Cisco's Linksys division is shipping a networked home audio distribution system that runs Linux and uses 802.11n WiFi. The Cisco Wireless Home Audio system supports Internet radio and DLNA discovery, and includes a variety of receivers, speakers, players, iPOD docks, and a tablet-like touchscreen remote. Each Wireless Home Audio device uses distributed decoding technology, enabling devices to receive unmodified audio source material without transcoding or compression, says Cisco. The audio is then reproduced and synchronized to within microseconds, thereby "virtually eliminating" echo artifacts, claims the company.Major components of the Wireless Home Audio system include:
- Director (DMC250) -- This stereo receiver offers a 50-watt per channel amplifier, and offers wired attachments to speakers, including an optional Stereo Speaker Kit (DSPK50). Measuring 6.3 x 5.8 x 6.9 inches, the Director provides a 3.5-inch, 320x240-pixel LCD display that can be controlled from the IR controller or the optional touchscreen Controller. In addition to offering built-in Wireless-N, the device is equipped with Ethernet and USB 2.0 ports, as well as extensive audio I/O and a connector for the optional iPOD docking station (see the spec list farther below).
- The Conductor -- This all-in-one version of the Director provides a larger, 7-inch LCD touchscreen, as well as an integrated CD player. The Conductor's amplifier drives its built-in speakers, and although designed primarily for standalone use, it can also distribute music throughout a house using the Player extender speakers. Full specs are not yet available, as unlike the other components, the Conductor has yet to ship.
- Player (DMP100) -- These Wireless-N extension speakers receive music feeds from the Director, Conductor, or other home theater receivers or stereo systems. The 5.4 x 2.4 x 5.5-inch, 1.3-lb speakers also offer Ethernet connections, as well basic audio I/O.
- Controller (DMWR1000) -- The Controller can control the above devices via its Wireless-N radio, without requiring line of sight. The tablet-like device is equipped with a 4.3-inch, 480 x 272-resolution color touchscreen and five-way thumbwheel navigation control. The 3.4 x 1.0 x 6.9-inch device comes with a 3000 mAH Li-Polymer battery pack with 100-240 VAC input, and can recharge via a Mini-USB port, says Cisco.
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