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I can remember a time not so long ago when CES was about as relevant to Apple users as the Barbie Summit. But now Apple connectivity is showing up in the strangest of places. Case in point? Denon’s newly introduced S-5BD BD/Receiver, an innovative single-component home entertainment solution that elegantly combines an audiophile grade 5.1-channel surround sound receiver with an advanced Profile 2.0 Blu-ray player featuring BD Live connectivity. Oh, and iPod connectivity.

From the press release:

With its 5.1-channel surround sound receiver featuring 2-source, 2-zone distribution capabilities and advanced Profile 2.0 Blu-ray player featuring BD Live connectivity, the S-5BD BD/Receiver allows discriminating consumers to enjoy the very best in audio and video performance, including high-impact surround sound and state-of-the-art high-definition video, with the convenience and flexibility of multi-room audio/video.  Notably, the S-5BD is one of the first products announced to feature HDMI 1.4 with support of Audio Return Channel.

Several technological advancements define the state-of-the-art S-5BD.  The built-in Profile 2.0 Blu-ray Disc Player delivers video and audio perfection, with 1080p/24p video output, DVD video scaling up to 1080p, plus network interconnectivity and advanced interactivity with BD-Live.  Denon engineers made connectivity a top priority in designing the S-5BD. The unit features convenient front-panel HDMI (3 inputs/1 output, all certified for HDMI 1.4) and SD card inputs, as well as iPod direct connectivity via the USB port (with connectivity for Denon’s Networked Control Dock for iPod as well). For total ease of use, it provides Plug ‘n’ Play convenience (iPod/USB/Blu-ray/DVD/CD) as well as automatic sound mode, auto setup and an advanced GUI.

That the engineers are including iPod connectivity is such a gorgeous, high-end unit is a strong indication of just how deeply rooted the iPod and iPhone have become in our technological lives. Denon is a popular, well-respected company in regards to home entertainment equipment, and I think it’s fantastic to see them bridge the gap between traditional electronics equipment and the smaller, portable digital devices that are quickly becoming the standard for music and movie playback.

Named an International CES Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree, the Denon S-5BD BD/Receiver is scheduled for availability in March 2010 with a suggested retail price of $1,799. And seriously, would you pay that much if you couldn’t connect your iPod? Yeah, me neither.

Read [www.usa.denon.com]