Ask a Tech Expert Now- JustAnswerLogitech Wireless Music System for PC
Manufacturer: Logitech Part number: 9804140403
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Logitech Wireless Music System can wirelessly stream any audio file format from your PC to your home stereo system, but you'll have to fly blind because it doesn't have a visual user interface.
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Where to buy
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| Amazon.com Marketplace |  | In stock | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 02/08/2010 |
CNET editors' review
Logitech Wireless Music System for PC price range: $129.88
- Reviewed by: Nathaniel Wilkins
- Edited by: John P. Falcone
- Reviewed on: 04/10/2006
- Released on: 01/15/2006
The good: The Logitech Wireless Music System for PC wirelessly streams any audio format--including purchased iTunes songs--from a PC to a home stereo, regardless of copy protection or digital rights management. It offers reliable wireless audio transmission, decent sound quality, and easy setup, and it doesn't require a Wi-Fi network.
The bad: The Logitech Wireless Music System lacks a visual user interface and offers limited remote control functions that work only with certain audio-player applications. The system's default configuration disables your PC speakers when it's in use. There are no digital audio outputs, the optional Music Anywhere software is unrefined, and the package is fairly pricey.
The bottom line: The Logitech Wireless Music System can wirelessly stream any audio file format from your PC to your home stereo system, but you'll have to fly blind because it doesn't have a visual user interface.
Aesthetically, the Wireless Music System is diminutive but attractive. The transmitter unit essentially looks like a USB thumbdrive with a swiveling antenna. It has a single status LED, as well as one button that can be used to establish a wireless link with the receiver unit. Logitech thoughtfully includes a cradle with extension cable for the transmitter, although it's not required. Measuring 1 by 3.5 by 2.25 inches (HWD), the small black receiver unit has four top-mounted buttons--play/pause, next track, previous track, and stop--arrayed in a circle, similar to the iPod Shuffle. It also has volume up/down, mute, and wireless link keys. Audio outputs are strictly analog: a 1/8-inch minijack and RCA plugs (red and white) enable connections to any stereo, receiver, or boombox with a line-in port. The tiny remote control, measuring 3.5 inches long by 1.25 inches wide, has the same assortment of controls as the receiver unit.
The transports (play/pause, next track, previous track, and stop) on the receiver unit and the remote control work only with applications that support multimedia keyboard commands. These include the following (or later) software versions: Windows Media Player 9, Musicmatch 9, iTunes 4, RealPlayer 10, and Winamp 5. However, such players as Yahoo Music Engine or Rhapsody are not supported. Unlike most other current digital media receivers, the Wireless Music System has neither a front-panel display nor a TV output, so you'll want to set up playlists on your PC as a workaround for flying blind.
Setting up the Logitech Wireless Music System is a snap. To get started, you plug the USB transmitter dongle into your PC (with or without the cradle). That versatility makes it especially easy to swap the transmitter between different PCs. All you do to install the receiver unit is connect its outputs to your A/V receiver or other playback device and plug in its power adapter. The transmitter and receiver units automatically establish a connection with each other. You know the link has been made when both devices' LEDs go from flashing red to blue. Additional receiver units are available for $79 each. Logitech claims you can pair as many as 16 of them with one USB transmitter. The company also offers other products in the same product family: the Logitech Wireless Headphones for PC, which transmit to cordless headphones rather than a base station, and the Logitech Wireless Music System for iPod, which transmits music to your stereo directly from your iPod.
By default, whenever the Wireless Music System's transmitter is plugged into your computer, all computer audio is rerouted to the Wireless Music System and is not output through your computer's local audio jacks. Installing Logitech's included Music Anywhere software configures the Wireless Music System to transmit only audio that originates from Windows Media Player, Musicmatch, or Winamp and automatically routes all other sounds solely to your computer's audio jacks. If you use iTunes, RealPlayer, or another audio player that's not supported by Music Anywhere, the only way to switch from wireless audio transmission to local playback is by unplugging the USB transmitter from your PC.
Wireless streaming performance was very good. We enjoyed largely hiccup-free performance with the transmitter and receiver installed approximately 30 feet apart with a thick plaster wall separating the two. (Logitech claims a wireless range of as much as 330 feet.) Initially, interference sporadically manifested itself as stuttering in the audio, but disconnecting our 2.4GHz wireless phone or keeping it away from the Wireless Music System seemed to eliminate the problem. At one point, the wireless link died, and the only way we could fix it was by reconnecting the receiver unit's power adapter. We tested the Wireless Music System with headphones, connected directly to NHT Pro M-00 powered studio monitors, and hooked up to our A/V receiver and home-stereo speakers. With all three setups, the sound was pleasantly crisp and unmuddied. And, equally important, our listening choices were unhindered by copy-protection issues. Purchased iTunes songs, personalized online radio services such as Pandora and Last.fm, the Web streams of Sirius and XM satellite radio stations, and even DVD soundtracks all worked perfectly.
