The Sonos Multi-Room Music Digital Player system is for people who love music. Not just like music – LOVE music. It is meant to fill your home with it no matter where you go. In the living room, kitchen, bedroom, or den. Just about anywhere you might be at a given moment – you can have access to your entire media library.  The Sonos gives you the freedom to stream not only your media files but internet radio or local radio channels.

Setup:
When we first received the Sonos we almost passed out by how many boxes there where. Not that I’m put off by the quantity of boxes, but I certainly had in the back of mind that this was not going to be easy to setup. However I was wrong! The unpacking took me longer than actually setting the Sonos up. We got a chance to review the Sonos Speaker Bundle 150 as well as some extras which comprised of the Wireless Controller, Zoneplayer 120, Zoneplayer 90, 2 Sonos Loudspeakers, Sonos Zonebridge, and a cradle for the controller. Like I said – that is a lot of boxes. Once unpacked it may seem a bit overwhelming as to where you should put all these pieces. The first thing I did was decide where I would put the Zoneplayer 120 along with the speakers. Granted I don’t live in a huge luxurious home so it took some finagling to decide where I would put and keep the speakers since the Zoneplayer 120 does need to be connected to a router or modem via ethernet. So that was a bit tricky. Luckily, all the components of the system have a streamlined design that any Mac owner would appreciate. They blend into your home without looking like an eyesore. The ethernet cables also have a flat design to make it easy to blend on to walls for decent wire maintenance. Another nice feature is that both the Zoneplayer 90 and Sonos Zonebridge are both wireless so they can be placed anywhere in your home so that you can really complete that experience of having a fully amplified musical abode.

Installation:
After placing the Zoneplayers were I wanted to them to be, the next logical step was to install the software. I have an iMac and the installation was done in 10 minutes. You follow the onscreen prompts and the devices are picked up around your home. You’ll have to repeat the steps to have the computer recognize the other Zoneplayers scattered about but with just the press of a button on each player the software picks it up and installs it. You can label each player for the area its in. Lets say the Zoneplayer 90 is in the living room – so you can label it living room etc… this will allow you to control that device when you are in the room or not by giving it a name associated with its location. Once the devices were picked up it was time to import my MP3s….that is where I hit a snag. Everything was going too perfectly! I repeatedly kept coming across the same error over and over about how my files couldn’t be imported followed by the file name. After spending some time on the Sonos Support forum I downloaded the newest version of the software and tried again….Still no luck. So again…I headed over to the forum and it seemed to be only a problem with those who have Mac computers and not so much with a PC. After additional digging, I found a suggestion to change my file sharing settings and modify my file name of the location of where my MP3’s were coming from….it was becoming a big hassle.  Finally, finally after changing just one more permission under the Security Settings and then Firewall settings I was able to access my files. This was after three hours. I was a bit upset that this wasn’t something that was mentioned in the manual or easily accessible on the forums unless you dug through and found it.
However setting up the radio functionality was a lot easier. It took 2 seconds, it asked you where you reside and then a whole list of stations pops up for you to listen to. Of course there is the ability to preset the stations you love. I was finally ready to begin my Sonos experience.

Interface:
The Sonos controller is just like it’s other components sleekly designed and easy to use. Everything is very visual and doesn’t require a graduate degree in engineering to figure it out. The right side of the device resembles a iPod scroll wheel to obviously scroll through the menu options or songs available on the system. Its big bright LCD screen makes it easy on the eyes as you scroll through your options.
The first place I wanted to play my music was in the kitchen. Nothing gets you in the mood to make a meal like a little Andre Boccelli. I selected kitchen and the Zoneplayer I set up in there started to play music through some desktop speakers I connected to it. Standing in that room I gave the controller over to my co-editor who was itching to listen to a little Alanis and she started her Zoneplayer in the living room. So at one moment we had different music playing in two different parts of the apartment. In a smaller space than an average home, music from one room can over power the other room. So be careful when you set it up, that you take into account sound absorption so that you don’t irritate another Sonos listener.
When the controller was given back to me I decided I wanted all the rooms to listen to my fave song that just came on and very easily I was able to make that happen by selecting all the Zoneplayers to play the same song. The controls were super easy to navigate and a nice new feature is that you can now control it from your iPhone or iPod Touch via a free Sonos app. So there is no need for me to keep passing the Controller around and around to operate the system. Once the app is downloaded onto your iPhone you can easily do all the same functions. So it’s like having another controller in the room without having to pay extra for it. Again the interface is sleek and extremely easy and with the ability to see all the music and FM stations available on your system to control.

