RCA is previewing a $200 Android-based music system on its RCA Tablets website. The RCS13101E Internet Music System features built-in WiFi and a removable tablet-style display, and is billed as a modern alternative to the traditional modular stereo system, for use in bedrooms, dorm rooms, and family rooms.

RCA says the RCS13101E implements “a classic home stereo system design with the power of a Google-certified Android tablet.” Its display and control functions are implemented in the form of a removable Android tablet-like module, on which music and video can be discovered, played, and displayed.

RCA RCS13101E Internet Music System
(click image to enlarge)

The device makes use of standard Android apps including Google’s Google Play music and videos service, Pandora, TuneIn Radio, YouTube, Netflix, and other multimedia sources available from Google’s Android apps market.

In addition to displaying video on the screen of the Android control tablet and playing sound through the system’s speakers, the Internet Music System also provides an HDMI output, through which the contents of the control tablet’s display can be mirrored to a nearby HDTV. RCA’s limited writeup on the system does not indicate whether the mirroring function is wireless or by means of a cable, but the RCA Tablet group’s regular Android tablets lack HDMI outputs.

The display module snaps out of for use as a remote
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When the control tablet is snapped out of its dock in the base system, a Bluetooth audio connection continues to play through the base system’s amp and speakers, “so aspiring DJs can kick back and build their playlists in style,” says RCA.

Control tablet, removed
(click image to enlarge>

RCA emblem circa 1930s (source)

The RCA Tablets group currently offers four Android tablets running Android 4.1 and 4.2, including one 9- and three 7-inch models. So, it’s possible that the Internet Music System’s control tablet is a repackaged version of one of the 7-inchers.

For those still rooted in the 20th Century, the RCA Internet Music System also includes a built-in FM radio, plus a drawer-loading CD deck that “brings the past together with the future,” says RCA. There’s also an audio line-in jack.

The video below provides a brief demo of the Internet Music System’s key features and functions.

RCA says the RCS13101E Internet Music System will be “available soon,” priced at less than $200. Further information on the device should eventually appear at the RCA Tablets website.