors in the entry sector. Together with high power output of up to 4x52W, consumers can enjoy levels of sound quality that previously would only have been available on much more expensive models. In addition, all new CD tuners from Sony (even the entry models) have an impressive S/N (signal to noise) ratio of 100dB+ for CD. New Motion Blade Models Include Subwoofer Control
Competition is fierce in the mass market and Sony will be introducing new Motion Blade models in 2004 to gain an edge over its rivals. A new design concept consisting of a real aluminium plate covering the CD slot, Motion Blade offers consumers a cool and unique mechanism for accessing the CD tuner and ejecting discs. More importantly, Motion Blade demonstrates a commitment by Sony to invest in real design at the lower price points rather than merely retouching buttons. For 2004, the stylish CDX-R3000 and CDX-R3300 models will also feature a new technology called SUB SWITCH allowing consumers to have the option of a dedicated subwoofer pre-out. With this feature, they will be able to control the Subwoofer Channel gain and the low-pass filter frequencies. Furthermore, the CDX-R3300 will feature MP3 and will be a key entry model for Sony in the market. New Flip Down Models Look Better Than Ever Consumers looking for a more avant-garde look have traditionally turned to Sonys FD products. The new CDX-F5500 and CDX-F5700 models feature a redesigned fascia that perfectly combines trendy styling with a touch of class. The CDX-F5700 will also be the first model in our range to include the new and exclusive BBE-MP technology which significantly enhances sound quality. With an advanced titanium finish and seven colour changeable display, the CDX-F5700 will be a key model for Sony in the mid market sector. Experience the Thrill of High Definition FL Displays With all-aluminium front panels, the high focus CDX-F7500 and CDX-F7700 Advanced FD models exude class and quality. Turn them on and you can enjoy moving images, interesting wallpapers and clearer information on the high definition FL display. Fully equipped with a range of great features including rotary encoder and built-in Xplod 100dB+ power IC (S-MOSFET), these models provide a combination of classy design, durability, superb sound and an easy MMI (Men Machine Interface). Ultimate Graphics and Style with Active Black Panel An important and popular feature in Sonys car audio range, ABP offers one of the most sophisticated CD tuner displays and mechanisms currently available. The new CDX-M8800 includes advanced motorization to help consumers access the various ABP panels and a top quality FL display for superior graphics, fast moving images and complex wallpapers. Excellent sound quality is achieved through features such as the 4Volt Pre-Out and the EQBand Equalizer for ultimate sound control. With a redesigned operating panel, this model is also a serious style statement and even sports the latest high-end blue illumination. Incorporating new features, enhanced design and an upgraded specification, Sonys new CD tuner range has been designed to give enhanced sound quality and ease of use. All models are equipped with the highly efficient EQ3 or EQ7 internal equalizer, with the 7-band version

available from the CDX-F5700 and upwards. With 70% of the new range compatible with MP3, Sonys car audio is totally on board with MP3 mass penetration in 2004. The CDX-S2000, -R3000, -R3300, -F5500, -F5700, and M8800 will be launched between January and March 2004 across Europe.

Glossary of New Features

BBE-MP
An MP3 feature that improves the sound quality of recorded MP3 tracks by restoring and enhancing the higher harmonics lost during compression processing. Manufactured under the license from BBE Sound, Inc. A new Sony concept chassis for CD head units, which generates higher sound quality and higher durability. DRIVE-S provides an exceptional Signal to Noise ratio of 100dB+ and consists of three key elements: Xplod New S-MOSFET Power IC providing a higher sound quality New CD mechanism that is thinner, quieter and safer for CDs. The mechanism also has a much longer life cycle and improved dynamic behaviour for better shock protection. Improved Audio Circuit resulting from the thinner CD mechanism. With more space available inside the head unit, better audio components have been used which dramatically improve sound quality. This feature allows consumers to transform (by menu operation) pre-out into a sub-out, enabling the control of the gain of the subwoofer pre-channel and the adjustment of the low-pass filter frequencies. So far this kind of Subwoofer control was only available on mid-high end models. With the Sub Switch feature, Sony will now make it available almost from the entry model.

DRIVE-S

SUB-SWITCH
MOTION BLADE and DRIVE-S are Trademarks from Sony.
For more information, please contact Corporate Communications Europe Sony Europe GmbH Yolanda Hunt-Bos tel: +/ fax: +email: yolanda.hunt-boes@eu.sony.com or Jean-Baptiste Duprieu tel: +/ fax: +email: jean-baptiste.duprieu@eu.sony.com www.sony-europe.com/presscenter In addition, for any queries about Sony in your respective country, please contact your local Sony PR office.
About Sony: Sony manufactures audio, video, communications and information technology products for the global consumer and professional markets. With its music, pictures, game and online businesses, Sony is uniquely positioned to become a leading personal broadband entertainment company in the 21st century. In Europe, Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of EUR 13.88 billion (yen 1,666 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2003, based on an average market exchange rate for the same period of yen 120 to the EUR. Sony Europe, headquartered at the Sony Center am Potsdamer Platz in Berlin, is responsible for the company's European electronics business and registered consolidated sales of EUR 8.62 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2003. For more information on Sony Europe, please visit http://www.sony-europe.com