The playGo AP1 that was recently listed on the crowdfunding site KickStarter is the simplest implementation we've seen yet. Just hook it up to your hi-fi amplifier or powered speakers using an optical or RCA analog connection and you're set. The diminutive device looks a little like an Apple Time Capsule but has a green ring of light around the matte white chassis. On top, there are some touch-sensitive engraved controls.

Inside the little white box, you'll find a high-end 32-Bit Burr-Brown PCM5102 digital-to-analog converter (DAC) which should produce some seriously detailed sound. The receiver is also capable of processing 24bit/96kHz audio files, which allows for high-resolution audio playback. While the AirPlay connectivity is the main highlight, the AP1 is meant to be DLNA certified, too, and even supports Microsoft's new Play To wireless streaming standard.

If you're keen to get your hands on this capable wireless audio receiver, a US$199 contribution should land you one of the first 1000 sets. Units are expected to ship worldwide by November.

I am looking forward to this coming to fruition.

Daryl