Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Sonos' wireless Sub adds extra thump to your Sonos system for $700 (ears-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/sonos-sub-wireless-subwoofer/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/sonos-sub-wireless-subwoofer/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/22/sonos-sub-wireless-subwoofer/#comments Image

Although we generally raved about the performance of Sonos' Play:3 wireless HiFi speakers, one of our chief complaints rested in their slightly muddy bass output. Folks who've felt similarly should be pleased to know that the company has unveiled its first subwoofer, dubbed Sonos Sub. This $700 bass-dropper works wirelessly with your existing Sonos speakers, requiring a quick a setup within the app to ensure it's in-phase and putting out an adequate level of volume. You'll only find a single cable and switch for power on the outside, while looking through its center reveals a duo of "force-cancelling" drivers. Two internal air-ports also flow from top to bottom to aid in the unit's bass reproduction.

We gave a pre-production unit a very brief listen with a stereo array of Sonos Play:3s and came out fairly impressed. The speakers are no slouches on their own, but there's no denying the extra power a sub can add to the HiFi boxes. Measuring in at 15.8 x 6.2 x 15 inches (402 x 158 x 380mm) the Sub dwarf's even the larger Play:5, but a Sonos rep let us know it ensures it'll cover a range of spaces -- not mention folks using the Connect:Amp with their own HiFi speakers (Sonos' Connect, ZP90 and ZP80 aren't compatible, however). We got pleasing results from our unit planted on a table a few feet away from any walls, and the system didn't show any signs or shaking or rattling. The Sub can thankfully rest sideways for placement under some couches, but you'll likely want to "set it and forget it" since it weighs about 36 pounds. Our only displeasure rests in the glossy finish -- a magnet for fingerprints and dust -- but we're told a non-gloss version will be offered later for $100 less. You'll be able to pick up this wub-maker come June 19, so check out the video and press release after the break for more info in the meantime.

Gallery: Sonos Sub (eyes-on)

Continue reading Sonos' wireless Sub adds extra thump to your Sonos system for $700 (ears-on)

Sonos' wireless Sub adds extra thump to your Sonos system for $700 (ears-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 May 2012 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbassconnect:amphands-onhifihome audioHomeAudioiosmulti-room audioMulti-roomAudioplay:5sonossonos subsonos subwooferSonosSubSonosSubwooferstreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicsubsubwoofervideowireless audiowireless hifiWirelessAudioWirelessHifiwubTue, 22 May 2012 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos to bring subscription-based QQ Music service to its hardware in China]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/sonos-qq-music-service-in-china/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/sonos-qq-music-service-in-china/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/sonos-qq-music-service-in-china/#comments Sonos to bring subscription-based QQ Music service to its hardware in China

Wireless HiFi maker, Sonos, has just signed a deal with Tencent Holdings to provide the QQ Music service direct via its hardware in China. The holdings firm owns the QQ suite of internet services that boasts a massive user base in the country. QQ Music already exists in an ad-supported form, but the new partnership will break it out directly into audio equipment, and hopefully encourage users over to the premium paid-for version. The consumer preview is available on all Sonos systems if China now via the Sonos controller. A personalized version will follow, later this year.

Sonos to bring subscription-based QQ Music service to its hardware in China originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 May 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appchinamusicmusic streaming serviceMusicStreamingServiceqqqq musicQqMusicsonosstreamingtencenttencent holdingsTencentHoldingsTue, 08 May 2012 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos listens to reason, drops dedicated controller in favor of smartphone apps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/sonos-drops-cr200-hardware-controller/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/sonos-drops-cr200-hardware-controller/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/04/sonos-drops-cr200-hardware-controller/#commentsSonos listens to reason, drops dedicated controller in favor of smartphone apps
Sonos will halt the sale of its pricey CR200 remote control from June 1st, after acknowledging that it's been nudged into obsolescence by free software controllers for Macs, PCs, tablets and smartphones. It'll honor warranties and issue software updates for the "foreseeable future," but CEO John MacFarlane indicates the decision was inevitable, having been brewing ever since the "early days of the iPhone explosion." That never stopped his company from selling the CR200 for a hefty $349, but then again he probably deserves some respect for finally making the call. After all, rival Logitech charges a premium for its own touchscreen-equipped Duet and Touch controllers, even if you only use them once during installation and then never go near them again.

Sonos listens to reason, drops dedicated controller in favor of smartphone apps originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appaudioaudio systemAudioSystemdedicated controllerDedicatedControllerdiscontinuedmusicmusic systemMusicSystemobsoleteremoteremote controlRemoteControlsmartphonesmartphone appsSmartphoneAppssmartphonessonossonos cr200SonosCr200wireless controllerWirelessControllerWed, 04 Apr 2012 09:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget Giveaway: win a limited edition Sonos Play:3 and ZoneBridge, courtesy of Sonos!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/engadget-giveaway/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/engadget-giveaway/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/engadget-giveaway/#comments ImageWe're not settling down after last weekend's crazy pair of giveaways -- in fact, we're just getting started! When it comes to bragging rights, a solid limited edition product to show off can't be beat, especially when it's a highly coveted Sonos system. New York artist / musician Hisham Bharoocha of Black Dice fame has taken his stenciled styling talents to no more than 150 limited edition Sonos Play:3 systems (some of which can be seen below), and one of them may end up in your hands alongside a ZoneBridge thrown in for good measure. You know the drill -- read the rules, leave a comment below and keep those fingers crossed!

Continue reading Engadget Giveaway: win a limited edition Sonos Play:3 and ZoneBridge, courtesy of Sonos!

Engadget Giveaway: win a limited edition Sonos Play:3 and ZoneBridge, courtesy of Sonos! originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bridgecontestengadget giveawayEngadgetGiveawaygiveawayhdpostcrossmobilepostcrossplay 3Play3sonossonos bridgesonos playsonos play 3SonosBridgeSonosPlaySonosPlay3zonebridgeMon, 26 Mar 2012 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos' new controller apps now available for kicking out those jams]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/sonos-controller/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/sonos-controller/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/20/sonos-controller/#comments Image
Remember those revamped Sonos apps the company teased last week? Now they can be yours whenever you choose to update the software on your OS X or Windows computer. As well as a refreshed user interface, you'll get unified search, drag-and-drop functionality and one-touch party mode -- although it turns out, that last one doesn't suddenly make a party appear in your house. Shame, that.

Continue reading Sonos' new controller apps now available for kicking out those jams

Sonos' new controller apps now available for kicking out those jams originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationdesktopmacmusicmusic streamingMusicStreamingSonossonos controllerSonosControllerwindowsTue, 20 Mar 2012 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos shows off upcoming Controller apps for Windows and Mac]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/15/sonos-shows-off-upcoming-controller-apps-for-windows-and-mac/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/15/sonos-shows-off-upcoming-controller-apps-for-windows-and-mac/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/15/sonos-shows-off-upcoming-controller-apps-for-windows-and-mac/#comments
You unfortunately can't download them yet, but Sonos has now detailed just what folks can expect from its newly redesigned Sonos Controller apps for Mac and Windows. In addition to a completely revamped look, they'll offer an improved search box that promises to make it easier to find music across various services, as well as expanded drag-and-drop functionality, more accessible sleep timer and alarm settings, and an all new mini player -- not to mention a "one-touch Party Mode," which lets you adjust the volume in grouped rooms simultaneously. Head on past the break for a quick video, and look for the updates themselves to be available sometime next week.

