ZVOX is introducing two new models of their high-performance single-cabinet home theater sound systems, the Z-Base 555 and the Z-Base 580.Both are designed to fit unobtrusively under modern flat-panel TVs, still using only a single connecting wire from the source component. That elegance extends not only to the clean appearance (no external speakers) and foolproof setup, but once again the instructions are so brief, they can't even fairly be called a "manual."
The two new systems combine bold speaker design with radical new features, some of which have never been used in home theater systems before. The cabinet is constructed of real wood--medium-density fiberboard (MDF) versus the molded plastic used in competing systems--to provide superior sound, with attractive hand-lacquered side panels. Inside are five high-quality full-range speakers (two-inches each for the 555, 3.25-inches for the 580) and built-in subwoofers (5.25-inch in the 555, dual 6.25-inch subs in the 580) aided by new computer-controlled tonal balance, bringing smooth midrange and bass down to as low as 35 Hz. These ZVOX systems also feature a super-efficient Class-D "green" digital amplifier (70 watts for the 555, 120 watts for the 580) that uses approximately one-tenth of a watt when in standby mode, one of the most environmentally friendly stats ever.
Once again, ZVOX's proprietary PhaseCue II virtual surround system creates room-filling three-dimensional audio from just the one cabinet. The Z-Base 555 and 580 now add new Dialogue Emphasis, which engages a circuit at the touch of the "DE" remote control button to essentially mimic the functions of a hearing aid, greatly enhancing vocal clarity, simply and effectively.
The new Output Leveling (OL) feature employs a sophisticated compression system to make soft sounds louder and loud sounds softer, thereby reducing those jarring moments during commercial breaks or when switching TV channels, again at the touch of a button. The new Z-Base systems can be programmed to work with our TV or cable/satellite remote control, with an illuminated display that guides us through the programming cycle, meaning that virtually any existing remote can adjust the volume, mute, power and input settings of the system.
That four-digit display (positioned behind the speaker grille) shows the current setting for volume, bass, treble and PhaseCue virtual surround, and it also indicates the mute, Output Leveling or Dialog Emphasis status. A few seconds after we stop using the remote or front panel controls, the display disappears completely.
The new Z-Base systems each have two analog stereo audio inputs, a digital optical (Toslink) digital audio input plus a digital coaxial audio input, all on the rear panel, in addition to a handy front-panel 3.5mm analog stereo mini-jack input for patching in a portable MP3 player or other compatible device. Different inputs can be selected via the remote or the slim module below the speaker grille. Further, a subwoofer output jack at the back allows the connection of an optional outboard powered sub. A two-meter RCA-to-RCA analog stereo cable is included in the box.
ZVOX's suggested retail prices are $399.99 for the Z-Base 555 and an extremely reasonable $599.99 for the new flagship model Z-Base 580. Each is backed by a one-year limited parts and labor warranty.
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