14 DAY TRIAL // It's been a while since we've last talked about some new product from Grace Digital, but it's now about time to make amends, since the company has just outed the Wi-Fi Bookshelf Music System, touted as being the world’s first internet radio system to incorporate two bookshelf speakers and 802.11n connectivity. Grace’s micro-system includes two large bookshelf speakers featuring 3.5-inch full range drivers, 1-inch tweeters, and a 16 watt RMS Class D digital amplifier, while also being able to deliver fast and easy access to over 17,000 Internet radio stations, 20,000 plus on-demand programs, and over 35,000 podcasts.
Moreover, the audio system is also compatible with Pandora, Sirius XM Internet Radio, CBS Radio, iheartradio, Live365.com, MP3Tunes, NPR, National Weather Service, and new for 2011, WeatherBug and Rhapsody.
That's possible due to the fact that this thing's built-in Wi-Fi 802.11n card connects directly to any 802.11 b/g/n wireless router, which also enables it to stream audio files from a PC or Mac, without the need for a physical connection.
However, the music system from Grace Digital also incorporates a couple of wired interfaces, including here RCA inputs and an USB connection.
The list of available features is completed by the 10 station presets, up to 100 saved favorites, the possibility to display song/artist info, ab alarm clock radio, and remote control with Pandora controls.
“We’ve had many request from our customers that don’t have space for a home stereo, but want a little more sound than a tabletop,” says Grace Digital Audio’s Chief Marketing Officer, Greg Fadul, adding that “we are pleased to offer them the new Wi-Fi Bookshelf Music System. The micro-system provides a home stereo experience at a fraction of the size and cost!”
And, to be perfectly honest, we'll have to admit that Mr. Fadul does have a point here, given the fact that the Wi-Fi Bookshelf Music System sells for just around $249.99, which, to be perfectly honest, is quite an OK price point, all things considered.