Squeezebox
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Great Device
Squeezebox

Manufacturer: Logitech
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

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Streamers Streamers | Digital Entertainment | Home Theater & Audio |
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Product Features:
  • streams music from your computer for playback on your home audio system
  • connects to your wired or wireless home network
  • works with iTunes®, MusicMagic, Live365®, RadioIO, Shoutcast and Windows Media® radio
  • supports playback of lossless music files (Apple, FLAC, WMA), uncompressed files (AIFF, WAV, PCM), and compressed files (MP3, AAC, Ogg Vorbis, MP2, MusePack, WMA)
  • compatible with Internet radio stations

ASIN: B000VZL9C2
Squeezebox

Product Description

streams music from your computer for playback on your home audio system * connects to your wired or wireless home network * works with iTunes®, MusicMagic, Live365®, RadioIO, Shoutcast and Windows Media® radio * supports playback of lossless music files (Apple, FLAC, WMA), uncompressed files (AIFF, WAV, PCM), and compressed files (MP3, AAC, Ogg Vorbis, MP2, MusePack, WMA) * compatible with Internet radio stations * stereo RCA output (cable included) * 2 digital audio outputs: 1 optical and 1 coaxial *

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Great Device.......2007-11-29

The Squeezebox is a terrific device! The Squeezebox itself stores no music, you have to have another computer act as a "server" to contain the music files. This server runs software called "Slimserver" and it will run on any Linux, and it also works from Mac OS X and Windows (including Vista.) I have over 400 CDs converted to FLAC (lossless) and they stream perfectly from my server, even streaming the average 30mb FLAC files via 802.11g - no problems whatsoever. You use a remote control to work the Squeezebox, there are no buttons or anything on the device itself. You can also use a web browser to connect to the Slimserver software and perform all the same functions as the remote and more.

One drawback I found was when I tried running the Slimserver on Windows Vista Ultimate 32-bit on my AMD Athlon 64 X2 (dual-core) system with 2gb RAM. The web interface was pretty pokey and would become unresponsive at times, even while the Windows machine was doing nothing else. I moved the Slimserver and music to my Linux server, again an AMD Athlon 64 X2 system running Debian 4.0 and that improved it 1000%. The other drawback I have noticed is that file format is important. The Squeezebox hardware itself can decode MP3 and FLAC formats in hardware, right on the Squeezebox. But Apple formats (MP4, Apple Lossless, etc.) and others such as Ogg Vorbis must be decoded on the *server* using supplemental software. The two biggest problems with that is, increased load on the server and lack of ability to fast-forward and rewind within a track.

Regardless, I like this device so much, I'm planning on getting another one that I can move around where I like, while leaving the first one permanently at the main stereo.
Riptopia CD Ripping and iPod Loading Service 100 CDs To Digital Music
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Encoding data rate may be too low for discerning listeners
  • I was clueless
  • Finally! A Great Idea
  • Big time savings
  • This ain't no iTunes collection
Riptopia CD Ripping and iPod Loading Service 100 CDs To Digital Music

Manufacturer: Riptopia
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

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Product Features:
  • 100 of your favorite CDs converted to HD digital music
  • Ready to upload into iTunes and all iPod and iPhone models
  • Universally compatible with all other brands of mp3 players, phones, and computers
  • Superior quality digital music that includes detailed CD information and album art
  • All CDs are insured and returned at the end of processing

ASIN: B000UKAX2A
Riptopia CD Ripping and iPod Loading Service 100 CDs To Digital Music

Amazon.com Product Description

Riptopia CD Ripping Service. 100 CDs converted to mp3 and loaded onto your iPod, iphone, music phone, Sonos, sqeezebox, hard drive, NAS drive

Amazon.com Product Description
Riptopia is the quick and easy way to turn the CDs you love into high quality digital music. Fill your iPod, phone, or MP3 player with high definition digital music; each CD is converted for $.99 per CD, or the same price of a single digital song! Your 100 favorite CDs are turned into professional digital music that is backed up onto DVDs in case your iPod is lost or your computer malfunctions. Even the most well loved CDs can be digitized with Riptopia's patent pending systems. A $20 per order insurance and handling charge keeps your precious music secure. At the end of processing, your original CDs are returned along with your new digital music with rich artist and album information including bright digital album art.

Take Back Your Weekends.

Your Entire CD Collection In Your Back Pocket.

The Same Accurate Music Data and Album Art as Apple Music Store.

Your Digital Music Backed Up and Protected.

Save Valuable Time
Ripping 100s of CDs on a home computer can take weeks, even months. Most people do not have the time, patience, or technical knowledge to suffer through such a long, tediuous endeavor. Riptopia processes thousands of CDs a day. This amazing capacity was designed for both speed and accuracy and is unparalleled in the digital music industry. Now you have access to the same professional processing used by record labels, radio stations, and online music sites. You only need to digitize your CD collection once, so do it right. Plus, Riptopia is available in three different service levels: 50 CDs, 100 CDs, and 200 CDs.

Ensure Superior Sound Quality
Riptopia ensures that your new music sounds fantastic by digitizing to higher technical standards then digital music sold online. Riptopia's Nirvana processing system was optimized for used CD collections. Created by experts in the scientific and academic fields, the Nirvana system can resurrect CDs that appear to be unplayable, turning forgotten music into rediscovered gems.

Provide Vital Album Information

Digital players allow a specific song or artist to be found in an instant--provided the album information embedded in the digital song is correct and consistant. Riptopia's CleanTag process embeds accurate music information, including vibrant album art, into the music files to simplify these searches. The process starts with a database of 70 million unique songs in 80 different languages from our partners Gracenote and Muze (The same data partners as Apple Music Store). CleanTag then combines a verification system and a team of musicologists to check the album data for accuracy and completeness. The result is easily searchable music that is accurate--important for rock and pop but critical for classical and jazz.

Back Up Your Digital Music
Riptopia delivers your new digital music library on high density data DVDs. Each DVD can hold up to 100 of your CDs. After uploading your music onto your computer, iPod, phone, or music server, the DVDs can be stored in case your digital player is misplaced or your hard drive crashes. Having the piece of mind that your digital collection is protected is a key reason for having Riptopia's professional service create your digital music archive.

Easy As 1, 2, 3
After placing your order, Amazon will send you everything you need to securely pack your CDs and ship them for processing. The CD Collection Kit includes spindles to hold your CDs along with protective padding and a pre-paid and insured shipping label. Simply load your CDs onto the spindles, seal the box and ship. In a few days Riptopia will return your new digital music library on data DVDs, along with your original CDs. You are now ready to enjoy your perfectly portable, easily sortable digital music library for loading onto your iPod, computer, or music phone.

Riptopia Digital Music Compatibility
Riptopia music is compatible with all models of Apple iPod nano, mini, iPod 4G (Clickwheel), iPod 5G/5.5G Video, iPod Shuffle, iPod Touch, iPhone, Microsoft Zune, Creative Zen, iRiver, Sandisk Sansa, Sonos, Roku, Squeezebox, Coby, Samsung YP, Nokia 5300 Express, LG Chocolate, LG enV, LG Muziq, LG Fusic, and Motorola KRZR. Also compatible with iTunes for Mac or Windows.

