Sony launched a new rang of bookshelf audio systems specifically meant for Best Buy. The Altus line is all built on Sony's S-AIR wireless system and is designed for multi-room audio as well as simply reducing the number of wires. Topping the range are two systems intended for iPhones and iPods: the ALT-SA31iR includes both a central dock for an Apple device as well as two wireless speakers, each with their own remote controls and on-speaker buttons. The AIR-SW10Ti has just one speaker that itself has the iPhone or iPod dock but has a wireless subwoofer and puts out a total 60W of sustained power.

Two systems for computers are also fitting into the Altus series. The ALT-SA32PC is a self-contained system that has a USB transmitter to take any audio from a host computer and two wireless speakers like those from the iPhone-oriented systems. In turn, the ALT-A33PC drops the speakers in favor of a universal receiver that attaches to the RCA inputs of home stereos and home theaters. Windows PCs get special software that pools music from multiple sources, including normally conflicting sources like iTunes and Windows Media Player.

One last set of equipment, the ALT-SA34R, provides a pair of wireless speakers that plug directly into wall outlets and serve as extensions of any given S-AIR system without the overhead of a more complex system.

All of the Altus models ship to Best Buy in September. The ALT-SA31iR and AIR-SW10Ti Apple-oriented systems cost $700 and $400 respectively. Computer users buying the ALT-SA32PC and ALT-A33PC pay $500 and $200 each, while the ALT-SA34R will cost $350.

As part of the launch, Sony is also rolling the BDV-E500W 5.1-channel Blu-ray home theater system into the Altus line, though it's not thought to be an exclusive.