New Panasonic Compact Stereo Systems

Panasonic is debuting three compact stereo systems equipped with speakers, a CD player, an FM radio and an iPod/iPhone dock. The SC-HC27, SC-HC37 and SC-HC57 are all designed to deliver big sound in a small space. The top model, the SC-HC57, is AirPlay enabled so you can wirelessly stream audio from the iTunes library on your PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or iPod touch through your Wi-Fi network. The SC-HC57 is also compatible with a free remote control app for use on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch.

The entire 2012 compact stereo audio line is distinguished by a slim, flat design that takes up minimal space while delivering outstanding audio quality. The least expensive SC-HC27 contains a push-open universal dock for iPod/iPhone and has 10 watts of output power. The SC-HC37 and SC-HC57 both feature auto-sliding docks, 40 watts of power and are wall mountable.

With AirPlay, a technology Apple has licensed to other manufacturers including Panasonic, music is streamed wirelessly as lossless data, so there’s no reduction in audio fidelity from compression. Also, since there’s no disc drive operating in close proximity while using AirPlay, there’s no mechanical operating noise.

By installing the Panasonic Stereo System Remote 2012 app on your iOS device, you can operate the SC-HC57 from your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. In addition to the remote control play functions, you can tap your handheld screen to open the stereo’s door and adjust the equalizer and other settings. Version 1.0.1 was released on February 22 and is available for download from the iTunes App Store.

All the Compact Stereo System models from Panasonic are built for low power consumption and are Energy Star Qualified.