Conclusion:
The Sonos Multi-Room Music Digital Player is perfect for those who have large homes and want the ability to have music playing in random parts of your home that suits your own personal taste. No more telling mom or dad to shut off Frank Sinatra or vice a versa about your loud heavy metal. It’s also perfect for businesses like restaurants and spas that want to give customers a more personal experience as well as save money with unnecessary and costly wiring for other complex systems that do the same thing but on a different scale. I was extremely happy with my time with the Sonos and except for that little snafu with importing my MP3 library, it was overall a great experience. However I would have liked if the Zoneplayers did have a built in speaker so that you had the option to not attach external ones. This takes up space that sometimes you just don’t have, as well as creating more visible wires.
Of course such a luxury music experience doesn’t come cheap, the Sonos BU150 Multiroom Music System bundle typically starts at $999 and up. But sometimes the cost of music is priceless.

The Good: Very user-friendly. Excellent design concept and software interface. Perfect for large homes or businesses looking to add a personal touch. Liked the iPhone app a lot, saves money on having to buy additional controllers.

The Bad: Would have liked to have had a bigger troubleshooting section in the manual for possible Mac problems importing your MP3 library. You have to attach speakers to every Zoneplayer to hear music, would have liked built-in speakers. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for.

In the Box:
The slotRadio comes with some typical accessories: a silicon protective case, a USB cable, ear phones, and AC adapter for your electrical outlet. The other end of the AC adapter attaches to the USB cable. Nothing here is especially out of the ordinary, but including a protective case is appreciated. Of course included is the slotRadio itself and a slotRadio microSD with preloaded songs.

Design:
The SanDisk slotRadio is a little bit bigger than the iPod shuffle and even has a metal clip attached to the back of it for easy attachment to your jeans or jacket. The casing is metal and the display is comprised of a black and white LCD and directionals to scroll through songs in either in forward or reverse. The top of the player has a switch to power it on, select either FM Radio or play your MP3s.  There is also the slot to insert your microSD card. On the front face of the player, the right side of the player has a next button for songs in a playlist while the left side of the player has two volume buttons (+ -). The bottom of slotRadio has a USB connection and an input for your headset. Overall the design is very simple and lightweight and you could easily slip this into your pocket or clip it on to your shorts and forget it’s even there.

Interface:
The menu has a few simple but cool animations which jazz up the player but they are only in black and white. Operating the device is very easy and won’t take too much to get used to. But other then that the slotRadio’s design is very simple and so is its feature set. I was very impressed with the FM radio feature. I was able to pick up a static free signal immediately and listen to all my favorite channels. There is also the ability to create preset channels by holding down the ‘next button’ for a few seconds on the right side of the slotRadio. Overall, this player is all about getting the most music for your money.

The slotRadio player can accept any other microSD card and it will play MP3 files off it.  If you want to put on additional MP3 files, just drag and drop them on to your slotRadio player, you’ll be able to do so via a drag and drop interface on both Mac and PC. However, you are not able to see any of the music that comes preloaded on the slotRadio card. In contrast, the slotMusic cards for the slotMusic player are totally DRM free so that means you can drag and drop their music files wherever you’d like and delete them if you so choose. However the music that comes bundled on the slotRadio player’s card is a different story. SanDisk says that they are working on mobile applications that will let you take the slotRadio music cards and listen to its music on mobile phones. They also have slotRadio genre cards in the works, including one which just contains country music.

Sound Quality:
Since there is no equalizer or bass/treble options for the player, the sound quality really depends on the quality of files you upload to the slotRadio. The songs preloaded onto the player we got seemed to be decent quality and if you really need to experience a more full bodied song then turning the volume up will certainly improve the sound experience. I transferred a few songs on to the player and it was a fine playback experience and certainly nothing I would snicker at being subpar quality.

Conclusion:
The slotRadio is certainly different. For starters it comes with a card that is preloaded with 1000 songs. What other MP3 player does that? The other very unusual aspect of the slotRadio player is that it has no play button. Instead it’s only sporting two simplistic buttons – which are skip forward and backward on playlists. Unfortunately the unit we tested is not a final unit, and neither was the card that was included. Thus we don’t know for sure what music will be bundled with the slotRadio player. However we do know that SanDisk is working with Billboard to provide the music, and Akon definitely has some music on there along with many other top hit artists.

