SQUEEZBOX
After much searching I finally found a streaming audio device that works!
That's right I a device that actually works.
I don't want to name companies (Linksys, Creative and NetGear) but all the other devices I tried failed in key areas.
I stopped reading positive reviews because usually they were worded like the following; "I just received my box-X and it is awesome" or "installation of box-X is a breeze, I was up and running in no time."
Once you start digging into negative reviews you find real technical flaws and equipment that failed after real usage. I had both of these issues with the above list.
I had given up on streaming my mp3 collection through my house. Then Maximum PC had a single sentence that pointed towards a product by a company that I had never heard of.
I dug into the reviews of Slim Devices - Squeezbox2. I found detailed positive reviews that went beyond to point of how nice it looked and how quickly it shipped. It had reviews in areas that I was most looking for.
- Handles large libraries
- Navigates easily
- Advanced network configuration
- Sounds good
This device met all of my list. Although I would love to have an awesome color screen and a fancy graphic remote, this device cost under $300.
I have a library of about 60,000 songs and I am having no trouble navigating or searching for songs, artist or albums. The navigation works a bit like an Ipod bit but with 4 arrows instead of a wheel.
I have been using the Squeezbox2 for about 2 weeks now and the only problem I have had with it is that the remote has froze up 2 or 3 times. Both times I chose a song and then quickly picked a different song.
I have tried to recreate the problem and have not been able to. If this becomes a real issue I will write more.
Over all am quite pleased with the Squeezebox2 and would recommend it to anyone.