iPod Hi-Fi Home Stereo Box

By Aaron Jacobs

pple Computer soldiers onward with the innovative iPod "Hi-Fi" stereo system. Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs’ latest – “the home stereo reinvented” - is the newest example of Apple’s efforts to extend the range of its slick product line. Shaped like a speaker on its side, the unit is a 17-inch-wide white box about 7 inches high by 7 inches deep - a little bigger than a long shoebox - with a black grille.

The portable unit is compatible with all versions of the iPod. The MP3 player slips into a dock on top of the unit, which also has a remote control and built-in handles, and can run on D-cell batteries. With the batteries, the whole thing clocks in at a mere 16.7 pounds.

This iPod box now has Apple competing with such companies as Bose, which already has external speakers for iPods and other accessory products. However, these stereos are not quite "bookshelf" stereos (the Hi-Fi, for example, is promoted as a hybrid iPod dock). Also, unlike the Bose, users can dock their portable players into the speakers and use a remote control to operate it from afar. This means there’s no longer a need for a cabinet full of CDs.

The device can plug directly into the wall or run with six "D" batteries. It can also play louder than one might initially think, putting out a rich, warm sound that doesn’t grate like many inferior iPod speakers. To do this, Apple minimized vibration in the speaker units and provided extra power to drive the speakers at high power with no distortion. Apple also used established techniques like using the dense polycarbonate case and isolation of the mid-range and sub drivers.

Despite the relatively small size of the system, this is a potentially cool alternative to a home stereo. While you won’t trade in that high-end stereo system, the Hi-Fi will surely be an attractive option for people looking for solid, room-filling sound in a compact package. The iPod home stereo sells for about $410.

The iPod player has fuelled Apple’s growth in recent years and led to a booming industry of accessories ranging from speakers to cases, and even most cars come equipped with iPod-ready stereo systems. Indeed, Apple has become the pacesetter for digital media products, and the company’s shares have more than doubled in the last year amid high expectations for even more innovative products. - B.J.