In terms of DRM-free music-streaming solutions, the only real competition to the Logitech is the Linksys WMB54G Wireless-G Music Bridge. That system utilizes your existing Wi-Fi or Ethernet home network and offers coaxial and optical digital outputs, which don't increase quality but offer more flexible connectivity options for advanced users. The setup process can be somewhat troublesome and the software is a bit flaky, but the Linksys can be purchased for less than $80. Alternately, our favorite wireless network audio receiver, the Roku SoundBridge M1000, includes a front-panel display and remote control--but it costs more and lacks the universal compatibility of the Logitech. In the final analysis, it comes down to what you're going to listen to. Those who have a favorite music service or Web radio station that's broadcast in an obscure or proprietary format will likely find that the Logitech Wireless Music System's easy setup and universal compatibility outweigh its limited control over PC audio applications and the absence of a display on the receiver unit.
User reviews
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Very Pleased
by tmaxula on May 1, 2006
Pros: No problems with DRM, range for wireless is impressive, very easy setup
Cons: over rides computer speakers, skips every now and then, some interference with TV remotes?
Summary: The Logitech Wireless Music System is a very user friendly piece of hardware. I set the system up in about 2 minutes. The wireless range is very impressive. Currently my ...
Summary: The Logitech Wireless Music System is a very user friendly piece of hardware. I set the system up in about 2 minutes. The wireless range is very impressive. Currently my computer is upstairs and I set the wireless unit to stream to my surround sound downstairs, which is probably 50 feet away plus it has to transmit through the floor. It has skipped a few times, but for the most part works very well. I would say there were 4-5 skips over the course of 2 hours of playback. Basically reminded me of when a CD has a scratch, but it quickly went back to normal.
I was disappointed to find out that the computer speakers are over ridden when the Logitech is connected to your other set of speakers. That is part of the reason I bought the hardware was to have sound both up and downstairs. However, I might just buy another setup and attach it to my surround sound upstairs.
I also noticed that my remote for the satellite TV is acting up. I am guessing there is some type of interference from the Logitech b/c I have never experienced this before.
I buy my .wma's music from MSN and had no problem playing songs that are protected. The system works just like your computer speakers and play all sounds.
Overall I would definitely recommend this product! I plan to buy a few more for other locations around the house.6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Simply great!
by shahsaurabh on April 11, 2006
Pros: Easy to use and play uniterrupted music
Cons: nothing as such
Summary: Its works extremely well and is just so easy to use.
When I read about it, I was skeptical.Once I plugged it in the USB port, installed the drivers ...Summary: Its works extremely well and is just so easy to use.
When I read about it, I was skeptical.Once I plugged it in the USB port, installed the drivers on my laptop and boom it was ready.
Plays interruped music and I would highly recommend it to everyone.
Remote works with Windows Media Player and not wil winamp.3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Logitech did good, Love Wireless anything!
by Tara Diddle on January 6, 2006
Pros: Plays ANY audio on your comp , on "old" receivers too! & Yahoo's Launchcast
Cons: directions not clear on hooking up, still dont know how I got it to work, but works great!
Summary: I love my Music, and this thing is pretty cool, I have a "old" sony receiver, that has the bare wire connecters for speakers and "phono/tape" connecters (what r ...
Summary: I love my Music, and this thing is pretty cool, I have a "old" sony receiver, that has the bare wire connecters for speakers and "phono/tape" connecters (what r those, haha!) I plugged the white and red plugs into the "cd/aux" input jacks, and clicked on "aux" then downloaded the CD from logitech & told it that Mediamonkey was "Winamp", opened MediaMonkey (best program for this, I have them all, and its free) and it automatically new I had this device, named it, then went back to the receiver and pressed the connect button till it changed colors, and then "boom" I'm listoning to my library, oh, how I love that! I found logitechs manual a bit difficult to understand, as this product has 2 connect buttons and naming a "device" which I believe is the receiver you choose to use for audio output, who knows maybe it clear, but it wasnt for me, but dont give up it WILL work, now I get control of the music while outside in the yard, no talking heads via radio stations or commercials, it did play my Launchcast, so you dont have to have the music downloaded....I'm a happy camper!
2 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A great little item
by shenkshovel on March 30, 2006
Pros: Stylish, simple, easy
Cons: I can't get the remote to work with WinAmp 5.21
Summary: I've been using this for 2 weeks now and love it!
The units look great and work very well with minimal interference (although I'm using it in a ...Summary: I've been using this for 2 weeks now and love it!
The units look great and work very well with minimal interference (although I'm using it in a virtually line of sight situation).
The sound is great and I can't tell the difference between playing a CD in my stereo and playing music from my PC.
