One of the announcements that’s brought interest from the Android faithful at CES 2015 is Google Cast for audio which allows you to stream audio to a compatible soundbar, AV receiver or stand alone speaker in much the same was as Google’s own Chromecast.
Sony was announced as a launch partner for Google Cast for Audio and has announced their first devices supporting the technology – two AV receivers, two soundbar systems and two wireless speakers.
AV Receivers
The new STR-DN1060 and STR-DN860 A/V receivers continue Sony’s tradition of class-leading sound quality while fully embracing support for 4K content from major studios with HDMI with HDCP 2.2, multi-room audio connectivity, and support for Hi-Res audio, including DSD. With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, AirPlay, Bluetooth and now Google Cast and Spotify Connect, access to music is more accessible than ever. The Graphic User Interface provides quality design with simple set-up features and an easy-to-use remote.
Sound Bars
The HT-NT3 also supports 4K content from major studios via HDCP 2.2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect and Multi-room capability via the SongPal link app. The 2.1 channel premium sound bar with wireless subwoofer features a thin design that fits seamlessly with the sleek design of today’s television designs.
The 7.1 channel Sony HT-ST9 premium sound bar with wireless subwoofer incorporates 9 independent speakers and 7 discrete amplifiers to provide incredible acoustic detail and clarity, including support of Hi-Res audio. The HT-ST9 is a networked multi-room capable sound bar with the ability to stream Google Cast ready music and audio apps and Spotify Connect to multiple speakers throughout the house via the Sony SongPal Link app. Featuring for the first time in a Sony sound bar HDMI with HDCP 2.2 capabilities, consumers can now enjoy 4K content from the major studios with the highest audio/visual quality. Further, this product features the convenience of Bluetooth streaming with LDAC and NFC one- touch connectivity.
Finally – and perhaps more in the affordable range for the average consumer – there’s the Wireless Speakers.
Wireless Speakers
Sony SRS-X88 Premium Wireless Speaker with High-Res Audio
The new SRS-X88 provides the same Hi-res capability as the SRS-X99 in a slightly smaller form factor, providing the same easy listening music experience, with support for Google Cast and multi-room via the Sony SongPal Link app, and full Bluetooth capability with LDAC and NFC support.
Sony SRS-X99 Premium Wireless Speaker with High-Res Audio
None of these products have official pricing available as yet. Sony has a great history of producing quality sound products, but you do pay for it. If you’re keen on any of these products, it might be time to start saving.
Is Google Cast for Audio the final blow to your old home entertainment system? Tell us in the comments!
Can someone tell me why this is betetr than just a bluetooth/nfc speaker?
Using my Chromecast, I am able to turn on my TV and my STR-DN840 AV Receiver (yes, unfortunately it does not have Google Cast). I wonder if I will be able to turn on the new STR-DN860 using the phone the same way.
the website for both of the receivers and the speakers don’t list Google cast. I’m interested to know if it will include video casting.
To be honest i was hoping for a Receiver with Google TV built in, that would be cool, again, the HW would date so its back to settop boxes for ATV.