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Rocketboost launches PC and iOS Control App for its wireless devices

Edgar Alvarez — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:54:00 EST

Rocketboost, that "breakthrough wireless audio technology" from Best Buy, just got a feature boost in the form of a new Control App. Owners of the company's Rocketfish and Insignia speakers and soundbars should be jumping for joy -- assuming they still have energy after completing all the steps necessary to start beaming wireless tunes. First up on the shopping list is the "Rocketboost Wireless Receiver / Transmitter," which you can pick up from your neighborhood Best Buy for a measly 65 bucks. Once you've got your hands on that hideous black box, you'll have to plug it in via USB to your Windows machine (yup, no Macs) and install another Rocketboost must-have, dubbed "Control Computer Software." Finally, one of the last steps towards your Airplay-like quest is to hit up the iOS App Store (no Android for now) and snatch the Control App, which should be running in sync with the one on your PC. Still here? You can catch the app in action after the break, and check out the source link for the play-by-play to get started.

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Rocketboost launches PC and iOS Control App for its wireless devices originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iLuv outs Mo'Beats Bluetooth speakers, looks to live up to its name

Billy Steele — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 07:23:00 EST

All name jokes aside, iLuv is at it again. The company keeps the speaker / dock ball rolling with Mo'Beats, a Bluetooth audio stand for your compatible, on-the-go tech. Sporting a cradle design, the iSP245 allows your slate or smartphone to rest while connected to its speakers, located on each end of the kit. If you're lacking the wireless capability or if you're looking to keep things wired, the Mo'Beats also features a 3.5mm jack. While you'll have to wait until May to throw down your $89.99 on one, you can scope out the full PR just beyond the break.

Continue reading iLuv outs Mo'Beats Bluetooth speakers, looks to live up to its name

iLuv outs Mo'Beats Bluetooth speakers, looks to live up to its name originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 07:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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JBL OnBeat Xtreme review

Billy Steele — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST

We've been following the onslaught of AirPlay / Bluetooth speaker systems in recent months, carefully combing through the prospects to find the true contenders. We were recently impressed by Klipsch's Gallery G-17 Air and now we've given the JBL OnBeat Xtreme a testdrive. This beast is step up from the regular ol' OnBeat dock, both in stature and cost. Priced a cool $500... it's sandwiched between the pricey B&W Zeppelin Air and the more modest iHome iW1. So is the JBL dock extreme enough to warrant a purchase? We've been blasting beats through this bad boy for a fortnight, so read on to find out if you should snatch one up for yourself.

Gallery: JBL OnBeat Xtreme

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JBL OnBeat Xtreme review originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Giinii AudioBulb hands, eyes and ears-on

Terrence O'Brien — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 21:01:00 EST

Alright, so check this out -- that thing above is both a 5W LED light bulb and a 10W wireless speaker. Around the edge is a ring of glowing diodes with a four-stage dimmer, while the center is a 2.25-inch driver that speaks to a dock via 2.4GHz wireless. The AudioBulb from GiiNii is a fairly unique way to kick out the jams anywhere in your abode and they disappear into practically any lamp. A basic setup of two bulbs, a dock and a remote will set you back a surprisingly steep $299, but you can add on up to six more bulbs for $99 a pop. Speaking of rooms and bulbs, you can configure the speakers to work in stereo pairs or in mono, and set up two zones with different volume levels.

The dock is a chintzy feeling piece of plastic with an integrated iPhone/iPod connector and around back you'll find an auxiliary jack for the non-Apple fans. The dock can connect to the speakers from up to 100 feet away, depending on the environment, and comes pre-paired with the bulbs in the box. Adding additional speakers requires just the push of a button on the base and bulb simultaneously to get the party started. It was tough to hear the tunes over the din in the hall at Pepcom's event, but we're confident it can't quite compare with the Play 3. They did, however, give off enough light to keep their little corner of the convention well lit. Check out the gallery below as well as the PR after the break.

Gallery: GiiNii AudioBulb hands-on

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Giinii AudioBulb hands, eyes and ears-on originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonos Play:3 review

Terrence O'Brien — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 17:14:00 EST

Sonos 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

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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.

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

Terrence O'Brien — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 03:00:00 EST

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.