Continue reading Sonos shows off upcoming Controller apps for Windows and Mac

Sonos shows off upcoming Controller apps for Windows and Mac originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 22:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationdesktopmacminipostmusicmusic streamingMusicStreamingsonossonos controllerSonosControllervideowindowsThu, 15 Mar 2012 22:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Google makes 'next gen personal communications device,' is testing it in employee abodes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/13/google-makes-next-gen-personal-communications-device-is-testi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/13/google-makes-next-gen-personal-communications-device-is-testi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/13/google-makes-next-gen-personal-communications-device-is-testi/#comments We first heard about Google's foray into home-based hardware late last week, when it asked the FCC for Special Temporary Authority (STA) to have employees test an "entertainment device" in their homes (as opposed to a lab). According to the New York Times and Wall Street Journal, it's rumored to be a Sonos-like device related to the Android@Home Tungsten hub we saw at Google I/O last year. It appears, however, that's not all Google's got in store, as some information has trickled out about another Google-branded gadget. Apparently, it's a "next generation personal communication device," and Mountain View has asked the FCC for another STA to test 102 of them in the same cities as the aforementioned entertainment box: Mountain View, LA, New York and Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Why? Well, Google wants to track its Bluetooth performance and evaluate "the throughput and stability of the home WiFi networks that will support the device" in a real-world setting. Other details about the device are scant, but we do know that testing on this second Google-made gadget is ongoing through July 15th, so here's hoping we can get a glimpse of one between now and then. Check out the FCC docs for both devices at the source below, and feel free to sound off on what you think Google's got in store in the comments after.

Google makes 'next gen personal communications device,' is testing it in employee abodes originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothfccgooglegoogle tvGoogleTvhardwarehdpostcrossset top boxset-top boxSet-topBoxSetTopBoxsonosstreamingtungstenwifiwirelesswireless streamingWirelessStreamingMon, 13 Feb 2012 01:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos software updates bring Android tablet support, Slacker and Spotify upgrades]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/sonos-software-updates-bring-android-tablet-support-slacker-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/sonos-software-updates-bring-android-tablet-support-slacker-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/30/sonos-software-updates-bring-android-tablet-support-slacker-and/#comments
Wireless music streaming kingpins Sonos rolled out a number of software updates tonight, including System Software 3.6, which brings added controls to Sonos Wireless HiFi, integration with Slacker and some improvements to the service's Spotify offerings. The newly revamped Sonos Controller for Android, meanwhile, offers up support for Android tablets running 2.2 or higher. More info after the jump.

Continue reading Sonos software updates bring Android tablet support, Slacker and Spotify upgrades

Sonos software updates bring Android tablet support, Slacker and Spotify upgrades originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidminipostslackersonossonos controllersonos controller for androidsonos system softwareSonosControllerSonosControllerForAndroidSonosSystemSoftwarespotifyWed, 30 Nov 2011 03:01:00 EST<![CDATA[playGo USB does wireless audio in the style of a kitchen counter top (update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/playgo-usb-does-wireless-audio-slightly-cheaper-than-a-sonos/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/playgo-usb-does-wireless-audio-slightly-cheaper-than-a-sonos/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/playgo-usb-does-wireless-audio-slightly-cheaper-than-a-sonos/#comments
Audiophiles wanting to wirelessly liberate their music from desktop speakers have a tough choice -- buy a $99 Airport Express, which uses a less-than-ideal 3.5mm line-out jack, or spend big on a Sonos.
Audiophiles wanting to wirelessly liberate their music from desktop speakers can either grab a $99 Airport Express or a $299 Sonos Play:3. Bicom's playGo USB is the new cord cutting kid on the block, and it's aiming for the middle slice of that market. For $450 you get a transmission unit which connects via microUSB to your computer and a receiver that connects to your HiFi with RCA or Optical cables. Song streaming couldn't be easier, the two have a range of 75 feet and pair up automatically over the 2.4 GHz band to send 24-bit sound to your beloved home audio kit. To stand out from the crowd, the playGo is hewn from Corian (yes, the stuff used for kitchen counter tops) and has a layer of LEDs to add some color to your musical experience. It's currently on sale for $400, but let's be honest -- you can't put a price on freedom from wires, can you?

Update: The Airport Express' line-out port is a hybrid -- capable of using analog or optical cables.

Update 2: We incorrectly wrote in the original version of this post that the Sonos Play:3 was more expensive than the playGo USB, the Play:3 is $299

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

playGo USB does wireless audio in the style of a kitchen counter top (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 21:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Airport ExpressAirportExpressBicomBicom playGoBicomPlaygoplayGoplayGo USBPlaygoUsbSonosStreaming MusicStreamingMusicWireless AudioWirelessAudioThu, 25 Aug 2011 21:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos Play:3 review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/sonos-play-3-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/sonos-play-3-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/sonos-play-3-review/#comments Sonos Play:3Sonos may not inspire the sort of high-end audio lust that a company like Polk can, but it doesn't draw the ire of serious audiophiles the way Bose does either. It straddles a fine line between respectability and gimmicky, and rightfully so -- Sonos isn't really an audio company in the purest sense of the term. Rather than loading up its components with vacuum tubes and gold-plated connectors, units like the recently launched Play:3 make their mark by incorporating wireless streaming -- a feature that's actually painless to setup. They're for people who have embraced the digital music revolution, but don't want to be stuck sitting in front of the computer or tethered to an iPod when the mood to groove strikes. The Play:3 also happens to be the first accelerometer-packing speaker we've ever tested that dynamically changes the EQ based on its orientation. As usual all the details -- from connecting and controlling the player to whether or not it produces the sound quality to justify its somewhat lofty $299 price tag -- are after the break.

Gallery: Sonos Play:3 review

Continue reading Sonos Play:3 review

Sonos Play:3 review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappappleappsaudioengadget awardsengadget awards 2011EngadgetAwardsEngadgetAwards2011googleiosiphonemusicplay:3reviewsonossonos bridgesonos controllersonos controller for androidsonos play:3sonos s3SonosBridgeSonosControllerSonosControllerForAndroidSonosPlay:3SonosS3streamerstreamingstreaming audiostreaming musicStreamingAudioStreamingMusicwirelesswireless audiowireless speakerwireless speaker systemwireless speakersWirelessAudioWirelessSpeakerWirelessSpeakersWirelessSpeakerSystemMon, 01 Aug 2011 17:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos Play:3 compact streaming media Hi-Fi gets official for $299, we go ears-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/20/dnp-sonos-play-3-compact-streaming-media-hi-fi-gets-official-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/20/dnp-sonos-play-3-compact-streaming-media-hi-fi-gets-official-for/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/20/dnp-sonos-play-3-compact-streaming-media-hi-fi-gets-official-for/#comments Sonos Play:3 Chances are you've already seen the Sonos Play:3 thanks to the leaktacular thing we call the internet. Now the tiny streaming Hi-Fi system is official and ready to start beaming that shiny new Spotify account you just scored all around your home. Inside the relatively compact chassis is a trio of digital drivers, one tweeter and two mid-range, as well as three Class-D digital amps. Unlike its big brother, which has been rebranded the Play:5 (instead of the S5), there's no active subwoofer on board, but it does sport a passive bass "radiator" that adds a surprising amount of depth to this little shelf speaker. The $299 streamer requires a Bridge ($49) to actually kick out the jams but, once you've got the basic system in place, you can tack on additional Play:3s and even combine them as a stereo pair for better separation of those all important right and left channels. There's even an accelerometer built in that automatically switches from standard to mono and tweaks the EQ settings when the speaker is turned on its side. We only spent a brief period of time with the Play:3, but it was surprisingly loud and quite clear even at neighbor-annoying volumes -- though, we're reserving final judgment until our review unit shows up. In the meantime, check out the galleries and the PR below.

