Internet Radio VTech style

Americans are ditching their land lines in masses. No one knows that better than the maker of many of the phones that used to be plugged into those lines. VTech took a look at the declining market and decided it was time to diversify. So leveraging their strengths, namely RF devices, they are seizing the chance to jump into the booming Internet radio market.

VTech was kind enough to to give me the grand tour of their device that will be out in March. It’s understated good looks, simple user interface and low price point are sure to make this a compelling choice..

From the release:

VTech’s IS9181 is the first Internet radio receiver to offer a rich range of features and superior sound quality for under $200. Once users connect the IS9181 to the home wireless network (802.11 b & g), they can enjoy the vast variety of music offerings from more than 11,000 Internet radio stations worldwide, as well as audio files (MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, Real) stored on a Wi-Fi-enabled PC or laptop. The IS9181 also includes an auxiliary audio cable to play files from digital audio players or any other device with a 3.5mm headset jack.

Low price, sound rumored to be bench marked against Logitech’s $100 more entry, and broad distribution. It sounds like a winner to me.