Tubs get built-in music, bubbles

Q I was recently at a home show and saw a bathtub that seemed like it was actually playing music from the tub itself. The place was crowded, and I had to leave. Can you give me information about these new-wave bathtubs? How do they work, and where is the music actually coming from?

A Electronics and plumbing fixtures are being combined into many new and exciting products for the bathroom, from digital showering valves to toilets that automatically lift or lower the seat when you approach them. So it makes sense that we're starting to see bathtubs that also double as music players.

The new bath technology that I'm familiar with is called "vibracoustic," and basically here's how it works: The bathtub is made from acrylic materials, and amplified transducer speakers hidden behind the shell of the bath transfer the sound waves into the tub itself. So when the bathtub is empty, the system can play music in your bathroom like a standard stereo system, but the tub itself will be the musical speaker for the system.

However, the real fun is when you fill the tub with water, get in and play your music. Then the sound feels like it goes through your entire body, giving the user a relaxing experience.

As with most electronics, prices have fallen recently: Kohler's Underscore VibrAcoustic retails for about $1,055 for the 60- by 30-inch model, up to $4,634 for the 72- by 36-inch model with LED-powered chromatherapy.

Bathing in bubblesQ My question is about a new product that I would like to have more information on. I believe it's called a "bubble" style bath. But I'm a little confused. Is there a difference between these bubble tubs and a regular whirlpool tub? It sounds like the same thing to me.

A The product you are asking about is called a "BubbleMassage" tub, and like the name says, it uses "air bubbles" to massage and relax the user, instead of jet pumps like a traditional whirlpool tub.

Another great feature is that after the tub is drained, the air blower also purges the used water from the chamber, so it's easy to keep clean.

While it can cost less to install than a traditional whirlpool, still plan your spending carefully so you don't burst your remodeling-budget bubble.

Master plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of "Ed Del Grande's House Call," the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate.