Yamaha Raises the Bar for Lifestyle Audio Products at IFA 2012; Home and Portable Gear Stress Performance, Connectivity and Design

BUENA PARK, Calif. — Yamaha Corporation of America, AV Division, today introduced several ear- and eye-opening home and portable audio products at IFA 2012, a global consumer electronics show starting today in Berlin, Germany. Four of the products on display, including the YSP-4300, YSP-3300 and YAS-201 sound bars and the PDX-B11 portable Bluetooth speaker system, will be available in the U.S. for the holiday shopping season and are described in detail via separate news announcements today. Additional products on display include the TSX-B232, TSX-132, MCR-B142 and MCR-042 desktop audio systems, which will be made available in the U.S. starting in January 2013. Each new model emphasizes superior audio performance, wide ranging connectivity to the latest home and portable source components and ultra-sleek design.

"Today's consumers have become accustomed to having it all when it comes to how they experience their entertainment in and out of their homes," said Tom Sumner, senior vice president, Yamaha Corporation of America. "Our Digital Sound Projectors, front surround systems, portable Bluetooth active speaker and desktop audio systems meet and exceed the expectations of consumers in terms of how they sound, how they connect with other entertainment devices and how they fit into their daily lives and living spaces."

Yamaha Offers "First Look" at MCR and TSX Series Desktop Audio

The new Yamaha MCR-B142 and MCR-042 desktop audio systems deliver superior audio from FM radio and CDs, as well as iPods, iPhones, iPads and other smartphones and tablets. Both systems have a clean and attractive design with detachable speakers that fit into the décor of any living room, kitchen or bedroom. Both models will be available in ten designer colors in the U.S.

The MCR-B142 features Bluetooth connectivity, which enables users to conveniently enjoy their music from compatible smartphones, tablets and PCs without requiring a cable or dock. Users can easily select songs and control music volume remotely from their portable devices.

Both models feature IntelliAlarm, which wakes users up gently with audio from any compatible source device. Music is first heard at low volume with the high frequencies muted. Gradually, the full audio spectrum is restored before a traditional beeping is sounded to ensure the user is awake. Different alarm times can be set for each day of the week. An Apple iOS app enables the setting of the MCR-B142's alarm and the control of music playback.

The shallower depth of the MCR-B142 and MCR-042, compared to earlier models in this series, offer greater placement possibilities.

The Yamaha TSX-B232 and TSX-132 desktop audio systems offer great sound from compact units with slot-in style CD players, AM/FM tuners and iPod/iPhone docks that provide direct digital connections. Additional devices can be connected via USB and an AUX-in port. Apple devices connected by dock or USB are automatically charged while the system is on.

The TSX-B232 offers wireless Bluetooth connectivity and audio playback and control, as well as an Apple iOS alarm app, via compatible devices.

The sleek design of these models includes a large clock display for easy visibility and IntelliAlarm features, making them ideal for the bedroom.

The availability and MSRPs of Yamaha's MCR and TSX Series desktop audio systems are as follows:

MCR-B142 (January 2013; MSRP: $449.95)
MCR-042 (January 2013, MSRP: $399.95)
TSX-B232 (January 2013; MSRP: $549.95)
TSX-132 (January 2013; MSRP: $449.95)

At IFA 2012, Yamaha will also showcase the recently announced PRO Series high fidelity headphones, as well as other products that will be made available in markets outside of the U.S.

For more information, write Yamaha Corporation of America, AV Division, P.O. Box 6660, Buena Park, CA 90620; telephone (714) 522-9105; or visit Yamaha.com/AV.