Customer Reviews:

2 out of 5 stars Encoding data rate may be too low for discerning listeners.......2007-12-14

As owner of a 600+ CD collection, I have been looking into ripping services in order to save time. Unfortunately, basic technical details are lacking in Riptopia's product description, namely the encoding data rate. From the mentioned "up to 100 CDs on one DVD" I conclude it's around 192 kbit/s. That may be enough when you play your music through an iPod or a Sonos, but with a hi-fi device like a Squeezebox a loss of quality is audible to discerning ears compared to the same CD encoded in lossless format (like FLAC or ALAC).

5 out of 5 stars I was clueless.......2007-10-17

Sonos ZonePlayer ZP80 Add-On Player

My husband and I bought a Sonos and were so excited until we discovered how much time it took to get all 5oo of our CD's on it. I have no idea how to rip Cd's and really do not care to learn. We shipped them all to Riptopia and we get them back so quick. Now our parties have gone up a level thanks to all our music being digital. Definitely worth it.

5 out of 5 stars Finally! A Great Idea.......2007-10-17

I have had my iPod now for a couple years and all my old CDs sitting in a drawer collecting dust. I tried Riptopia and now my collection is one! I forgot how much I loved Smash Mouth and Alanis Morssette; now I am singing my old favorites wherever I go. Riptopia seems like such a obvious idea and it worked very simply; I recommend this product to anyone who has more CDs then the time to upload.

5 out of 5 stars Big time savings.......2007-10-16

I used the Riptopia service about 6 months ago. I really saved alot of time. It was taking me 15 minutes per CD to convert to digital. They did 300 CDs in about 7 days turn around. Thank goodness.

5 out of 5 stars This ain't no iTunes collection.......2007-10-15

I feel like I came late to the digital music party, but when I do something I want to do it right. iTunes made no sense to me... I have over 500 CDs and I'm not buying them again. Ripping them at home was going to take weeks, and I was not happy with the quality of the metadata I was getting when I did a couple of tests on some older classical stuff.
Thank god for Riptopia... the speed of turnaround is one thing but the key for me was getting such high quality music back and with the right info and album artwork on it. Everything was organized and standardized so I could easily find stuff.
Running everything through a Sonos system I have re-found music I'd forgotten I owned. THis service is not for the kids... I don't know any kids who have CDs... but for us older folk with big collections, no time and a discerning palate for quality Riptopia is the only way to go.
Squeezebox Network Music Player - White
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • This is the future of music. Insanely cool.
  • Siimply the best purchase for my home audio system I've ever made
  • Amazing! Even I can do it!
  • No problems here
  • I also have nothing but silence
Squeezebox Network Music Player - White

Manufacturer: SLIM DEVICES
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

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Product Features:
  • Stream your digital music or WMA & MP3 Internet radio stations
  • Connect to any digital/analog stereo over 802.11g wireless network
  • Supports MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, Apple Lossless, WMA Lossless formats
  • Place anywhere; modern design, built-in display, dual internal antennas
  • Easy to setup and use with any computer; PC/Mac/Linux/Solaris

ASIN: B000BUX3I0
Squeezebox Network Music Player - White

Product Description

Squeezebox v3 streams digital music or MP3 Internet radio stations to any digital and analog stereo over a home 802.11g wireless network. It is a study in downtempo, modern design appropriate for any setting and a joy for the eyes as well as the ears. The contrast of highly polished material against a crisp brushed metal fascia is a fitting reflection of the sophisticated technology within. Squeezebox the easiest way for music lovers to enjoy high-quality playback of their whole digital music collection (compressed and uncompressed audio files) anywhere in their home. Squeezebox lets you rediscover the hidden gems of your music collection. Start with one and then add players in different rooms to create an affordable whole-house audio experience without the hassle of re-wiring your home. Squeezebox uses SlimServer, the powerful software developed by Slim Devices. Because the software is developed under an open source license, Slim Devices is able to tap into the creative energies of a worldwide team of independent programmers. Squeezebox, as a result, continues to add features with the release of new software and the product never becomes obsolete! Squeezebox includes many features not found in similar products; built-in alarm clock, SHOUTcast directory, music selection by Album Art, BBC news ticker and more. Audio outputs; digital coax & optical, analog RCA, mini-jack connector.

Amazon.com Review

Deciding how to offer a review of the third-generation Squeezebox by Slim Devices without gushing forth a stream of typical market-speak accolades ("Incredible!" "Outstanding!" "A must-have for any music lover!") is not easy. And even more difficult, given all that Squeezebox has going for it, is deciding where to start describing the wealth of features this little box boasts.


Squeezebox gives you full control over your entire digital music library. And it couldn't be easier. (Black model and remote shown).


Stereo level meters are a nice touch. View larger.


All the connections you need are on the back. See detail.
From Digital Files to High Performance
Although the tools to convert CDs to digital files have become standard fare on nearly every computer, by comparison the tools needed to play those files on a high-performance sound system can be clunky, inconvenient, and downright frustrating to use. Until recently, our options have been either to drag expensive computers to the living room and wire them directly to our stereos, or to buy an expensive digital music player that we then need to continually plug and unplug.

Enter Squeezebox to save us from this hassle. After plugging this streamlined device into your stereo via a standard RCA cable, and taking all of five minutes to download software to your computer and configure Squeezebox to your wireless network (okay, maybe seven minutes if you're chewing gum at the same time), you can immediately start "pulling" music off your Mac or PC for full-sounding playback through your entertainment system. Imagine being able to keep your computer on your desk, and your digital player in your pocket, and still crank your digital music with abandon! It's really that simple: within a few minutes of unpacking the Squeezebox, your digital files are yours for the asking from the comfort of your couch. (Squeezebox is also offered in a "wired-only" model that connects directly to the Internet via an Ethernet cable.)

Once Squeezebox is set up, it immediately presents your music on its easy-to-read display by genre, artist, song, album and even year. With the help of a handy remote, you can scroll through just about every music file on your computer and play songs in whatever sequence you desire. As long as your digital files are in a single location (in your iTunes folder, for instance), Squeezebox will get them to you. Although your computer must be on in order to play your digital files, you don't necessarily have to start it up just to play your music. Squeezebox also gives you the option of using the remote to wake your PC or Mac from a "sleep" state remotely, adding to the system's ultimate ease of use.


Squeezebox offers lots of setup options.


A handy remote is included (black remote shown, white model ships with white remote). View larger.
Squeezebox supports most popular formats, such as AAC (on Mac or Windows), and AIFF, FLAC, MP3, Ogg Vorbis, WAV or WMA (Windows only). The sound quality is limited only by how well you burned your CDs in the first place, and by the performance of your entertainment system.

Surely there must be a catch, you're probably thinking. In fact, there are a couple of glitches that beg for improvement in the next-generation model.

First, while you can create play lists for Squeezebox on your computer via the software's browser interface -- a somewhat clunky procedure --, or with the remote itself -- an easier, though still time-consuming process --, Squeezebox could not access the play lists we had already created in our iTunes player. According to the manufacturer, only iTunes users suffer from this problem; Squeezebox recognizes lists created in Windows Media and other popular players. The second issue has to do with encrypted files. Simply put, it can't play any files you purchase or download from an online store, such as the iTunes Music Store, that are protected. For those files, you'll have to continue to resort to the primitive plug-and-play method.

