Logitech Squeezebox Duet

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Logitech Squeezebox Duet

Improving upon their line of Squeezebox (& Transporter) music network devices, Logitech recently introduced the Squeezebox Duet. Squeezebox Duet
The Squeezebox Duet sports a cool new remote controller with a full-color 2.4 inch LCD screen and a receiver that utilizes 802.11g WiFi. the Duet allows users to stream music from any computer to any room with an audio receiver, browse your music collection with full color album art, and even stream Internet radio stations. In addition to playing songs stored on your computer, you can also connect to online services such as Pandora and Rhapsody. Rich Tehrani came to me a couple of weeks ago looking for a device that streams Internet radio, and Pandora so he can work out and listen to music. At the time I couldn't think of anything, but the Squeezebox Duet sounds like it might fit the bill. (Rich also found Webot as a possible solution today)

Squeezebox Duet Back Panel
Squeezebox Duet Remote ControlI like how the multi-room controller with its scroll-wheel navigation makes it easy to browse, select, and play music. After registering the Squeezebox Duet’s receiver, users can use the receiver and remote control to browse Internet radio stations, and subscription-based music services, all while their PC is off. Your personal library of music can be also uploaded to the open-source SqueezeNetwork so that no computer is required for playback. You can also add an MP3tunes.com music locker and listen to your personal music collection without turning on your computer.

For multiple rooms, additional receivers can be added. Simply connect the Squeezebox Receiver to a stereo system or powered speakers. You can also set it up so it plays different music or is synced so that every room is playing the same music. Logitech stated that people already using the older Squeezebox (and Transporter) system, can purchase controllers and integrated into the network.

The beauty of the Logitech Squeezebox Duet network music system, is that music lovers can listen to their personal digital music collection, Internet radio and subscription services on their high-end home-entertainment system anywhere in their house where they have stereo equipment. The scroll-wheel controller also makes it easy to workout on your home treadmill, elliptical, etc. and change music on-the-fly like you would do with your iPod or other MP3 player. That was another one of Rich's features he was looking for - the ability to change music while working out.

My only complaint with this device is that although the remote controller has a full color LCD screen, it doesn't support video for watching streaming video content. What? No Video? (What no gravy?)

What? No Gravy?

Now that would be killer! Logitech makes plenty of video products, including being the #1 web cam manufacturer, so it shouldn't be that hard. Get on it, will ya?

Squeezebox Duet Network Music System Feature overview:
- Unlimited access to digital music: Play songs from your personal collection, tune in to thousands of Internet radio stations, or connect to online services such as Pandora and Rhapsody.
- Multi-room controller: Browse, select and play songs — all from the palm of your hand. 2.4-inch color display, convenient scroll wheel, familiar menus and intuitive buttons make navigation easy.

Performance
- Unsurpassed sound quality: High-fidelity 24-bit DAC, sophisticated audio rendering technology, and digital outputs provide crystal clear CD-quality sound.
- Reliable connectivity: Wired ethernet and true 802.11G Wi-Fi support provide excellent range and connectivity.

The Squeezebox Duet Receiver
Building on the control and audio quality of the classic Squeezebox, the new compact wireless receiver easily fits in any room in the house. Expert engineering and sophisticated audio rendering technology helps provide enhanced sound clarity. Advanced 802.11g wireless technology eliminates the need to string wires everywhere just to listen to music from the computer. And Squeezebox owners who want to control multiple music sources all over the house can easily add more receivers, allowing them to listen to a different song in each room, or synchronize their receivers to hear the same tune throughout the house. Multiple receivers can all be controlled by one Squeezebox Duet Controller.

Pricing and Availability
The Logitech Squeezebox Duet network music system is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in January for a suggested retail price of $399.99 (U.S.). For people who want to set up additional rooms to play music, additional receivers can be purchased separately for a suggested retail price of $149.99 (U.S.). A stand-alone controller can be purchased for a suggested retail price of $299.99 (U.S.).

System Requirements
  • Windows® 2000, Windows® XP, Windows Vista®
  • Mac OS® X (10.3.5 or later)
  • Linux/BSD/Solaris
  • Ethernet or Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n) home network
  • Broadband Internet connection required
Technical Specifications Squeezebox™ Controller
  • 2.4-inch color LCD TFT display with backlight
  • Rechargeable Li-ion battery
  • Built-in 802.11b/g wireless
Squeezebox™ Receiver
  • Digital optical, coax, and analog connectors
  • High-fidelity 24-bit Wolfson DAC
  • Plays MP3, AAC, WMA, Ogg, FLAC, Apple Lossless, WMA Lossless, and WAV music files
  • Built-in 802.11b/g wireless
  • 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port
  • Connects to SqueezeCenter™ software, providing access to music libraries on local computers
  • Connects to SqueezeNetwork™ for access to Internet radio and online music services


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