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The moment we started playing a file through Philips’ latest Streamium it was obvious that the NP2900 was a cut above your average streaming audio player. Although it measures just 99x347x69mm, it produces a beautifully rich, warm and powerful sound. We’re usually sceptical of sound-enhancing features, but Philips’ LivingSound uses clever processing to allow the four small speakers to produce a big sound that filled our labs. You can use the NP2900 as a powered speaker via the stereo phono inputs, while coaxial S/PDIF and mini-jack sockets handle audio output. The NP2900 supports a wider range of formats than many other audio streamers here, including FLAC, Ogg and AAC, as well as the usual MP3 and WMA audio files. It only supports UPnP streaming but comes with the excellent TwonkyMedia Manager software, which is very easy to use and supports more formats than Windows Media Player. The Streamium’s 3?in colour screen can display album artwork and sleek-looking menus. The remote control is one of the best we’ve seen; it’s comfortable, clearly labelled and has plenty of short cuts. All that’s missing is the ability to page up and down or fast-scroll through long lists. An alphanumeric keypad on the remote makes it easy to enter wireless passwords and even register your email address to receive access to Philips’ Streamium services. These allow you to control your internet radio listings through an online portal.
Adding new internet radio streams is easy, but the only music service the NP2900 supports at launch is Rhapsody, which you’ll have to pay to use after your first free month. It doesn’t support the massive range of online services available to Logitech’s Squeezebox Boom, but the NP2900 can’t be beaten for sound quality. It’s a little expensive, but this is the perfect streaming audio receiver for your sitting room or bedside table. It’s our Best Buy.
