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Running audio signals around a home's AC power wiring has been a consumer electronics goal for several years. The reasoning goes that most folks live in homes that cannot be easily rewired for multiroom audio or multichannel surround, so why not use the AC wires that are already in the walls? Think of it as the ultimate solid-core interconnect.

Since the idea first surfaced to use AC lines for music, wireless digital networks have sprung to life and taken off, creating an alternative to running audio on cables. But that hasn't stopped development of what is known as HomePlug audio technology.

Music Choice, a company that provides audio programming over digital cable and satellite systems, and integrated circuits manufacturer Intellon announced last week a HomePlug audio system that they claim allows multiple audio streams to be sent anywhere in the home over existing household power lines.

The companies say that the new system will allow cable service providers to offer their subscribers the ability to stream Windows Media Audio (WMA) files from a PC or analog content from a digital cable box to a HomePlug audio device plugged into any standard electrical outlet within the home. Audiophiles should keep in mind that the latest version of the WMA platform, Series 9, also contains Windows Media Audio Pro, which can encode and decode up to 8 channels of 96kHz/24-bit PCM audio.

Finding HomePlug-compatible components should get easier, according to Intellon, which says it has partnered with several audio equipment manufacturers to design and develop HomePlug-enabled audio devices. These include products that can run Internet/broadband radio, WMA content, audio playback streamers and real-time MP3 encoders. The companies add that HomePlug audio systems support multiple simultaneous audio streams.

The companies emphasize that HomePlug audio systems can be self-installed by the consumer, without drilling or running new wires. "Installation is as easy as plugging a power adapter into an existing electrical outlet and interfacing the audio system to powered speakers or a home stereo's AUX input," says a statement. "The devices will be networked immediately, streaming audio content, such as music, from the family PC to anywhere in the house, including the garage, an upstairs bedroom, the den, the living room and/or an outside deck."

Intellon's Cameron McCaskill explains, "Cable operators and satellite providers are actively seeking new consumer-installable applications that can drive the customer loyalty and broadband adoption in the home. Whole-house audio is one of the most compelling applications to do this."