Rhythms is a broadband services provider while Firetap is a new technology venture between Homestore.com Inc. and the National Association of Realtors. The Denver-based Firetap will provide assorted customized B2B broadband and telephony services to the real estate industry as well as other home-related markets, such as lenders, residential users, builders and multi-listing services.

"Firetap fits perfectly into Rhythms' broadband integrator strategy," says Scott Chandler, Rhythms' senior vice president of global business development. "FIRETAP has the potential to become a valuable affinity channel and to reach millions of people associated with real estate, rental and home building industries. Rhythms' robust network will bring these people 'always on' access at the fastest speeds in the industry."

Rhythms has been one of Denver's highest-flying stock, but lately Wall Street has soured on DSL providers, hammering Rhythms' stock.