Sony went to the International Builders Show here with a pair of in-wall entertainment systems for modestly priced homes.
The CDP-NW10 in-wall audio system features tuner, two-channel amplifier and vertical-load CD player. The DVP-NW50 in-wall home theater system incorporates tuner and 5.1-channel amplifier and DVD/CD player. Both connect via an Ethernet network to a PC to stream the PC’s music files, and they provide intercom and room-monitoring functions.
The units are installed in-wall during construction. Each is wired using standard low-voltage wiring for power and a CAT-5 cable for Ethernet connection to a wired home network through a router.
The estimated cost for the audio system, including speakers and installation, is about $1,000 per room. The estimated cost of the A/V system, with speakers and installation, is about $2,000 per room.
Homeowners can buy customizable center and side plates to match room décor. Also included are line-in connections for local sources such as a cable or satellite box or CD/DVD changer. A sleep timer/alarm function automatically shuts off or turns on the system.
“By significantly reducing the cost of system integration and solving the issue of installation complexity, the installation of these products have the potential to become as standard as putting in a kitchen sink for builders,” said Jeff Goldstein, marketing director for Sony Electronics’ consumer systems and applications division. “The unique, in-wall design addresses what consumers want — an easy to operate entertainment system that doesn’t compete with the aesthetics of their home.”
