Features: Unit couples with Sony DST-MS9 [¥50,000] satellite receiver (or SAS-MS9SET [¥62,000] package which is receiver plus SAN-40DK2 antenna) via i.LINK (Firewire) for on-demand downloading and recording of ATRAC audio tracks at 4X realtime. Image and text data may also be downloaded and stored on hitherto reserved 2.7MB area of audio MDs using new "MD Clip" feature. MD Clip area can also be accessed via Sony VAIO PCs with i.LINK interface, using "MD CLip Editor" software, allowing a maximum of 100 text and image files to be stored. The images and text can be timed to display at certain tracks or times on the disc. The iLink cable carries image and ATRAC music data as well as control information for the MD deck. Remote: RM-32M

Download Service: Set top box provides TV screen based GUI to "MusicLink" service for track selection and download control. MusicLink interactive satellite service to start 12 May '99 on Sky PerfectTV! channel 734 and is available in Japan only. Downloads will be no-charge until Summer '99 when they will likely become ¥150 to ¥200 each (exact price not yet determined) via pay-per-view payment scheme.

Links:

• Sony's English press release for the unit.
• A Japanese news page with photos of the satellite set top box system (and it's machine translation into English).
• A detailed English description of Sony's LSI for handling the IEEE1394 link (indicating that the ATRAC data flowing across it is most likely encrypted).

Specs: SNR: > 95dB

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