New Altec iPod Accesories

Altec Lansing is expanding its selection of iPod-docking hi-fi stations with three new models, including its first intended strictly for use in the home as a substitute for a traditional compact stereo system.

Altec Lansing is expanding its selection of iPod-docking hi-fi stations with three new models, including its first intended strictly for use in the home as a substitute for a traditional compact stereo system.

The company is also launching a second-generation noise-canceling headphone and its first wireless Bluetooth stereo headphone.

 
Altec’s M602 is the company’s first iPod hi-fi station, or iPod speaker system, to operate only on AC for in-home use. The company’s other models operate on AC and batteries for use in the home and as a boombox-like portable, said senior marketing manager Pamela Roccabruna. As such, the M602 will not use the company’s inMotion brand, which is the primary brand appearing on “take-and-go” speaker docks designed to operate on either AC or batteries. Because the M602 operates only on AC, it delivers higher output through a 2×30-watt RMS amplifier that drives a two-way speaker system, which comprises a 3-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter.

The M602, uses Apple’s new universal dock system, which consists of a universal well that accepts multiple physical adapters that Apple ships with each iPod to hold the iPod securely in an approved docking station, Roccabruna said. The 8.2-inch by 14-inch by 5.4-inch system is white and silver and features top-mount controls for volume, bass and treble. A supplied remote also accesses those features and provides control over the iPod menu. A composite-video output permits display of stored pictures and videos on a connected TV.

For those few consumers who own other-brand MP3 players, Altec provides an optional “lean-to” base to lean the player against and a 3.5mm input and cable to make the connection. Altec’s supplied remote would continue to control volume and bass/treble but not the player’s song selection.

Free optional wall brackets available online from Altec permit wall hanging.

In its inMotion line, the company is adding a thin model intended for thin iPod nanos and a larger model with a rugged look.

The nano-specific system, the iM500, is said to be the thinnest iPod speaker dock currently on the market. It’s available exclusively through Best Buy for a month and features fold-in control panel and fold-in base for storage in luggage or fitness bags, Roccabruna said. The flash-memory nano itself, she noted, is often used as a second iPod by consumers for traveling or working out.

The 12-ounce iM500 is 5 inch by 8.5 inches by 0.6 inches and operates off six AA batteries delivering up to eight hours of playing time. It uses a pair of rectangular 2-inch by 1.5-inch cone drivers to maximize surface area and thus SPLs while maintaining a trim shape. Features include mini USB for syncing with a PC and a 2.5mm aux input to connect other music sources via a 3.5 mm adapter.

The other new inMotion system is the already available iM9 rugged model suitable for tailgating parties, dorms, beach homes and carrying around in a backpack because of its rubberized, shock-resistant design elements. Four C batteries deliver more than 24 hours of playback time. Its base folds in to deliver a thin form factor at 7.8 inches by 11 inches by 3 inches. A 3.5mm aux-in connects to other music sources.

All of the systems recharge an iPod when connected to AC.