Gallery: Sonos Play:3 Press Shots


Gallery: Sonos Play:3 Hands-On

Continue reading Sonos Play:3 compact streaming media Hi-Fi gets official for $299, we go ears-on

Sonos Play:3 compact streaming media Hi-Fi gets official for $299, we go ears-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioears-onhands onhands-onHandsOnmusicplay:3s3sonossonos play:3sonos play:5sonos s3SonosPlay:3SonosPlay:5SonosS3soundspeakerspeaker systemSpeakerSystemspotifystreamingstreaming audiostreaming musicStreamingAudioStreamingMusicwireless speakerwireless speaker systemwireless speakersWirelessSpeakerWirelessSpeakersWirelessSpeakerSystemWed, 20 Jul 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos S3 / Play:3 all-in-one speaker system pops up at Amazon for $300, gets yanked post-haste]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/sonos-s3-play-3-all-in-one-speaker-system-pops-up-at-amazon-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/sonos-s3-play-3-all-in-one-speaker-system-pops-up-at-amazon-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/sonos-s3-play-3-all-in-one-speaker-system-pops-up-at-amazon-fo/#comments Sonos S3 / Play:3 all-in-one speaker system pops up at Amazon for $300, gets yanked post-haste Sonos has proven to be quite the tease in its handling of the Sonos S3 (or is it the Play:3?). The wireless all-in-one speaker system made its first clandestine appearance at the FCC earlier this month, but gave little in the way of details, and now it's popped up in an (already pulled) Amazon pre-order page. This latest lift of the curtain hasn't given us much more to go on, but at least now we have a price -- $300 -- and confirmation that the speaker system is indeed rocking a "trio of drivers and amplifiers," as we previously speculated. Specifically, it's got one tweeter, two mids, and a single bass radiator on board. Amazon lists the system as PLAY3US1BLK, leading us to believe that we were also right in assuming that the S3 will come in the traditional black and white. As of now, we don't have anything confirming a shipping date, but you can bet we'll blast it your way when Sonos finally decides to give up the details.

[Thanks, Charlie]

Sonos S3 / Play:3 all-in-one speaker system pops up at Amazon for $300, gets yanked post-haste originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 04:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioplay 3Play3play:3s3sonosSonos Play:3Sonos S3SonosPlay:3SonosS3soundspeakerspeaker dockspeaker systemsSpeakerDockspeakersSpeakerSystemsstreaming audiostreaming musicStreamingAudioStreamingMusicwirelesswireless speaker systemwireless speakersWirelessSpeakersWirelessSpeakerSystemMon, 18 Jul 2011 04:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos S3 / Play:3 wireless all-in-one speaker system leaked by the feds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/03/sonos-s3-play-3-wireless-all-in-speaker-system-leaked-by-the-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/03/sonos-s3-play-3-wireless-all-in-speaker-system-leaked-by-the-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/03/sonos-s3-play-3-wireless-all-in-speaker-system-leaked-by-the-f/#comments
Look what the FCC dragged in: it's a brand new, unannounced all-on-one speaker for inclusion in your Sonos wireless audio system. A mini S5, if you will, that goes by the name "Play:3" according to the black and white FCC labels -- a hint at black and white offerings just like the S5. Curiously, the FCC docs also refer to the Play:3 as the "S3" in keeping with Sonos' S5 nomenclature. Our friend Dave Zatz speculates that the diminutive size and name is a good indicator that the S3 / Play:3 will feature a trio of drivers and dedicated digital amplifiers, akin to the S5's five (two tweeters, two mids, and a subwoofer). And you know what? We'd have to agree. Now, given the S3's size and Sonos' proven ability to use software to perfectly synchronize audio across dozens of Sonos boxes, you'll have to forgive us for wondering if Sonos has a wireless 5.1 home theater solution up its sleeve. Well Sonos, do ya? Evidence of the Play:3 vs S3 naming conventions can be found after the break.

Continue reading Sonos S3 / Play:3 wireless all-in-one speaker system leaked by the feds

Sonos S3 / Play:3 wireless all-in-one speaker system leaked by the feds originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 05:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all in one speakerAllInOneSpeakerfccleakplay:3s3sepculationsonosspeakerstreaming audioStreamingAudioFri, 03 Jun 2011 05:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos now streaming MOG music at 320kbps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/sonos-now-streaming-mog-music-at-320kbps/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/sonos-now-streaming-mog-music-at-320kbps/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/sonos-now-streaming-mog-music-at-320kbps/#comments
If you live in the US and own a Sonos whole-home audio system then the world of streaming audio truly is your oyster. You'd be hard pressed to name a single major domestic audio service not available to your S5 all-in-one or ZonePlayer setup. Today Sonos adds the MOG music service with high-quality 320kbps streams available on-demand or via customized artist-only radio stations. Better yet, you can sample the 11 million song library for free over the next 14-days before being asked to subscribe to the $9.99 per month Primo offering.

Continue reading Sonos now streaming MOG music at 320kbps

Sonos now streaming MOG music at 320kbps originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiomogmog musicmogbundleMogMusicmusicsonosstreamingstreaming audiostreaming musicStreamingAudioStreamingMusicTue, 24 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DoubleTwist upgrade features AirPlay support for more Apple / Android miscegenation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/08/doubletwist-upgrade-features-airplay-support-for-more-apple-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/08/doubletwist-upgrade-features-airplay-support-for-more-apple-an/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/08/doubletwist-upgrade-features-airplay-support-for-more-apple-an/#comments Add another notch to DoubleTwist's Apple ecosystem integration belt, now that its Android app has added AirPlay streaming to the list of features. As of version 1.4 it will stream music, videos or pictures to the Apple TV or other compatible devices while also claiming beta support for Sonos hardware. The DoubleTwist player is free, but using AirPlay means purchasing the $4.99 AirSync add-on that also enables wireless sync with your media library (iTunes) and streaming to DLNA or uPnP compatible devices. Twonky Mobile is a free alternative that's also AirPlay-compatible but without the tight iTunes integration; you can check them both out in the market.

DoubleTwist upgrade features AirPlay support for more Apple / Android miscegenation originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 May 2011 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airplayairsyncandroidappappleapple tvAppleTvdlnadoubletwistitunesmarketprotocolsonosstreamingtwonky mobileTwonkyMobileupdateupnpwirelessSun, 08 May 2011 12:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos adds AirPlay support as Android Controller app hits the Market]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/sonos-adds-airplay-support-as-android-controller-app-hits-the-ma/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/sonos-adds-airplay-support-as-android-controller-app-hits-the-ma/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/sonos-adds-airplay-support-as-android-controller-app-hits-the-ma/#comments For months we've been wondering aloud how Sonos would respond to Apple's September AirPlay announcement. After all, Apple's promise to "stream music throughout your entire house" steps all over Sonos' reason to exist. Would Sonos start building its systems with BridgeCo chips? As it turns out: no. Instead, Sonos is opting for a rather ingenious solution, at a cost of $99. Rather than licensing BridgeCo technology at additional expense atop Sonos' already costly components, the company has instead devised an approach that links Apple's own AirPlay-compliant AirPort Express into Sonos' proprietary wireless mesh network. The solution (illustrated after the break) works by first shutting off the WiFi on the AirPort Express base station and then stringing a cable between its audio-out and the line-in jack on any Sonos ZonePlayer, including the S5 all-in-one speaker. You then run an ethernet patch cable between the two and you've just enabled your iOS devices to play AirPlay audio to any (or all) Sonos device in the home from any compatible AirPlay app. Naturally, the Sonos solution does not integrate with AirPlay speakers like those from iHome, JBL, B&W, Klipsch, or Philips and the AirPlay audio won't be synced with video; but it's a start. The new functionality requires a software update to your system in the form of Sonos System Software version 3.4 -- available now -- which also adds iOS multitasking amongst a few other goodies.

Today also marks the official release of the free Sonos Controller for Android app in the Android Market making it a pretty good day to be a Sonos owner.

