Pioneer: New SMA Series Wireless Speakers

New SMA Series Wireless Speakers Equipped to Deliver Big Sound in Any Room.
Pioneer Products First to Support HTC Connect Program
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Toronto, ONPioneer Electronics (Canada) Inc., today announced three new wireless music speaker systems – the new SMA series – providing the broadest connectivity options of any Wi-Fi(R) speakers available.

The XW-SMA1 ($329), XW-SMA3 ($429) and XW-SMA4 ($429) will be available in Canada in August. They are equipped with the latest wireless technologies including Apple‘s AirPlay(R), DLNA(R) 1.5 and Wireless Direct.

In support of HTC Corporation‘s new exclusive HTC Connect(TM) program, the three new SMA Wi-Fi(R) speaker systems will also allow wireless streaming of audio files from HTC One smartphones directly to the speakers. Pioneer is the first consumer electronics manufacturer to receive HTC Connect certification; it will be incorporated into a number of its home entertainment products, including many of the latest 2012 Pioneer and Elite(R) branded audio video receivers.

Offering the broadest support for smart devices in the industry, Pioneer Electronics Inc. has exhibited last week at the 2012 CEA Line Show in New York City an array of products from its Car and Home Electronics Divisions that demonstrate connectivity to the fullest. With smartphones and tablets now key sources for media and entertainment content, Pioneer continues to embrace today’s connected lifestyle with products designed to support the Apple(TM) iOS platform and the Google Android(TM) OS platform.

Pioneer Car Electronics Division
Transforming any car into a “connected car,” Pioneer‘s next generation AppRadio(TM) 2 (SPH-DA100) smartphone-powered in-dash receiver will be on display to demonstrate how both iPhone(R) and numerous Android smartphones can effectively and safely be connected into the dash of the vehicle. The Pioneer AppRadio 2 enables owners of these devices to use many of their favorite iPhone and Android apps, specifically customized for the in-car environment, but now controlled through a larger touchscreen installed in the dash.

The in-dash receiver features the first 7-inch capacitive touchscreen, designed specifically for easier in-vehicle operation. Compatible with more than 80% of the smartphones in use today, AppRadio 2 works with more than 15 of the most popular Android smartphone devices(2), with iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S, and with more than two dozen apps ranging from navigation to entertainment. Pioneer continues to work with developers to release in-vehicle friendly apps and will demonstrate several Android third party apps at the show, including echoecho(TM), Inrix(R), Extra Mile(TM) and Best Parking(TM).

Pioneer is also unveiling its dedicated app developer portal, www.appradiodev.com, to encourage third party development of compatible AppRadio apps. The self-service website will provide developers with the procedures for submitting their apps for consideration, as well as the AppRadio software development kit (SDK) for qualifying apps.

Pioneer Home Electronics Division
Pioneer‘s Home Electronics Division continues to develop products with the most connectivity options for today’s smart devices. Its new SMA series of Wi-Fi(R) speakers and Pioneer and Elite(R) branded audio video receivers make it extremely easy for consumers to connect their personal devices using wireless technologies such as Apple‘s Airplay(R), DLNA(R) 1.5, Bluetooth(R), Wireless Direct and HTC Connect(TM).

A total of 17 Pioneer products, including networked AV receivers and wireless speakers, support HTC Connect which will appear as compatible HTC Connect devices enabling users to select them quickly for streaming their music content.

“Building on the success of our connected Home AV Receivers, the new SMA wireless speakers allow consumers to bring their choice of content into more places. These new products make it possible to enjoy your music when and where you want it, with Pioneer’s trusted sound quality.” said Andrew Murphy, director of Marketing for Pioneer Electronics of Canada.“By introducing the SMA wireless speakers with HTC Connect, we’re solidifying our commitment to developing innovative products that support one of the most popular operating system platforms and smartphone manufacturers in the market.”

Connection Options
The SMA speaker systems offer consumers a choice of connections via Wi-Fi based on the type of device, laptop or home network. Users of iPhone(R), iPad(R), iPod(R) touch and computers running iTunes can connect via AirPlay for playback of music in a single room or multi speakers/multi-room setup. The speakers also offer DLNA 1.5 connectivity, enabling users to listen to music content pushed from their compatible networked devices, including a Mac(R) computer, PC or handheld smart device via their existing home network.

A first in the industry, all three-speaker models offer Pioneer‘s Wireless Direct technology, which allows the speaker to act as its own Wi-Fi wireless access point. Through Wireless Direct, no home network is required, giving users the freedom to use the speakers in rooms where a Wi-Fi network might not be available. Additionally, with the XW-SMA3 model, the included rechargeable battery provides added convenience and portability allowing users to enjoy music from the speakers anywhere inside or even outside the home.

Sound Quality
Pioneer‘s Chief Speaker Engineer Andrew Jones was deeply involved with the design and engineering of each XW-SMA speaker model, with the goal of outperforming the sound quality of similar products in the industry. Key components used in the speakers were carefully selected by Jones, including the drivers and crossovers, to achieve optimum sound. And, because the wireless audio transmission uses the high bandwidth of Wi-Fi, users hear the highest sound quality without the need for any additional compression.

• XW-SMA1 — Features dual 3-inch speakers and a 3/4-inch soft dome tweeter, and uses a tuned bass reflex port to enhance bass response.

• XW-SMA3 — Using identical audio components as the XW-SMA1-K, the XW-SMA3-K model adds a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery and a tough exterior for added convenience and portability. When battery power is used, music playback lasts up to 4 hours at maximum volume and up to 6 hours at 50 percent volume.

• XW-SMA4 — Features five speakers, including dual 3-inch speakers, a dedicated 4-inch subwoofer and dual 3/4-inch soft dome tweeters.

More details can be found at www.pioneerelectronics.ca

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