LAS VEGAS -- Aeon Digital proudly announces that it has entered into an agreement with Protron USA to manufacture, distribute and introduce on an OEM basis the first of its line of set top boxes. The DV-220, a Digital Media Player for the home, will revolutionize the way consumers access, store and playback digital media files, it was announced today by Giovanni D'Andrea CEO of Aeon Digital. The DV-220 combines the functions of a hard-disk-based Personal Video Recorder (PVR), with built-in wireless network connectivity and the ability to access content streams from various sources (IPTV) to give users complete control of how, when and where they playback their favorite media files. The DV-220 offers consumers a single device with which they can record "live" TV with an integrated and fully functional Electronic Programming Guide (EPG). Also included is an 80GB internal hard disk for storing up to 200 hours of video, an integrated 10/100, 802.11b/g wireless router for access to numerous other home devices, and a built-in firewall for added security when connected to the Internet. The device also allows access to all media files stored on a home PC so that these can be viewed on a television in the living room.

DV-220 owners gain free access to the Aeon Digital online network and they can rent or purchase content through Aeon Digital's proprietary network using the device's web interface via an intuitive, on-screen interface, and a remote control. At launch, the service will include streaming media access to millions of songs, thousands of theatrical films, hundreds of streaming radio stations from around the world, and specially programmed content channels (e.g. all cartoon programming). Some of the content will be available for free to DV-220 owners, while other (e.g. streaming movies) will be available at prices starting at only $2.99 per movie.

"People have so many choices now when it comes to digital entertainment. They've told us that they just want to be able to enjoy those files in the comfort of their living room, regardless of whether they've recorded their favorite TV programs, captured family memories on their digital video camera, or purchased audio and movie files online," said Protron USA, CEO Steve Brothers. "With the DV-220, it doesn't matter if the media is accessed from our online digital library, recorded to the DV-220's hard drive, or is stored on their computer's hard drive, we've given users the control to choose exactly when they'll enjoy any of those files using this single device that looks like it belongs in their entertainment center."

The DV-220 will be demonstrated throughout the day at the Protron booth at the CES (Sands Expo Center 70628). The device will be available to consumers in the second quarter of this year, with a suggested retail price of $349. Additionally, Protron will introduce a 32" LCD TV with all of the features of the DV-220 built-in, as part of the full line of portable and home DVD players, DVD recorders and other HD-ready LCD-TVs the company will display at its booth.

"Existing VCRs and PVRs have given people a taste of 'time shifting' their entertainment to fit their schedules. The DV-220 gives them the ability to view or listen to content from the Aeon Network 'on demand' giving them nearly complete control of their entertainment schedule," added Brothers.

Aeon Digital International