Sony VAIO WA1 Wireless Digital Music Streamer Announced

Stylish VAIO Audio Device Delivers Digital Files and Internet Radio Without Cords or Plugs; Unleashes Big Stereo Sound to Any Room of the Home

Sony Electronics is introducing a new device to un-tether music and Internet radio. The VAIO WA1 Wireless Digital Music Streamer lets you stream audio files from your PC to any room in the house so you can enjoy music in “big stereo” sound.

A standalone device, the VAIO WA1 streamer lets you listen to digital music files virtually anywhere in the house via an existing wireless home network or a “peer-to-peer” wireless connection. A USB wireless network interface is included.

The streamer is compatible with the ATRAC music format and with some of the most popular third-party formats such as MP3, WMA and unprotected AAC. Additionally, it can connect to thousands of Live365.com Internet radio stations.

“The VAIO WA1 streamer will change the way you listen to digital music by allowing you to stream music from your PC and listen to it where you want- be it the bedroom, kitchen or anywhere in the house, said Mike Abary, vice president of VAIO product marketing for Sony Electronics.”

Modern Design Meets Boombox Sound

In addition to being able to stream wirelessly from a PC, this modern-day boombox is semi-portable. It integrates 128 MB of onboard RAM and up to four-hours of battery life so you can store about one CD’s worth of music on it and take the unit with you.

Although relatively small, the streamer’s two eight-watt stereo speakers pump out impressive sound that fills the room. Its six-band graphic equalizer and audio sound amplifiers and enhancers help deliver the sound you expect from Sony.

The device also comes equipped with a remote control and touch-screen sensor, as well as a non-contact sensor that lights the display. A five-line LCD and on-unit controls make it easy to view and manage artists, song titles and Live365.com Internet radio stations.

The streamer integrates a line-in port so you can connect a personal music device, an analog audio out port and an S/PDIF digital out port so you can connect it to your home stereo system. A built-in headphone jack lets you listen to music privately. The device also includes a built-in music alarm clock.

The Sony VAIO WA1 Wireless Digital Music Streamer will be available in white (and black online) for about $350 at www.sony.com/pr/wa, at Sony Style stores and select retail outlets nationwide.