Sony has unveiled a new batch of speakers and receivers that support Google's streaming feature: Google Cast.
In addition to the top-quality components that Sony's audio devices are known for and the support for Google Cast, these new speakers and receivers also support playing protected 4K content.
Speakers and receivers are now no longer simple devices that utilize cables and wires, as they are now part of a growing ecosystem of connected appliances and have transformed themselves into multi-functional and sophisticated devices.
Sony's new HT-ST9 and HT-NT3 sound bars and STR-DN860 and STR-DN1060 audio-video receivers are prime examples of speakers and receivers that more than simply complement the TVs and entertainment systems of users.
These four devices all support Google Cast, which allows users to cast their music from apps on almost any kind of device, including Android smartphones, iPhones, iPads, Chromebooks, Mac computers or Windows computers, to the speakers and receivers. In addition to this, through the multi-room function provided by Sony's SongPal app, users can expand their entertainment options to their entire home.
The HT-ST9 sound bar comes with a price tag of $1,499.99. The device features 800-watt speakers along with a 7.1 channel surround audio. There is also a wireless speaker and, in addition to supporting Google Cast, it is also compatible with Spotify Connect and audio streaming through Bluetooth. The sound bar also has three HDMI inputs for easier connectivity and four digital sound fields, which allow users to experience audio as if they were in a movie theater, concert or stadium.
The HT-NT3 Hi-Res sound bar, on the other hand, costs less at $699.99. The device features a wireless subwoofer and 450-watt speakers, along with a 2.1 channel surround audio. However, the HT-NT3 also comes with support for NFC and Bluetooth for creating wireless connections.
Both the HT-ST9 and HT-NT3 sound bars support HDCP 2.2 and the LDAC technology of Sony.
Sony's new receivers, the STR-DN860 and STR-DN1060, are able to support Wi-Fi along with Spotify Connect and Apple's AirPlay to provide users with expansive entertainment options. The STR-DN860, with a price tag of $599.99, features 7.2 channels and 165 watts, and the STR-DN1060, with a price tag of $499.99, takes wattage a bit lower to 150 watts.
The HT-ST9 and HT-NT3 sound bars will be made available by Sony in July. The STR-DN860 and STR-DN1060 receivers, on the other hand, will already begin selling in May.