Continue reading Sonos adds AirPlay support as Android Controller app hits the Market

Sonos adds AirPlay support as Android Controller app hits the Market originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.4airplayandroidandroid controllerAndroidControllercontrollersoftware updateSoftwareUpdatesonossonos 3.4Sonos3.4Tue, 19 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos Controller for Android delayed until April, heartbreak available now]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/27/sonos-controller-for-android-delayed-until-april-heartbreak-ava/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/27/sonos-controller-for-android-delayed-until-april-heartbreak-ava/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/27/sonos-controller-for-android-delayed-until-april-heartbreak-ava/#comments Is it really the end of March? That's debatable, but if you've been wondering where Sonos' Controller for Android app is, well... wonder no more. Rather than cutting it loose within the next week (as promised earlier in the year), the outfit's vice president of quality has informed the world that it won't be available until next month. The exact quote?
"We know you're anxiously awaiting the Sonos Controller for Android. Unfortunately, testing the app is taking a bit longer than we anticipated. The latest addition to our free controller line-up won't arrive until April, but when it does, it is going to rock."
But will it rock as much as the image above? Time will tell, friends.

Sonos Controller for Android delayed until April, heartbreak available now originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 27 Mar 2011 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidaudio streamingAudioStreamingdelaydelayedgooglegoogle androidGoogleAndroidsonosSonos Controller for AndroidSonosControllerForAndroidstreamstreamingSun, 27 Mar 2011 17:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos Controller for Android with voice search will blow you away (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/10/sonos-controller-for-android-with-voice-music-will-blow-you-away/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/10/sonos-controller-for-android-with-voice-music-will-blow-you-away/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/10/sonos-controller-for-android-with-voice-music-will-blow-you-away/#comments You can exhale Sonos fans, it's finally happening. The Sonos Controller for Android is official. After almost a year in development, the free WiFi music remote finally gives Sonos owners control over their whole-home audio system from any Android 2.1 and above device with a screen size of HVGA 320 x 480, WVGA 480 x 800 or WVGA 480 x 854. At least it will when it hits the Market at the end of March. Better yet, it trumps the Sonos iOS controller with music controls mapped directly to the buttons on your Android hardware. As such, you can control the volume of your Sonos system with the physical volume rocker on your Desire Z or use the search button on your Droid X to forage for that certain artist, track, or album. Oh, and the Sonos Controller for Android also supports voice search -- take that iOS app. Sorry, Sonos isn't announcing anything related to an Android tablet-equivalent of the Sonos controller for iPad today as the company is waiting to see how that market develops and which screen sizes and resolutions gain the most traction. Nevertheless, we'll be getting our first hands-on opportunity of the handset controller at Mobile World Congress next week. So, until then, why not wipe the tears from your $349 Sonos CR200 controller and watch the video preview after the break.

Continue reading Sonos Controller for Android with voice search will blow you away (video)

Sonos Controller for Android with voice search will blow you away (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappcontrollermobile world congressmobile world congress 2011MobileWorldCongressMobileWorldCongress2011mwcmwc 2011Mwc2011sonossonos controllersonos controller for androidSonosControllerSonosControllerForAndroidvideoThu, 10 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos nabs streaming support for XM Radio, Lithium listeners start a minor mosh pit]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/06/sonos-nabs-streaming-support-for-xm-radio-lithium-listeners-sta/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/06/sonos-nabs-streaming-support-for-xm-radio-lithium-listeners-sta/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/06/sonos-nabs-streaming-support-for-xm-radio-lithium-listeners-sta/#commentsLook, we get it. You sunk $87,342.12 into a Sonos whole-home streaming solution, and your buds won't stop pestering you about its inability to stream XM Radio. Thankfully, the stars have aligned just in time for your impending Super Bowl bash, and it's just about time for you to start fantasizing about what their faces will look like when they're ushered into your adobe by Heart-Shaped Box. Thanks to the eagle-eyed Dave Zatz, it looks as if some sort of final blending has gone down between Sirius and XM, with a merging of accounts (presumably) making it possible for Sonos to now stream XM Radio; if you'll recall, the system has had the ability to stream dedicated Sirius channels for a good while now, but particular XM stations have been left out of the mix prior to this weekend. Hit the source link to find out what password changes are needed to get things in sync, and be sure to try it all out before bragging to said buds -- wouldn't want to eat crow after taking all of that flack, now would you?

Sonos nabs streaming support for XM Radio, Lithium listeners start a minor mosh pit originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 06 Feb 2011 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiomusicsat radiosatellite radioSatelliteRadioSatRadiosiriussirius xmSiriusXmsonosstreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicsupportupdatewhole home audiowhole-home audioWhole-homeAudioWholeHomeAudioxmxm radioxm radio onlineXmRadioXmRadioOnlineSun, 06 Feb 2011 12:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos adds Rdio to its streaming music repertoire]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/27/sonos-adds-rdio-to-its-streaming-music-repertoir/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/27/sonos-adds-rdio-to-its-streaming-music-repertoir/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/27/sonos-adds-rdio-to-its-streaming-music-repertoir/#comments If you live in the US or Canada then you can add the Rdio social music service to the long list of streaming music options available to your Sonos whole-home wireless audio system. We're talking eight million tracks that you can search, browse, and play on-demand with an Rdio bonus that lets you follow the musical tastes of your friends and idols for $9.99 per month. Get back to us in 46 years and let us know if your $5,514.48 was well spent, ok?

Continue reading Sonos adds Rdio to its streaming music repertoire

Sonos adds Rdio to its streaming music repertoire originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audio streamingAudioStreamingmusic streamingMusicStreamingrdiosocial musicSocialMusicsonosstreamingThu, 27 Jan 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos recounts its successes, dishes on future plans but not Android support]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/18/sonos-recounts-its-successes-dishes-on-future-plans-but-not-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/18/sonos-recounts-its-successes-dishes-on-future-plans-but-not-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/18/sonos-recounts-its-successes-dishes-on-future-plans-but-not-and/#commentsSonos recounts its successes, dishes on future plans but not Android support Amid the doom and gloom of the economic... whatever it is we're stuck in at the moment, it's nice to look at a success story. Sonos is such a tale and GigaOm has taken the time to profile the upstart, which started in 2002 and has gone on to produce a series of high-end docks, networked audio players, and an iOS controller app that ties it all together. Sadly, users of non-Apple devices have been left out in the cold and, while Sonos VP of Sales Tom Cullen wouldn't say when other versions are coming, he did at least say "We can see a handful of other potential platforms, and we want to see which one has the biggest concentration of music lovers." We say why choose one? Plenty of music lovers exist on them all.

Moving back to hardware, Cullen indicated that a person's music largely moves with them these days, and so the company is looking to moving into the car and personal audio areas, meaning we could see some Sonos-branded headphones and head units in the not too distant future. This could be in addition to what looked to be a potential move into proper home theater. These are crowded spaces compared to the world of wireless audio that the company currently plays, but another quality option is certainly not a bad thing.

Update: Just got a note from Sonos indicating that "at no point in the near future does Sonos plan on moving into cars." So, it looks like you're stuck with any of the dozens of other alternatives for now.

