Unlike broadcast radio and most other audio entertainment formats, Internet radio does not adhere to a strict technical standard. That's part of what makes it so cool. Want to start your own station? You don't have to invest millions or jump through a lot of hoops.

The downside? The "user experience" of Internet radio varies greatly from one piece of hardware to the next. So what's the best way to tune in? It depends. Let's take a quick look at the pros and cons of some hardware options. In this installment, we'll cover computers and networkable audio/video receivers.

Your computer
Got a computer? Then you already own the world's most versatile Internet radio.

When I want to listen actively, following common threads that lead me from familiar artists or songs to new ones that expand my horizons, then my computer is my tool of choice. Some stations provide extensive artist information that enriches this discovery experience. See what The Technicolor Web of Sound has to say about The Monkees.

Want something that's simple and easy for casual listening? A computer isn't the best bet. You have to boot it up and launch a web browser or media player before you can even begin to look for a station.

If you want hi-fi sound from your computer, you may have to invest in better speakers or headphones. Or consider an amplifier with a USB input like the Peachtree Audio Decco2  (pictured at right).

An A/V receiver with Internet radio built in
I've tried out a couple of networkable A/V receivers, and the best thing I can say about the Internet radio is that it's built in.

If you're buying a receiver for your home theater, and the Internet radio comes with it, what's not to like? The primitive user interface, for one thing. Or the inability to choose the streaming file format. Or a remote control that gives you no station, artist, or track info.

If you are willing to tough it out long enough to find and preset a few good stations, then you can have a decent casual listening experience with one of these receivers. I haven't seen one yet that's good for more than that.