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Sonos S3 / Play:3 all-in-one speaker system pops up at Amazon for $300, gets yanked post-haste

Christopher Trout — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 04:12:00 EST

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.

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Soundfreaq unleashes Sound Step wireless speakers for audio-loving multitaskers

Amar Toor — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST

Soundfreaq made quite the first impression last year with its Sound Platform SFQ-01 audio system, which is why our ears perked up when we heard about the company's newest creations -- the Sound Step and Sound Step Recharge compact wireless speakers. Compatible with all iOS, Android and BlackBerry devices, these Bluetooth-enabled docks allow users to remotely stream audio directly to their speakers, which feature a set of ~~2.75-inch, Kevlar-reinforced balanced drivers~~, a dedicated sub-woofer and a UQ3 spatial enhancement processor. There's also a 3.5 millimeter line-in jack and a USB charging port, meaning you'll be able to juice up multiple gadgets as you kick out multiple jams. And, since these guys are just 3.6-inches tall, you probably won't have to freaq out about making space for them, either. If your appetite's already whetted, you can grab the Sound Step for $139, or opt for the Recharge (with its six hours of rechargeable battery life) for $159. Otherwise, you can find more details in the full PR, after the break.

Update: We've just received a bit of clarification from the company here. A "grey" colored model actually won't be on the docket, and as for the speakers, there's a pair of 2-inch drivers + a single 3-incher.

Continue reading Soundfreaq unleashes Sound Step wireless speakers for audio-loving multitaskers

Soundfreaq unleashes Sound Step wireless speakers for audio-loving multitaskers originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Philips Fidelio Speakers with AirPlay hands-on (video)

Zach Honig — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 12:52:00 EST

Traditional speaker docks are so 2010. This year, AirPlay is in, and Philips was on hand to demo five new wireless speaker models at the CEA LineShows in NYC, set to roll out beginning later this month through the holiday season. Its flagship Fidelio SoundSphere DS9800W will ship in June with a price tag of about $800, but didn't appear willing to pair with the iPhone Philips had on hand at the show. We did go ears-on with the more affordable DS8800W, however, which filled the small demo room with deep, rich Fire and Rain, sans-wires -- and can do the same in your own home when it ships for $400 beginning next month. That model isn't nearly as sleek as the non-functional SoundSphere, or its smaller DS6800W counterpart, which will hit stores in time for the holidays with a $500 MSRP. Philips also showed off its 360-degree DS3881W and compact AD7000W -- both of which also include AirPlay support, and will ship for $330 and $230, respectively, by the holiday season. Jump past the break for a look at all five models.

Gallery: Philips AirPlay speakers hands-on

Continue reading Philips Fidelio Speakers with AirPlay hands-on (video)

Philips Fidelio Speakers with AirPlay hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cue Acoustics PS1 wireless speakers do audio over DLNA, we go hands-on

Tim Stevens — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 20:45:00 EST

Speaker wire is expensive if you buy it at retail, cheap if you just use a spool of electrical cable, but always, always an eyesore. Sure, you can pull it through the drywall, hide it behind some curtains -- or you can just go wireless. That's the option Cue Acoustics will enable with its PS1 bookshelf speakers, shipping this August. They're a high-end pair, each internally amplified and offering a 5-inch downward-firing woofer, 3.5-inch mid, and .75-inch tweeter, covering all the acoustic hotspots with fanfare. More important, though, is that each speaker can run with only one cable: power. Full details after the break.

Gallery: Cue Acoustics PS1 hands-on

Continue reading Cue Acoustics PS1 wireless speakers do audio over DLNA, we go hands-on

Cue Acoustics PS1 wireless speakers do audio over DLNA, we go hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Philips Fidelio SoundSphere WiFi speakers get AirPlayed

Thomas Ricker — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 05:56:00 EST

Add one more to the list of manufacturers supporting Apple's AirPlay. Philips just announced its Fidelio SoundSphere speakers that support WiFi music streaming over Apple's new media sharing "standard" from your PC or Mac iTunes library or from any iOS device. Unfortunately, Philips isn't providing any useful detail about these speakers with free-floating tweeters and 360-degree sound. But hey, if you're the kind who buys speakers based on appearance alone, then the €799 (about $1,100 -- nearly twice as much as the Zeppelin Air) price tag for the speaker pair + dock should be no problem when they hit Europe sometime in May. Press release and bonus pic after the break.

