INTERACT FORUM

Devices => JRiver Id -- Hardware by JRiver => Topic started by: JimH on January 29, 2010, 06:29:48 pm

Title: Imaginary Device [JRiver Id is now shipping]
Post by: JimH on January 29, 2010, 06:29:48 pm
Edit June 15, 2014 -- A new Id is shipping now.
Links

Discussion (http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=89084.0)

Description (http://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/Id)

Ordering (http://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/Id#Ordering)

Instructions (http://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/Id_Instructions)

Support thread (http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=89498.0)


--- Old information follows ---

We've been working with Ubicom (http://www.ubicom.com/), a fabless semiconductor manufacturer recently.  They supply CE manufacturers with components for network and media devices.

Tonight we finally got DLNA working for them.  I said I thought we might be able to sell some of the devices.  

Here's The Plan:

A small device that plugs into a power outlet.  Not much bigger than an AC/DC transformer.  It has audio out jacks, maybe RCA, maybe 1/8" stereo.  It shows up in MC under Playing Now as a device you can drop media on.  It doesn't do video.

The price would be under $100.  Maybe significantly under.


We're in the early stages of producing these now.  

We received our first shipment today. (January 4, 2011).

--- Obsolete information follows ---

Please see our wiki (http://wiki.jrmediacenter.com/index.php/J._River_Id) for details and how to order.

JRiver Id Instructions (http://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/J._River_Id_Instructions)

Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: leezer3 on January 29, 2010, 07:12:50 pm
I'd have thought you'd need a 3.5mm stereo if this was going to work.
Wireless would also be pretty essential.

Strikes me as a little limited though. I would want a complete device which allows me to browse the library, skip etc. etc, which as far as I can see this doesn't :)
(Current devices for this are actually original Xboxes using XBMC, with some hardware mods)


-Leezer-
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: datdude on January 29, 2010, 07:16:10 pm
Sounds intriguing.  So what would it actually do?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on January 29, 2010, 07:17:39 pm
Play your music to a receiver anywhere in your home.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: jmone on January 29, 2010, 09:59:22 pm
I was tempted to buy an Airport Express once for this exact feature....When paired with something like this - you don't even need the reciever (would make Matt happy!)

(http://www.axiomaudio.com/global/images/products/gallery/AudiobyteEPZero.jpg)
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: fitbrit on January 29, 2010, 10:39:56 pm
Yes yes yes! Especially if the MC could be controlled via an iPhone or other device, so that one could access the library and have playback in the kitchen without needing a full PC/laptop. I'd buy 3 for sure.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: wombat66 on January 30, 2010, 02:16:30 am
I would want, initially, three of those devices with a potential for four more. But here's the catch, I would need to synchronize the audio across all (or some) of the devices. Might this be possible?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: park on January 30, 2010, 03:03:49 am
I'd buy it if I could control it from my iphone or web browser.

The big hole in MC's "ecosystem" is the web browser client version of MC. Some guys on the plugins board have done a commendable job, but for people like me who have their library served from a WHS in the closet (with no sound card in it), there's no way to play my music on a mac without booting into windows. We need at least one platform neutral way to browse our MC library and act as a remote control for the kind of device you suggested.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on January 30, 2010, 07:33:52 am
Yes yes yes! Especially if the MC could be controlled via an iPhone or other device, so that one could access the library and have playback in the kitchen without needing a full PC/laptop. I'd buy 3 for sure.
It's DLNA, so it could be controlled by any DLNA controller.  MC on another machine, for example, or Plugplayer on a Touch.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on January 30, 2010, 07:34:59 am
I would want, initially, three of those devices with a potential for four more. But here's the catch, I would need to synchonize the audio across all (or some) of the devices. Might this be possible?
Maybe.  Synchronization across a network has latency issues, but maybe.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on January 30, 2010, 07:47:20 am
I'd have thought you'd need a 3.5mm stereo if this was going to work.
1/8" and 3.5mm are the same.  Mini-stereo is another name for the jack. 
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: cncb on January 30, 2010, 07:59:48 am
It has audio out jacks, maybe RCA, maybe 1/8" stereo.