So who is this for? 1. People that are lazy, or too busy to be bothered with iTunes, but they’re still interested in looking for an easy way to discover new music. 2. People that aren’t very tech savvy. I’m going to bring up the example of my mother. But first let me put up a disclaimer that I’m well aware that many moms out there are very tech savvy. However, my mom is not. I bought her an iPod shuffle figuring that it is so dead simple, she’ll for sure be able to use it. However, she cant figure out how to work iTunes! So when she wants to add or change music, she enlists my help. I think I’ll be trading in the Shuffle for the slotRadio for her. The slotRadio will retail for $99.99, it may seem a bit pricey but when you think about the cost of having to purchase just a hundred of those 1000 songs preloaded on the microSD – that’s money well saved.

The Good: Smart player for those who want to deviate away from iTunes and the monotony of just being apart of the same iPod crowd. Travel and exercise friendly. Has an LCD display that shows you the songs playing next or at the moment. 1000 songs are a great value.

The Bad: Don’t like that I can’t see the songs preloaded on the microSD card. You could load duplicate songs if you don’t remember what you have on there that was preloaded.  Lack of equalizer options.

Update 02/19/09: Thanks to the folks over at DAP Review who clued us in to the fact that the slotRadio does indeed have a Play/Pause function – “if you press and hold the Skip Button on the side of the device it will pause. Press again and it resumes playback.”

Update 3/18/09: The slotRadio player will be available starting March 31st on SanDisk.com. It will also become available at Radio Shack starting on Father’s Day.

I have seen quite a few speakers in my day but recently nothing has sparked a chuckle till I came across Mr. and Mrs. Radio Speaker from Profit Charm. Available in different colors, Mr. Speaker goes shirtless and just bares his name on his chest like any manly speaker while Mrs Speaker is more refined and wears a shirt of course. Both speakers will work with your iPod or computer but they will also play FM Radio. It is all powered by USB and the volume can be controlled on the device as well. Sadly I doubt this will be making it stateside soon but you never know when they may end up in a $10 store junk bin.

Crosley is once again making retro themed radios. Releasing two new iPod docks that feature a touch of days gone by with today’s technology.The Tempo is a new addition that sports an iPod dock as well as a lovely wooden encasement. It also operates as a digital alarm AM/FM clock too. Retailing for $99.95 it will add a nice touch to any traditionally furnished home.  The Dock Clock is also a wooden designed clock with a bit more retro feel to it. The iPod docks on the top of the radio but you control the stations and volume with the dials in the front of the radio. Of course you utilize any MP3 with both of these clocks and both also come with a remote control. The Dock Clock retails for $99.95.

Also new is the Crayola MP3 Player that has a lozenge shaped control panel with five large differently colored buttons for each function, a power button that lights up when the player is on, and a built-in speaker/voice recorder for out-loud listening and self-expression. It holds 2GB of music – roughly 2,700 songs, and comes with earbuds as well as colorful letter stickers enabling kids to affix their names.  It runs on one AAA battery and can be plugged into the Crayola AM/FM Alarm Clock Radio dock. What a great way to introduce kids to using technology, for an affordable price too. The Alarm clock goes for $29.99 and MP3 Player for $49.99.

Hardwood Speaker System
This contemporary, natural wood cabinet system with enhanced acoustics is the hallmark of high-end design, with tremendous visual and technical value. The premium sound performance is centered on the built in subwoofer. It charges and plays iPods and includes an electronic remote control and auxiliary audio input for non-docking iPod models, CD and MP3 players. Plus, it’s pretty sleek.

Wireless Speakers and Dock for iPod
The Sharper Image wireless speakers are powerful, transmitting audio up to 150 feet from the base system. The speakers are iPod docking and charging with an LED indicator & a lithium rechargeable battery of up to five hours. Auxiliary audio input included for nondocking iPod models, CD and other music players.

7” Digital Alarm Clock Photo Frame
The brilliant 7” widescreen full-color display is Sharper Image in focus. Photos, videos, as well as a calendar and digital clock readout make this frame more than a simple slide show. Electronic features abound such as the digital FM radio, personal message system and one-touch dimmer control for evening use. The clock is also packed with 1GB of internal memory plus USB and SD/MMC card slots.
Bedside iPhone® + iPod® alarm clock
Drift off to sleep with your own personalized playlist without worrying about missing an important call. This unit is iPhone compatible so you will hear no static just clear digital sound. Wake to digital AM/FM radio, iPod, iPhone or beep tone. This unit includes a remote control as well as charging capabilities for both iPhone and iPod.