Internet Radio without a Computer
In addition to playing digital files, you can use Squeezebox to stream Internet radio straight into your living room without a computer. Squeezebox feeds directly from your wireless network to do this. With the Web interface, or via the remote, you can create a list of your favorite Internet radio stations for streaming. Squeezebox also comes loaded with several stations covering the full array of musical genres, from jazz and world music, to 70's pop and 90's electronica. For news junkies, Squeezebox can also stream your favorite RSS feeds across its aqua blue display.

About the size of a bedside digital alarm clock, Squeezebox can sit inconspicuously on any horizontal surface. The ports, all located on the back of the unit, include a mini headphone jack, RCA connections, a digital optical output and coax output, and an Ethernet connection. An extremely intuitive interface on Squeezebox lets you easily configure the display's text size, illumination, screen saver, and track information.

Until the day comes when affordable entertainment systems exist that offer seamless convergence of wireless Internet and digital technology with high-performance playback, Squeezebox will let you share your digital music loudly and clearly with just a few clicks of the remote.

Pros:

Cons: What's in the Box
Squeezebox Network Music Player, AC power adaptor (appropriate plug by region), user's manual, SlimServer software (requires download), custom infrared remote (2 AAA batteries included), and 6-foot gold plated RCA patch cord.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars This is the future of music. Insanely cool........2007-11-26

I am a gadget freak and this is without a doubt the COOLEST toy I own. After ripping my entire CD collection to WMA lossless and later converting to FLAC to get the advantage of replaygain volume leveling, I can now instantly play any song or playlist from over 400 CDs, quickly searching via artist name, album, genre, or a custom playlist. The networking setup is not quite as easy or simple as it should be, especially if you are using wireless or multiple PCs running multiple servers. But it's not that hard, either, and I was able to figure it out and once I did, it works consistently and very, very well. The sound quality is absolutely as good as from the original CDs. The remote is not bad, but it could be even better, but it's just as easy to run the interface from a laptop using wi-fi, even if your music library is on another network computer or hard drive. The support on the slim devices forums and knowledgebase are very good, and if you really need some hand-holding you can call them and talk to a live person for help. Seriously, you set this up and you will start feeling like a pro DJ- all you need is a VIP guest list...

5 out of 5 stars Siimply the best purchase for my home audio system I've ever made.......2007-11-17

I'm not going to do an in-depth review of because so many other folks have, but I'll give my two cents. I've owned a Squeezebox for over 2 years now and it has worked flawlessly the entire time. Setup was easy from what I remember (it's been a while), sound quality is fantastic (especially when using FLAC files), and it looks so good sitting on my shelf with my Onkyo TX-NR901. In fact frustration with Onkyo's built in music server is what prompted me to buy the Squeezebox. This is one gadget I have never had one iota of buyers remorse for... ever.

5 out of 5 stars Amazing! Even I can do it!.......2007-08-21

I have recently decided to enter the 20th century and made my computer/printer wireless. Then, what the heck, how about the stereo too. This is new and daunting stuff for me (I'm much older than 14). Once I got the coumputer wireless to satellite (LinkSys), then came the print server (NetGear)--no problem with either. The stereo connection was simplest of all. In less than 20' (including reading the instructions) I was streaming my CD collection to my stereo. Only one glitch. After about 1/2 hour, the computer-squeezebox interface (Web) failed to find the Squeezebox. What fixed it was going through the Squeezebox setup again. (It had everyting I had previously entered so I just stepped through.) I has worked for the last 2 hrs. w/o problems. If you don't hear from me again on this, assume that it is still working well. Frankly, I'm amazed that this suite of mixed-maker products work together. I know, they should, but realistically, how often do electronics interface as they advertise?
ADDITION: After a month or so, I still greatly enjoy this product, but there are glitches. When my network goes down, sometimes the Squeezebox does not come back up with the rest. I found that unplugging it then going through the setup menu (accepting everyting as it is presented) brings it back up. Simple unplugging and powering up does not work.
Also, I have Panasonic home theater with wireless back speakers. I had to move the WiFi to channel 11 to prevent interference and buy new wireless phones too (Panasonic DIRECT 6.0). It's a learning experience! Not hopelessl, though!

5 out of 5 stars No problems here.......2007-08-09

Ok...no problems here...has worked perfectly from second one...sound quality is truly outstanding...ability to play back not only mp3's but multiple higher-quality formats (.wav and flac)...the internet tuning capability works fantastically well (tune by city, genre, popularity, etc.)...but what really makes the unit is the interface, it is speedy and intuitive...highly recommended.

1 out of 5 stars I also have nothing but silence.......2007-07-26

I too can relate to all of the reviewers who can not get sound. Slim Devices drops my wireless signal about every three minutes. It is very rare that it will play a whole song. I have tried a linksys G router, a US Robotics router, and now a D Link router. I am not using other wireless resource while it is playing besides my latop. All of my other wireless devices show "excellent" signal strength while this thing can not seem to locate a network. Customer support said it was my router's power settings. I am on my third router from three different manufactures and I think it is the sqeezebox. I would recommend passing on this product as I am sitting here playing MP3s on my laptop speakers looking at my Squeexebox screen stating its usual "Problem, can't find a wireless network" message.
Squeezebox Wireless Network Music Player
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • UI issues
  • Great product
  • Love my Squeezebox
  • Lossless streaming (high quality) , No wireless issues. Very good indeed.
  • If you have problems blame your network or your computer
Squeezebox Wireless Network Music Player

Manufacturer: SLIM DEVICES
ProductGroup: CE

MP3 Players MP3 Players | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics | Flash Drive-Based | Hard Drive-Based | Portable Digital Media Players
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Product Features:
  • Squeezebox quickly and easily connects you to all your music, from the songs stored on your computer to internet radio stations and subscription music services
  • Listen to brilliant CD-quality audio, anywhere in your home, in minutes
  • Supports MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, Apple Lossless, WMA Lossless formats and WAV music files
  • Place anywhere; modern design, built-in display, dual internal antennas
  • Easy to setup and use with any computer; PC/Mac/Linux/Solaris

ASIN: B000LPG2GK
Squeezebox Wireless Network Music Player

Product Description

Squeezebox is the affordable way to deliver music into every room of your home. It plays a wide variety of digital music files, including uncompressed and lossless formatsacross a true 802.11g wireless network connection. Squeezebox will revolutionize the way you listen by freeing you and your music. Its convenient and stylish form makes it ideal for placing in any room, whether connected to an existing hifi system or simply powered speakers. By utilizing true 802.11g Wi-Fi networking and dual internal antennas, your listening is no longer restricted by cables and connectors. Squeezebox offers you the widest choice of listening options beyond your digital media collection. The product includes a directory of thousands of internet radio stations and features Pandora's personalized music service and Rhapsody's 2 million song collection. All internet music streaming services are even available when your computer is turned off.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars UI issues.......2007-12-25

Very useful, but plaqued by UI bugs, which can make using the Squeezebox VERY frustrating. I have had the unit for 1 week and here are some of the things I have encountered:

-UI (NowPlaying) displays a different song than what is currently playing.

- holding down fast-forward button while streaming from my mp3 collection has a delayed reaction effect, causing the unit to go CRAZY. It becomes unresponsive for a minute or more after this, sometimes skiping ahead an entire song. This is supposed to advance a few seconds in current song!

