RCA has introduced two stereo versions of its CED (capacitance) videodisk player to overcome what it believes has one of the major points of user resistance-poor sound quality. Only 164,000 RCA players had been sold as of the end of 1981.
The new stereo units, the SGT 200 and the SeT 250 have been priced at $399.95 and $499.95 respectively. The SGT 200 is the stereo version of the present player. The SGT 250 substitutes an electronic control for the frequently balky manual mode selector lever and has a remote control device.
The initial offering of stereo disks may number only 10 titles. More than 200 monaural disks are now available. The original monaural players, designated SFT 100, are now available in some discount stores for as little as $199. This model will be soon replaced with two new models, one with even more limited features yet a price tag of $299.
RCA's determination to stay in the entertainment videodisk market may pay off in the long run. Even though fewer players have been sold than expected, machine owners are purchasing disks at the rate of 3 disks per machine per month, approximately three times the rate projected.
