Sony’s Entrance to the Home Wi-Fi Audio Realm – CPF-IX001

Sony officially launched the CPF-IX001 today, months after it was initally debuted at CES 2006 with little specification. It is an impressive device coming from Sony, as it embraces many technologies not present in their current product lineup with support for numerous services.

The CPF-IX001 wireless streaming music player is compact in size, offering high-powered micro-speakers and a subwoofer. The device can be easily networked with a PC and a wireless 802.11 b/g access point for direct playback of music stored on a hard drive.Additionally, the unit is Sony’s first to include a power line transmission technology transferring both power and audio signals over the same cable. The player is compatible with a variety of popular music download services.

“Digital music downloads are skyrocketing and not all consumers are organizing their music collection on their computers,” said Jeff Goldstein, vice president of marketing for Sony Electronics’ Home Products Division “Our wireless music streaming system lets you listen to content stored on your PC all over your house or apartment. The system is compact enough to fit in a kitchen or on a nightstand, yet still fills a room with powerful sound.”

Consumers can now enjoy Sony CONNECT™, iTunes, Windows Media Audio and other music file types stored on their PCs in the home, with the CPF-IX001 wireless streaming music system. After loading the supplied M-crew software, the product just needs power, an 802.11 b/g access point, and an Ethernet connection, automatically configuring to a home network.

Once connected to the network, the device creates its own unique Internet Protocol (IP) address. Consequently, if multiple players are stationed around the house they can simultaneously stream music from the networked PC wirelessly.

Additionally, the system automatically searches for music files when connected to a network for simple content navigation by disc, artist and genre. The player also provides play list creation that can be accessed via remote control.

The wireless streaming music player is Sony’s first to use a power line transmission technology. The process provides power to both the main unit and its subwoofer while transmitting audio signals to the subwoofer. As a result, the product was designed with a small footprint for placement almost anywhere in the home.

The system also features Sony’s S-Master® digital amplifier providing superior sound from its compact speakers. Other features include an audio input and remote control.

The wireless music system will be available in August for about $300.