Internet Radio w/iPod® dock
Internet Radio is the “must-have” tech item from Sharper Image. Go global and choose from thousands of worldwide radio stations from Aruba to Zimbabwe. Play music stored on your computer hard drive or your playlists and podcasts from your iPod.  The easy-to-use LCD screen lists stations by country and genre. Plug the radio into your computer or use your wireless internet connection to have a world of audio at your fingertips. This model is packed with a subwoofer for maximum bass performance and a convenient remote control.

Travel Speaker Case with FM radio
Sharper Image unveils a unique portable speaker which not only charges your iPod, but also has external controls so there’s no need to open the case every time you want to change a song. This rechargeable product also includes an FM radio and integrated table stand. Transport the portable speaker by clipping it to your backpack or belt loop.

The already reddot award winning FM/AM radio alarm clock and iPod / MP3 player has seen an extreme makeover in its new form- Element’s Stardust. 3,900 meticulously hand applied Swarovski Crystals adorn and shimmer the casing.  It draws the eyes like a Prada gown and adds sparkle to any room. It is also easy to use with sonoro logo that is an innovative touch sensor for on/off/mode functions.  Choose menu options is as simple as a touch of the black circle within the dazzling ring. Now when you wake up you will have the sun in your eyes and the sparkle of crystals.

Next in the line up is the UX-LP5, which features a door that opens gently when pressed to access a retractable dock for the ipod.  Features include two-way speakers, 70 watts total power output, video output for iPod, CD player, AM/FM tuner, and a front audio input for connecting other devices. Costs $149.95.

Last but not least is the UX-G200. For $99.95, this audio system is a desktop system that features a total power output of 16 watts, USB Host, CD player, AM/FM tuner, timer/clock and a front audio input.

All three will be available in March.

Mi2290 Travel Speaker System for iPod with Carrying Case-

Sporting a thin, foldable and fully adjustable design, it is an ideal ipod portable travel accessory.  It has flexible listening options and can even be used as a travel alarm clock. Other features include a backlit LCD display, auxiliary line-in jack, and AC or battery power with up to 10 hours of playback time. Equipped with two 1.5-inch custom neodymium speakers, it  delivers full stereo sound in a compact system. Fits nicely into its protective, custom fit neoprene travel sleeve.  While we dig the crisp lines of the  white, it also comes in black with SRP of $59.99.

Mobile Ultra 16GB MicroSHC, Memory Stick, and Mobile Mate Micro Reader -“Memory Full” is an oh so common message to encounter on mobile phones.  As much as we use them, they really seem to be up to date in the memory storage department. To help with that is Sandisk Mobile Ultra microSDHC and Memory Stick Micro. They are the newly released world’s largest removable storage capacity for mobile phones.  With this in tow, you can take more advantage of the storage intensive features in portable handsets like, photo and video camera functions, music playback, and gaming and GPS applications. Available in 3 capacities- 4GB, 8GB, and 16GB. Accelerated transfer rates and the bundled in Mobile Mate Micro Reade that plugs into a USB 2.0 port enables quick transport and management.

Myine launches must have music systems that are unique as well as stylish. Already an award winner, the Myine’s Abbee gets rid of the junk that you don’t want to listen to with its Popcatcher technology. It will record your favorite music stations and at the same time it will remove any commercials or annoying DJ chatter. Music will play through the Abbee’s built-in speakers and you will locate your fave channels through the built in FM Tuner. The included portable music player allows you to take your edited music with you.  Music Lock portable player features:

• 500 song capacity
• 12 hour built-in rechargeable battery
• Skip, pause, fast forward, and rewind
• Automatically refreshes new songs
• One button to save and delete songs

Abbee Commercial-Free FM Radio is scheduled for a spring 2009 release at a suggested retail price of $249.99.

Myine’s Ira is another cool radio that will broadcast over 11,000 internet channels over Wi-Fi connection. No subscription is required or needed, just a Wi-Fi Internet connection. Ira Wi-Fi Internet Radio will be available on Jan. 8, 2009 at www.myine.com for $129.99.

Now this is what I call a Hello Kitty cellphone! The popular Samsung U600 has been decked out Hello Kitty style. This limited edition phone has all the same specs as the original Samsung U600 but this time it comes in white with Hello Kitty emblazoned lettering on the front of the phone, along with authentic Hello Kitty packaging and Sanrio branding on the back of the phone. Key features of the phones are a 3.2 Megapixel Camera with Auto Focus, Bluetooth with A2DP, an FM radio, a MP3 Player, and a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser. This is one Hello Kitty phone that you actually won’t be ashamed to show off – and it’s not even pink. Check out some unboxing photos we found on Flickr. The Hello Kitty Samsung U600 can be purchased at ATGSM ($229) or Dream Kitty ($399).