-Navigating through an album and pressing play will sometimes play the first song on the album, not the song currently selected. (I think there is a UI design issue at work here; it's not very intuitive.)

-Load on the wireless network will cause the unit to power off (the display suddenly goes blank). If streaming internet radio, the stream is not re-acquired. I have to restart the stream (with varying degrees of effort ranging from a complete power down - sometimes just hitting play will restart stream).

-Using Pandora or Rhapsody, if you hit the now playing button, you cannot jump back to the previous menu location (eg, at the station(Pandora)/album(Rhapsody) level). This seems really poorly designed.

-Powering off the unit sometimes doesn't stop the music (just darkens the display). I have to turn it off/on multiple times. This happens mostly when the unit has gone crazy from holding down FFWD (see above).

At best, the UI is quirky. Considering this is 3rd generation product, it should be MUCH more refined and overall much more robust in the face of changing bandwidth. (The unit may perform better with an ethernet connection - I haven't tried this yet.)

SlimNetworks has a decent support site which I'm sure I'll be using a lot. I hope they fix these issues because I see myself using my Squeezebox a LOT.

5 out of 5 stars Great product.......2007-12-15

This is one of the best gadgets I have seen in a long time. It was simple to set up, the sound quality is excellent, and operation is easy. This thing makes your whole electronic music library accessible in a flash, but it also opens up a world of streaming internet radio stations.

5 out of 5 stars Love my Squeezebox.......2007-12-11

So this thing rocks.....I've had one for a year. Sounds great, has multiple ways to interface with it, web, remote, etc. Look for a new way soon with the Jive graphical remote (think Sonos). I just wish they were cheaper so I could buy more.

4 out of 5 stars Lossless streaming (high quality) , No wireless issues. Very good indeed........2007-12-07

I've been running my Squeezebox on my wireless network for a month now and have had no issues whatsoever .
There are many ways to stream music but not that many to do it at the highest possible quality . It reads Itunes Playlists and uses Rhapsody so will work with most peoples libraries. It has no built in amp so need to connect to one .

In short this unit is excellent especially for the price (but not perfect). See the bottom of the review for pros and cons .

Setup
It connected to my WEP encoded wireless network with no problems and reconnects every time with no problems when I restart my music library PC.
You install Slimserver s/w on your PC/Mac (or Ip addressable NAS)and point it to 1 music location (in my case Itunes library = s/w default location). Once slim server is running let the streaming (wireless or wired) begin

Streaming
It has never stuttered let alone dropped the stream even when the laptop that is running Slimserver (with my mp3s on it ) is downloading and also using bandwidth . As mentioned in other reviews make sure your home network is solid before blaming devices . The quality of the sound is exactly as good as the mp3 due to lossless streaming .

Playback quality
The playback quality is amazing . I stream to the Squeezebox and then send the music out of the optical digital out of the unit (few devices in this price range have a digital out ) . So the digital music file I am playing on my PC is not altered / compressed in ANY way . The receiver I use has a high end 24 bit digital / analog converter which sends the music to my speakers = I get the highest quality wireless and lossless playback for under 300 bucks !

The unit also has analog outs ..so you can let the unit do the d / a conversion and send an analog signal to your amp . So if you don't have a high quality d/a don't worry ..Squeezebox has included a 24 bit one . Again great for under 300 bucks !

Mp3s played on this unit sound MUCH better than an Ipod attached to the same amp whether you send them digial out or analog out of the Squeezebox. The d / a converter seems much better .

Interface : unit and browser interface
The unit looks small and sleek . The display is bright and the remote is intuitive but due to it's size the unit will display 1 line of info at a time . This can be a pain with a large music library so the web interface built into the Slimserver becomes a must . This runs on the PC/Ip device you have your music on and is accessed in a browser ( http://PC_address:9000) . It displays Itunes Playlists and you can search by Album/Artist etc as you'd expect . For me the browser tool sometimes hangs in IE but never in Mozilla .

Pros :
Understands 16 and 24 bit digital files (many high end devices only handle 16 bit) .
Understands lossless/high quality format files as well as mp3 .
Supprots Lossless streaming (FLAC) .
Wireless and wired .
Analog and Digital outs .
MP3s sound much better than played on an Ipod .
All this for under 300 bucks !

Cons :
Web/browser interface is not very sexy and sometimes hangs IE (not Mozilla)
Unit only displays 1 line of info at a time ( has to for the size) .
Remote is easy but basic (compared to Sonos for example) .

Summary
For the price this unit is unbeatable for quality and functionality .
It can stream digital files without loosing any digital quality .
The built in digital to analog converter is very good and better than most for under 300 bucks (much better than an Ipod for example so mp3s will sound much better coming from this compared to your Ipod) .
Some less advanced users may opt for a sexier looking choice ..Logitech has some for example .
Or those with cash to burn may go for a Sonos solution ( sexier but 3 x the price) .
The web interface is essential if your library is big . It works fine but is not the sexiest .


5 out of 5 stars If you have problems blame your network or your computer.......2007-10-11

This product is great. Other people gave detailed descriptions so here are the things that were important to me (2 years ago when I got it).
1) It plays flac which is hard to find, but it also plays other formates
2) It has a very nice opensource software (slimserver) that lets you avoid all the problems with tagging your files by letting you browes your music by folders - the way your music is organized on a hard drive (again, hard to find option). Other devices like roku now work with slimserver, but not nearly as smoothly as squeezbox (I had chance to use roku and it simply is not good enough if you listen music a lot)
3) Digital out (essential and not so hard to find)
4) Design which is simply great

Now about problems people describe:
Most problems people describe are probably because of the network and/or their computers. The problems are inevitable with other network players. It doesn't seem right to blame squeezbox for problems that have nothing to do with it. Yes, when for whatever reason my server gets assigned new IP address on my home network i have to correct that on the squeezbox. But I don't blame the squeezbox for that. So, if you want a network player ,with all the problems associated with one, and you are not willing to pay >$800, then this is the one to buy.
VUDU Box
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • disappointed
  • Vudu...close to being "the" IP movie delivery breakout product...
  • Vudu is good, with a chance to be great...
  • Reality, like gravity, is harsh VUDU mistress
  • I was the first to buy this BOX!!!!!!
VUDU Box

Manufacturer: VUDU, Inc
ProductGroup: CE

All Home Theater Systems All Home Theater Systems | Home Theater Systems | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics
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Product Features:
  • Thousands of movies - VUDU offers approximately 5,000 films from every major studio and numerous independent distributors. New titles are added every week, so the selection never gets stale.
  • Instant access - choose your movie and watch it immediately.
  • Special holiday gift! Bourne Identity and Bourne Supremacy in HD; plus $50 movie credit when you activate a VUDU account by 12/31/2007.
  • High-quality audio and video - VUDU's proprietary encoding, decoding, and up-converting technologies enable HDTVs to display their best capabilities.
  • No computer required - VUDU uses a high-speed broadband Internet connection to deliver movies directly to your television. We recommend a bandwidth of 2.0 Mbps (usually advertised by ISPs as 3.0 Mbps.)