How about digital (s/pdif) output?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: glynor on January 30, 2010, 08:43:12 pm
Jim, would it be WiFi or wired Ethernet?  If it works well, I'd buy one.  If there was a WiFi version (maybe for extra money) I'd probably buy two.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: glynor on January 30, 2010, 08:55:40 pm
If it was WiFi and could be battery operated (but also able to be plugged in, of course), that would be even more fantastic.  Then you could combine it with one of these (http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/speakers_audio/ipod_mp3_speakers/devices/5849&cl=us,en) (using the aux-input) and you'd have a small wireless boombox that you could take anywhere you want within your wireless network and have music provided by MC.  Freaking awesome.

Of course, a DLNA Rendering app for my iPhone would probably accomplish the same thing...
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: struct on January 30, 2010, 09:09:07 pm

Would have to have SPDIF out as minimum.  Would also preferably have USB out so I could use my own USB Dac on other system.  If you made it with a good DAC I am sure you would pick up users outside MC in the audiophile universe.

Wireless would be (strongly) preferred. 

240V version?

Craig

Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: tombert on January 31, 2010, 03:41:48 am
Instead of WiFi I would prefer this LAN which goes over the house-power lines ...
Would it be possible to split the 5.1 channels into different devices?
tom
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: Vincent Kars on January 31, 2010, 04:38:32 am
I like the concept.
A bit like running Squeezeserver on a Marvell SheevaPlug.
Being DLNA, it will have the big advantage over Squeeze that it will be compatible with a growing number of devices as DLNA is really getting momentum.

My worry is the sound quality.
I don’t expect a sub 100 device to have a top quality DAC and/or pristine SPDIF out.
Adding a USB port and combine it with a top quality USB DAC might solve this problem.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: cncb on January 31, 2010, 08:09:07 am
Of course, a DLNA Rendering app for my iPhone would probably accomplish the same thing...

Don't you need something like this for control anyways even with this new device?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: fitbrit on January 31, 2010, 01:21:57 pm
Sounds to me that it incorporates networking over power lines. Would you say that's correct, Jim?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: glynor on January 31, 2010, 05:13:03 pm
Sounds to me that it incorporates networking over power lines. Would you say that's correct, Jim?

Hrm.... 802.11n, if well implemented, will generally meet or exceed the real-world performance available via home Power Line networking systems.  Plus, we would then have to buy a second power line adapter and plug it into our existing switch (assuming that you don't already have a power line network at home, and frankly, they're really not that popular).

Besides, if I were going to use a device like this, I'd be interested in using it in places where home power-line networking wouldn't work well (out in my garage and other places outside).
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: park on January 31, 2010, 08:50:41 pm
It's DLNA, so it could be controlled by any DLNA controller.  MC on another machine, for example, or Plugplayer on a Touch.

Just looked up PlugPlayer. Looks good. Does it allow you to browse your custom created MC viewschemes though? If so, this and your little plugin doobie are perfect. I'd buy one right now if it were available. I've been wanting some way to listen to music on my dining room speakers without needing to have a windows computer turned on for ages.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: 666JackTheKnife666 on February 01, 2010, 12:25:24 am
YES YES YES
A battery powered headphone amp with Wifi that MC will play directly to ....
what a fantastic idea. Sign me up for 2 of them!!! Would buy yesterday!!
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on February 01, 2010, 04:10:28 pm
Thanks for the feedback.  I didn't answer some of the questions because I wanted to see what everyone thought first.

Analog 1/8 inch jack or SP/DIF out.

Wireless 802.11n connection to the LAN.

Approximately 3" x 3" x 1".
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: rpalmer68 on February 01, 2010, 04:18:09 pm
Thanks for the feedback.  I didn't answer some of the questions because I wanted to see what everyone thought first.

Analog 1/8 inch jack or SP/DIF out.

Wireless 802.11n connection to the LAN.

Approximately 3" x 3" x 1".

110V - 240V ?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on February 01, 2010, 10:21:36 pm
Voltage not certain yet.  We might start in the U.S. and work our way to Australia.

The company is Ubicom.  They're a fabless chip maker.  They've been great to work with.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: fitbrit on February 02, 2010, 12:42:21 am
Thanks for the answers, Jim. Sounds good. For some of the smaller rooms in the house, I'd pair it with the Apple HiFi or powered computer speakers.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: glynor on February 02, 2010, 09:10:45 am
Wow.  This thing is gonna be cool.  A little box of win.  Good work.   :D
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: datdude on February 02, 2010, 09:20:17 pm
Yeah, I'll buy one right now based on those specs and compatiblity with MC.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: wombat66 on February 02, 2010, 10:50:23 pm
Maybe.  Synchronization across a network has latency issues, but maybe.


