.jpg)
Warmer weather is upon us and it’s time to break out the “barbie.” But what fun is a cookout without music, and who wants to go stringing wires across the patio or deck. Thanks to Soundcast Systems and its new OutCast Jr., you won’t have to. The Chula Vista, CA-based company specializes in wireless products, and its newest kid on the block, the OutCast Jr., is a versatile all-weather wireless speaker aimed at general consumers and the custom-install market.
Here’s the scoop on the OutCast Jr. It comes with a 60W digital amp, a 6.5-inch down-firing woofer, and four omnidirectional drivers for 360-degree stereo. The plug-and-play kit includes a rechargeable 12V NiMh battery, a recharger, and a 120V or 240V power cord, along with a 12V adapter for autos.
The OutCast Jr. has an MSRP of $500 without transmitter. Adding an iCast transmitter from Soundcast ($100) equips you for Apple iPod and iPhone product support. A Universal AudioCast Transmitter (UAT) will add support for USB connection to any PC or Mac.
The OutCast Jr also has a feature that lets you designate it as a right or left channel for true stereo soundstaging.
You can buy Soundcast Systems products directly from its Web site. Just go to http://www.soundcastsystems.com. The OutCast Jr. is also available through a nationwide custom-install retail outlet at http://digitaldeliverygroup.org.