Shrinking hi-def speakers to new levels, the new Sony HT-IS100 450 watts power system features five incredibly small speakers, each about the size of a golf ball.
The 5.1 channel system includes a subwoofer with integrated 32-bit S-Master® digital amplifier, and three 1080p HDMIâ„¢ inputs with repeater functionality and support for eight channels of uncompressed audio. Sony's S-AIRâ„¢ technology allows you to conveniently add wireless multi-room listening throughout the home using Sony S-AIR Air Station speakers.
“Consumers want a cinema-like surround sound experience in their homes, but are hesitant to add large equipment that overpowers the décor," explains Tyler Ishida, director of marketing for Sony Electronics' Digital Imaging and Audio Division. "The HT-IS100 packs all the power of a conventional home theater system in five discrete speakers that practically disappear in your living room."
Sony's HT-IS100 is out next month for $700 with an optional speaker kit (WAHT-SA10) that delivers audio wirelessly to rear speakers, eliminating the need to run speaker wires across the room.
What's Driving This Trend
- Shrinking Hi-def Speakers
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the potential for creating smaller, more inconspicuous speakers without sacrificing audio quality.
Who This Affects Most
- Home Theater Systems
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop compact, wireless home theater systems that provide a cinema-like surround sound experience while seamlessly blending into interior design.
- Wireless Audio Technology
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Investigate advancements in wireless audio technology to create speaker systems that eliminate the need for speaker wires, providing a more convenient setup and flexibility in speaker placement.
- Gadget Accessories
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Design and produce accessory kits that enhance the performance and functionality of existing speaker systems, such as wireless audio delivery to rear speakers without the need for additional wiring.
