Video: Logitech Squeezebox Duet

We got some hands-on time with the new Logitech Squeezebox Duet, the device that ensures Daddy never sleeps at night. Veronica Belmont and the Mahalo Daily team provide the eye candy after the ever-lovin' break.

[Alex @ Mar 13th 2008 1:11PM]

I just got the Squeezebox Duet and have been using it for a few days. I have it set up through a Pro-Ject power box amp and a pair of Mordaunt Short Carnival 2 speakers and it sounds great. Works very well. The system does deliver what it offers. Overall, it was well-worth the $400 I spent on it.
There are, however, a few things to look out for. First of all, not user-friendly for people who aren't tech-savvy. The software (which is open source so should improve) is a little clunky and not all that customizable. Also, the remote takes a good 30 seconds to power up, which can be a little annoying if you're impatient.
Having said that, it's sweet. I'm streaming tons of music from my cpu to the squeezebox. My cpu doesn't even have to be on for me to access internet radio and other music services through the device.
My best friend has the Sonos set up and, in my opinion, this sounds at least as good (you're not forced to use the crappy amp found within the Sonos unit so, theoretically, you can have better sound) and works just as well.
The Squeezebox remote has a longer battery life and, unlike the Sonos, the battery can be replaced. Sonos finally has some serious competition.

[周鹏 @ Jan 6th 2008 7:12AM]

iPod?
B&O remote control？
sadly,too big one!

[Richy @ Jan 6th 2008 7:41AM]

Hopefully this thing will work better than their shitty Bluetooth based Wireless DJ system.

In fact, I wonder if Logitech would be decent enough to exchange the shitty Wireless DJ system I bought, foolishly (like many others) expecting it to do what it says on the tin...

[SuperQ @ Jan 6th 2008 1:03PM]

Yes, it does work better. Designed by the people that made the Squeezeboxe, former Slimdevices divison. (I have used it)

[Galley @ Jan 6th 2008 8:37AM]

If it can't do it already, I suspect the iPhone will be able to control your music devices when connected to an AirPort Express.

[adrian @ Jan 7th 2008 8:39PM]

Galley,
Could you please lend me some advice on how to get my iphone to remote start my car.

Gosh... has no one mentioned "Sonos" in this thread.

Somebody who really knows what this device does, please speak up.

[Ian @ Jan 6th 2008 12:48PM]

Can one add a Duet to an existing SB and control both via ANY WiFi device? It would appear so.
Their handheld controller looks nice, but at $250.00 why do I need it when I already control my exisiting SB via WiFi.....?
If you don't have a good mobile WiFi device the new controller would be a reasonable buy.

[SuperQ @ Jan 6th 2008 1:57PM]

Not right now, the Squeezebox Receiver requires the Controller for setup. They have said that it may be possible via future software updates. Knowing the way Slimdevices adds features to "obsolete" products, I'm guessing there's a 75% chance of it happening if there are no real technical road blocks.

[Ian @ Jan 6th 2008 2:40PM]

hmm that's a wee bit naughty way to treat exisiting customers and attempt them to be forced into the buying the new hardware controller.
Hack please ASAP!

[SuperQ @ Jan 6th 2008 10:55PM]

Sorry, I miss-read your post. The Duet is the combo deal for the "Squeezebox Controller" (the linux-based wifi remote) and the "Squeezebox Receiver" (the no-display squeezebox).

You can use the Controller with existing Squeezeboxes, atleast as far back as the Squeezebox2, and should work with the original Squeezebox, and probably the slimp3. This is how the beta testers have been using the new Controller remote.

What is not possible right now is to add the Receiver to an existing network of Squeezeboxes without the new remote.

[Dunwang @ Jan 6th 2008 11:34AM]

Logitech is not branding this properly. It is NOT their old (and crappy) DJ system. This is entirely a Slimdevices design for use with the Slimbox or Transporter. It uses the same system software that Slimbox uses and it works beautifully.

Yes, the remote is a little large, but it's also a full blown linux computer stuffed into that little case which is open to for all developers to tweak until their blue in the face. You can SSH into this device and add your own applications if you like.

Do not confuse this with Logitech's DJ system, it is a product of Logitech's purchase of Slimdevices and is built with the same quality and attention to detail as any of the Slimdevice's line of products.

[Dunwang @ Jan 6th 2008 11:38AM]

The review also doesn't mention that the $399 price includes a Slimdevices Squeezebox (or, some incarnation of it, it's a squeezebox, just without the VFD screen)

[SimbaDogg @ Jan 6th 2008 4:23PM]

For some reason, her voice doesn't really match her face...

[Jon @ Jan 18th 2008 3:44AM]

More detailed video and picture here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jonbauer/2201055378/