Pioneer Electronics has introduced a new audio video receiver that includes Apple’s AirPlay for wireless music streaming. It gives music lovers complete access, control, and playback of their entire iTunes music library.
Once the VSX-1021 is connected to a home network through Ethernet or Wi-Fi using Pioneer’s optional AS-WL300 wireless LAN adapter (sold separately), AirPlay lets consumers stream their favorite songs to the receiver from iTunes on Mac and PC, or their iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. AirPlay requires iTunes 10.1 or later and iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iOS 4.21.
To use Airplay, users can choose a song or playlist on their iPhone, iPad or iPod touch and then tap the AirPlay icon. The VSX-1021 will appear as an available device, and once selected, the receiver automatically turns on or switches to the Airplay source to start music playback.
Using Apple’s Remote app on an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch also enables consumers to browse and access their iTunes music library on Mac or PC. Apple’s Remote App is available for free from the Apple App Store.
What’s more, Pioneer has announced Air Jam and iControlAV2, two new apps that turn iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch running iOS 4.2 into sources for entertainment and control of the VSX-1021 audio video receiver. Pioneer’s new Air Jam App allows users to share their favorite music tracks directly through the receiver. It can simultaneously connect up to four devices to the receiver via Bluetooth, giving users the ability to create a group playlist with each device’s music content.
Owners of the VSX-1021 can also use their iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to control the receiver with Pioneer’s iControlAV App. The iControlAV2 App brings home theater control directly on the screen of iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch for several functions. Both the Air Jam App and iControlAV2 App are available for free from the Apple App Store.
The Pioneer VSX-1021, the first of eight AirPlay devices planned for 2011, is available for a suggested retail price of US$549.