I do like the sound of "maybe", it's definitely better than a "no".

It does sound like member MuchAdhesion has a solution:
http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=50760.msg346829#msg346829
Check out the third post down.

Squeezebox can do it too (well, to a certain extent).

However, my guess is that the above methods are outside the scope of DLNA and a standalone device.

But I can still hope.  :)
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: newsposter on February 03, 2010, 12:34:53 am
I am of the KISS school.  Cheap enough and just 'good enough' will sell a higher number than a kitchen-sink device.

Look at the used (ebay) prices for the original Roku M500/1000/2000 devices.  Even years after production ended and in the absence of firmware update support these are **still** selling for a high percentage of original MSRP.

Ubicom could do worse than cook up a single-chip implementation/emulation of an M1000 updated with modern networking.

Or, two boxes.  The 'base' box is the wall-wart, DLNA, audio, powerline network, web config/control interface, maybe an LED status light or three, etc, etc.  The expansion box carries the SPDIF/7.1, wired and wireless network, IR remote/Girder passthrough back to the MC server, interface for a nice fancy informative VFD display (like the Roku M2000), etc.

The base box plugs into the wall.  The expansion box connects to the base box via USB or something simple like that.  USB 3 might be needed not for the interconnect speed but for the additional current (1 amp) that it can deliver over USB 2.

Another way to do this would be to put a few USB ports on the base box.  Then a user could add their own wireless dongle, a sound dongle for SPDIF (like the Turtle Beach products) or a dongle for wired networking.

For design hints look at how Addonics has their disk array products carved out.  Lots of config options there.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: raldo on February 03, 2010, 06:52:03 am

I agree with struct's statement that spdif would be a minimum.

I don’t expect a sub 100 device to have a top quality DAC and/or pristine SPDIF out.

For a <$100 device I agree with you on the top quality dac part but spdif shouldn't be a problem at all.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on March 16, 2010, 11:19:30 am
We received a sample.  It works well.  It is analog only.  Left and right RCA jacks.

We expect to sell the first shipment for $79.98 each.  We expect delivery in May June.

Here's the real device:

(http://www.pix01.com/gallery/8D12431D-7EA0-495D-9EA2-775091458CB9/Media_Renderer/917484154_orig0.jpg)

Another picture here:
http://pix01.com/Vj@0GPo
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: jmone on March 16, 2010, 11:29:05 pm
So if I interpret the pics correctly it looks you you have:
- Stereo Analog Output via RCA
- Ethernet & Wireless? network connection
- Plug Pack for the adapter (12V / 5V???) so easy to adapt to all countries

Looks like with the addition of a Web Based Control point you have a competitor to Apple's Airport....(with one negative, Apple stuff always looks great, this one is a bit fugly - I hope the casing is a prototype!)
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: pillshovel on March 16, 2010, 11:59:48 pm
I have 4 Airport Express units and am currently using Airfoil with MC14 to send music all over the house.  If there is any possibility of a future unit with SPDIF, I would replace all of them with these.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: park on March 17, 2010, 12:06:18 am
I agree with the ugliness point, but I'll still buy one if it will work in Japan.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: wombat66 on March 17, 2010, 01:44:16 am
This is quite a bit larger than "Not much bigger than an AC/DC transformer". I'm still interested though. When will these be available?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: ThoBar on March 17, 2010, 03:38:46 am
Where can I get the mug, or does it come with the device?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: 666JackTheKnife666 on March 17, 2010, 05:01:33 am
Any chance you could take it apart so I can see the size of the actual board.

I plan on sticking it (the board) in another case with Lipo battery pack for a portable wireless headphone amp type application.

when will I be able to purchase ? Could I purchase just the board / alpha version to experiment with ?

Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on March 17, 2010, 09:13:55 am
Any chance you could take it apart so I can see the size of the actual board.

I plan on sticking it (the board) in another case with Lipo battery pack for a portable wireless headphone amp type application.

when will I be able to purchase ? Could I purchase just the board / alpha version to experiment with ?
A picture of the board is attached.  The final board may be different.  It is about 3 inches square and about 1/2 an inch thick (wireless radio).

