EchoStar Communications and its Dish Network are launching a new HDTV receiver to complement their premier line of ViP set-top boxes.
The ViP222 is an advanced MPEG-4 dual-tuner receiver that powers two rooms, one in HD and the second in all-digital standard-definition, and offers the visual clarity and surround sound of HD.
Sales of flat-panel HDTV sets are on the rise as prices fall below $1,000, and the Consumer Electronics Association expects an estimated 16 million HDTVs to be shipped to U.S. stores this year. Much like the award-winning ViP622 digital-video recorder from Dish Network, the ViP222 is for TV viewers who want HD programming, as well as a multiroom receiver.
Dish began a trial test of the ViP222 earlier this year. The DBS provider continues to offer the most national HD channels in the industry with 32, including 15 HDTV channels from Voom HD Networks. Additionally, Dish offers local HD channels in 30 markets -- serving nearly 50% of U.S. TV households -- along with nine regional sports networks in HD.
The ViP222 also features on-screen caller ID, a host of interactive services through DishHOME interactive TV, picture-in-picture, parental locks and more.
The ViP222 is a step up from the already popular ViP211 released last year -- the ViP211 powers one TV while the ViP222 offers the multiroom solution.
The ViP222 is available for lease to new and existing customers through Dish’s Digital Home Advantage plan.