Sonos recounts its successes, dishes on future plans but not Android support originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 10:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car audioCarAudioheadphonesnetwork audioNetworkAudiopersonal audioPersonalAudiosonostom cullenTomCullenwireless speakersWirelessSpeakersTue, 18 Jan 2011 10:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos job opening signals entry into wireless home theater audio?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/01/sonos-job-opening-signals-entry-into-wireless-home-theater-audio/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/01/sonos-job-opening-signals-entry-into-wireless-home-theater-audio/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/01/sonos-job-opening-signals-entry-into-wireless-home-theater-audio/#comments Well now Sonos, what's this? A job opening for a Senior Product Manager to help the company "re-invent home theater sound for the digital age." More specifically, the position will be responsible for leading "new product creation teams." Hard to say for sure, but sophisticated wireless audio for home theaters certainly sounds like a safe refuge now that Marantz, Denon, JBL, iHome, B&W, and countless others will soon be competing with Sonos' whole-home distributed audio solutions just as soon as Apple's new AirPlay technology can gain traction. Besides, just picture a fully synchronized wireless 7.1 channel surround speaker system that requires just a few minutes to setup and works as robustly as Sonos' other streaming audio gear. We imagine that it wouldn't take too many tweaks to Sonos' existing software and hardware (you can already convert two S5 all-in-one speakers into a more powerful stereo pair) to pull it off. And anyone who's ever tried to cleanly wire a home theater for multichannel sound will surely understand why the prospects of going wireless have us more than a little intrigued.

Sonos job opening signals entry into wireless home theater audio? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 01:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hiringhome theaterHomeTheaterjob openingJobOpenings5sonosspeculationWed, 01 Dec 2010 01:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos Wireless Dock for iPod and iPhone is out now for $119]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/sonos-wireless-dock-for-ipod-and-iphone-is-out-now-for-119/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/sonos-wireless-dock-for-ipod-and-iphone-is-out-now-for-119/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/sonos-wireless-dock-for-ipod-and-iphone-is-out-now-for-119/#comments And now we're at a crossroads. Apple is about to start hitting the wireless media streaming game hard with AirPlay and an armada of third party manufacturers. Meanwhile, Sonos is improving its already impressive streaming ecosystem with a now-shipping Sonos Wireless Dock (WD100) for your iPod or iPhone that can stream your device's music digitally to any of your Sonos ZonePlayers. It's not that bad a buy at $119, especially if you already have a big investment in Sonos. Plus, Sonos has plenty of other perks (like great support for online streaming music services) that it would be happy to point out to you. Still, we can't help but wonder what this sort of product will look like in an AirPlay-contoured market, say, one year from now.

Continue reading Sonos Wireless Dock for iPod and iPhone is out now for $119

Sonos Wireless Dock for iPod and iPhone is out now for $119 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 11:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appledockiphoneiphone 4Iphone4ipodipod touchIpodTouchitouchsonossonos wireless dockSonosWirelessDockstreamingwd100wireless dockwireless streamingWirelessDockWirelessStreamingTue, 26 Oct 2010 11:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos controller goes live for iPad (update: Spotify too)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/sonos-controller-goes-live-for-ipad/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/sonos-controller-goes-live-for-ipad/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/29/sonos-controller-goes-live-for-ipad/#comments It's been a long three months, but the Sonos app for iPad is finally here, joining your iPhone in a quest to easily serve up music to every one of your fancy mesh-networked rooms. It's a free 7MB download, so if you've obtained the requisite technology, what have you got to lose? And hey, once you get used to the extra real estate, the company has a nice resting place for your iPhone, too. PR after the break, iTunes link immediately below.

Update: Europeans are also getting treated to Spotify access today with the release of the Sonos 3.3 software update. The Sonos Controller for the iPhone / iPod touch still hasn't been updated but it has to come soon -- those Spotify tracks won't change themselves.

Continue reading Sonos controller goes live for iPad (update: Spotify too)

Sonos controller goes live for iPad (update: Spotify too) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 00:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp storeappleAppStoreaudioiPadipad controllerIpadControllermulti-roommulti-room audioMulti-roomAudiomusicmusic controllerMusicControllersoftwareSonosSonos for iPadSonosForIpadzoneplayerWed, 29 Sep 2010 00:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos Wireless Dock hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/hands-on-with-the-sonos-wireless-dock/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/hands-on-with-the-sonos-wireless-dock/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/hands-on-with-the-sonos-wireless-dock/#commentsSonos Wireless Dock What you have pictured here is the latest Sonos music device. In person the Sonos Wireless Dock is exactly what you were thinking when you read the press release yesterday. The demo unit had a special Sonos branded half case that left the bottom unaltered, because like many other docks, the cases get in the way of proper docking. The dock does accept the standard iPod dock inserts, so maybe there's still hope that a case manufacturer will ship it with a special insert made with the intent to simplify the life of one who like to use both an iPod case, and a dock together.

Gallery: Hands on with the Sonos Wireless Dock

Sonos Wireless Dock hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CEDIACEDIA 2010Cedia2010hands-oniPod DockIpodDockSonosSonos Wireless DockSonosWirelessDockFri, 24 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos Wireless Dock for iPod and iPhone launched at gdgt party]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/23/sonos-wireless-dock-for-ipod-and-iphone-launched-at-gdgt-party/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/23/sonos-wireless-dock-for-ipod-and-iphone-launched-at-gdgt-party/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/23/sonos-wireless-dock-for-ipod-and-iphone-launched-at-gdgt-party/#comments See anything new in that picture Sonos fans? If you look closely, you'll spot some new Sonos Wireless Docks on the table. The scene is last night's gdgt party in Boston. The device is the WD100 that streams the music collection stored on your docked iPod / iPhone throughout your Sonos multi-room music system. Look for it launch at the end of October for $119. With any luck, we'll be hands-on with it later today. Official press shot after the break.

Continue reading Sonos Wireless Dock for iPod and iPhone launched at gdgt party

Sonos Wireless Dock for iPod and iPhone launched at gdgt party originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cediacedia 2010Cedia2010dockgdgtipod dockIpodDocksonossonos wireless dockSonosWirelessDockwd100wireless dockWirelessDockThu, 23 Sep 2010 00:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Is BridgeCo the foundation for 'Made for AirPlay' Apple accessories?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/09/is-bridgeco-the-foundation-for-made-for-airplay-apple-accessor/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/09/is-bridgeco-the-foundation-for-made-for-airplay-apple-accessor/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/09/is-bridgeco-the-foundation-for-made-for-airplay-apple-accessor/#comments Hands up if you've ever heard of BridgeCo. No? Us neither, but that's about to change following a CNBC report detailing the company's relationship with Apple. BridgeCo is in the business of embedding its network media processor and software stack into its partners' audio equipment to enable wireless streaming. Now, according to a CNBC interview with BridgeCo CEO Gene Sheridan, Apple decided sometime last year to make BridgeCo an AirPlay launch partner. As such, any vendor that embeds BridgeCo's newest tech will be able to accept streaming audio (and its metadata) from an iTunes library or handheld iOS 4.2 device -- there's no mention of video or picture streaming although AirPlay supports both. According to CNBC, audio gear should start arriving with the BridgeCo software in time for the holidays allowing iTunes users to "mix and match their favorite equipment with a common software." What that means isn't exactly clear, though BridgeCo does offer the ability to link systems into a distributed home audio network that includes a "party mode" where all speakers are synced to play from a common source. Importantly, according to Sheridan, this is the first time that Apple has opened up its iTunes software to a third party, giving it a glimpse at the source code. Exclusively? That's the big question.

When Apple announced AirPlay, it listed Denon, Marantz, B&W, JBL, and iHome as "featured" partners. Coincidentally, in a blog post published two days after Apple's fall music event, BridgeCo listed all of these brands, with the exception of Marantz, as partners of its own. If you'll recall, the "Made for iPod" licensing program has provided a steady stream of revenue for Apple since 2005. And in the last few years, Apple has relied upon a proprietary authentication chip to authorize device compatibility and to unlock features such as video streaming. Apple undoubtedly seeks similar control over the expected rush of AirPlay-enabled devices in order to ensure a consistent user experience while making a few bucks on every third party accessory sold.

