March 2002 (Znews.com / Newstream) -- SONICblue Incorporated, has just announced the release of the Rio® EX1000 - the first name-brand stereo system with MP3/CD playback. Designed to be eye-catching and highly functional, the Rio EX1000 delivers rich, full sound, easy navigation, traditional audio features and the ability to play either standard CDs or MP3 CDs, which can hold more than ten hours of music on a single CD. "Another 'Rio-first', the Rio EX1000 expands the executive shelf system category to include MP3 capabilities and dramatically drives this market forward," said David Huffman, vice president of audio products, SONICblue. "The first mass market home audio product from SONICblue, the Rio EX1000 highlights SONICblue's overall strategy to move its technology and brands into broader consumer markets."

About the Rio EX1000

An advanced executive shelf system, the Rio EX1000 integrates the following features:

• MP3/CD Support - In addition to playing standard audio CDs, the Rio EX1000 can play CD-R or CD-RW discs containing MP3 files. This allows users to listen to more than 10 hours of their favorite music on one CD.
• 120-Watt Speaker System - The Rio EX1000 fills users' rooms with rich, full sound from its 120-watt stereo speaker system featuring a high-quality bi-amplifier that powers two satellite speakers and dual subwoofers. The satellite speakers produce 20 watts of sounds each and the dual subwoofers, which are integrated into the sides of the satellite speakers, produce 40 watts of sound.
• Backlit LCD with Text Display - The large, backlit LCD display on the Rio EX1000 allows for easy navigation of music management and setting changes. With text support, it also displays CD text or track names, letting users view track information while music is playing.

In addition to these features, the Rio EX1000 integrates a digital AM/FM tuner, a cassette recorder, a full function remote control, five pre-set equalizer settings, 24-track programmable CD memory, 1Ž4 inch headphone output and a stereo RCA auxiliary output. You can find more informaton about the EX1000 at SONICblue's website www.SONICblue.com.

Pricing and Availability

Shipping now, the Rio EX1000 is priced at $299.95 (MSRP) and available via SONICblue's eStore www.store.SONICblue.com. The product will be available this month at Best Buy, Fry's and other retail stores nationwide.