I'll post here when I know more about availablity.  Thanks for your interest.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on March 17, 2010, 09:29:01 am
So if I interpret the pics correctly it looks you you have:
- Stereo Analog Output via RCA
- Ethernet & Wireless? network connection
- Plug Pack for the adapter (12V / 5V???) so easy to adapt to all countries

Looks like with the addition of a Web Based Control point you have a competitor to Apple's Airport....(with one negative, Apple stuff always looks great, this one is a bit fugly - I hope the casing is a prototype!)
Stereo analog out via RCA, correct.  Wireless network.   Electrical adaptor is 110 to 240 volt input, 12 volt output.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on March 17, 2010, 09:58:24 am
... When will these be available?
I'm expecting to have the first shipment in May.  Expect a price of $79.98 + shipping.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: jmone on March 17, 2010, 02:51:29 pm
Thanks Jim - Couple of more Q's:
1) How does the device "appear" on the network
2) Does it appear as a "Zone" in MC (and is there any limit)
3) If it is a Zone do you select your sound output settings (eg WASAPI, DirectShow etc) for each unit and is there a limit
4) Does Matt approve of the DAC?!?!?!

Nathan
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on March 17, 2010, 03:00:51 pm
1) How does the device "appear" on the network
It can use several methods to be discovered.  One is WPS (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wi-Fi_Protected_Setup) -- this requires a compatible router.  It's similar to Bluetooth pairing.  Another is a Win7 method that uses a memory stick to copy the configuration from a PC to the device.
Quote
2) Does it appear as a "Zone" in MC (and is there any limit)
It shows up as a zone under Playing Now.  I don't know about limits yet.
Quote
3) If it is a Zone do you select your sound output settings (eg WASAPI, DirectShow etc) for each unit and is there a limit
MC gives the file to the device and it is "played" there, so playback method in MC isn't relevant.
Quote
4) Does Matt approve of the DAC?!?!?!
We won't sell it until he does, but we don't have final firmware yet.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: jmone on March 17, 2010, 03:09:03 pm
Thanks Jim - by being "Played There" do you mean that MC decodes the MP3/WMA/FLAC files to PCM that is sent to the Imaginary Device that is then uses the DAC to conver it to Analoge?  OR  Does it acutal have CODECS in the devices so you sent it the file and it both decodes as we as DACs?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on March 17, 2010, 03:19:35 pm
Thanks Jim - by being "Played There" do you mean that MC decodes the MP3/WMA/FLAC files to PCM that is sent to the Imaginary Device that is then uses the DAC to conver it to Analoge?  OR  Does it acutal have CODECS in the devices so you sent it the file and it both decodes as we as DACs?
The device does the decoding.  This is the usual way that DLNA devices work.  The server just serves a file.  The renderer decodes and plays it.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: Matt on March 17, 2010, 03:21:02 pm
The device does the decoding.

The final firmware should also allow streaming LPCM, so Media Center would do the decoding.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: jmone on March 17, 2010, 03:22:56 pm
EDIT - Matt got in as I was posting this one!

Interesting - looks like a bunch of options!  (I've got one of those old in house intercom systems that can also pipe music).  Good to see you can decode and stream PCM to the device's DAC.  When using the device to decode:
1) What formats does it support nativly and I presume we can use the transcoding engine in MC as with the DLNA devices to transcode any unsupported formats?
2) Is the buffering done of the PC or can you send a whole playlist
3) Device Control - MC, DLNA, Web Front end (via MC :) )
Thanks
Nathan

Nice looking PCB...
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on March 17, 2010, 03:42:00 pm
1.  We're not certain yet, but I believe it will support MP3, WAV, and FLAC.
2.  DLNA normally sends a file at a time.
3.  Not sure what you're asking.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: jmone on March 17, 2010, 03:47:52 pm
Sorry was edging at that I assume you can control the device not only from MC's Std View as the control point but also other items such as a Web Browser front end on your Phone etc.

Eg Your outside in the BBQ area where the Imaginary Device is connected to a Stereo.  You use you Mobile phone to control MC over your NW that is controlling the Imaginary Device.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on March 17, 2010, 03:54:57 pm
Sorry was edging at that I assume you can control the device not only from MC's Std View as the control point but also other items such as a Web Browser front end on your Phone etc.