Continue reading Philips Fidelio SoundSphere WiFi speakers get AirPlayed

Philips Fidelio SoundSphere WiFi speakers get AirPlayed originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 05:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toshiba's TY-WSD9 wireless waterproof speaker gives Japanese shower singers an upgrade

Christopher Trout — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 07:37:00 EST

Bath-time belters rejoice, for the folks over at Toshiba have bestowed unto you a 21st century solution to the waterproof radio. Okay, so it's not the first shower-ready speaker we've reported on, and the TY-WSD9 doesn't come with a pale-skinned celebrity endorsement, but it does stream audio from your TV, DVD, iPod, or other sound-emitting device within a 25-meter radius. The system sports two 1.2W speakers, works a transmitter / receiver setup that looks something akin to a baby monitor, and will be available in Japan for about 13,000 yen (or $160) starting this March. So get those pipes ready, cause your wet and wild repertoire just got a whole lot bigger.

Toshiba's TY-WSD9 wireless waterproof speaker gives Japanese shower singers an upgrade originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 07:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Grace Digital punts WiFi radio into a wireless bookshelf speaker system, can't escape Reciva's ghost

Sean Hollister — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 18:09:00 EST

Just when we thought Grace Digital Audio had turned over a new, touch-friendly leaf, the company's back with another WiFi internet radio that uses the frustrating Reciva interface. We can't say we're pleased, but the firm's new $250 Wireless Stereo Micro System does have one new feature that might be worth checking out -- it comes with a pair of handsome bookshelf speakers that connect over the ether as well. This time, you can not only connect to your home wireless network (or auxiliary media player) and pull down loads of tunes from the typical array of services -- including Pandora, Live365 and Sirius XM -- but listen in stereo too, while hopefully hiding that ugly four-line LCD and its irksome nests of menus from ever disturbing your view.

Continue reading Grace Digital punts WiFi radio into a wireless bookshelf speaker system, can't escape Reciva's ghost

Grace Digital punts WiFi radio into a wireless bookshelf speaker system, can't escape Reciva's ghost originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 23 Jan 2011 18:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sonos recounts its successes, dishes on future plans but not Android support

Tim Stevens — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 10:13:00 EST

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.

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Logitech intros $30 Wireless Speaker Adapter for WiDi-enabled laptops

Darren Murph — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 09:49:00 EST

A WiDi adapter, but only for music? It's true. Up until now, Intel's Wireless Display technology has been marketed as a means for transmitting video wirelessly from a PC to an HDTV, but apparently it's good for audio, too. Logitech has chosen CES 2011 to launch the box you see above, the Wireless Speaker Adapter for Intel WiDi-enabled laptops. The idea is fairly simple: place the box near your sound system, and connect it up via a 3.5mm auxiliary jack or using standard analog RCA jacks. From there, you can launch the WiDi software on your laptop, nail the 'Connect' button and watch as your PC pairs up with your speakers. If you aren't equipped to handle WiDi, there's a similar box, but for Bluetooth. Both are expected to ship in the US and Europe this May for $29.99 apiece.

Continue reading Logitech intros $30 Wireless Speaker Adapter for WiDi-enabled laptops

Logitech intros $30 Wireless Speaker Adapter for WiDi-enabled laptops originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 08 Jan 2011 09:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iHome iW2 and iW3 AirPlay wireless speakers hands-on sneak peek

Nilay Patel — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 13:18:00 EST

iHome's big announcement here at CES is the AirPlay-enabled iW1 wireless speakers, but the company also gave us a quick sneak peek at the iW2 and iW3, two new smaller systems that are due to be released... sometime. Both systems are essentially identical internally, with two low-range drivers and two tweeters, but the iW2 is laid out horizontally, while the iW3 is a tower. Since they're designed to be cheaper fixed satellite speakers for around your house, they don't have internal batteries or the iW1's grab-and-go charger, but they do pick up Ethernet ports, and you can still use the new iHome Connect setup application. No word on price, but the iW1 is $300 and these are meant to be cheaper -- we'd guess $200 or so.

