Sony has this week release a new picture frame with a difference, the HD S-Frame Series. As well as the usual assortment of PictureFrame functions, slide show, clock, alarm, the new series picture frame can play full 1080 HD media files on its LCD screen. Three new models have been introduced as part of the HD S-Frame line-up, top of the range is the DPF-HD1000 with a 10″ LCD – 1024×600 – , DPF-HD800 8″ – 800×480 – and not to be forgotten the cut down bargain of the group the DPF-HD700 7″ LCD.
With the new S-Frame models Sony has achieved a very clean and sharp look, the front fascia is free from sparkles and fancy button layouts that have been used in the past on Sony picture frames. Attractive but they still look at home by the bed or on the mantle piece.
The HD1000 / HD800 are equipped with 2GB of internal storage, built-in speakers, USB port, multi format memory card reader and a remote control is included for convenience. The multi card reader built into the S-Frame series allows memory cards to be taken directly from your camera and slotted into the S-Frame for instant gratification.
Sony’s new little windows in time will playback an assortment of video formats including AVCHD, Full HD 50p, MPEG4, MPEG1 and Motion JPEG. An energy-saving switch off timer and a wide range of slide shows and clack/calendar displays are also included. The HD700 being the cheapest model is missing the advanced playback functions, speakers and remote of its big brothers.
LCD picture frames have been with us for a while now, evolving from simple slide show merchant to todays media terminals. When deciding on which picture frame to sit by your bed make sure you buy a good quality LCD panel and check the frames interface is actually useable, especially make sure the picture quality is up to displaying your pictures. To this end Sony has provided a clean easy to use icon based interface to ensure options are quick and easy to use. Sony describes its panels display as superbly clear, detailed image quality with rich, vivid colours.
Available from the Sony Style Store in September, prices starting at $119.99 USD for the cut back DPF-HD700, $139.99 USD for the DPF-HD800 and the top of the line 10″ model the DPF-HD1000 will set you back $169.99 USD. Beware if you’re easily attracted to shiny black gadgets that ooze cool Sony has you in their sights.
For further information Sony’s Press Release
From the Sony Press Release
S-Frame Innovation Series: DPF-HD1000/HD800
The S-Frame HD1000 and HD800 can play HD videos shot in AVCHD, including Full HD clips shot at smooth, progressive 50p frame rate (low frame rate playback). They can also replay MPEG4, MPEG1 and Motion JPEG videos shot with a wide range of cameras and camcorders, including latest Cyber-shot™ and Handycam® models from Sony.
An inbuilt speaker assures crisp, clear audio playback with HD or SD video clips. Alternatively, pick your own background music track to accompany slideshows. S-Frame can import and play audio files in popular MP3, AAC or Linear PCM formats from your personal digital music library.
Whether you’re enjoying HD videos or still images, both photo frames offer superbly clear, detailed image quality with rich, vivid colours.
S-Frame HD1000 and HD800 models include a generous 2GB internal memory space: enough to store up to 4,000 images. A handy remote makes it easy to flip between slideshows and clock/calendar viewing modes without leaving your favourite chair. As an extra refinement, an illuminated Sony logo on the panel bezel disappears automatically when frame is positioned vertically in portrait position.
Playback specifications
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 Max. 1920 x 1080
MPEG-4 Visual Max. 1280 x 720
MPEG-1 Video Max. 720 x 576
Motion JPEG Max. 1280 x 768
Frame Rates Max. 60p
Bit Rates Max. 28Mbps