Eg Your outside in the BBQ area where the Imaginary Device is connected to a Stereo.  You use you Mobile phone to control MC over your NW that is controlling the Imaginary Device.
Yes.  That would be possible.  It's a DLNA Renderer and it's controllable by a DLNA Controller (not all renderers are controllable).
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: MerlinWerks on March 18, 2010, 08:54:53 am
Any idea if and when the ID will incorporate S/PDIF?

What DAC is used in the ID?

Thanks
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: 666JackTheKnife666 on March 18, 2010, 09:23:41 pm
A picture of the board is attached.  The final board may be different.  It is about 3 inches square and about 1/2 an inch thick (wireless radio).

I'll post here when I know more about availability.  Thanks for your interest.

Thank you for the picture!! that helps, I am so looking forward to picking one of these up!
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: hit_ny on March 18, 2010, 11:16:01 pm
Where can I get the mug, or does it come with the device?
An excellent idea  ;D

What DAC is used in the ID?
My guess is its < $1 or good enough to be used in CE.

This device has to do more than just output music.

By the response this thread has so far, most think this is just so convenient.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: mcc05 on March 19, 2010, 07:25:52 am
this would be a great device, couple of suggestions:

1) has a 1W standby, and can wake up via magic packet or something similar
2) has a 12v switching output so that it can be used to activate the external amp etc. (already there I think from reading posts)

I'm trying to achieve something similar at present using bluetooth.
Got a couple of bluetooth audio recievers hooked up to amps, and set up as zones in MC.
playback to a single zone and computer fine, but no joy yet with two at once, lots of cutting out but this could be due to my old bluetooth dongle not enough bandwidth, ordered a new EDR one to see if I can get two zones to work.
Then if it does just need to wait for or find a stack that supports multiple bluetooth radios to get more zones.

When can I get hold of one of these as alpha testing, so I can dump my bluetooth project!!!!!!





Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: mcc05 on March 29, 2010, 11:45:15 am
Update: Got new dongle $3, now have 2 bluetooth zones ($15 for the bluetooth audio receiver)  and 1 on the computer (Don't know how many bluetooth zones I can get off one EDR dongle, 7 is the theoretical limit but BT bandwith will prob. stop this)

A cheap solution though  $3 for the dongle+computer for first zone and $15 per zone + amp and speakers!!

Still would like to get hold of the new devices when there are available, but I though this cheap idea might be of use to someone..
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: cjohnson on April 08, 2010, 03:12:31 am
This device looks almost perfect. One question... does it have IR and a remote? I really like the ability to play/pause and skip a track with a simple IR remote. I can do this now with my squeezebox, but it has other issues (which is why I find this intriguing).

I'm playing with a WD TV Live right now as a renderer and when it's acting as a renderer it rejects play/pause, etc. Is it a deficiency in the DLNA/UPNP protocol or is this device dependent?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: cjohnson on April 08, 2010, 03:52:31 am
Just a follow up to my previous post. If I press stop on the WD TV Live when it's being controlled by Media Center it stops the current song, which then causes Media Center to play the next song. I guess that's kind of a poor man's skip. I still can't pause or select the previous song of course.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: mcc05 on April 16, 2010, 02:50:20 am
Jim,
     Any idea of the release date of these devices, I'm in the states May was hopeing to pick one up..
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on April 28, 2010, 02:13:28 pm
(http://www.pix01.com/gallery/8D12431D-7EA0-495D-9EA2-775091458CB9/MediaRoyd/484409433_orig2.jpg)


(http://www.pix01.com/gallery/8D12431D-7EA0-495D-9EA2-775091458CB9/MediaRoyd/484409433_orig4.jpg)


More Pictures (http://pix01.com/Xk@JAlO)

Wireless Network 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi

24bit / 196KHz Audio DAC (ES9022 / CS4350)

MP3, WMA, WAV, AAC, FLAC

Ease linked up to Wi-Fi Router by WPS key

USB port support Windows Connect Now and USB switch for WCN setup

RCA Left and Right Jacks

DLNA 1.5 compliant Digital Media Renderer, works with Digital Media Controller and Digital Media Server