Gallery: iHome iW2 and iW3 AirPlay wireless speakers hands-on sneak peek

iHome iW2 and iW3 AirPlay wireless speakers hands-on sneak peek originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 13:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony unveils new HomeShare network speakers, iPhone docks, and Wi-Fi universal remote

Ben Bowers — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 05:23:00 EST

We haven't heard much about Sony's HomeShare wireless networking protocol since the initial buzz in 2008, but based on today's announcements, it's fairly clear that Sony intends to ramp things up in 2011. The SA-NS300 and SA-NS400 are two new wireless network speakers designed to broadcast tunes from a variety of sources such as DLNA-enabled PCs or BRAVIA internet music services found on Sony's latest Blu-ray players. iPhones and iPods can join in on the streaming fun when placed in HomeShare compatible NAS-SV20i and NAC-SV10i docks. Since all of these components go beyond the realm of your average IR controller, Sony has kindly released the HomeShare-friendly touch screen RMN-U1 Wi-Fi universal remote, too. Using its activity-based control options, the remote allows those invested in the HomeShare system to send music throughout their network and a view a variety of eye-candy -- you know, like album art. Even more interesting is that Sony says all of the components will be available this March for between $200 and $300 depending on the device, which is far below the four figure price points of its early HomeShare gear. For more details, hit up the press release below.

Gallery: Sony Homeshare Components CES 2011

Continue reading Sony unveils new HomeShare network speakers, iPhone docks, and Wi-Fi universal remote

Sony unveils new HomeShare network speakers, iPhone docks, and Wi-Fi universal remote originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 05:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aluratek's new wireless speakers go Bump in the night

Tim Stevens — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 10:32:00 EST

Speakers? Oh yeah. Wires? Heck no. Aluratek has launched three new wireless audio products collectively called Bump -- though somehow a wired model got lumped in there too. A bit of a step from the company's previous digi frame and e-reader offerings, the four tune-pumping solutions start with the $49.99 AMS01F, a wee boombox that plays music from SD, line-in, or FM and does six hours on a charge. The $79.99 AUWS01F ditches the media player functionality, relying on a signal sent from a 2.4GHz USB dongle that you stick in your nearest PC or Mac (within 60 feet) that has some tunes on it. Next is the $99.99 AWS01F, basically the AMS01F boombox with the addition of a separate wireless speaker. Finally, if you're not ready to cut the cord, there's the $19.99 APS01F, a single little tweeter with a 3.5mm cable sprouting from below. They're all available now, so you know what to do.

Update: Seems these are a rebadge. Welp, at least you've got another option.

Continue reading Aluratek's new wireless speakers go Bump in the night

Aluratek's new wireless speakers go Bump in the night originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aperion's Zona wireless bookshelf surround system frees up your sound studio

Darren Murph — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 18:36:00 EST

Aperion Audio's Home Audio Link is already enabling content speaker owners to enjoy the spoils of wireless, but if you're in the market for a set of bookshelf speakers, the outfit's Zona system might just fit the bill. Essentially, these monitors combine high-end audio fidelity with the aforementioned 2.4GHz wireless technology, allowing owners to plug a transceiver into a USB source up to 150 feet away and shoot all sorts of sine waves over to their two speakers. Of course, we wouldn't recommend these to casual listeners given the $499 asking price, but at least that gets you a pair of 20-watt Class D amplifiers, 4.5-inch woven fiberglass woofers, 1-inch soft dome silk tweeters and a feeling of pride that simply cannot be described in mere words. Or so we're told.

Gallery: Zona Wireless Surround Speaker System

Continue reading Aperion's Zona wireless bookshelf surround system frees up your sound studio

Aperion's Zona wireless bookshelf surround system frees up your sound studio originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Logitech S715i and Z515 portable speakers hands-on (video)

Vlad Savov — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 07:09:00 EST

You're sick of audio docks, we know. So are we. But as much as we wanted to skip merrily along beyond Logitech's S715i set, we couldn't help but note that it's something of a rarity. Whereas most other iDevice speakers tend to keep themselves safely tethered to the nearest wall plug, this unit claims it can get an ambitious eight hours of music playback from its battery, while boasting a whopping eight drivers (two rear-firing ones on the back) in total, including a pair of "laser-tuned" neodymium 3-inchers for midrange delivery. We could hardly gauge audio quality in our noisy environment, but we'll say this much: Logitech isn't fooling around with the volume the S715i can put out. Even our video after the break doesn't do justice to the surprising roar you can generate from this otherwise compact package.

