B&O Playmaker to stream wireless sound from smartphones
updated 09:40 pm EDT, Thu July 19, 2012
Playmaker streams from smartphone, tablet, computer
Bang & Olufsen announced today the availability of a new receiver that streams music from a variety of digital sources to any B&O speakers. The B&O Playmaker can connect to any smartphone, tablet, media server, or computer. The Playmaker is compatible with major wireless streaming formats, and setup is said to be as simple as plugging it into compatible speakers.
Since all B&O speakers feature built-in amplifiers, there is no need for a separate amplifier in addition to the Playmaker. Users can just connect two BeoLab speakers to the Playmaker and then begin streaming music wirelessly. The device can connect with the entire range of Bang & Olufsen's luxury speaker docks, including the BeoPlay A8.
The device measures 6.18x5.35x4.7in and weighs 1.13lb. The Playmaker is compatible with AirPlay and DLNA formats, allowing it to stream from any number of sources. It also features Ethernet and 802.11b/g 2.4GHz connectivity. The B&O Playmaker will be available in Bang & Olufsen showrooms across the US, Canada, and Mexico at the end of July 2012. It retails for $425, and a bundle is available containing the Playmaker and the BeoLab 3 loudspeaker for $4,310.
