JVC ENTERS DIGITAL BROADCAST SATELLITE MARKET

Orlando, FL, April 13,1997...JVC has announced its entry into the digital broadcast system market by entering into an agreement with EchoStar Communications Corporation. JVC is introducing the set-top box hardware to support the DISH Network provided by EchoStar.

JVC, a leader in the consumer electronics market, provides an established distribution network to the EchoStar programming system. The combination of JVC and EchoStar, in addition to the recent investment by News Corporation in EchoStar, further compliments the DISH Network system.

"We are pleased to associate ourselves with the technological leaders in this new and exciting field of digital broadcasting," said Harry Elias, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of JVC Company of America. "The future channel availability and array of services that will be offered by the DISH Network, will position it as the number one service provider in the digital broadcast satellite market," added Jerry Barbera, JVCÌs Merchandising Manager for the Consumer Video Division.

"We are pleased to announce this exciting relationship with one of the most respected and widely recognized brand names in the consumer electronics industry," said Jim DeFranco, Executive Vice President of EchoStar. "JVC provides an extensive and complimentary distribution platform for the DISH Network and helps move us closer to our goal of a dish in every home."

JVC will offer three set-top boxes available in June to be distributed through JVCÌs nationwide retail network. The price of each unit includes a one year subscription to AmericaÌs Top 50 which carries a $300 value. The TU3500SU features Infrared Universal Remote Control; High Speed Data Port; On-screen Program Guide - complete program listings; Program Browse - allows channel surfing of schedule while watching current program; and V-chip for Parental Control of child programming access based on ratings and content. The unit will have a national advertised value of $499.95.

The TU4500DU has a Dual L AND B, UHF Universal Remote Control and adds Event Timers and an IR blaster which controls the VCR to record programmed shows. The national advertised value will be $599.95.

Model TU5500DU adds Seamless Off-Air channel interface (Local TV Link); Caller ID; Local Link - Seamless Program Guide includes local programming listings and effortless switching between satellite TV and local programming; and Auxiliary input. The TU5500DU will be available at a nationally advertised price of $799.95. In addition, JVC will offer a variety of accessories including installation kits and second set top boxes.

EchoStar Communications Corporation, headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, is a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of direct-to-home satellite television products and services. The company is a single, convenient source for equipment distribution, sales, installation and service; consumer financing; programming distribution; and is widely recognized for its research and development activities.

JVC Company of America, a division of US JVC CORP., is a wholly owned subsidiary of Victor Company of Japan, Limited. JVC is a leading developer and manufacturer of innovative audio and video hardware and related software products. Throughout the world, JVC is best known as the company that developed the VHS video format, which has become the world standard of home video, and has played a prominent role in enhancing video communications.