Fast noise.Digital audio technology is accelerating and PhatNoise Inc. is making sure cars keep up. The L.A.-based company just established a partnership with AB Volvo to offer its digital jukebox (1) Software for managing music files. Also called a "digital music manager," "music manager," or just "jukebox," it lets users organize MP3 and other audio files into playlists, play the songs, rip CD tracks to MP3 and other formats, burn CDs and download titles to portable in Volvo cars
The system costs about $900 through Volvo, and is also available through Mazda Motor Corp., Volkswagen AG Volkswagen AG (VW) Major German automobile manufacturer. It was founded in 1937 to mass-produce a low-priced “people's car” (Volkswagen). After World War II the company was rebuilt with Allied help, and within a decade it was producing half of West Germany's and Audi AG for about $800. In June, General Motors Corp. started offering the Phatbox factory-installed in its crossover sports vans by Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac and Saturn. PhatNoise also makes a high-end iPod adapter A device that connects an iPod to an audio system with speakers. The device provides a cradle for the iPod to attach via the dock connector port and cables to connect it to a stereo amplifier. Adapters are also available to play the iPod through a car's audio system (see iPod car adapter). for $150 for Volvos. The GM deal includes a partnership with Viacom Inc.'s Nickelodeon unit, EMI (ElectroMagnetic Interference) An electrical disturbance in a system due to natural phenomena, low-frequency waves from electromechanical devices or high-frequency waves (RFI) from chips and other electronic devices. Allowable limits are governed by the FCC. Music and eMusic.com Inc., (owned by JDS See Java Desktop System. Capital Management Inc.) to offer TV programming, music and videogames. The 40-gigabyte hard drive in the GM version can split signals between the front and back "zones," allowing kids in the back to watch TV or play video games while parents in front choose their own music. "It's the first time a car company, a record company and a media company joined together on a product," said Sharon Graves, chief executive of PhatNoise. And who buys these integrated entertainment machines? "Tech-savvy yuppies," said Graves. The GM system appeals to a family market. PhatNoise is funded by local venture firms the Tech Coast Angels and the Pasadena Angels, among others. |
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