Audiovox Said to Have First Automotive Blu-ray Disc Player

Audiovox Corporation announced the industry’s first automotive Blu-ray Disc player that plays any Blu-ray Discs as well as traditional DVDs and CD Audio Discs.

"We developed the AVDBR1 in response to the consumer preference for Blu-ray Discs in their home entertainment systems. This mobile solution will allow them to maintain a single video collection that works both in the vehicle and at home," said Tom Malone, President of Audiovox Electronics Corporation.

The AVDBR1 is installed under the seat or in a storage compartment in the vehicle and connects to any monitor by using either the HDMI, composite or component output.

The unit has been road tested to tolerate the vehicle’s environment and its small size allows for multiple horizontal and vertical mounting options in the vehicle. A blue accent light is used to illuminate the slot load disc area and button array. The unit is powered from a 2-pin, 12-volt connector to the vehicle’s accessory power source and comes with a full function wireless IR remote control. An 18 foot long IR extension is also included to allow for operation of the system via remote control, while the unit is concealed, under a seat, storage compartment, trunk, or cargo area. The infrared sensor will accept the IR commands from a remote and relay it back to the unit.

Note: WiFi capable – for wireless media streaming (firmware upgrade available 2011).

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): $349.99. This unit will be available in the spring of 2011.  

"There are more than 1,600 Blu-ray titles and over 190 BD-Live content titles available in the United States today and Blu-ray content will continue to grow every year. Once again we believe we will lead the way in mobile entertainment by providing consumers with a product that connects their home lifestyle to their mobile environment," Malone concluded.