I think some of the problem is that many of the third party devices won't be bought by many customers because they lack the Logitech branding or "seal of approval". You see a lot of queries such as "what is the best NAS?" or "what is the best router?" etc.
I think that SD could steal a leaf from Sonos's book (but using open not proprietary software) and produce their own NAS and wi-fi networking equipment. That way people unsure of setting up wi-fi networks or NAS devices could buy something that may not be "the best", but is at least good enough for SD / Logitech to put their name on and to back with their support systems. This could be rebadged Netgear, Linksys (or whoever) stuff, maybe with cosmetic enhancements, a modified firmware and tweaked to maximise compatibility with other SD equipment. Prime candidates would be: - SqueezeNas - hardware server pre-loaded with monster hard disk and the latest SqueezeCenter - SqueezeNet - WAP or router designed to run Squeezeboxes on a dedicated wi-fi network. I would be less concerned about a self-contained amplified Receiver. Most people are used to plugging new hardware into the Aux socket of an existing hi-fi. However SD could produce a -matching- amp and/or speakers though. Maybe a T-amp and sensitive speakers or powered speakers. Many of us with wives understand the importance of good looking and matching equipment in garnering sales. A rich but very tech un-savvy friend of mine bought Sonos not because of any technical superiority, but simply because he could buy it all from one place, it all looked cosmetically similar and it all worked together out of the box. He didn't need a server (he has no CDs - ex-wife has them all!) he just bought it for use with Napster. He is very happy. When I told him the likely setup he would have needed to assemble for a SqueezeBox arrangement he was not enthusiastic - even though it would have saved him a thousand or two. There are lots of people out there like him, and not all of them are rich enough to afford Sonos gear. -- TheLastMan Matt SB Duet (Controller + two receivers) Synology Diskstation 107+ with FW 2.0-0731 SqueezeCenter 7.3.2 on Synology Package Manager Naim 42/110 amp, B&W CM2 speakers in living room. Denon DM37 mini-system, B&W 686 speakers in kitchen. LPs ripped using Linn LP12, Naim 72/Hi-cap, Behringer UCA202. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ TheLastMan's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=16021 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=62455 _______________________________________________ discuss mailing list discuss@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/discuss
