LTW, AP

Not all the world’s innovations in light emitting diodes are being executed by Durham-based Cree (Nasdaq: CREE). For example, check out MusicLite – a high-tech blend of LED light and wireless speaker.

"MusicLites is the most revolutionary product that I have developed in my 40 years in the consumer electronics industry,” says Cary Cristy, president of high end audio technology Artison. “With our combination of light and sound, anyone can now enjoy functionality and luxury in one package.”

Cristy and partner Orsam Sylvania announced MusicLite on Wednesday. Cristy invented and patented the speaker-light concept in 1999.

LEDs, are starting to become cost-effective alternatives to standard light bulbs and fluorescent tubes as increasing sales at Cree demonstrate. That firm also is a world leader in development of its own products for use in ceilings and other fixtures.

The LED technology opens up some interesting possibilities, such as the MusicLite, which is due out this fall.

"With the ease of screwing in a light bulb, consumers and businesses can experience a quality, custom sound system and the most energy-efficient lighting technology,” said Rick Leaman, chief executive officer at Orsam Sylvania.

The MusicLite has a standard screw-in socket and fits in regular cans for so-called recessed lighting, common in offices and newer homes. The 10-watt cluster of LEDs puts out light equivalent to a 65-watt reflector bulb, and backs it up with a 25-watt speaker.

The characteristics of LEDs make the combo possible. Standard incandescent bulbs generate too much heat for a speaker in the same can, and compact fluorescent tubes take up too much space.

The MusicLites will be sold in pairs with a wireless audio transmitter that reaches about 90 feet. Osram hasn’t announced a price. Osram is aiming it at homeowners who want an easily installed audio system and small businesses like restaurants.

(For more product details, )

Osram Sylvania is one of the world’s largest makers of light bulbs and part of German industrial conglomerate Siemens AG.

Also this week, Lighting Science Group Corp. pushed LEDs another step toward the mainstream by starting to sell LED "bulbs" with standard screw sockets. The 9-watt bulbs are designed to replace 40-watt incandescent bulbs, but they’re light is more directional, so they may not be a good fit for all lamps. They’re expected to last 50,000 hours, or about 22 years of average use.

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