A standard 3.5mm audio input will let you stray outside of the Apple product family if you wish, and there's a bundled remote too. Yet, in spite of all these goodies, we still can't recommend this as a sage purchase at Logitech's lofty $150 price. Don't get us wrong, the S715i looks neat, just not that neat. We also managed to grab a few images of its family mate, the Z515 Bluetooth speaker, which similarly rolls on its own power (for up to 10 hours, it's claimed) and captures tunes from your nearest Bluetooth-equipped device. It's another well built and easily portable little thing, priced at ~~$60~~ $100 by Logitech.

Gallery: Logitech S715i rechargeable speakers hands-on

Gallery: Logitech Z515 Bluetooth speakers hands-on

Continue reading Logitech S715i and Z515 portable speakers hands-on (video)

Logitech S715i and Z515 portable speakers hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 07:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iHome teases first AirPlay-compatible portable speaker dock

Nilay Patel — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:21:00 EST

No surprise that iHome is first out of the gate with a speaker dock that's compatible with Apple's newly-open AirPlay music streaming system, but unfortunately the teaser page is maddeningly light on details -- all we know is that it'll have a rechargeable battery and be available for the holidays. We're actually pretty stoked for AirPlay gear -- the idea of setting up a quick mix-and-match whole-home audio system that can stream lossless audio straight from iTunes seems awfully hard to resist -- so we're eager to hear more about this thing, as well as the other third-party AirPlay devices like receivers and stereos that have been promised. We'll keep digging for more, so stay tuned.

[Thanks, Fred]

iHome teases first AirPlay-compatible portable speaker dock originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audiovox goes wild at CES: digiframes, camcorders, remotes, iPod sound systems

Darren Murph — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST

Are you ready for this? No, we mean are you ready for this? We sure hope so, 'cause Audiovox is about to drop eight new products on you here in the desert. Kicking things off is the Acoustic Research brand with two new iPod / iPhone-friendly sound systems: the ARS1i (36-watts) and ARS2i (50-watts). Both of these guys arrive with twin 2.5-inch carbon fiber woofers, two dome tweeters, AM / FM radio functionality, a bundled remote, backlit LCD, soft touch front keys and an auxiliary input jack. The latter also touts a built-in rechargeable battery and portable handle, and while it will list for $199.99 this Spring, the lesser-specced sibling will sell for $50 less.

Moving on, there's the RC60i and RC66i iPod clock radios from RCA, with the latter running on standard alkaline batteries and designed for the on-the-go crowd. That one will sell for a penny under $100, while the AC-powered RC60i will be offered at $79.99 when they hit this Spring. Staying on the RCA beat, there's the new line of Small Wonder pocket camcorders. The EZ4000 is a rugged, waterproof version that can capture 1080p clips onto a microSD card for $169.99 (available this Spring), while the palm-sized EZ5000 ($169.99) and EZ5100 ($199.99) look entirely more like a conventional camcorder and offer up 720p / 1080p video recording, 8 megapixel still shots, a 2.4-inch flip-out LCD and a rechargeable battery. The smaller EZ1000, EZ2000 and EZ3000 models round things out on the low end, with full specifications of these in the press release after the break.

The outfit is also introducing the DPF8100 ($129.99) and DPF8300 ($129.99) digiframes, both of which are a part of the newly created Décor series; if those are just too classy for you, there's also a 7-inch DPF7407 ($129.99), which fits squarely in the cutely named Celebration series. Closing things out are the $39.99 RCA Voice Control Remote (which gladly listens to commands that you bark at it), a gaggle of new AR outdoor wireless speakers, a few new Jensen in-car head units and Zentral Home Command smartphone remotes. Feel free to dig in for more information on those just past the break.

