The Streamium can play standard MP3 files as well as the newer MP3Pro format. This system supports all bit rates up to 256Kbps as well as variable-bit-rate files. The Streamium is not compatible with WMAs, but the unit can stream uncompressed WAVs from connected PCs. CDs, CD-RWs, and CD-Rs all played fine in our tests.
When a standard audio CD is inserted, the Streamium probes Gracenote's Internet CD database--formerly CDDB--for song and disc titles. We popped in a Snoop Dogg disc, and the unit took only a few seconds to display that information. Every DAR that offers CD playback should have this feature.
Using the remote, we registered at My.Philips, the company's portal where account information and Internet radio station lists are managed. We quickly enabled the radio services provided by Launch, Live365.com, Andante Radio, MP3.com, and Virgin. Nearly 100 stations can be instantly accessed, but more free services could have been provided. MusicMatch Radio and Andante Radio (five classical channels) each cost $5 per month.
Performance
Philips's Woox bass drivers aren't all marketing hype; the Streamium outputs more reasonably tight bass than most microsystems. We were also impressed by the unit's ability to reach high volumes without distorting. The speakers' midrange is a bit thin, but overall, this unit sounds pretty good for a microsystem and can easily fill a small apartment or a dorm room.
If you're looking for a small stereo system that can play streamed and downloaded audio, the Streamium MC-i200 is a great choice. Since this is the first device of its kind, we expected a little roughness around the edges but came away impressed by the unit's slick operation. Philips deserves credit for successfully implementing a new concept that will surely be imitated. Considering that it pulls double duty as a complete microsystem and a full-featured DAR, the Streamium's $399 list price is quite reasonable.
What You'll Pay
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