Philips MCi200 Streamium Internet Audio Microsystem

Rating:
Summary: Headache
Review: Do not expect this product to work with any D-Link ethernet device, e.g. router, switch, ethernet to wireless bridge. Also don't expect any type of tech support. The people you end up talking to expect an education from you.

If you want to stream mp3's from your PC, this product only works with an old version of MusicMatch Jukebox v7.2 MusicMatch in general is very unstable and I for one cannot get it work at all in Windows XP. It does work though when I log in as Administrator.

If you have a lot of time on your hands to try and get this stereo working properly go ahead and give it a try.

Rating:
Summary: Amazing stereo will change the way you listen to music
Review: I purchased this stereo in December 2002. This is absolutely one of the best electronics buys I have made in while. On the pro side: The system was easy to install and delivered instant results without the need for a lot of technical adjustments. I have mine connected via Cat 5 cable. I primarily use this system for playing streaming audio music (vs. MP3's from my PC). The quality of the sound is excellent - CD quality. Philips provides a service they call Streamium. You can get a fairly robust set of stations with this service at no extra charge. Alternatively, if you want to create your own custom stations you will need to subscribe to a service like MusicMatch. This is what I have done. This service is fantastic. You can create virtually any combination of artists that you want as many as you want and change it whenever you want. The ease of use for the system is worth the price alone. This is a true network appliance. You do not need to be connected to a PC to operate this system. You can just walk up to the unit, turn it on, and select one of your favorite custom radio stations - it's that easy. I have had many friends over who have gone out and purchased the same unit once they've seen it in action. On the con side: Occasionally, the system drops a station - this is rare and easy to correct simply by repushing the connect button. Also, I wish the unit had a digital audio interface for connecting to higher end stereo equipment. It does have a full complement of RCA jacks which actually work pretty well for that purpose. There is a wireless version of this system which you might consider. It wasn't available when I purchased my system. The system is sized for a den type setting. It would be great if they offered a higher end version or a version that you set along side your main sound system. All in all this is truly an amazing stereo. It has changed the way I listen to music. I highly recommend it!!

Rating:
Summary: System that talks the talk and walks the walk...
Review: The MCI-200 Streamium was given to me as a Christmas present. I plugged it in, attached speakers (easy), and connected the ethernet caple to my router. WALAH! It worked! I was instantly listening to my favorite mp3 internet radio stations. Doesn't display track 1 track 2 track 3 for your CDs but actually goes through an online service to get track titles. GREAT customer support. Only con is that the AM antenna is really short.

Spencer P...