Slim Devices Squeezebox v3 Digital Music Player Review
- Product Name: Squeezebox v3
- Manufacturer: Slim Devices
- Performance Rating:
- Value Rating:
- Review Date: April 13, 2006 19:00
- MSRP: $ 299
System Requirements
Audio formats
Wireless Interface (wireless model only): 802.11g wireless networking with dual int/ext antennas; Bridging capability allows Ethernet devices to connect to the network through Squeezebox3; Automatic detection of available networks; Support for both WPA Personal and 64/128-bit WEP encryption
Ethernet: True 100Mbps throughput; Shielded CAT5 RJ-45 connector; Automatic receive polarity correction
Display: 320x32 VFD grayscale pixels with brightness control
Firmware: Flash-upgradeable; Network settings stored on non-volatile memory; Auto-configuration for most networks
Architecture: 250 MHz 8-way multithreaded RISC processor; Field-upgradeable Xilinx CPLD; 64Mb high-speed RAM; 16Mb program flash
Warranty: One year parts and labor; 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee
Finish: choice of high gloss white or black |
Internet Radio
Analog RCA outputs
Digital S/PDIF outputs
Headphone output: Multifunction 1/8" jack (also functions as an IR blaster); 16-ohms minimum impedance; less than 0.03% THD; Left/right crosstalk attenuation is 92dB.
Dimensions: 7.6"W x 3.7"H x 3.1"D (192mm x 93mm x 80mm) |
Pros
- AAC Support
- Excellent 802.11g wireless range
- Setup is a cake walk
- Digital coax and optical S/PDIF outputs
- Sexy new chassis
- Wireless bridge option
- Added Internet Radio selection to SlimServer
- Improved Help topics in SlimServer
- Runs on Windows, Mac OSX, and Linux!
Cons
- No RS-232 control (just TCP/IP)
- Um... it’s not free?
Slim Devices Squeezebox v3 Introduction
We already did a review of the Squeezebox2 music player which we found to be incredibly versatile and scored high marks for ease of use and quality of music playback. The goal of the Squeezebox is to eliminate the need for a huge physical CD collection. With Squeezebox, users can rip their CDs to a hard disc in one of the lossless formats and play it back through the high fidelity Burr-Brown 24-bit DAC. The Squeezebox v3 is functionally and internally identical to the Squeezebox2, but features a brand new enclosure that has completely redesigned the unit for a more “stunning” look. Instead of a geeky looking black box that does wonders, the unit now has the look of a polished product that can go head to head with the big boys.
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