Logitech Makes the SqueezeBox Go Boom

Logitech's new SqueezeBox Boom portable music player lets users take their SqueezeBox music anywhere in their home.

Logitech has taken the wraps of the SqueezeBox Boom a diminutive network music player for its recently-acquired Squeezebox network music system that includes an integrated 30-watt amp and two 3-inch speakers so people can take their tunes anywhere their Squeezebox system can reach.

“The network music player will be the CD player of the 21st century, and Squeezebox Boom is the first player in its class to deliver high-quality audio in a compact, all-in-one design,” said VP and general manager of Logitech’s streaming media business unit Robin Selden, in a statement. “From the streamlined setup to the breakthrough acoustics, the Squeezebox Boom is an entirely new type of network music player. Just plug it in and you’re ready to rock the house.”

The Squeezebox Boom automatically detects and connects to available wireless networks using integrated 802.11g Wi-Fi wireless networking: once you find your networking, users just enter a password and the SqueezeBox can automatically tap into Internet radio stations via SqueezeNetwork, services like Last.fm and Pandora, subscription services like Rhapsody, and (gasp!) even your own music collection.

The Squeezebox Boom incorporates two 3-inch drivers, two 0.75-inch high-definition tweeters, and a 30watt all-digital amplifier—although there’s also a headphone jack if users want to listen to their tunes in private, and a remote for controlling the system from across the room. The unit also works as an alarm clock and offers six preset buttons for getting to favorite tracks, stations, or playlists. Unfortunately from a portability perspective, the Squeezebox Boom runs off a 12V DC power supply, which means users won’t be able to load a bundle of D batteries and bother the entire neighborhood. (Ah, what’s happened to boombox culture?!)

Expect to see the SqueezeBox Boom on sale in the U.S. and Europe this September for a suggested retail price of $299.99.