The Search for Digital Audio Harmony
Like a lot of music fans with a large digital library, my search for the ultimate digital audio player is never ending. Sure, all of the latest game consoles and network media players stream audio from your computer. There are of course stand-alone devices such as the Squeezebox that do a whole host of things besides just play back of MP3s. And let’s not forget about the iPod accessories that attempt to do streaming. For me, however, they are all lacking, for one reason or another.
My needs are relatively simple. The solution should:
- Provide a non-TV-based interface. I want to listen to music, not watch TV. This rules out consoles and most digital media players, including the AppleTV.
- Integrate seamlessly with iTunes and, ideally, play back iTunes DRM’ed tracks.
- Enable library browsing without a computer through a standalone remote.
To-date, only Sonos has come close to this holy grail of digital audio playback. Their system consists of an iPod-like controller and Zone stations that enable you to stream different tracks throughout your house. The product garners rave reviews, but, even in its cheapest configuration, you’re looking at a $749 pricetag. Steep to say the least.
The portability factor of the Sonos controller is definitely appealing and makes it a tempting purchase. My current system is an AirPort Express and MacBook Pro, which does the job, but leaves me tied to my computer. Going near my machine just increases the chances I’ll get sucked into some work project or distracted by some news story. A self-contained Sonos controller solves this, as does Slim Devices’ upcoming $399 Squeezebox Duet.
Still, I’d rather not spend $400 when I already own two devices that can make the ideal solution. The iPhone (and for that matter, the iPod Touch) with its built-in WiFi and touch screen, combined with an AirPort Express can deliver exactly what myself and surely many others are looking for. The ability to send music to AE’s throughout your house from an existing device that you already carry with you is a powerful concept.
For Apple, I could see a product like this becoming the first for-pay iPhone application they release. The ability to stream music directly from the iPhone and browse a remote iTunes share would surely be worth $39 for users who are looking for this capability. If they pass, it’s yet another perfect opportunity for a third-party developer to take it and run.