So is BridgeCo the new chip and software behind a "Made for AirPlay" accessory certification program? We can't say for sure. Sheriden does let on that the Apple deal's impact is "immense" and should provide more than half of the company's revenues. Needless to say, the idea of combining systems from multiple brands into a unified whole-home audio network is certainly attractive. Sonos and Squeezebox, your approach to distributed wireless audio is officially on notice.

Update: Computerworld published a second interview with Sheridan this morning that digs a bit deeper into BridgeCo's capabilities. For example, BridgeCo solutions support Pandora and Rhapsody streaming in addition to 12,000 streaming radio stations. BridgeCo also makes an SDK available to OEMs and developers. Now for the money quote: "The two companies spent the last year working together to develop AirPlay technology." In other words, BridgeCo is not just an AirPlay licensee, it helped develop the tech. Computerworld also confirms that AirPlay will be licensed similar to "Made for iPod" systems. And with all the speculation and rumor about Apple getting ready to offer its own subscription streaming service once its data center is complete (and contracts signed), it's easy to see how AirPlay could monetize Apple's bid to dominate the connected home audio market.

Is BridgeCo the foundation for 'Made for AirPlay' Apple accessories? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 08:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airplayairtunesapplebridgecoBWDenonGene SheridanGeneSheridaniHomeiosios 4.2Ios4.2ipadipodipod touchIpodTouchitunesJBLjukebloxmade for airplayMadeForAirplayMarantzsonosspeculationsqueezeboxstreamingThu, 09 Sep 2010 08:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos and Spotify join hands to stream sweet sweet music, at last]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/sonos-and-spotify-join-hands-to-stream-sweet-sweet-music-in-euro/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/sonos-and-spotify-join-hands-to-stream-sweet-sweet-music-in-euro/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/sonos-and-spotify-join-hands-to-stream-sweet-sweet-music-in-euro/#comments Sonos owners, like most nerds, have been patiently waiting for three things: jetpacks and flying cars to go mainstream and the Spotify music service to play on their beloved whole home wireless audio system. Of these, only one is being announced today. At this very moment, in this very time, upstart media darlings Spotify and Sonos have announced plans to wed... in Europe. Sorry Yanks. When the free 3.3 Sonos software update finally arrives at the end of September, new and existing Spotify Premium (£9.99 per month) customers living in Finland, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the UK will be able to stream millions of Spotify music tracks throughout their Sonos home network. The deal not only brings Spotify its first global hardware partner, it also brings European Sonos owners up to par with US netizens who've long enjoyed streaming subscription services from the likes of Rhapsody and Napster -- the latter limited to just the UK and Germany in Europe. Click through the break for a demo and the full press release.

Gallery: Sonos and Spotify press pics

Continue reading Sonos and Spotify join hands to stream sweet sweet music, at last

Sonos and Spotify join hands to stream sweet sweet music, at last originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.3europefirmware updateFirmwareUpdatemusicsoftwaresoftware upateSoftwareUpatesonossonos 3.3Sonos3.3spotifystreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicvideoWed, 01 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Raumfeld's 2Raumfeld multiroom audio system reviewed, deemed sweet but no Sonos]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/raumfelds-2raumfeld-multiroom-audio-system-reviewed-deemed-swe/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/raumfelds-2raumfeld-multiroom-audio-system-reviewed-deemed-swe/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/19/raumfelds-2raumfeld-multiroom-audio-system-reviewed-deemed-swe/#comments Despite the bevy of multimedia streamers beating down your door, there are still few options available for high-end multiroom audio, and until recently the ones you'd likely consider would go by the name of Sonos. Judging by a recent UK review, that hasn't entirely changed, but a two-speaker WiFi-based setup by Germany's Raumfeld reportedly offers a reasonable challenge to the Sonos hegemony. PC Pro said the 2Raumfeld package "knocks the equivalent Sonos 250 into a cocked hat" when it came to quality sound thanks to a pair of Adam Audio-designed speakers, and praised the minimalist design and ease of setup even as minor annoyances (like the pairs of 'wireless' speakers that have to be strung together) popped up. It seems the only real flies in the ointment are the limited media browsing options available -- that sexy silver knob and touchscreen aren't enough -- and the fact that you can roll your own Sonos mesh network for less than Raumfeld's €1,225 (about $1,575) asking price, which kind of defeats the point. Read the full review at our source link.

Raumfeld's 2Raumfeld multiroom audio system reviewed, deemed sweet but no Sonos originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2Raumfeldadam audioAdamAudiohome audioHomeAudiomesh networkMeshNetworkmulti-room audioMulti-roomAudiomultiroommultiroom audioMultiroomAudioRaumfeldSonosstreamerstreaming audioStreamingAudioThu, 19 Aug 2010 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos Controller for iPad: multi-room music dictation, supersized]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/sonos-controller-for-ipad-multi-room-music-dictation-supersize/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/sonos-controller-for-ipad-multi-room-music-dictation-supersize/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/sonos-controller-for-ipad-multi-room-music-dictation-supersize/#comments Got yourself a smattering of Sonos ZonePlayers in need of some direction? Still trying to figure out exactly why you ripped someone's arm off to buy that last local iPad? At long last, the turmoil in your life can be settled... but you'll have to wait till late August for complete peace. You know -- 'cause the gratis Sonos controller for iPad ain't hitting the App Store before then. Head on past the break for a video of how it'll all go down, or just scroll on down if you've got the world's greatest imagination.

Continue reading Sonos Controller for iPad: multi-room music dictation, supersized

Sonos Controller for iPad: multi-room music dictation, supersized originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeAppStoreaudioipad controllerIpadControllermulti-roommulti-room audioMulti-roomAudiomusicmusic controllerMusicControllers5softwareSonossonos ipad controllerSonosIpadControllervideoZonePlayerZonePlayer s5ZoneplayerS5Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos S5 all-in-one wireless speaker fades to black, like your career]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/02/sonos-s5-all-in-one-wireless-speaker-fades-to-black-like-your-c/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/02/sonos-s5-all-in-one-wireless-speaker-fades-to-black-like-your-c/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/02/sonos-s5-all-in-one-wireless-speaker-fades-to-black-like-your-c/#comments The $399 black Sonos S5 is just like the original... only now it's a little bit older and a lot darker. Just like a former teenage popstar. Either is available to purchase now.

Gallery: Sonos S5 all-in-one wireless speaker fades to black

Continue reading Sonos S5 all-in-one wireless speaker fades to black, like your career

Sonos S5 all-in-one wireless speaker fades to black, like your career originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>s5sonossonos s5SonosS5streamingstreaming audiostreaming musicStreamingAudioStreamingMusicvideowireless audiowireless musicWirelessAudioWirelessMusicWed, 02 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos 3.2 update and S5 stereo pairing put to the test]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/17/sonos-3-2-update-and-s5-stereo-pairing-put-to-the-test/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/17/sonos-3-2-update-and-s5-stereo-pairing-put-to-the-test/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/17/sonos-3-2-update-and-s5-stereo-pairing-put-to-the-test/#comments It's not a major update by any stretch. But Sonos owners are accustomed to regular software updates that extend or enhance the functionality of their distributed wireless audio system... for free. A good thing since a four room system can easily set you back a few thousand dollars -- a hefty price compared to some brute force solutions but relatively cheap compared to custom solutions offering similar functionality but with the additional burden of extensive in-wall wiring. Today's Sonos 3.2 update delivers crossfading to smooth the transition between songs and more sophisticated alarm settings allowing you to wake to any of Sonos' vast music delivery options at any time and in any room of the house. The gang from Santa Barbara also added Japanese and Simplified Chinese language support and tossed in access to the streaming iheartradio music service giving US owners access to exclusive content and some 750 national radio stations. But the flagship feature is probably the ability to join any two S5 speaker systems to create a stereo pair -- one S5 serving the left channel and the other serving the right. A union meant to achieve a balance indistinguishable from that of heaven and hell, yin and yang, or Nilay and Paul. Read our impressions after the break where you'll also find a spectacular press release using plain, bold, and italicized text!

