Via embraces Microsoft Media 9 sound formats

TAIWANESE CHIPMAKER VIA says it is prepared to embrace Microsoft Windows Media 9 Series sound codecs in its Envy line of audio products, embracing 24-bit and 7.1 multi-channel content.

(See also Microsoft cuts media licensing costs to control music, video formats).

The company's announcement drew support from Microsoft in the form of gushing praise from a Digital Media spokesman Jonathan Usher, who said: "With the innovative VIA Envy line of audio products and the new Windows Media Audio 9 codec, users will enjoy stunning support in Windows Media Player 9 Series."

VIA is seeking to create PC-style devices that act as home entertainment systems and as such has embraced the Microsoft vision of standard media formats based on the newly-launched Media 9 Series. The strategy puts PC makers up against traditional consumer electronics firms already entrenched in the living room and contrasts with the Sony approached we reported yesterday, which may focus more on the TV as the traditional centre of living room entertainment.

Richard Brown, Director of Marketing, at Via, remarked: "This new level of audio support meshes perfectly with our own strategy, whereby the PC effectively becomes the centre of the living room with support for the latest audio and video content and no-compromise performance."

Via says its Envy24, Envy24HT and Envy24PT audio controllers fully support the new Windows Media Audio 9 Professional codec with support for 24-bit resolutions and up to 192kHz sampling rates in both recording and playback. The company is also seeking to extend its reach into the professional and consumer soundcard markets, with cards like the new M-Audio Revolution and the Terratec Aureon 7.1 Space. µ

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