Sony, Best Buy Co-Develop Audio, Blu-ray Line

Sony and Best Buy have teamed up to launch a new product line — Altus — that includes a Blu-ray home theater system, iPod docking systems, wireless PC audio systems and a "plug and play" speaker system.

The line will be available in Sept. at Best Buy, select retailers and Sony Style stores. All the products are currently available for preorder at http://www.sonystyle.com.

BDV-E500W Blu-ray home theater system: This system features wireless surround speakers, streaming music wirelessly to up to 10 Altus and S-Air receivers. It also includes an iPod cradle and can connect other portable music players via optional cradles. MSRP: About $800

ALT-SA31iR multiroom iPod package: docks an iPod or iPhone and comes with two speakers. MSRP: About $700

AIR-SW10Ti iPod dock: docks an iPod, has two built-in speakers and a wireless subwoofer. MSRP: About $400

ALT-SA32PC multi-room audio package: Has an S-AIR transmitter for connecting via USB to a PC and two wireless speakers. MSRP: About $500

ALT-A33PC package: Its USB S-AIR transmitter is same as the ALT-SA32PC, but includes a universal receiver that can connect to a variety of audio products with its RCA outputs. MSRP: About $200

ALT-SA34R Socket Speaker Package: compatible with all S-AIR-enabled transmitters and features two small S-AIR wireless speakers that plug directly into any power outlet. MSRP: About $300

Why the Collaboration?

The manufacturer and the retailer feel they are more able to directly target consumers' needs by co-developing the line.

For Sony’s part, the move reflects a continued commitment to mainstream outlets even though it has ambitious plans to expand its relationship with CE pros. The company says it's going to CEDIA Expo 2009 with its biggest booth ever and plans to talk to integrators about its new Sony Digital Home program for specialty dealers.

"We're breaking new ground in the consumer electronics industry with this unique cooperation between manufacturer and retailer," says Mike Fasulo, executive vice president, chief marketing officer and corporate social responsibility officer of Sony Electronics Inc.

View slideshow of the Altus line.