Sonos, a company that creates high-end audio systems, sent me a Sonos Digital Music System to test drive over the next month. I can already tell you what I think of this system, but I won't spoil it until I write a thorough review later on. First off, the Sonos system is composed of several high-tech units. You can build your own system with whatever pieces your house might need. I received a ZonePlayer 80, ZonePlayer 100, Loudspeakers, a controller and charging cradle.
The ZonePlayers are wireless and ethernet enabled "base stations" that connect to speakers (the ZonePlayer 100 is larger and has a built-in amplifier, while the ZonePlayer 80 doesn't). The ZonePlayers create a wireless network between the controller which allows you to play Internet radio as well as music stored on your personal computer, on the ZonePlayers. You can control multiple ZonePlayers with a controller, allowing you to control the music being played throughout your entire house. Enough details for now, here are some pictures.
This entire setup runs well into the $1,000 USD range but I'll explain why it's worth it in the review. After setting it up for the first time today and cranking up the volume, I actually got a massive grin on my face. The Sonos system is incredible and the loudspeakers paired with the ZonePlayer 100 create astounding sound and bass for their relatively small size. As a testament to their quality, Ethan Kaplan, the Senior Director of Technology at Warner Bros. Records, owns a Sonos system of his own.