ASIN: B000VEMJFY
VUDU Box

Product Description

Everybody loves watching movies. It's the other stuff we could do without - driving to the video store, waiting by the mailbox, finding out the title we were hoping for isn't available. VUDU is a revolutionary new product that delivers thousands of movies straight to your living room for instant viewing, without a computer or cable/satellite TV service. All you need for VUDU is a TV, a broadband Internet connection (2.0 Mbps actual), and a favorite spot, like a comfy couch. VUDU brings you the hottest new releases and old favorites from every major studio and almost two dozen independent and international distributors. Whether you're in the mood for a blockbuster, a classic, or an indie favorite, VUDU has it. No planning, no waiting, all instant gratification.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars disappointed.......2007-12-24

Vudu certainly seems to have a lot of potential - but until the following two items are corrected, I don't think it's worth $400.

- The box requires internet service but doesn't have a wireless chip. Come on guys, it's a hard drive in a black plastic box for $400 and you couldn't give me a wifi chip? Seriously?
- So - I get to buy movies and store them on the local hard drive, but I can't offload them to any other device and can't add additional storage. So what happens when my hard drive (not overly large) gets full? This isn't a solution until it has some more advanced DRM, a la itunes, or you give me an expandable hard drive option.

I'm not sure about this. I feel like online rental services from amazon and the like are about 6-12 mos away from catching up content wise and at $400, I'd be better off buying a home entertainment PC (which would include wireless).

4 out of 5 stars Vudu...close to being "the" IP movie delivery breakout product..........2007-12-11

Vudu's combination of solid Standard Def and High Def video performance, stable hardware/software, easy to use interface, ease of setup and instantaneous playback make it the closest product yet to the "killer" internet based movie delivery platform. But for a few small improvements and one very critical issue with the studios, vudu could be the next way most of us watch movies on demand.

First the good news:
* Video quality is excellent on the SD content and outstanding on the HD. On Hot Fuzz (SD) there were NO discernable artifacts and the upscaled pic (1080p) on my RS1 FP was as good as the same movie I saw upscaled on my Toshiba XA2. The HD on the Bourne movies was very good and compares favorably to any HD DVD or Blu-Ray that I have. Video quality is nailed on this product.

* Interface is excellent. Quick to browse. The search function is fast and filtering results are relevant . Interface is the best I have seen for a video service.

*Setup is very simple. I would have no problem giving this to any tech challenged family member who has the prerequisite network requirements. Also it comes with all the cables you need to set it up on your HD tv, including HDMI and cat 5 network patch.

* Customer service is readily accessible and responsive by both phone and email. They seem to be solidly behind their product.

*The software and firmware on the unit is being updated regularly. It appears VUDU is commited to making requested changes and fixes on a regular basis. New features (such as TV and HD content) are being rolled out quickly to customers.

*Movie load speed is instantaneous on the features I have watched so far. No lag or glitches in playback.


And the areas that are pretty good right now but need improvement...

* Sound is hit and miss. A good number of films are only in stereo. Vudu says this is what the studios have given them. New releases are coming in with 5.1 but not all.

* There is no Closed Captioning right now in the box.

* The remote is compact and simple, consisting of only a few buttons and a down-click scroll wheel. Even though it is a joy to use, it is RF only. I wish that I could integrate this with my IR Harmony remote.

* HD content right now is limited to the free Bourne Movies. As I mentioned the quality is excellent for both video and sound. More HD content is promised and would be the SELLING point for this product if they could have well encoded, quality new titles available for rent in DVD release time window.

* Price for entry is still to high. Vudu will need to come down to the $49 - $99 range for the initial hardware setup to be competitive. Indications are that the price is dropping.

The critical issue for Vudu? Studio release policies! Vudu is hamstrung right now by the fact that:

* some movies are not for Rent on first release but rather must be purchased. Movie purchase, even if a feature is in HD, is NOT where Vudu will attract customers. I don't go to Blockbuster to buy a film, and likewise I won't be buying a film from Vudu. However, I will pay more for a day/date release with the same DVD as Blockbuster has if I can just get it from Vudu. Even more so if it is in HD.

*New releases must rentable on the same day as they are released to DVD. This is THE market that Vudu will compete in. Catalog title rentals are great for the occassional view, but are not where Vudu's success will be made.

*HD content will be a HUGE driver for success. More HD content, especially HD new releases are necessary.

Vudu is a well executed, easy to use and stable product out of the gate. It is poised for greatness. If the above issues can be addressed, it will be under your TV sooner rather than later.

-Alex Baird-
Vudu Evangelist

4 out of 5 stars Vudu is good, with a chance to be great..........2007-12-11

I received my Vudu last week. Set up was a breeze. Just make sure you have an ethernet/power/HDMI or Component connections nearby.

As far as looks and functionality, they are spot on. This box is made from the same guys that brought you Tivo, which is a GOOD thing. Simple and intuitive menus make toying around on the unit a joy. The remote, while funky looking, feels great in the hand and works like a charm.

As far as content goes, while large at 5000+ videos, was lacking a little in the new release category. I'm a big movie buff, so perhaps its because I seen alot of them already. Xbox Live has a much better selection right now of newer movies... and movies in HD.

Another quibble was the purchase/rent options. Some movies are only for rent, some movies are only for purchase. There seems to be no consistency here. You just have to hope you get the right movie with the option you are looking for.

I am a huge Mac fan. And I purchased this unit over AppleTV. Why?

Because of content!

I firmly believe, that whichever of these companies figures out how to get HD content onto their boxes first, with good studio backing, will not only be the clear cut winner of home movie boxes, but be the winner of the HD format period. And yes, I'm talking about YOU HD-DVD/BluRay!!!!

So Vudu... get it done. You are in the perfect position to do so.

2 out of 5 stars Reality, like gravity, is harsh VUDU mistress.......2007-11-23

I know how I would feel if I spent $399 only to find out was alluded to in VUDU's marketing is not what customers experience.

"I'm getting concerned about the number of movies that are only available to own and not for rent. Out of the 24 movies in the "Coming Soon" list only 8 are listed as available for rent." - VUDU Junior Forum Member

"I can't go into any details here but let's just say that the licensing arrangements with the studios are VERY complex. It's not just a straightforward process to get movies to be rentable and own-able. This doesn't make it right, but there's a reality here that won't change overnight." - NA9D, Senior Forum Moderator

Extended reply http:http://theillustratedconservative.blogspot.com/2007/12/vudus-secret-paid-word-of-mouth.html

5 out of 5 stars I was the first to buy this BOX!!!!!!.......2007-11-22

I live next to Santa Clara werer the company was founded and belive in the vision of this product.I been using it for almost a year and WOW you will get that market.
TUBE 2.1 Wi-Fi Wireless Internet Radio Music Centre Hi-Fi Stereo with Subwoofer and Remote Control
Average customer rating: Not rated
    TUBE 2.1 Wi-Fi Wireless Internet Radio Music Centre Hi-Fi Stereo with Subwoofer and Remote Control

    Manufacturer: OXX Digital
    ProductGroup: CE

    Categories Categories | Electronics | Accessories & Supplies | Audio & Video | Camera & Photo | Car Electronics | Computers & Add-Ons | GPS & Navigation | Home Automation & Security | Office Electronics
    Product Features:
    • 2.1 Hi-Fi Stereo and Subwoofer system and Remote control
    • Listen to more than 6500 internet radio systems updated daily
    • Stream your music from your PC or Apple Mac (including unprotected iTunes-purchased content)
    • 10 Internet Radio station presets
    • Device will work through a Wi-Fi connection or through an Ethernet connect. Wired or Un-Wired!!

