In March of this year, Pioneer introduced an entry-level compact micro system, the X-SMC00, with wall mount capability and interchangeable front panels. The next step in the development of this line is two new models with USB port and built-in docking station with Lightning connector. The sleek, elegant Pioneer X-SMC Series works beautifully with your new iPhone, iPod or iPad, allowing for easy, versatile connection. The X-SMC11 supports Bluetooth and streaming audio, and is DLNA 1 certified.The X-SMC55 is also equipped with built-in Wi-Fi, access to Spotify Connect1, Wireless Direct, AirPlay and vTuner support.
“We’re very excited to introduce our first microsystems with a built-in Lightning connector and USB port. They allow you to listen to audio files from your smartphone in high quality”, says Tim Goethals, Product Planner at Pioneer Europe, “you can connect the latest Apple gadgets to any of the new models, as well as recharge them in parallel”.
Pioneer’s new compact microsystems play audio files from a variety of devices, giving consumers flexible connectivity options. Both models feature a sliding dock with a Lightning connector, allowing users to connect their iPhone 5, 5th generation iPod touch or 7th generation iPod nano directly to the system and recharge it to enjoy powerful, rich sound. USB port allows direct digital connection of compatible mobile devices. The sleek design integrates an FM tuner and a vertically-loading CD player that reads MP3 and WMA files.
Flagship model X-SMC55 features Wi-Fi and Wireless Direct support2, allowing you to stream audio from your mobile device virtually anywhere, anytime and without a router. Both AirPlay and DLNA v1 are supported.5 in other words, you can put it in any room and play your music directly from your Mac/PC or portable device.
What’s more, the Pioneer X-SMC55 is the first Pioneer micro system equipped with access to Spotify Connect, as well as internet radio stations via vTuner. Spotify Connect is a high-end feature that allows you to stream audio from Spotify directly to the receiver and enjoy it through speakers connected to the receiver. The user can select a file on a mobile device, stream and listen to music in high quality through their audio system.
Further expanding the range of entertainment options, the free Pioneer ControlApp lets you control the X-SMC55 directly from the display of your mobile device. App available on App Store for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch or on apple.com/itunes/. A similar program for Android devices can be downloaded for free at play.google.com.
Music sounds clear and crisp from the two speakers, and the amplifier circuit delivers 40 watts RMS. All models feature a clock and alarm clock. Measuring 520x218x137 mm WxHxD and weighing only 3.9 kg, these slim, compact units will fit into any interior, including their ability to hang on the wall thanks to the mounting holes on the back .
Appearing on sale
The compact Pioneer X-SMC11 and X-SMC55 micro systems will be available from December 2013. Recommended retail price 9990 Dollars. and 13990 Dollars. respectively.
Notes
1 – Spotify App, iPhone/iPod touch/iPad subscription required. For service availability in your country, check onspotify.com.
2 – Wireless Direct mode cannot stream audio from internet radio to X-SMC55 .
What specific features of the Pioneer X-SMC00 Microsystem make it capable of producing powerful sound at an entry level?
Can the Pioneer X-SMC00 Microsystem be adjusted to a lower volume level that won’t disturb the neighbors?
Is the Pioneer X-SMC00 Microsystem capable of delivering high-quality sound without disturbing the neighbors?