12V, 1A AC/DC Universal Adapter

Retail under $85 to $95 (plus shipping from Minneapolis).  Expected June 10, 2010 release.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: fitbrit on April 29, 2010, 12:45:31 am
Looks like a cute little unit. Any mounting holes for neat wall attachment?
It's going to be hard to decide between a few of these and a few WDTV Lives, which handle video too. The wifi feature isn't necessary for me.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on April 29, 2010, 10:17:42 am
No mounting holes, but it's pretty light so velcro would work.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: fitbrit on April 29, 2010, 11:01:57 am
Thanks, Jim. I've just thought of the perfect application for this device, so i'll take one at least. We play white noise for our baby while putting her to bed and any time she's asleep, including all night. She's attracted to screens, especially touchscreens, so when she's awake, she'll play with the equipment. She's already destroyed the dock of my Axim! I just bought a cheapo 4 GB mp3 player, but it's a pain changing batteries/recharging batteries every night - I neglected to check that there was no AC capability.
The ID will be perfect as it's small, light, no big shiny screens or buttons. I could just attach a pair of PC speakers and control playing white noise, or anything else in her room via DLNA. SOLD!
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: zxsix on April 29, 2010, 11:05:39 am
I'd replace long RCA cable runs to my garage and pool patio with these.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: glynor on April 29, 2010, 03:51:50 pm
I'm really excited about this as well.  I'm going to pick one up for home and probably another for the office.  The idea of a battery-pack built into one of these, maybe with a slightly different form-factor, is also quite appealing.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on May 04, 2010, 02:54:15 pm
We're open for business with The JRiver ID (http://www.jrmediacenter.com/ID/).

We expect to receive our first shipment in about 6 weeks.  We're taking orders now.

The initial price is roughly $79 plus shipping.  Shipping is about $10 in the U.S. and $20 outside the U.S.

We guarantee they will work with MC15, or your money back.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: jmone on May 13, 2010, 02:42:54 am
FYI - Just signed up to buy an ID.  We have one of those house intercom systems where you can page people room to room, but it also has the ability to pipe music from the main console to each of the room stations (stuck with the crappy little speakers however).  I plan to hook the ID up to this input as a Zone in MC, so that anyone can control music playback over this system.

Thanks
Nathan

Jim - FYI on the purchase process, it looks like you are purchasing a Licence (you even get an invalid MJR file, serial # and the std e-mail on how to restore you licence)!
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: jmone on May 13, 2010, 02:46:54 am
Quick Q - the specs says it supports MP3, FLAC, AAC, WMA, WAV.  Does that include WMA Lossless (much of my library is in this)?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: JimH on May 13, 2010, 07:09:31 am
Thanks for the order.  I'm not sure about lossless WMA.  MC could convert to WAV or FLAC though.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: FastKayak on May 13, 2010, 10:12:39 pm
Bump

Half way through May.... updates?


...sorry, didn't see there was page 2...
Title: Re: Imaginary Device
Post by: BrianD on May 14, 2010, 06:07:51 am
Cool Device!  Is it possible to connect headphones (ipod earbuds) directly to the audio out of the unit or is it the wrong audio level for direct connection.  i.e. does it have to go to an amplifier first?  I am thinking of buying one for help to sleep music.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: JimH on May 15, 2010, 10:10:58 am
Cool Device!  Is it possible to connect headphones (ipod earbuds) directly to the audio out of the unit or is it the wrong audio level for direct connection.  i.e. does it have to go to an amplifier first?  I am thinking of buying one for help to sleep music.
It's possible, but the volume is low.  In a quiet room, it might be OK.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: jmone on May 29, 2010, 06:30:16 am
Hi Jim,  When do you expect to ship at this stage?
Thanks
Nathan
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: JimH on May 29, 2010, 04:45:49 pm
Hi Jim,  When do you expect to ship at this stage?
Thanks
Nathan
In about two weeks if the sample we're expecting this week has no issues.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: jmone on June 11, 2010, 04:08:02 pm
In about two weeks if the sample we're expecting this week has no issues.

