Digital music systems
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What you can expect from all the players on the market is an intuitive interface and easy setup. Compatibility for both Macs and PCs is fairly good across the board. The best connectivity features include both analog and coaxial/optical digital outputs, wired Ethernet, Wi-Fi connectivity, USB jump drive hubs, and jacks for iPods and MP3 players. Nearly all systems include a remote control, the best of which have big screens to search through tracks and albums. So far, only a few systems are easily expandible (to integrate various audio visual systems throughout the house). The majority only include a single base system for use in one or two rooms. To get the most out of any system, verify a few key points:
,Below, a quick snapshot of the lineup to help you learn about the various systems that are available.
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One of the first to hit the market, boasting a combination of superior connectivity and unlimited expansion opportunities.
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Logitech Wireless DJ Music System For a mere $250, you can expect a better-than-average interface, decent reception and a responsive system that will play all the music and radio streams you have on your PC.
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Squeezebox Wireless Network Music Player All around, this is a sleek, inexpensive system, with every connectivity option.
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A full set of connectivity options paired with an attractive, streamlined design, make this a simple, yet functional network audio receiver for only $200.
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Creative Sound Blaster Wireless Music This tiny system has a nice remote and interface but a less than attractive price tag for something only supporting limited music playback.
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Escient FireBall E2-100 (100GB) These are some of the most expensive digital music systems on the market, starting at $2000.
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It does have a host of high-end features, but it is somewhat limiting, despite its $1000 price tag.
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Acoustic Research Digital MediaBridge DMP3000 This system streams music, video and photos to your stereo system and HDTV. Reasonably priced at around $300.
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For around $200, you get a full-featured unit that streams music, video and photos.
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Philips Streamium WACS700 Wireless Music Center and Station It's a multi-tasker with potential to manage music in two rooms and it goes for about $700.
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The Pioneer MT-01 Power Line Sound System |
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