Panasonic Canada announced model details as well as retail pricing and availability for its latest Blu-ray 3D home theatre systems.

For more information visit: www.panasonic.ca

Unedited press release follows:

PANASONIC’S NEW BLU-RAY HOME THEATRE SYSTEMS BRING A NEW DIMENSION TO HOME ENTERTAINMENT

MISSISSAUGA, ON (March 22, 2011) – Panasonic Canada Inc. continues to lead in Full HD 3D technology with the launch of its new Full HD 3D Blu-ray Disc™ home theatre systems. Using advanced technologies to reproduce immersive 3D with superb picture quality and cinema-like surround sound, including 3D Effect Controller, built-in WiFi, Universal Dock for iPod® / iPhone® and Skype™1 compatibility, the new SC-BTT770, SC-BTT370 and SC-BTT270 deliver advanced sound quality that complements their dynamic 3D images.

Based on the concept of reproducing an ideal cinema-like sound environment, Panasonic’s proprietary technology, Cinema Surround Plus, compensates for the lack of a surround effect to provide natural smooth surround sound and offers an enhanced effect from above and around. Equipped with Panasonic’s renowned Full HD 3D Playback, the new systems not only deliver powerful 3D images with dramatic effects, enhanced depth and texture, but allow the user to tailor the image display as desired. The 3D Effect Controller adjusts the amount of the depth effect for more expansive images and enables the viewer to enjoy 3D movies with exactly the preferred level of 3D effects.

For space-saving elegance, the sleek, ultra slim main component measures only a mere 1.5 inches high. The easy to install systems are designed to match a flat panel display, and with the rear wireless speakers2, there is no need for unsightly wires.

The top two models SC-BTT770 and SC-BTT370 feature VIERA CAST™ with Skype a new function which allows users to connect with friends and family around the world on any compatible TV. And when they are not home, a convenient Auto Answering Video Message feature answers incoming calls and records video voicemail messages.

Panasonic SC-BTT770

Models SC-BTT770 and SC-BTT370 include a down-firing subwoofer, which achieves powerful bass by releasing the sound downward from the speaker unit and port, and uses the sound reflected from the floor. These models are equipped with one HDMI output and two HDMI inputs with Standby Pass Through for HD and 3D gaming and set-top box connections. Since they feature a Standby Pass Through function, signals from the connected devices can pass through the unit even when the home theatre system is turned off.

Panasonic SC-BTT370

All of the home theatre systems feature Audio Return Channel (ARC3), which makes it possible to receive audio signals from the TV, on top of the pre-existing HDMI function of sending audio / video signals to the TV with just one cable. This feature simplifies connection by eliminating the audio cable connection between the audio output of the TV and the main unit.

All of the new systems feature a Universal Dock for iPod / iPhone4 which employs a digital connection to minimize sound degradation. This lets the user play music and video downloads and enjoy high quality sound from an iPod / iPhone.

Panasonic SC-BTT270

The new models boast improved easy-to-use features, such as an internal wireless LAN system so IP content, such as VIERA CAST5 and BD-Live, can be enjoyed without having a LAN cable6 connection. VIERA CAST has been further enhanced with Netflix, allowing viewers to stream movies. Internet sites can also be accessed from the special VIERA CAST screen to check weather, stocks and other information.

1 Skype video calling requires access to a broadband Internet connection as well as a Skype-compatible camera available from Panasonic, sold separately, to make video calls
2 Wireless rear speakers standard on SC-BTT770; optional on SC-BTT370. Not available for SC-BTT270
3An ARC compatible TV is required
4 “Made for iPod” and “Made for iPhone” mean that an electronic accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPod or iPhone respectively, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with iPod or iPhone may affect wireless performance. iPhone, iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries
5 Not all VIERA CAST features are available on both VIERA Connect-enabled VIERA ®HDTVs and VIERA CAST-enabled Blu-ray DiscTM Players due to specific technology requirements required to activate certain applications. Specific app availabilities and compatibilities will be announced at a later date. Access to a broadband Internet connection is required to access VIERA CAST features. There is no fee to use the VIERA CAST functionality however some VIERA CAST services such as Netflix have a separate fee structure.
6 A wireless LAN environment is required

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice. Panasonic is a registered trademark of Panasonic Corporation. All other trademarks are property of the respective owners.

Panasonic products are marketed in Canada by Panasonic Canada Inc. (PCI). PCI is a subsidiary of Panasonic North America, one of the world’s largest producers of electronic and electric products for consumer, business, and industrial use. Consumers seeking more information on the company’s products can call Panasonic’s Customer Care Centre at 1-800-561-5505 or access Panasonic’s home page at www.panasonic.ca.