Gallery: Audiovox goes wild at CES: digiframes, camcorders, remotes, iPod sound systems

Continue reading Audiovox goes wild at CES: digiframes, camcorders, remotes, iPod sound systems

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IPEVO Tubular wireless speakers aren't quite totally tubular, still slightly rad

Donald Melanson — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 18:59:00 EST

IPEVO's products may not always push the envelope in terms of design, but the company definitely seems to have stepped things up for its new Tubular wireless speakers, which we can only hope sound as good as they look. Intended primarily as a portable solution, the speakers are Bluetooth-based, can be charged via USB (for up to 8 hours of playback time), and they can even be locked together to form a tube (hence the name). At $79, however, they are far from the cheapest option around, but you can at least get a closer look at them in the video after the break courtesy of IPEVO itself.

Continue reading IPEVO Tubular wireless speakers aren't quite totally tubular, still slightly rad

IPEVO Tubular wireless speakers aren't quite totally tubular, still slightly rad originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 Jan 2010 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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JVC intros cord-free TH-BA3 and TH-BS7 soundbar audio systems

Darren Murph — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:24:00 EST

JVC's never been much on using wires to hook up its home theater systems, and for those not looking for mind-blowing 7.1 surround, these soon-available wireless soundbar setups might just satisfy your aural cravings without forcing you to run ungodly lengths of cabling around your den. The TS-BA3 ($549.95) is a dual wireless soundbar system that consists of a 280-watt amplifier, 5.1-channel surround rig (including a soundbar, wireless subwoofer and wireless rear speaker kit) and built-in surround decoding. You'll also find a single analog input, two optical digital inputs and support for Dolby Digital, DTS and Dolby ProLogic II surround signals. The TH-BS7 ($599.95) is engineered to mount alongside flat-panel HDTVs, with a 1.4-inch tall, ultrathin soundbar, an even slimmer wall-mountable amplifier / control unit and a wireless subwoofer. This one's packing 180-watts of teeth-rattling oomph and promises 4.1 sound with minimal consumption of floor space. Hop on past the break for the full release and detailed specifications.

Gallery: JVC intros cord-free TH-BA3 and TH-BS7 soundbar audio systems

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JVC intros cord-free TH-BA3 and TH-BS7 soundbar audio systems originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 Wireless speakers impressions

Darren Murph — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:41:00 EST

Back in the day (or way back, as it were), we recall quite vividly the impression made upon us by Klipsch's ProMedia v.2-400. It wasn't the cheapest four-piece speaker set for the PC, but compared to the competition at the time, it certainly offered up a sound rivaled only by much higher-end options -- options that were generally tailored for home theater applications. Fast forward to today, and Klipsch is still carrying on the ProMedia line nearly a decade later. The latest set to waltz into our labs are these: the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless. Essentially, these are the exact same ProMedia 2.1 speakers that were released eons ago (in the midst of the Y2K chaos, if you're looking for specifics), but with a wireless twist. Klipsch has integrated 2.4GHz wireless technology into the subwoofer, and it tossed in a USB dongle in order to beam out audio from whatever PC or Mac that you connect it to. Pretty simple, right? Hop on past the break for our two pennies on how this package performed.

Gallery: Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 Wireless speakers

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Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 Wireless speakers impressions originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers

Darren Murph — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST

Anyone stumbling into a Best Buy looking for some sort of wireless speaker solution has probably been ushered over to the Rocketfish section, but up until now, only a few devices have been available. Now, the Best Buy staple is introducing an all-encompassing system that aims to cut the (speaker) cable to all of your speakers. The wireless whole home audio system, which is obviously only available at the yellow-tagged retailer, is comprised of a Wireless Amplified Audio Receiver, a Wireless Sender / Receiver, a Wireless Outdoor Speaker and a Wireless HD Audio Starter Kit, which includes both a sender and receiver. The whole rig is designed to work with standard connections for speaker line and line level inputs, so most any speaker assortment should play nice. All told, the devices combined can send up to five sources to nine receivers throughout the home, but not surprisingly, there's no mention made of the presumably lofty price tag.

