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Bose Introduces AL8 Homewide Wireless Audio Link; Room-to-Room Wireless Solution for DVD-based Lifestyle SystemsFRAMINGHAM, Mass. --(Business Wire)-- May 12, 2005 -- Bose Corporation has introduced the AL8 homewide wireless audio link, an easy-to-set-up, room-to-room wireless solution for quality whole-home sound. The expansion of Bose Lifestyle(R) DVD home entertainment systems was improved with the 2004 introduction of Bose link -- a simple, wired connectivity for audio throughout the home. With the introduction of the Bose AL8 wireless audio link, running wires from room-to-room is entirely eliminated, while maintaining the audio quality of a fully-wired system. The Bose(R) link AL8 homewide wireless audio link works with any DVD-based Lifestyle(R) home entertainment system and consists of a transmitter (AL8) and a receiver (AR1), which come packaged together. The AL8 system can be set-up within minutes, and operates wirelessly by radio frequency. The user makes one connection from the AL8 transmitter to the Lifestyle(R) media center in the main room. The AL8 transmitter is then simply plugged in to a standard wall outlet. In any additional room, the user makes another single connection from the AR1 receiver to a Bose link enabled powered speaker system, or a Lifestyle(R) stereo amplifier with Bose speakers. Again, the AR1 receiver is simply plugged into a standard wall outlet for power. The AL8 and each AR1 work together automatically by establishing a wireless link once plugged in. They then begin transmitting and receiving digital audio as well as control commands through the two-way wireless link. While other solutions are available for an integrated home-wide audio solution, some involve the cost and complexity of hiring a contractor for installation. The AL8 system overcomes this consumer objection by eliminating the need to run wires from room-to-room. "The Bose link AL8 homewide wireless audio link system solves problems that have long vexed the wireless consumer electronics industry," explained Jim Scammon, director of the Bose Home Entertainment Division. "We believe it is another benefit that Lifestyle systems offer, differentiating our solutions from other home entertainment systems in the marketplace." The AL8 system is compatible with internal sources such as the digitally stored music on a Lifestyle(R) system (through the technology of the uMusic(TM) intelligent playback system), CDs, and AM/FM, as well as from external audio sources connected to the media center -- the TV, VCR or cable/satellite box. The system provides dual stream transmission, allowing users to select from two different audio sources at the same time. In a primary room, for example, a user can be watching a movie through the Lifestyle(R) 38 or 48 system, while speakers in another room play the system's stored music collection or AM/FM radio for another family member. The AL8 system can be used to expand a single Lifestyle(R) system wirelessly into eight different rooms. No additional software or computer-based operation is required. All Bose(R) link enabled speaker systems are compatible with the AL8 wireless audio link, including the new Lifestyle(R) RoomMate(R) powered speaker system, the 3-2-1 and 3-2-1 GS Series II DVD home entertainment systems, the Wave(R) music system and the Lifestyle(R) stereo amplifiers connected to Bose speakers. New FreeField Circuitry New proprietary FreeField(R) circuitry was designed specifically to transmit an audio signal with full fidelity, and wide dynamic range. FreeField circuitry is unlike other wireless transmission schemes that were designed for wireless internet access or networking, and not necessarily for high quality audio transmission. FreeField circuitry ensures a clear, steady and consistent audio signal in the presence of radio frequency signals from the majority of other household equipment, including wireless computer networks and cordless phones. Common interference with microwave ovens can also be avoided by placing the AL8 system and appliance a small distance apart. "Sophisticated technology makes it possible, but the ease-of-use and simple set-up is maintained, continuing the promise of all Lifestyle systems," explains Scammon. "This is a solution for people who want wireless home-wide audio, but don't want to compromise the performance or reliability of fully-wired systems -- or use a computer to make it possible." The AL8 transmitter and the AR1 receiver come in black and each measure 3" high by 6" wide and 6" deep. The complete system and individual receivers will be available in mid-May 2005 at all Bose retail stores, authorized Bose dealers, www.bose.com, and toll-free at 1-800-BOSE (2673). The announced minimum reselling price for the AL8 system is $399; the announced minimum reselling price for additional AR1 receivers is $149. About Bose Corporation Bose Corporation was founded in 1964 by Dr. Amar G. Bose. The company today is one of the largest and best-known audio technology developers and product manufacturers in the United States and throughout the world. Bose is known for home speakers and systems, the Wave(R) music system products, premium automotive sound systems, Acoustic Noise Cancelling(R) headphones for consumers and pilots, and sound for public places. |