Hows is it looking?
Thanks
Nathan
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: JimH on June 14, 2010, 07:06:09 am
We're still ironing out some wrinkles.  It still should ship in June.  Sorry for the delay, but we want to make sure it's right.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: jmone on June 14, 2010, 02:54:17 pm
Sounds good, I'd much rather have something that works well over arrives soon.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: jmone on June 18, 2010, 04:24:19 pm
Could of Q's
1) Will I be able to play streaming radio to it (Eg from Audio --> Connected Media --> Today FM etc etc?)
2) Any confirmation if it naively supports WMA lossless (I know MC can transcode)
Thanks
Nathan
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: wig on June 21, 2010, 05:44:30 pm
This looks great, and I've already ordered one.

I'm planning on putting the ID inside an otter box (http://www.otterbox.com/) or similar weather-proof box and putting in on my patio. Can I get some suggestions on a outdoor powered speaker solution to pair with it?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: wig on June 29, 2010, 01:02:57 pm
Any shipping updates? June's almost gone.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [ID]
Post by: JimH on June 29, 2010, 01:10:14 pm
We expect to receive another sample next week.  If the problems we've been working on are all fixed, it will be about two weeks after that.

If anyone would like to cancel, please e-mail me.  I'm jimh at jriver.

I'm sorry for the delay, but we need to make sure it's right.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: jmone on July 15, 2010, 11:36:16 pm
How did the sample look (sound)?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on July 16, 2010, 06:55:32 am
How did the sample look (sound)?
It shipped Wednesday.  It's somewhere between Chicago and Minneapolis.  We should see it today or Monday.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: BrianD on July 19, 2010, 08:29:28 am
Do you have a firm price? also, how do I go about ordering one?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on July 19, 2010, 10:25:48 am
A link to details and ordering info is in the first post in this thread:
Quote
We're in the early stages of producing these now.  Please see our wiki (http://wiki.jrmediacenter.com/index.php/J._River_ID) for details and how to order.

We received our latest eval unit today and so far it looks fine.  We'll test a little more before we approve it.  Then it should take 2 weeks before we see any quantity of the device.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: jmone on July 19, 2010, 03:39:24 pm
Good stuff - looking forward to trying it.  Now it is "final" can I check:
- Supported Formats: WMA Lossless
- Can you stream an Online Radio Station (Connected Media) to it?

Thanks
Nathan
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on July 19, 2010, 04:00:38 pm
MC could convert WMA losless to WAV to stream to it.

I don't think online radio will work.  We'll check.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: jmone on July 19, 2010, 04:09:50 pm
MC could convert WMA losless to WAV to stream to it.
Thanks - I know I can convert any valid Audio type and stream it to the ID.  The specs say the ID supports WMA, but I just want to know if it also means WMA Lossless or just WMA Lossy

Quote
I don't think online radio will work.  We'll check.

I know it sounds odd - but much of the listening in our house is Radio - so the ability to stream from MC in general would be good.
Thanks
Nathan
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on July 26, 2010, 01:17:08 pm
We're still working on a sound issue.  MP3 files have a ringing in the background when listening with good equipment.  WAV files are OK.  This could take a couple of weeks to solve.

Refunds are available to anyone who wants one.  I'm sorry for the delay.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: jmone on August 12, 2010, 03:41:48 am
Hi Jim, how is it looking?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: wig on September 02, 2010, 09:26:33 am
Any progress on the ID?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: BrianD on September 02, 2010, 06:49:19 pm
I too am very interested in buying one of these units when they are ready.
Any idea when?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: jmone on September 07, 2010, 06:10:54 pm
Jim - it may be worth updating the Wiki on dates/prices etc http://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/J._River_ID
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: BrianD on September 22, 2010, 07:10:36 am
Hi,

I am ready to order one of these ID devices so just want to make sure that it is all good to go.  Has anyone got one of these units installed and working.  What is the feedback?  Is the MP3 issue resolved?

Thanks
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on September 22, 2010, 07:15:24 am
I am ready to order one of these ID devices so just want to make sure that it is all good to go.  Has anyone got one of these units installed and working.  What is the feedback?  Is the MP3 issue resolved?
Thanks for your interest.  We're still working on the MP3 problem so we haven't shipped any yet.  I'm sorry.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: joh on October 22, 2010, 12:04:30 pm

Reading the wiki: http://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/J._River_ID
it seems that the Remote Controller is included. is that really the case?

Does the ac-adapter handle 240V ?

Specifications state: " Offers a "Play to" feature for Vista and XP "
I assume that does not means that it is not compatible w/ Win7?

