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Band-hopping transmitters avoid interference

Steve Conaway Labs Manager / Senior Technical Project Manager
I am the Labs Manager for CNET's Home Division based in Louisville, KY. My interest in technology began in the early '90s, and soon after I began my double major in computer science and computer engineering. I've worked in many areas, including computer hardware, software, technology, networking, graphic design, instruction, construction, music and even ballroom dancing! 65% Ron Swanson, 25% Ben Wyatt, 10% Andy Dwyer.
Expertise I've been an outdoor enthusiast my entire life. I also renovate, flip and build houses in my 'spare' time. Paired with our test lab facilities, I write about lots of outdoor related things - portable power stations, tools, etc.
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Steve Conaway
2 min read

Wirelessly transmitting audio around the house isn't particularly new, but transmitting audio over dynamically switching channels is. Soundcast Systems claims it can provide clear, interference-free music better than anyone because it's able to dynamically react to interference.

Soundcast Systems' two new audio transmitters, the iCast and AudioCast, are based on the same Frequency-Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) technology that's used to secure wireless networks. The iCast transmitter has a docking slot with interchangeable inserts that work with various iPod models. The iCast doubles as a iPod battery charger while broadcasting music. The AudioCast works with non-iPod MP3 players, computers or anything else that can provide audio over a 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack.

iCast
Credit: Soundcast Systems
Soundcast Systems' AudioCast

Both receivers come with all the cables necessary to connect to a home stereo or amplified speakers. The transmitters are white to match the iPod while the receivers are black so they can blend in with a home stereo.

The iCast and AudioCast work by creating a wireless bridge between the iPod or other audio source and your home stereo system. No cables need to be run and no holes need to be drilled. Networking experience is not necessary as the receiver and transmitter are self-enabling, linking together once installed. The transmitter and receiver are able to hop to a new frequency to avoid interference on the 2.4GHz band caused by household devices such as cordless phones, microwaves or wireless devices using Bluetooth and 802.11. The band hopping means that up to three Soundcast systems can operate in close proximity.

The systems are extensible. Each transmitter can be used with two receivers in a multi-zone setup, allowing you to listen to your music in multiple rooms. A four-zone system is possible by linking two transmitters to the same audio source. Signals can transmit for up to 150 feet through multiple rooms indoors and even farther outdoors.

The Soundcast systems will be available this month. The iCast, which has an MSRP of $299, includes a transmitter and receiver. An additional iCast receiver is available for $129. The AudioCast system also includes a transmitter and receiver, but retails for an MSRP of $249. Additional AudioCast receivers run $119 each.