    ASIN: B000YMSOWK
    TUBE 2.1 Wi-Fi Wireless Internet Radio Music Centre Hi-Fi Stereo with Subwoofer and Remote Control

    Product Description

    OXX Digital brings the world of Internet radio into your home. We provide access to an extremely diverse range of Internet radio stations from around the world, with broadcasts from nearly every country on the planet. We provide both live, worldwide pod cats and on-demand "listen again" services such as those operated by BBC. Supports RealAudio®, Microsoft Windows MediaTM Audio, MP3, AAC (unprotected), AU, WAV, AIFF and Ogg Vorbis formats. In the OXX Digital Wireless Music Centre today you can browse more than 6500 internet radio stations by Genre or by Location no subscription charges and no international boundaries. You can also stream your favourite music files from your PC or Apple Mac to anywhere in your home, office or wherever you can access a WI-FI connection.
    Squeezebox v3 Wired-only Black By Slim Devices (US Power Supply)
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Great product!
    Squeezebox v3 Wired-only Black By Slim Devices (US Power Supply)

    Manufacturer: SLIM DEVICES
    ProductGroup: CE
    Binding: Electronics

    MP3 Players MP3 Players | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics | Flash Drive-Based | Hard Drive-Based | Portable Digital Media Players
    Audio & Video Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
    Digital Music Systems Digital Music Systems | Entertainment Networking | Custom Stores | Specialty Stores | Computers Features | Electronics
    Product Features:
    • Stream your digital music or WMA & MP3 Internet radio stations
    • Connect to any digital/analog stereo over Ethernet network
    • Supports MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, Apple Lossless, WMA Lossless formats
    • Place anywhere; modern design, built-in display
    • Easy to setup and use with any computer; PC/Mac/Linux/Solaris

    ASIN: B000BYASLG
    Squeezebox v3 Wired-only Black By Slim Devices (US Power Supply)

    Product Description

    Squeezebox v3 streams digital music or MP3 Internet radio stations to any digital and analog stereo over a home Ethernet network. It is a study in downtempo, modern design appropriate for any setting and a joy for the eyes as well as the ears. The contrast of highly polished material against a crisp brushed metal fascia is a fitting reflection of the sophisticated technology within. Squeezebox the easiest way for music lovers to enjoy high-quality playback of their whole digital music collection (compressed and uncompressed audio files) anywhere in their home. Squeezebox lets you rediscover the hidden gems of your music collection. Start with one and then add players in different rooms to create an affordable whole-house audio experience without the hassle of re-wiring your home. Squeezebox uses SlimServer, the powerful software developed by Slim Devices. Because the software is developed under an open source license, Slim Devices is able to tap into the creative energies of a worldwide team of independent programmers. Squeezebox, as a result, continues to add features with the release of new software and the product never becomes obsolete! Squeezebox includes many features not found in similar products; built-in alarm clock, SHOUTcast directory, music selection by Album Art, BBC news ticker and more. Audio outputs; digital coax & optical, analog RCA, mini-jack connector.

    Amazon.com Review

    Deciding how to offer a review of the third-generation Squeezebox by Slim Devices without gushing forth a stream of typical market-speak accolades ("Incredible!" "Outstanding!" "A must-have for any music lover!") is not easy. And even more difficult, given all that Squeezebox has going for it, is deciding where to start describing the wealth of features this little box boasts.


    Squeezebox gives you full control over your entire digital music library. And it couldn't be easier.


    Stereo level meters are a nice touch. View larger.


    All the connections you need are on the back. See detail.
    From Digital Files to High Performance
    Although the tools to convert CDs to digital files have become standard fare on nearly every computer, by comparison the tools needed to play those files on a high-performance sound system can be clunky, inconvenient, and downright frustrating to use. Until recently, our options have been either to drag expensive computers to the living room and wire them directly to our stereos, or to buy an expensive digital music player that we then need to continually plug and unplug.

    Enter Squeezebox to save us from this hassle. After plugging this streamlined device into your stereo via a standard RCA cable, and into your Internet router or hub via an Ethernet cable, and taking all of five minutes to download software to your computer and configure Squeezebox to Internet connection (okay, maybe seven minutes if you're chewing gum at the same time), you can immediately start "pulling" music off your Mac or PC for full-sounding playback through your entertainment system. Imagine being able to keep your computer on your desk, and your digital player in your pocket, and still crank your digital music with abandon! It really is that simple: within a few minutes of unpacking the Squeezebox, your digital files are yours for the asking from the comfort of your couch. (Squeezebox is also offered in two wireless models -- black and white -- that connect directly to the Internet via your wireless network.)

    Once Squeezebox is set up, it immediately offers up your music on its easy-to-read display by genre, artist, song, album and even year. With the help of a handy remote, you can scroll through just about every music file on your computer and play songs in whatever sequence you desire. As long as your digital files are in a single location (in your iTunes folder, for instance), Squeezebox will get them to you. Although your computer must be on in order to play your digital files, you don't necessarily have to start it up just to play your music. Squeezebox also gives you the option of using the remote to wake your PC or Mac from a "sleep" state remotely, adding to the system's ultimate ease of use.


    Squeezebox offers lots of setup options (wireless connectivity is only available with the black or white wireless models).


    A handy remote is included. View larger.
    Squeezebox supports most popular formats, such as AAC (on Mac or Windows), and AIFF, FLAC, MP3, Ogg Vorbis, WAV or WMA (Windows only). The sound quality is limited only by how well you burned your CDs in the first place, and by the performance of your entertainment system.

    Surely there must be a catch, you're probably thinking. In fact, there are a couple of glitches that beg for improvement in the next-generation model.

    First, while you can create play lists for Squeezebox on your computer via the software's browser interface -- a somewhat clunky procedure --, or with the remote itself -- an easier, though still time-consuming process --, Squeezebox could not access the play lists we had already created in our iTunes player. According to the manufacturer, only iTunes users suffer from this problem; Squeezebox recognizes lists created in Windows Media and other popular players. The second issue has to do with encrypted files. Simply put, it can't play any files you purchase or download from an online store, such as the iTunes Music Store, that are protected. For those files, you'll have to continue to resort to the primitive plug-and-play method.

    Internet Radio without a Computer
    In addition to playing digital files, you can use Squeezebox to stream Internet radio straight into your living room without a computer. Squeezebox feeds directly from your wireless network to do this. With the Web interface, or via the remote, you can create a list of your favorite Internet radio stations for streaming. Squeezebox also comes loaded with several stations covering the full array of musical genres, from jazz and world music, to 70's pop and 90's electronica. For news junkies, Squeezebox can also stream your favorite RSS feeds across its aqua blue display.

    About the size of a bedside digital alarm clock, Squeezebox can sit inconspicuously on any horizontal surface. The ports, all located on the back of the unit, include a mini headphone jack, RCA connections, a digital optical output and coax output, and an Ethernet connection. An extremely intuitive interface on Squeezebox lets you easily configure the display's text size, illumination, screen saver, and track information.

    Until the day comes when affordable entertainment systems exist that offer seamless convergence of wireless Internet and digital technology with high-performance playback, Squeezebox will let you share your digital music loudly and clearly with just a few clicks of the remote.

