Owning an iPod is a wonderful experience. As time goes by, one will be introduced to a wide variety of accessories and iPod docks are simply a natural extension of the device.

These iPod docks not only perform the duties of a battery charger and a synchronization tool, they also extend the video and audio capability to a whole new dimension. Some of these docks are even equipped with creative features ranging from simple alarm clock to the complex network communication functions. And with appropriate adapter and cable, the iPod converts into a miniture
home entertainment system with its own speakers and video output connection. Having said, there is definitely no lack of multifunctional docks available commercially. The problem now is to decide on an appropriate iPod dock that fulfill you needs. All docking connectivity is via a proprietary 30-pin connector and the detailed pin layout are published materials for vendors of iPod accessories.

Compatibility issues between the iPod and the docked system are rare. Nowadays, the majority of the docks comes with RCA analogue stereo output that enables one to connect to any av receiver’s auxiliary inputs. For higher quality, digital output via coaxial is also possible. Sound quality is subjective and highly dependent on the caliber of the audio files on the iPod. The most expensive docks cannot reproduce high-fidelity sound from a highly compressed MP3 file. Ultimately, no dock can beat the sound of a decent hi-fi.

Audio compatibility is never an issue for most iPod docking station, but the video is. Hence, be sure to scrutinize the docks capability to support the projections of various video formats. The output ports are usually the analogue composite video and S-video outputs. At this point of writing, digital output docks are rare. If picture quality is of concern, go for the superior HDMI based output as it guarantees an extreme quality video connection. Docks are designed and engineered to use in audio and video systems.

There are 2 classifications: one is original equipment manufacturer make for their own house brand and the other is 3rd party manufacturers. The advantage of the former is complete compatibility with the brand’s receiver and you can manage the player with the receiver’s remote. Hence, the ultimate convenience and peace of mind.

Different docks have different visual display elements. For instance, some iPod docks shows video from the player but do not have any on-screen menu. Only the basic controls like play, stop, pause and skip. Other docks have a more elaborate on-screen menu for easier navigation.

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Checklist:

• Look for compatibility with other iPod models
• Look for navigation control of iPod menus through TV displays
• Look for bundled features like clock and radio
• Look for optional battery power
• Look for line input for connection of non iPod
• Physically experience the projection of sound in large and small rooms
• Look for limited volume output
• Look for the capability to deliver 25W of sound power
• Look for the support for the various video formats
• Look for support in self help forums

Featured Product:

Zeppelin sounds fantastic–and it looks great, too. It uses drive unit technologies and design principles refined and perfected for Bowers & Wilkins’ most advanced reference-standard speakers. Compact, stylish, and beautifully simple to set up and use, Zeppelin releases all of the detail and atmosphere that standard iPod speaker systems miss, whether you’re listening to standard MP3s or high-quality formats. It’s time to set your digital music free.

Zeppelin allows you to have real hi-fi stereo sound wherever you need it–upstairs, downstairs; in your office or in a second home. Unlike most iPod speaker docks, Zeppelin has increased capabilities that allow additional sound sources to play through Zeppelin, view videos on a screen using your iPod or iPhone, and/or stream sound using Sonos, Apple AirPort Express, or any other networking system. This makes for easy incorporation into your home theater, office, and/or bedroom setting.

Zeppelin is much more than a standard iPod speaker, and with its aesthetically pleasing design and amazing sound quality, it will reinvent the way you listen to music.

Surround your iPod with legendary JBL sound with the Radial high-performance loudspeaker, which delivers clean, powerful high- and mid-frequency sound along with plenty of deep, distortion-free bass. As a music system, the Radial stands alone, with four Odyssey full-range drivers and a single low-frequency neodymium driver producing a rich audio performance. As a computer peripheral, it replaces (and seriously upgrades) your external speakers and subwoofer, giving your games and music streams some serious punch. And as a multimedia entertainment center, it not only plays your favorite iPod tunes, but sends your iPod photos and videos to a TV monitor. However and wherever you use it, the Radial is a high-performance wonder.

The Radial incorporates a universal iPod dock adapter, which is compatible with most docking versions of the iPod, including the iPod video 5G and 5.5G and the iPod nano 1G and 2G. Simply slide your iPod into the dock and you’re set–no additional cords to connect or adapters to fuss with. As an added convenience, the Radial also offers an auxiliary input for connecting a variety of other portable audio devices, including the iPod shuffle, personal MP3 and CD players, desktop and laptop computers (all platforms), and satellite radio receivers. As long as your portable audio device has a 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack connection, you can play the audio through your Radial speaker.

As a bonus, the Radial comes with a wireless RF remote control, giving you the freedom to enjoy your music from across the room, in another room, or outside up to 20 feet.