My only compaint is fairly minor - I can't get the remote to work using WinAmp 5.21 as my media player (my preferred player). It works fine with Windows Media player 9 (which I don't like) and also with the latest Helium player which I have now started using (I still prefer WinAmp though, doh).1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Abysmal Customer support
by smasonnc on September 15, 2008
Pros: It worked for a while
Cons: It won't work anymore with my new PC and Logitech doesn't support it , even though it's still available for sale.
Summary: This is my last Logitech product.
Summary: This is my last Logitech product.
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Does exactly what advertised, no more no less
by MSFMSF on April 24, 2007
Pros: Easy to set up and even playing music from my CD streamed perfectly.
Cons: No display and would be nice if switching from music box to laptop speakers was a little easier.
Summary: I purchased just the add on box not the whole kit. Once I found out the key (0000) so I could pair it with my internal Bluetooth on my laptop ...
Summary: I purchased just the add on box not the whole kit. Once I found out the key (0000) so I could pair it with my internal Bluetooth on my laptop it was up and running in a few minutes. Surprisingly even my DVD/CD comes thru perfectly (Not Choppy!! like some other devices I tried ) This is great little device for 60.00
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Volume problems. Fixed volume doesnt work so well
by rileylan32 on April 12, 2007
Pros: Great use o play mp3s fom computer
Cons: Volume issues, even when using 'fixed' mode. Does not retain that setting
Summary: For some reason, this device does not remember the "Fixed" setting in transmission rates despite the hard set Fixed/Variable on the receiver. When the PC hibernates, or the usb ...
Summary: For some reason, this device does not remember the "Fixed" setting in transmission rates despite the hard set Fixed/Variable on the receiver. When the PC hibernates, or the usb card is unplugged, or any other anomoly, and connection is re-established, the sound is very soft, until you reset the receiver again. This is a very poor design. Unplugging and plugging the receiver when making changes on the PC is not very smart. I would rank this product at a good 'attempt' at best
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It's a beautiful thing!
by crnjaed on November 29, 2006
Pros: Incredibly easy to set up, works right out of the box
Cons: Microwave 'can' sometimes cause link breakage. Microwaves work at 2.4Ghz which is the same frequency used by this device.
Summary: This is an exceptional little device. So exceptional that even my wife will 'let' me place it on top of the Amoire with all the other 'precious' items she has ...
Summary: This is an exceptional little device. So exceptional that even my wife will 'let' me place it on top of the Amoire with all the other 'precious' items she has on it.
Worked immediately out of the box. You don't even need to install the CD/software unless you want specific controls between the PC and home stereo. Even that is unnecessary if you just unplug the USB device to listed to music on your PC-only.
Post-Thanksgiving there was a huge price drop and the once $149 system is now available for under $89 and the $89 iPod x'mitter is now available for $69 or under.
Would love to see a 5.8 Ghz device with spread spectrum technology0 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Good Value
by greenerobe on November 20, 2006
Pros: Great sound value for money
Cons: No LCD controls a bit small
Summary: I purchase this in Ireland for 66 euros ($84) and for that price I think its great value. The sound quality is very good and it was so easy to ...
Summary: I purchase this in Ireland for 66 euros ($84) and for that price I think its great value. The sound quality is very good and it was so easy to setup.
0 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Innovative and unique product
by erniemink on March 22, 2006
Pros: wireless and streams music even DRM songs
Cons: Not for everyone
Summary: One thing I will say is DRM is necessary to prevent people from stealing music that is portable. it does not mean hackers won't break codes and stuff but ...
Summary: One thing I will say is DRM is necessary to prevent people from stealing music that is portable. it does not mean hackers won't break codes and stuff but I am not thief and if I am a musician I don't want people stealing from me! Would you?????? Think about that. So this product is not fo everyone. Does what it says. I would rather use a router to my stereo. Does the same thing really.
0 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Logitech
- Part number: 9804140403
- Description: Enjoy your digital music - in uncompromising digital audio quality - anywhere in your home. The Wireless Music System for PC works with your existing PC media player - and with any type of music: downloads, subscription services, and even Internet radio. It connects to any type of speaker system, whether it's your home stereo system or powered multimedia speakers. The Wireless Music System for PC is a complete solution that consists of just three components: a USB transmitter that plugs directly into your computer, a receiver that connects to your home stereo speakers, and a remote control that allows you to adjust volume and select tracks from your listening room. Just plug it in and play the music. All without wires, all without hassle. It's just that simple!
General
- Enclosure Color Black
Connections
- Connector Type USB 2.0, Stereo RCA, 3.5 mm Stereo mini
PC Speakers (Extended Specs)
- Cable(s) Included Stereo RCA cable
- Cables type Stereo RCA cable
- Color Black
- Full contract period 2 years
- Service & support details type Limited warranty
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included Stereo RCA cable
- Included Accessories USB music transmitter for PC, Remote control
- Remote Control Standard remote control - infrared
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 2 years warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 2 years
Manufacturer info
- Logitech
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Logitech products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.logitech.com/
- Address:
6505 Kaiser Dr., Fremont, CA 94555