    Pros:

    Cons: What's in the Box
    Squeezebox Network Music Player, AC power adaptor (appropriate plug by region), user's manual, SlimServer software (requires download), custom infrared remote (2 AAA batteries included), ethernet patch cable, and 6-foot gold plated RCA patch cord.

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Great product!.......2006-06-03

    I purchased the wired-only version of the Squeezebox after having a very hard time with wireless music (airport express). Once I had my wired network in place I found that the airport express worked great but I had to keep running back to my computer (down a long hall) to change music.

    I did some research into other devices including the Roku Soundbridge. I just got a better feel after looking through user forums and seeing the effort slimdevices is placing on making the Squeezbox a great product.

    And the Squeezebox works great! Setup is quick (don't forget to check firewall instructions in the manual if you have trouble), it looks great, and the Pandora feature is fantastic. Check out the slimdevices.com website to find out about Pandora.
    Squeezebox Wireless Network Music Player, Black
    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
    • Well Done!
    • A good addition to my A/V system
    • stunning display & very flexible codecs
    • I wanted it to work, but gave up in the end - unending dropouts
    • Everything I want in an MP3 server/player
    Squeezebox Wireless Network Music Player, Black

    Manufacturer: SLIM DEVICES
    ProductGroup: CE
    Binding: Electronics

    MP3 Players MP3 Players | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics | Flash Drive-Based | Hard Drive-Based | Portable Digital Media Players
    Multiroom Digital Music Systems Multiroom Digital Music Systems | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics
    Accessories & Supplies Accessories & Supplies | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
    Digital Music Systems Digital Music Systems | Entertainment Networking | Custom Stores | Specialty Stores | Computers Features | Electronics
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    Product Features:
    • Stream your digital music or WMA & MP3 Internet radio stations
    • Connect to any digital/analog stereo over 802.11g wireless network
    • Supports MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, Apple Lossless, WMA Lossless formats
    • Place anywhere; modern design, built-in display, dual internal antennas
    • Easy to setup and use with any computer; PC/Mac/Linux/Solaris

    ASIN: B000BYCU9O
    Squeezebox Wireless Network Music Player, Black

    Product Description

    Squeezebox v3 streams digital music or MP3 Internet radio stations to any digital and analog stereo over a home 802.11g wireless network. It is a study in downtempo, modern design appropriate for any setting and a joy for the eyes as well as the ears. The contrast of highly polished material against a crisp brushed metal fascia is a fitting reflection of the sophisticated technology within. Squeezebox the easiest way for music lovers to enjoy high-quality playback of their whole digital music collection (compressed and uncompressed audio files) anywhere in their home. Squeezebox lets you rediscover the hidden gems of your music collection. Start with one and then add players in different rooms to create an affordable whole-house audio experience without the hassle of re-wiring your home. Squeezebox uses SlimServer, the powerful software developed by Slim Devices. Because the software is developed under an open source license, Slim Devices is able to tap into the creative energies of a worldwide team of independent programmers. Squeezebox, as a result, continues to add features with the release of new software and the product never becomes obsolete! Squeezebox includes many features not found in similar products; built-in alarm clock, SHOUTcast directory, music selection by Album Art, BBC news ticker and more. Audio outputs; digital coax & optical, analog RCA, mini-jack connector.

    Amazon.com Review

    Deciding how to offer a review of the third-generation Squeezebox by Slim Devices without gushing forth a stream of typical market-speak accolades ("Incredible!" "Outstanding!" "A must-have for any music lover!") is not easy. And even more difficult, given all that Squeezebox has going for it, is deciding where to start describing the wealth of features this little box boasts.


    Squeezebox gives you full control over your entire digital music library. And it couldn't be easier.


    Stereo level meters are a nice touch. View larger.


    All the connections you need are on the back. See detail.
    From Digital Files to High Performance
    Although the tools to convert CDs to digital files have become standard fare on nearly every computer, by comparison the tools needed to play those files on a high-performance sound system can be clunky, inconvenient, and downright frustrating to use. Until recently, our options have been either to drag expensive computers to the living room and wire them directly to our stereos, or to buy an expensive digital music player that we then need to continually plug and unplug.

    Enter Squeezebox to save us from this hassle. After plugging this streamlined device into your stereo via a standard RCA cable, and taking all of five minutes to download software to your computer and configure Squeezebox to your wireless network (okay, maybe seven minutes if you're chewing gum at the same time), you can immediately start "pulling" music off your Mac or PC for full-sounding playback through your entertainment system. Imagine being able to keep your computer on your desk, and your digital player in your pocket, and still crank your digital music with abandon! It's really that simple: within a few minutes of unpacking the Squeezebox, your digital files are yours for the asking from the comfort of your couch. (Squeezebox is also offered in a "wired-only" model that connects directly to the Internet via an Ethernet cable.)

    Once Squeezebox is set up, it immediately presents your music on its easy-to-read display by genre, artist, song, album and even year. With the help of a handy remote, you can scroll through just about every music file on your computer and play songs in whatever sequence you desire. As long as your digital files are in a single location (in your iTunes folder, for instance), Squeezebox will get them to you. Although your computer must be on in order to play your digital files, you don't necessarily have to start it up just to play your music. Squeezebox also gives you the option of using the remote to wake your PC or Mac from a "sleep" state remotely, adding to the system's ultimate ease of use.


    Squeezebox offers lots of setup options.


    A handy remote is included. View larger.
    Squeezebox supports most popular formats, such as AAC (on Mac or Windows), and AIFF, FLAC, MP3, Ogg Vorbis, WAV or WMA (Windows only). The sound quality is limited only by how well you burned your CDs in the first place, and by the performance of your entertainment system.

    Surely there must be a catch, you're probably thinking. In fact, there are a couple of glitches that beg for improvement in the next-generation model.

    First, while you can create play lists for Squeezebox on your computer via the software's browser interface -- a somewhat clunky procedure --, or with the remote itself -- an easier, though still time-consuming process --, Squeezebox could not access the play lists we had already created in our iTunes player. According to the manufacturer, only iTunes users suffer from this problem; Squeezebox recognizes lists created in Windows Media and other popular players. The second issue has to do with encrypted files. Simply put, it can't play any files you purchase or download from an online store, such as the iTunes Music Store, that are protected. For those files, you'll have to continue to resort to the primitive plug-and-play method.

    Internet Radio without a Computer
    In addition to playing digital files, you can use Squeezebox to stream Internet radio straight into your living room without a computer. Squeezebox feeds directly from your wireless network to do this. With the Web interface, or via the remote, you can create a list of your favorite Internet radio stations for streaming. Squeezebox also comes loaded with several stations covering the full array of musical genres, from jazz and world music, to 70's pop and 90's electronica. For news junkies, Squeezebox can also stream your favorite RSS feeds across its aqua blue display.

    About the size of a bedside digital alarm clock, Squeezebox can sit inconspicuously on any horizontal surface. The ports, all located on the back of the unit, include a mini headphone jack, RCA connections, a digital optical output and coax output, and an Ethernet connection. An extremely intuitive interface on Squeezebox lets you easily configure the display's text size, illumination, screen saver, and track information.

    Until the day comes when affordable entertainment systems exist that offer seamless convergence of wireless Internet and digital technology with high-performance playback, Squeezebox will let you share your digital music loudly and clearly with just a few clicks of the remote.

