The music industry is clearly redoubling its efforts to market DVD-Audio, with the proposed launch of the DualDisc format. Adding either video content or high-rez audio or both to a standard CD looks to be the new strategy for adding value—an acknowledgement that just offering non–CD-compatible high-rez audio is not enough.SACD has always been compatible with CD players, assuming that a label chooses to release an SACD/CD hybrid disc. But unlike the proposed DualDisc, what an SACD doesn't have is video.CS2CD says it can remedy that by adding what it calls "DVD playable video" as an option with the Sony/Philips SACD format. The company's namesake CS2CD technology is described as a "consumer-friendly CD format which embeds DVD video options onto traditional audio Compact Disc albums and singles."
The company claims that its CS2CD process can place its "advanced optical construction" onto a CD platform and that "initial research and development has proven easy integration of the CS2CD to SACD hybrids." The company suggests the resultant format be called SA-CS2CD.CS2CD's William Grecia says he may have found the missing link for providing SACD with its "full commercial potential." Grecia notes, "When I first invented the CS2CD, I wanted to create a disc that was consumer friendly, and offered additional features not available on other formats. Being a professional audio engineer, 5.1 and two channels of high resolution music is something I think people will love."Grecia says that for a next-generation audio format to take off, consumers must be given as many options as possible combined with maximum compatibility with existing and future players. The solution, Grecia states, is "offering a product to consumers that works like the traditional CD they are used to, while offering discrete added bonuses to use with emerging new technologies. If a user of an SA-CS2CD has only a CD player, then that's what the disc will be for them, a regular CD. If the user has or purchases a major brand DVD player, then they can enjoy the added music videos. If they have an SACD compatible system, then they maximize the full potential of their purchase."
Grecia uses Michael Jackson's Thriller album as an example of how SA-CS2CD could work. "The SA-CS2CD would offer a 5.1 surround-sound high-resolution and a two-channel high-resolution version of the album; a standard CD version of the album; DVD playable versions of "Beat It," "Billie Jean," and "Thriller" music videos; a DVD photo slide show to the music; and optional remixing and PC enhancement features. All on a single-sided disc!"When will this happen? Will this happen? Asked last week if the company has an agreement with Sony/Philips in place or if there are any releases planned, Grecia replied that he "can't release any more info. Final phase of SA-CS2CD R&D will begin after partnerships are final." Grecia does predict that if all goes according to plan, "nothing will be able to touch it in retail!"
