Griffin Technology announced today that they have begun shipping FireWave, an affordable 5.1 Surround Sound solution for Macintosh.

FireWave extends to Mac users the ability to affordably and effectively upgrade their sound systems by way of their FireWire ports.

FireWave’s small size makes it easy to incorporate into any computer setup, and makes it portable enough for use with laptops. FireWave gets its power through the FireWire connection, so there are no separate cables, batteries, or power supplies to tote. FireWave’s extra FireWire port lets you daisy-chain other FireWire devices, so it won’t hog your FireWire port.

FireWave lets you enjoy Dolby Digital encoded DVDs in 5.1 surround, or use Dolby Prol Logic II to make any audio source alive, whether from iTunes, QuickTime, or streaming audio. In addition, FireWave’s support of multi-channel playback from cross-platform OpenAL games like World of Warcraft and Unreal Tournament make it a must-have for gamers.

Technical Specifications:

• Complies with IEEE1394 specification
• Sample Rates supported:
• • 32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz and 96kHz playback in MBLA mode (non-Dolby)
  • 32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz in Dolby Pro Logic II
  • 48kHz Encoded Digital in Dolby Digital
• Outputs: 6-Channel, 24-bit
• Frequency Response: (-3dBr, 24-bit 48kHz input) = < 20Hz – 20kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB
• Powered by the Oxford Semiconductor FW970

Pricing & Availability

Griffin FireWave is priced at $99.99 USD, and is now available at Griffin Technology, and where Mac or FireWire accessories are sold.