    Pros:

    Cons: What's in the Box
    Squeezebox Network Music Player, AC power adaptor (appropriate plug by region), user's manual, SlimServer software (requires download), custom infrared remote (2 AAA batteries included), and 6-foot gold plated RCA patch cord.

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Well Done!.......2007-06-30

    I've owned this unit for about a year. Not cheap, but in this case you get what you pay for and then some. Not only does it sound great, but it interfaces to my wireless LAN without flaw. It easily connects to my server PC's, and stays connected (can't say that about your typical wireless laptop). It's a great looking unit, guests at my home are always intrigued how such a small stereo rig can sound so good and play so many songs ("where is the CD player?"). Highly recommended.

    4 out of 5 stars A good addition to my A/V system.......2007-06-12

    I was looking for a dual-purpose device for my living room: 1) access my MP3 collection on my computer and 2) access Internet radio. I needed 802.11g since running wires just didn't appeal to me. I would have liked it to have a built-in hard drive to store my music files in order to be able to leave my computers off, but that wasn't necessary. I did not want to have to have my high-def TV on just to listen to audio, so it needed a display of its own.

    The SqueezeBox came as close as I could find within the price I thought the budget committee would approve (I got it recently direct from SlimDevices at $249). I considered AppleTV and Roku and a couple of others. AppleTV doesn't do Internet radio as of yet; it does have a hard drive; no display. Roku is 802.11b only, which would drag down my D-Link router, and many people have been less complimentary about its sound quality. One nice feature of the SqueezeBox is the inclusion of digital audio out.

    1) I installed SlimServer on both a PC and a Mac iBook with little difficulty. ITunes is not needed, but if iTunes is your thing, it integrates well. I have my files organized by boys/girls/bys&girls/classical and so forth directories, and then by artist within those, and the SqueezeBox lets me browse within those directories quite easily. You can choose a directory and push Play, and all files within are played, shuffled if you so desire. (Note, the "Favorites" playlist here is best ignored.)

    2) The Internet radio feature (SqueezeNetwork) has been very good. I listen to Pandora a fair amount, and this device is good for that, though it will cost $3.95/month. I also listen to a station my wife and I did a weekly show at (KXCI, Tucson, AZ) many years ago--you can add most any streaming site to your own "Favorites" within SqueezeNetwork. In addition to Pandora, RadioIO, RadioTime, Rhapsody, and Live365 all integrate into the interface without any cost (unless you want the premium services). Altogether, the SqueezeBox gives me access to a lot of services in my living room and without having to sit at a computer.

    So why not five stars? Well, because I can't choose 4 1/2 stars. You see, the form factor doesn't quite fit in with other A/V gear. Given the large front panel it would be nice to have used more of that acreage for three lines of display. The set-up was initially frustrating, but I got over that, and so I do suggest this for someone with technical familiarity.

    Others have mentioned some reliability problems, but maybe those were early production runs. I will certainly keep in mind those experiences in a year when the warranty is nearing its end.

    5 out of 5 stars stunning display & very flexible codecs.......2007-06-10

    I bought the wired version. I love the product because you can play just about any format. The display is stunning. Squeeze did an outstanding job on the hardware. However, a year ago I boxed up my family room stereo along with this device. The Apple Nano has spoiled me for life. I may eventually hook my Squeeze & stereo back up, but I'm not holding my breath.

    PS: Many hours went into developing the software for this product. The developers put a lot of sweat equity into it and made the playable formats very flexible (mp3, ape, flac, wma, wav, etc...). But it is browser based and a bit quirky. I would have preferred an exe, just a preference.

    2 out of 5 stars I wanted it to work, but gave up in the end - unending dropouts.......2007-05-27

    I have used a the squeezebox and the rokulabs M500 & M1001. The squeezebox promised a lot, but failed to deliver. Setup over the wireless network was not a problem, but slimserver (open source) was a pain. It consistently failed to locate all my songs, but the real reason for abandoning the aqueezebox was the consistent dropout. The unit was 12 ft across a room from the wireless router and the Rokulabs M500 I replaced it with has performed flawlessly, so I suppose that the flaw was with the slimserver software. In the end, whilst I appreciated the flexibility of the software, I prefer the reliability of iTunes and Rokulabs.

    5 out of 5 stars Everything I want in an MP3 server/player.......2007-05-01

    Like most, I have a good sized collection of MP3's on my computer. In fact, nowadays, I buy CDs and immediately encode them to MP3's and shelve the CD away. The Squeeze box is an amazing device. First and foremost was to play songs without the skips and glitching that plagued first generation MP3 network players like the Creative Wireless Music player that I had. This thing almost never cuts out. It is fast and easy to scroll through my holdings. The device can output through RCA AND optical (my preference). Best of all, I am now enjoying internet radio easily--I set my favorite stations to favorites! FANTASTIC PRODUCT!
    Slim Devices Squeezebox and Infrant ReadyNAS NV+ Bundle
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Slim Devices Squeezebox and Infrant ReadyNAS NV+ Bundle

      Manufacturer: Slim Devices
      ProductGroup: CE

      MP3 Players MP3 Players | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics | Flash Drive-Based | Hard Drive-Based | Portable Digital Media Players
      MP3 Players MP3 Players | Portable Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
      Audio & Video Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
      Product Features:
      • Access your music library even when your computer is turned off
      • 1 Terabyte Network Attached Storage Device with RAID 5 protection
      • 2 x Squeezebox Wireless Network Music Players
      • Ships with Slimserver software pre-loaded on ReadyNAS NV
      • Attractively priced

      ASIN: B000GKLKNA
      Slim Devices Squeezebox and Infrant ReadyNAS NV+ Bundle

      Product Description

      Bringing together two award-winning products into one attractive bundle, Infrant and Slim Devices have teamed up to put your music library at your fingertips on 1 Terabyte network-accessible music storage and two award-winning wireless digital music players. Simultaneously navigate and listen to the same music library and playlists from your living room and bedroom stereo systems. The Squeezeboxes will send your music to two of your home's stereo systems through digital or analog outputs without stringing cables; all with your computer turned off. Infrant ReadyNAS NV Infrant Technologies' ReadyNAS NV is the latest addition to the award-winning ReadyNAS product family. Network attached storage (NAS) devices enable advanced home and business users to easily share large amounts of data in a cost-effective and power-efficient manner. -True Hotswap: ReadyNAS NV has four hot-swappable Serial ATA disk trays. If a disk fails, simply pull it out and replace it with a new disk without needing to power-off the device. This simplifies servicing and reduces down-time. -The choice of X-RAID Automatic Volume Expansion or standard RAID levels 0, 1 and 5 -Compact: 8H x 5W x 9D -Compatible with Windows®, Mac, UNIX, and Linux systems Slim Devices Squeezebox Slim Devices Squeezebox will free your music from the confines of computer soundcards and speakers, wirelessly serving up your requests to any high quality stereo in your home. Your entire library, playlists, and your favorite internet radio stations are searchable via remote control and a bright easy to read display. -RCA analog outputs powered by high fidelity Burr-BrownTM 24-bit DAC -Optical TOSLINK S/PDIF and Coaxial outputs -802.11g wireless card -Mp3, AAC, Apple Lossless, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, WMA, WMA Lossless (not compatible when running SlimServer from the Infrant NAS), Ogg Vorbis, PCM formats supported

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