Filed under: Media streamers, Other hardware

Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers

Darren Murph — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Wireless

Rocketfish wireless whole home audio system cuts the cord on all your speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony debuts iPod / iPhone-friendly ALTUS multi-room audio line

Darren Murph — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:33:00 EST

We haven't seen a new S-AIR product since Sony outed a few wireless HTIBs back in March, but it looks as if the outfit is hopping back on that horse with a new line at Best Buy. The ALTUS audio product range gets going with the "premium" ALT-SA31iR multi-room iPod package, which is comprised of an iPod / iPhone docking station and a pair of wireless speakers; it also touts an AM / FM tuner as well as an LCD-equipped S-AIR remote commander. The AIR-SW10Ti iPod docking station adds in a wireless subwoofer, while the ALT-SA32PC multi-room audio package consists of an S-AIR transmitter that connects to one's PC via USB and a pair of wireless speakers. Finally, the ALT-A33PC package has an identical USB S-AIR transmitter, but includes a universal receiver with analog audio inputs. As for prices? Try $700, $400, $500 and $200 in order of mention, with each up for pre-order today through Sony and on sale in Best Buy locations starting next month.

Gallery: Sony debuts iPod / iPhone-friendly ALTUS multi-room audio line

Filed under: Peripherals, Portable Audio

Sony debuts iPod / iPhone-friendly ALTUS multi-room audio line originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Parrot intros Philippe Starck-designed Zimku wireless speakers

Donald Melanson — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:48:00 EST

We're not sure if he's been taking notes from fellow countryman Jean-Michel Jarre or not, but it looks like prolific designer Philippe Starck now has a tower-style speaker system to call his own. Considering that Starck has paired up with the wireless-minded folks at Parrot, however, there's a few more surprises in store with these -- namely, built-in WiFi and Bluetooth to accommodate your laptop or cellphone of choice. You will still get an iPod / iPhone dock, of course, along with a remote control (also designed by Starck), and some newfangled NXT technology that apparently "revolutionizes traditional acoustic design." All that comes at an expectedly premium price, however, with the speakers set to run $1,500 when they're released sometime in the spring.

[Via Phone Arena]

Filed under: Home Entertainment

Parrot intros Philippe Starck-designed Zimku wireless speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Parrot intros Philippe Starck-designed Zimku wireless speakers

Donald Melanson — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:33:00 EST

Filed under: Peripherals, Accessories

Parrot intros Philippe Starck-designed Zimku wireless speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Parrot intros Philippe Starck-designed Zimku wireless speakers

Donald Melanson — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:33:00 EST

Filed under: Speakers, Others

Parrot intros Philippe Starck-designed Zimku wireless speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wireless ButtKicker kit ready to rumble your posterior

Darren Murph — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 10:40:00 EST

Earlier this year, we were fortunate (or unfortunate, depending on perspective) enough to get our rumps on one of the famed ButtKickers. For those unaware, these devices are meant for installation underneath a seat or sofa in order to provide chair-rumbling effects to help you "feel" the film. Now, the Guitammer Company is making them even easier to install by cutting the wires, bringing low frequency audio transducers just inches from your derriere without any cords necessary. The above pictured kit will go on sale next Friday (yes, that's Black Friday for you Americans) for under $300 on Amazon -- are you really ready to rumble?

Filed under: Home Entertainment

Wireless ButtKicker kit ready to rumble your posterior originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wireless ButtKicker kit ready to rumble your posterior

Darren Murph — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 10:40:00 EST

Filed under: DIY, Speakers, Others

Wireless ButtKicker kit ready to rumble your posterior originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Acoustic Research ARW51 takes any 5.1 system and makes it wireless

Darren Murph — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST

While even audio amateurs have been struggling for years to figure out an efficient way to ditch / conceal the wires in their 5.1-channel audio systems, solutions from manufacturers have been limited. Sure, there's the Rocketfish amplifier, which essentially makes the rear speakers in a 5.1 rig cordless, but there's still tons of room for growth in the sector. Enter Acoustic Research, which is introducing its 5.1 modular wireless speaker conversion system. The ARW51's claim to fame is this: its point-to-multipoint technology can take "any 5.1 speaker system and make it wireless." Better still, AR promises six full bandwidth, 16-bit audio channels, and the "code-hopping circuitry" enables it to deliver CD-quality sound while "avoiding any potential interference from cordless phones, 802.11 computer networks and microwave ovens." No word on release just yet, but the MSRP has been set at $699.99. Full release is after the break.

