Shadow_Link
04-17-2003, 10:40 AM
15/04/2003: 15:22]
An updated model featuring improved DVD playback hits Japan next month - but will it see a UK release?
Sony have announced details of a new PS2 with improved DVD playback capabilities that will be released in Japan next month - although there's no confirmation yet on whether it'll reach the UK.
"The latest version of the PlayStation 2 is being introduced first in Japan," a spokesperson for Sony told us. "At this stage, no European model is available and plans for its availability in Europe are not yet set."
The nattily-titled PlayStation 2 SCPH-50000 - which, cosmetically, looks the same as current models - will be released in Japan on 15 May, priced at 25,000 yen (around £130). Sony have cited the huge expansion of the DVD market since PS2 was originally launched as the reason for focusing an updated machine on high-end DVD playback.
The SCPH-50000 will now be compatible with DVD-R and DVD-RW, allowing it to play discs that have been recorded or edited on other DVD recorders. Also supported will be DVD progressive scan playback, which can provide far higher quality images than the current PS2.
The updated console also features a built-in infra-red receiver, allowing you to use a DVD remote without it being necessary to plug one of those little IR Receiver Units into a controller port. On top of that, a brand new DVD remote will offer the additional functions of being able to switch the power on and off and opening/closing the disc tray.
Finally, fan noise has been reduced by an impressive 75% thanks to an improved airflow control, which will come as welcome news for anyone who's been distracted during quiet moments in films by PS2's roar.
The one sacrifice that appears to have been made in the new console design is that the iLink interface, which allowed you to daisychain PS2s together for multiplayer gaming, is no longer included.
We'll keep you posted as soon as we hear any more news on whether the machine is likely to reach the UK.
An updated model featuring improved DVD playback hits Japan next month - but will it see a UK release?
Sony have announced details of a new PS2 with improved DVD playback capabilities that will be released in Japan next month - although there's no confirmation yet on whether it'll reach the UK.
"The latest version of the PlayStation 2 is being introduced first in Japan," a spokesperson for Sony told us. "At this stage, no European model is available and plans for its availability in Europe are not yet set."
The nattily-titled PlayStation 2 SCPH-50000 - which, cosmetically, looks the same as current models - will be released in Japan on 15 May, priced at 25,000 yen (around £130). Sony have cited the huge expansion of the DVD market since PS2 was originally launched as the reason for focusing an updated machine on high-end DVD playback.
The SCPH-50000 will now be compatible with DVD-R and DVD-RW, allowing it to play discs that have been recorded or edited on other DVD recorders. Also supported will be DVD progressive scan playback, which can provide far higher quality images than the current PS2.
The updated console also features a built-in infra-red receiver, allowing you to use a DVD remote without it being necessary to plug one of those little IR Receiver Units into a controller port. On top of that, a brand new DVD remote will offer the additional functions of being able to switch the power on and off and opening/closing the disc tray.
Finally, fan noise has been reduced by an impressive 75% thanks to an improved airflow control, which will come as welcome news for anyone who's been distracted during quiet moments in films by PS2's roar.
The one sacrifice that appears to have been made in the new console design is that the iLink interface, which allowed you to daisychain PS2s together for multiplayer gaming, is no longer included.
We'll keep you posted as soon as we hear any more news on whether the machine is likely to reach the UK.