In-Wall A/V Entertainment Solution: New Concept for Homes

"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, director of marketing 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."

Easy Installation

Designed exclusively for new home construction, these systems are installed at the same time as the home's structured wiring thus significantly reducing installation cost. Each appliance is easily wired using standard low voltage wiring for power and a cat 5 cable for Ethernet, which connects to the home network through a router.

Home-Centric Features

The systems are developed to fit any décor with a sleek, space-saving design. For added customization, homeowners can purchase customizable center and side plates to match room décor.

Both of the new systems also have home-centric functions designed for the way consumers live today, such as high quality audio or video playback, intercom, room monitor and even network connectivity to access and play digital music MP3 files from a PC. Also included are line-in connections for local sources such as a cable or satellite box or CD/DVD changer. For added convenience, there is also a sleep timer/alarm function to automatically shut off or turn on the system.

Pricing and Availability

The CDP-NW10 audio system features a CD player, AM/FM tuner, intercom, room monitor, an integrated remote control, and home networking capability to access MP3 files on a PC. The estimated cost for the system, speakers, wiring and installation is about $1,000 per room.

The DVP-NW50 video system swaps out the CD player for a DVD/CD player and also comes supplied with a remote control handset. The estimated cost for the system, speakers, wiring and installation is about $2,000 per room.

The CDP-NW10 (audio version) and DVP-NW50 (video/audio version) systems will be available in late spring.