Continue reading Sonos 3.2 update and S5 stereo pairing put to the test

Sonos 3.2 update and S5 stereo pairing put to the test originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 May 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hands-oniheartradios5sonosstereozoneplayerMon, 17 May 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos update turns wireless S5 speaker into a premium 'stereo pair']]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/10/sonos-update-turns-wireless-s5-speaker-into-a-premium-stereo-pa/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/10/sonos-update-turns-wireless-s5-speaker-into-a-premium-stereo-pa/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/10/sonos-update-turns-wireless-s5-speaker-into-a-premium-stereo-pa/#commentsThe ZonePlayer S5 launch was an important milestone for Sonos as it attempts to bring down the cost (and raise the appeal) of its excellent whole-home music delivery system. Now we've got a bit of good news for those of you who already picked up a few of the $399 all-in-one wireless speakers we reviewed back in October. A 3.2 software update for the Sonos controller and iPod touch / iPhone apps will be released sometime this month letting you assign left and right audio channels to a pair of S5 speakers. The result should be impressive since the portable units can already easily fill the average room with sound on their own. The update will provide owners of multiple S5s with a temporary option for parties, especially if you decide to take the show outdoors... assuming you can still celebrate knowing that you're listening to two-channel audio on $800 worth of speakers. Hey, at least the software update is free.

Sonos update turns wireless S5 speaker into a premium 'stereo pair' originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 May 2010 04:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.2s5softwaresoftware updateSoftwareUpdatesonossonos controllerSonosControllerupdatezoneplayerzoneplayer s5ZoneplayerS5Mon, 10 May 2010 04:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched On: Multi-room music's rocket ride]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/23/switched-on-multi-room-musics-rocket-ride/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/23/switched-on-multi-room-musics-rocket-ride/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/23/switched-on-multi-room-musics-rocket-ride/#commentsRoss Rubin (@rossrubin) contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.
Multi-room music has a long history as the province of the wealthy, the corporate, and those with the forethought to build or buy new construction with the structured wiring to support it. But over the past few years a number of companies have tried various wireless technologies to bring multi-room music closer to the masses. Some companies have used proprietary wireless systems while others have used WiFi, and yet others have tried both approaches in different products at different times.

Those approaches, though, now face competition from a new ingredient brand called Rocketboost. While it may sound like a powdered nutritional supplement that Jamba Juice adds to smoothies, Rocketboost uses the second generation of a wireless audio technology dubbed AudioMagic 2G, which developer Avnera claims is the first multipoint to multipoint HD wireless audio platform. Indeed, AudioMagic 2G can support up to five sources and nine receivers -- significantly shy of Sonos's 32 zones, but enough to cover many homes. Each Rocketboost receiver has, at minimum, a button to cycle through active sources, and the standard also supports displays that would enable more flexibility in source selection, particularly AudioMagic 2G has a data channel for sending information about a source and the content it is playing.

Continue reading Switched On: Multi-room music's rocket ride

Switched On: Multi-room music's rocket ride originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiomagicaudiomagic 2gAudiomagic2gavneracolumncolumnsfeaturedfeaturesrocketboostrocketfishsonosstereoswitched onSwitchedOnwireless audiowireless stereoWirelessAudioWirelessStereoWed, 23 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos ZonePlayer S5 all-in-one speaker system now available]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/03/sonos-zoneplayer-s5-all-in-one-speaker-system-now-available/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/03/sonos-zoneplayer-s5-all-in-one-speaker-system-now-available/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/03/sonos-zoneplayer-s5-all-in-one-speaker-system-now-available/#comments
We managed to get a early hands-on look at Sonos' new S5 all-in-one speaker system last month, and if that got you intrigued you'll no doubt be pleased to know that the rig is now available in the US for the slightly premium price of $399. That will get you all the usual wireless connectivity you'd expect from a Sonos ZonePlayer (minus the need to purchase additional speakers), plus support for the Sonos Controller iPhone app (but no actual iPhone / iPod dock), and of course some "room-filling" sound, which we found did actually live up to its promise. Still confused about the whole thing? Head on past the break for a video.

Continue reading Sonos ZonePlayer S5 all-in-one speaker system now available

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Sonos ZonePlayer S5 all-in-one speaker system now available originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>home audioHomeAudios5sonossonos zoneplayer s5SonosZoneplayerS5sound systemSoundSystemspeakerspeaker systemSpeakerSystemwireless audiowireless musicWirelessAudioWirelessMusiczoneplayerzoneplayer s5ZoneplayerS5Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos 3.1 software update out now, let the smug music tweeting begin]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/27/sonos-3-1-software-update-out-now-let-the-smug-music-tweeting-b/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/27/sonos-3-1-software-update-out-now-let-the-smug-music-tweeting-b/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/27/sonos-3-1-software-update-out-now-let-the-smug-music-tweeting-b/#comments It's October 27th which means Sonos is pushing the 3.1 system software out to its distributed home audio systems. With it comes a slightly tweaked, user interface (color icons! heh) for CR200 owners as well Twitter integration for whatever that's worth to ya (don't worry, it's free). Still no sign of the iPod touch / iPhone app but it's expected to pop on iTunes shortly.

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Sonos 3.1 software update out now, let the smug music tweeting begin originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.1portable audioportableaudiosoftwaresoftware updateSoftwareUpdatesonostwitterupdateTue, 27 Oct 2009 11:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos S5 ears-on review: a premium iPod speaker dock without the dock]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/20/sonos-s5-ears-on-review-the-premium-ipod-speaker-dock-without-t/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/20/sonos-s5-ears-on-review-the-premium-ipod-speaker-dock-without-t/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/20/sonos-s5-ears-on-review-the-premium-ipod-speaker-dock-without-t/#comments We had the opportunity to hear a preview of the $399 Sonos S5 all-in-one speaker ahead of its 27 October US launch (November 10th in Europe). For comparison, we had it staged side-by-side with a pair of Sonos 100 speakers -- a setup that costs $678 ($499 for an amplified Sonos ZonePlayer Z120 and another $179 for the separate loudspeakers). Unfair, perhaps, since Sonos is actually positioning its five speaker (two tweeters, two 3-inch mids, and a built-in 3.5-inch sub) S5 with five dedicated amps against premium iPod speaker docks like the $600 Bose SoundDock 10, $600 B&W Zeppelin, or legacy $349 Apple iPod Hi-Fi. So how did it sound? About what we expected, which in this case is a good thing. Click through to find out why.

Gallery: Sonos S5 ears-on review: the premium iPod speaker dock without the dock

Continue reading Sonos S5 ears-on review: a premium iPod speaker dock without the dock

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Sonos S5 ears-on review: a premium iPod speaker dock without the dock originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiofeatureshands onhands-onHandsOnportable audioportableaudiopreviewreviews5sonossoundspeakerTue, 20 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos ZonePlayer S5 all-in-one wireless speaker lowers cost of entry (video!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/13/sonos-zoneplayer-s5-all-in-one-wireless-speaker-lowers-cost-of-entry/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/13/sonos-zoneplayer-s5-all-in-one-wireless-speaker-lowers-cost-of-entry/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/13/sonos-zoneplayer-s5-all-in-one-wireless-speaker-lowers-cost-of-entry/#comments
For many, the perceived high cost of getting into a Sonos wireless home audio system has been a significant barrier. While you crave whole-home, distributed audio that just works without pops, hisses, or clicks, you simply can't justify dropping $350 on a ZonePlayer ZP90 and another $200 or so for a pair of decent amplified speakers. Even then, you're still only talking about a single room -- adding more rooms (or zones) and dedicated Sonos controllers jacks the price up even higher. Today, Sonos fills a significant gap in its product portfolio with the introduction of its $399 / €399 all-in-one ZonePlayer S5 speaker. The 217 x 365 x 123-mm S5 brings a decidedly Bose-like external design while packing a 5-driver speaker system (two tweeters, two 3-inch mids, and a built-in 3.5-inch sub) that's meant to fill a room with Sonos' wireless audio. And because the ZonePlayer is integrated right into the all-in-one chassis, it easily drops into your existing Sonos device network to extend audio into any room that needs it -- no wiring required. There's even a headphone jack for stealth listening in the bedroom. Of course, the beauty of Sonos is in the wide variety of audio sources available: freebies like thousands of internet radio stations, your iTunes library, CIFS NAS storage, or line-in devices like your home stereo or MP3 player; or subscriptions music services like Last.fm, Pandora, Rhapsody, Sirius, or Deezer depending upon your geographic location.