Is there any more detailed info available on how to work it? My need is to set up audio for another room that I would like to control from my main media center computer. Can I drive the output to the stereo hooked up to the JRiver ID as a separate media center zone, or how do I control it?

Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on October 23, 2010, 03:09:02 pm
It's 110 or 220V.

It works with Windows 7.

It's a DLNA renderer, so you play to it from JRiver Media Center or WMP, for example.  See the DLNA article on our wiki for more information about DLNA.

We are still not shipping this device.  We think we've found the MP3 sound problem we've been chasing, but it will still take a few weeks to get any devices.
Thanks for your interest.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: joh on October 24, 2010, 10:17:23 am
Two follow-up questions:
- reading the Wiki you get the feeling that the package includes the Remote Control. True?
- will the device not support APE (I have 45k APE encoded tunes - would hate to have to convert them all to FLAC....).
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on October 24, 2010, 10:41:20 am
The Media Center Remote is not included. 

JRiver Media Center can convert from APE to MP3 or WAV as it plays to the Id.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: surge on October 31, 2010, 01:10:22 pm
Any news on orders for the JRiver ID shipping?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on October 31, 2010, 02:13:11 pm
We've found the problem that was preventing us from shipping, but it will take a few weeks to get it in production. 
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: envyc on November 18, 2010, 01:41:33 pm
We've found the problem that was preventing us from shipping, but it will take a few weeks to get it in production. 

Any update on when you're going to be able to start shipping?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on November 18, 2010, 01:49:04 pm
Any update on when you're going to be able to start shipping?
We are expecting one more sample in a few days and then production should begin.  It should take a couple weeks more before we can ship them.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: surge on November 26, 2010, 09:50:16 am
Can those of us who ordered the ID in the summer still expect to get one shipped to us before Christmas?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on November 26, 2010, 09:58:00 am
We received the sample.  We approved it.

The manufacturer expected to do a run this week.   But I have no confirmation yet.  When I do, I'll post here.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: jober on December 01, 2010, 04:40:01 am
Hi

I order the JRiver ID and I also get a licence (ID (with shipping outside U.S.)1.0-142766.mjr).
What do I have to do with this licence?
Thanks for your help!
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on December 01, 2010, 07:55:05 am
I order the JRiver ID and I also get a licence (ID (with shipping outside U.S.)1.0-142766.mjr).
What do I have to do with this licence?
Welcome to the forum and thanks for the order.  You don't need to do anything with the license.  It's just a proof of purchase.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: jober on December 01, 2010, 08:01:10 am
OK Thanks for the information!
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: jmone on December 19, 2010, 01:56:59 pm
The manufacturer expected to do a run this week.   But I have no confirmation yet.  When I do, I'll post here.

How is it looking?
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on December 21, 2010, 12:28:36 pm
How is it looking?
We're told that the first shipment will be sent to us this Friday by FedEx.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: wig on January 02, 2011, 04:38:01 pm
Any updates on the ID you care to share?

We're told that the first shipment will be sent to us this Friday by FedEx.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver ID]
Post by: JimH on January 02, 2011, 04:44:08 pm
They're in the US at customs.  I hope we can get them next week.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver Id]
Post by: JimH on January 04, 2011, 09:42:40 am
The Id (rhymes with hid) has landed at JRiver:

http://pix01.com/zp%407dkT

We will begin shipping today.  They will all be shipped by tomorrow.

Thanks very much for your patience.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver Id is now shipping]
Post by: JimH on January 06, 2011, 02:38:15 pm
All open orders were shipped yesterday, Jan 5.
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver Id is now shipping]
Post by: JimH on June 15, 2014, 12:24:34 pm
A newer version of the Id is available now.

Links

Discussion (http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=89084.0)

Description (http://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/Id)

Ordering (http://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/Id#Ordering)

Instructions (http://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/Id_Instructions)

Support thread (http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=89498.0)
Title: Re: Imaginary Device [JRiver Id is now shipping]
Post by: Rod69 on July 30, 2014, 04:53:21 pm
Could Jim, or anyone, explain to me:  how would one compare the Id to a device like the Acer Revo RL 80? Would the latter, with JRiver as a player, be able to play audio material of the same quality as the Id, but also be able to handle video content?