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Logitech Buys Slim Devices
Logitech today announced the purchase of Slim Devices, longtime makers of network audio players SliMP3, Squeezebox, and the new Transporter. A couple years back Logitech bought Harmony Remote, becoming the makers of all my wireless control devices for my entertainment center (Bluetooth mouse, remote control, and PS2 controllers). Now they make my Squeezebox, too.
My experience with Logitech hasn't exactly been stellar. While my Squeezebox is probably my favorite piece of equipment in my entertainment system, I have a box of cast-away Logitech parts that don't seem to adhere to the same quality standards. Additionally, one thing I cherish about my Squeezebox is its integration with SlimServer running on a Linux machine. SlimServer has its oddities, but in general it's a solid piece of software. I'm uncertain that Logitech would be as supportive of Linux as Slim Devices currently is. Prove me wrong, Logitech, prove me wrong ... please?
Their software record hasn't been too stellar in general.
You're very right. The original version was a rather crude product but it worked. The SB3 (same hardware as the SB2) is a much more refined product. Nothing else on the market comes close to it's performance. Sonos is cool but isn't as fast and responsive as the SB. Also, Slimdevices is a much more open community with an extensive set of plugins for obtaining information on the VFD. Personally, I only use the Alarm Clock and Weather plugins. With Logitech's acquisition there is hope of bringing the price down to a $199 point to make it more affordable. If you hit the forums you'll notice the "Logitech buys Slimdevices" thread quite lively with an actual Logitech VIP chiming in with answers to questions.
Yep, and they make a good product. I bought one of the first 100 (which were the hand assembled units) - I believe I have #49 - and it still works like a champ. About two years after I bought it I emailed Sean Adams (the CEO) and inquired about the case upgrade which had long since been discontinued and he not only scrouged one up for me but included one of the new switching power supplies to replace the wall wart that came with the first batch. Excellent company to deal with and excellent support from the original guys.
I hope Logitec lets them keep their level of service where Sean and the original crew kept it.
There is a wired-only squeezebox by the way (https://secure.slimdevices.com/order/index.cgi), but for some reason the resellers don't seem to have it in stock.
From the Slim Devices message board, posted by a Logitech rep
Let me introduce myself. My name is Junien Labrousse, Logitech SVP of the Entertainment and Communication Business Unit.
The first thing I'll say is that we are very excited about the opportunity that Slim Devices will bring to Logitech. This is
a great extension of our current business. Let me assure you that one of the main reasons for this acquisition is the development capabilities of the Slim Devices team. The technical level of this group is a key asset that we fully intend to leverage. The Slim Devices entity will function independently, keeping the spirit of advance audio technology and strong product innovation.
Logitech will bring its global distribution and marketing capabilities, providing a jump start to a large visibility and adoption of Slim Devices products.
Junien
If Logitech keeps their promise, this could be a very good thing.
No sig here...