Gallery: Acoustic Research ARW51 takes any 5.1 system and makes it wireless

Continue reading Acoustic Research ARW51 takes any 5.1 system and makes it wireless

Filed under: Industry, Cables, Speakers

Acoustic Research ARW51 takes any 5.1 system and makes it wireless originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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JBL On Air WEM-1 module makes any speaker wireless, for a price

Donald Melanson — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:57:00 EST

It's not exactly the first to turn any old speakers into wireless ones, but any attempt to cut down on wire clutter is alright in our book, and JBL is now doing its part with its new On Air WEM-1 wireless expansion module. As you can see above, this one consists of a transmitter module that connects to the audio source of your choice, and a receiver / amplifier that connects to a pair of speakers (it's apparently "tailored for use with select JBL loudspeakers," though it seems you can connect anything you like). That combo will give you a range of 70 feet and, supposedly, no loss in sound quality, although you will have to make do with the 50 watts per channel the amplifier pumps out. There's also the small matter of the $360 price tag, but we're sure there's at least a few folks out there willing to accept those trade-offs for a bit of added convenience, and for the principle of the thing.

Filed under: Other hardware, Speakers, Others

JBL On Air WEM-1 module makes any speaker wireless, for a price originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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JBL On Air WEM-1 module makes any speaker wireless, for a price

Donald Melanson — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:57:00 EST

Filed under: Home Entertainment

JBL On Air WEM-1 module makes any speaker wireless, for a price originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ask Engadget HD: What's the best wireless rear speaker option?

Darren Murph — Wed, 14 May 2008 12:30:00 EST

No sooner do we ask about just how many readers actually give a hoot about multi-channel audio, in comes this. Considering the plethora of folks in the exact same situation, we knew right away it'd made a beautiful Ask Engadget HD question. Without further adieu:

"I recently splurged on a hot new plasma, but now I am looking for a surround sound system to complete the joy. My issue is that I currently live in a rental property, and don't have the luxury of poking holes in walls to set up my system. I know there are a few options out there for people in my position (sound bars, wireless rear speakers, PowerLine?) but I have no idea which gives the best surround sound result. I was looking to spend no more than $2,000."

We'll be honest -- almost anything is possible at $2,000, unless that includes the price of a few (very) nice drivers. We've seen solutions from Rocketfish and a slew of other companies that essentially enable users to add two rear surrounds sans wires when running cabling towards the back proves problematic, but often these are underpowered and flaky at best in actual use. Let us know what you've found to be superior in comments below.

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Filed under: Ask Engadget HD, DIY, Speakers

Ask Engadget HD: What's the best wireless rear speaker option? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 May 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Business-centric iPhone, wireless speakers rumored

Darren Murph — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 07:04:00 EST

No sooner than JP Morgan squashes the iPhone nano rumor and gives legs to the 3G hunch, here we have more "Taiwanese sources" shooting off about future Apple and iPhone-related products. Granted, the vast majority of these propositions are bordering on laughable, but the suggestion of an "iPhone for business" isn't too far fetched -- especially considering that Apple has already hinted at appeasing the suits in due time. Additionally, these anonymous voices insinuated that Apple was working on a wireless audio system "that would allow music to be played directly from an iPod, iPhone, or range of Apple computers." We're not saying we believe any of it (yet), but feel free to affix your skepticism filter and hit the read link for the full report.

[Thanks, Steven]

Filed under: Cellphones, Peripherals, Portable Audio

Business-centric iPhone, wireless speakers rumored originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 07:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Business-centric iPhone, wireless speakers rumored

Darren Murph — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 07:04:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Multimedia, Peripherals, ATT, GSM, GPRS, EDGE, Apple, iPhone OS

Business-centric iPhone, wireless speakers rumored originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 07:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Belkin Bluetooth Dock Adapter for iPod

Peter Rojas — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 09:40:00 EST

Almost missed this one: Belkin announced a Bluetooth dock adapter for the iPod yesterday. The product's name? Why, it's the, uh, Belkin Bluetooth Dock Adapter for iPod, which more or less consists of an attachment for your iPod that can wirelessly stream audio to a pair of included speakers from up to 30 feet away (they describe it as turning your iPod into a "wireless remote"). Better still, it's compatible with all stereo Bluetooth devices, like A2DP headphones. Retails for $129.99.

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Portable Audio, Wireless

The Belkin Bluetooth Dock Adapter for iPod originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Jan 2007 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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