If you already have an iPhone or iPod touch and the ability to easily network the S5 back into your router (via fixed Ethernet or close proximity), then $399 / €399 is what it now takes to get started with Sonos. Otherwise, you'll need to add a $99 / €99 ZoneBridge to link the S5 to your router over Sonos' proprietary SonosNet 2.0 (think 802.11n but optimized for distributed mesh audio) and another $349 / €349 for the dedicated CR200 controller if the free PC / Mac software controllers don't serve your need. We'll be getting our hands-on with a unit soon and will update you with our subjective listening experience. Until then, you can ponder the "end of October" and November 10th ship dates for the US and Europe, respectively. Video demonstration after the break.

Gallery: Sonos ZonePlayer S5


Show full PR text
SONOS INTRODUCES THE SONOS ZONEPLAYER S5: THE ALL-IN-ONE WIRELESS MUSIC SYSTEM CONTROLLED WITH AN IPHONE

  • Wirelessly play music in any or every room of the house for $399 per room
  • Enjoy room-filling, high-performance sound with all digital architecture
  • Access your iTunes(R) library, plus thousands of radio stations and millions of songs from the Internet
  • Control your music experience with free Sonos Controller for iPhone[TM] app or any other Sonos Controller

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - October 13, 2009 - Sonos(R), Inc., the leading developer of wireless multi-room music systems for the home, today introduced the Sonos ZonePlayer S5, an all-in-one wireless music system that can be controlled with an iPhone, iPod(R) touch or any Sonos Controller. The S5 delivers crystal-clear, room-filling sound that rivals much larger, more complicated audio equipment. Plus, the S5 provides instant access to unlimited music with control from the palm of your hand. Now music lovers can find and play any song from an iTunes library, plus, a world of music and radio on the Internet, in any room of the house. The S5 will be available for $399 in late October. To see the S5 in action, please visit: www.sonos.com/S5demo. "Our customers tell us they listen to twice as much music after bringing Sonos into their homes," said John MacFarlane, CEO of Sonos. "The new S5 is our latest effort to simplify the Sonos experience so more people can enjoy more music than ever before."

The S5 features a 5-driver speaker system that packs a big sound - filling an entire room with music. Sonos uniquely designed the S5 with an all-digital sound architecture for precise sound reproduction. The S5 includes two tweeters, two mid-range drivers and a built-in single subwoofer - each individually powered by a dedicated digital amplifier and optimized to deliver room-filling sound with smooth tonal balance and deep bass. All filter settings, bass and treble controls, active equalization, and time-alignment are done in the digital domain through state-of-the-art DSP circuitry, so there's absolutely no loss of audio quality or energy. With the Internet-connected S5, you can listen to way more music than you can with a dock that only plays the songs that fit on your iPod. The S5 gives you instant access to a world of music, including 25,000 Internet radio stations, shows and podcasts -all free of charge and pre-loaded on Sonos. Sonos works seamlessly with the most popular music services to provide computer-free access to millions of songs and stations from the likes of Last.fm, Napster, Rhapsody, Pandora, SIRIUS Internet Radio, and Deezer. The S5 also gives you instant access to any iTunes library stored on any computer or Network Attached storage, such as an Apple Time Capsule. The S5's analog audio input lets you connect to an external audio source (such as an iPod, CD player, TV, DVD, VCR, or radio) and play music or audio on all ZonePlayers in the system.

When it comes to controlling your S5, you simply reach into your pocket for your iPhone or iPod touch. With the free Sonos Controller for iPhone app (available on the iTunes App Store), you can search for songs and stations, choose the music and control the volume in as many rooms as you like. And because the iPhone is controlling the music, and not the source of it, when a text comes in or you need to make a phone call, the music doesn't stop. That also means you can keep your iPhone in your pocket, not stuck in a dock. The S5 also includes free Sonos Controller software for your Mac or PC. Or you can let everyone in the house share the control with the dedicated Sonos Controller 200 (sold separately). As with all Sonos ZonePlayers, the S5 is simple to set up, easy to expand and 100% compatible with all other Sonos products. Just plug in the S5 wherever you want music. One ZonePlayer or Sonos ZoneBridge[TM] (sold separately) must be connected to your router and all the rest will work wirelessly. When you're ready to play more music in more rooms, simply add S5s or other ZonePlayers without adding wires. Now you can play the same song in every room with perfect synchronicity or mix it up by playing different songs in different rooms. The S5 will be available for purchase in the United States beginning in late October. To learn more or to locate an authorized Sonos dealer, please visit www.sonos.com or call 877.80.SONOS.

Continue reading Sonos ZonePlayer S5 all-in-one wireless speaker lowers cost of entry (video!)

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Sonos ZonePlayer S5 all-in-one wireless speaker lowers cost of entry (video!) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobookshelfmusicportable audioportableaudios5sonosspeakerspeakerswirelesswireless audioWirelessAudiowiresless musicWireslessMusiczoneplayerzoneplayer s5ZoneplayerS5Tue, 13 Oct 2009 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos CR200 controller turns sentient, Tweets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/04/sonos-cr200-controller-turns-sentient-tweets/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/04/sonos-cr200-controller-turns-sentient-tweets/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/04/sonos-cr200-controller-turns-sentient-tweets/#comments If you've searched for "Sonos" in the Twittersphere recently then you may have noticed something odd. Tweets about the listening habits of Sonos users are on the rise. Why? Easy, Sonos just launched a private beta while here at IFA that gives a few heroes the ability to Tweet sweet nothings about the audio currently bouncing around their home audio zones. The beta adds a new "social services" (hint: that's plural) menu letting Sonos owners configure up to 5 Twitter accounts. Fortunately, it will not tweet every track you're listening to -- you have to purposely invoke the option from the "i" information icon off the now playing screen. The free update is coming "later this year" (read: Fall) for all CR200, iPhone, and PC/Mac controllers. Want it on the touchwheel-based CR100? Surely you can't be serious?

Gallery: Sonos CR200 controller turns sentient, Tweets

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Sonos CR200 controller turns sentient, Tweets originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr200featureshands-onifaifa 2009Ifa2009sonosFri, 04 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonos CR200 touchscreen remote now available]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/28/sonos-cr200-touchscreen-remote-now-available/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/28/sonos-cr200-touchscreen-remote-now-available/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/28/sonos-cr200-touchscreen-remote-now-available/#comments Well, here we are at last, at the tail end of a tear-filled journey across controllerland, CR100 finally in the trash, iPhone app getting a little love on the side, and the CR200 at last providing a true, elegant touchscreen interface for controlling a Sonos system. The CR200 is available as of today in a $999 system bundle or $349 all by its lonesome. Be sure to check out our review before you do anything rash.

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Sonos CR200 touchscreen remote now available originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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