Synology America Corp. is excited to announce its first media-centric DiskStation, the DS214play. The play is the first DiskStation to launch with dedicated hardware acceleration, specifically for video transcoding. The DS214play can stream multiple 1080p video codecs, and is still able to handle a variety of additional processor-heavy tasks.

The DS214play has a 1.6 GHz dual-core CPU with integrated floating-point unit (FPU). By utilizing an efficient new chipset, with 1 GB of RAM, the play makes smooth work of multimedia functions; with read/write speeds above 100 MB/s. Additionally, the play comes with two hot-swappable drive bays, using Synology's new tool-less caddies, making installation and maintenance quick and easy.At the core of the DS214play is Synology's award-winning DiskStation Manager 4.3 (DSM 4.3); making it every bit as useful in a working environment as it is in the home. With DSM, users have access to a full range of utilities, applications, and multimedia packages. The play supports features that include:

• Video Station - Users can create, customize, and play video libraries
• Photo Station 6 - A powerful and beautiful new way to organize, share, and display photos
• Audio Station - Enables users to store and play music at home or on the go
• Media Server - Seamlessly streams content to any DLNA-compliant devices

The DS214play is also a great tool for securely storing, and sharing data. With 256-bit AES encryption on shared folders, it's possible to keep data private for their intended recipients. File Station's folder link-sharing lets users easily share content without having to set up user permissions, and Cloud Station with selective sync allows users to keep files, file-types, and folders in sync on all devices.

"We are really excited to add the DS214play to our product lineup" said Thadd Weil, public relations manager at Synology America Corp. "For the first time, Synology is offering a product that puts media content first; while being extremely capable in all other regards."

The Synology DS214play is now shipping globally, and will be available in the United States over the next few weeks. MSRP for the DS214play is $369.99. For more information, visit the product page.