NTS Radio Player brings internet radio to hi-fi systems

NTS Radio and Swedish audio company Atonemo have teamed up on a dedicated player that brings NTS's genre-defying mixes and streaming stations to almost any stereo or speaker setup. And, like Atonemo's existing Streamplayer, you can also listen to your favorite streaming services with it, using AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, or Tidal Connect. The $179 NTS Radio Player puts out 24-bit / 192kHz audio over a standard 3.5mm audio jack and comes with an adapter cable for connecting to RCA on your vintage hi-fi system, or whatever other speakers you have lying around.

The top of the device has two buttons for tuning in directly to NTS 1 and NTS 2, the two main channels from the online radio station. The player also supports playback of high-resolution audio files, making it a versatile option for music enthusiasts. The collaboration between NTS Radio and Atonemo aims to make internet radio more accessible to a wider audience.

Why this matters: The NTS Radio Player's launch has significant implications for the audio industry, as it bridges the gap between internet radio and traditional hi-fi systems. For developers and businesses, this partnership demonstrates the potential for collaborations between streaming services and audio hardware companies. For consumers, the player offers an easy way to access high-quality internet radio and streaming services on their existing stereo setups.

However, questions remain about the long-term viability of such a product, given the rise of smart speakers and voice assistants. Will consumers opt for a dedicated player, or will they prefer the convenience of an all-in-one smart speaker? Only time will tell.