Sony and Best Buy have teamed up to launch a new product line — Altus — that includes a Blu-ray home theater system, iPod docking systems, wireless PC audio systems and a “plug and play” speaker system.
The line will be available in Sept. at Best Buy, select retailers and Sony Style stores. All the products are currently available for preorder at www.sonystyle.com.
BDV-E500W Blu-ray home theater system: This system features wireless surround speakers, streaming music wirelessly to up to 10 Altus and S-Air receivers. It also includes an iPod cradle and can connect other portable music players via optional cradles. Price: About $800
ALT-SA31iR multiroom iPod package: docks an iPod or iPhone and comes with two speakers. Price: About $700
AIR-SW10Ti iPod dock: docks an iPod, has two built-in speakers and a wireless subwoofer. Price: About $400
ALT-SA32PC multi-room audio package: Has an S-AIR transmitter for connecting via USB to a PC and two wireless speakers. Price: About $500
ALT-A33PC package: Its USB S-AIR transmitter is same as the ALT-SA32PC, but includes a universal receiver that can connect to a variety of audio products with its RCA outputs. Price: About $200
ALT-SA34R Socket Speaker Package: compatible with all S-AIR-enabled transmitters and features two small S-AIR wireless speakers that plug directly into any power outlet. Price: About $300
The manufacturer and the retailer feel they are more able to directly target consumers’ needs by co-developing the line.
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