Five New Free Standing iPod Music Systems From iPort
iPort, maker of the first In-Wall music system for iPod, today introduced five new free standing iPorts that let iPod owners stream audio and photos to their home entertainment system and sync with iTunes, switching between the functions at the touch of a button. Starting at $150, step up models offer IR remote control, volume control directly from the iPort itself, and the ability to view the iPod's song, album, artist and playlist information on high-end touch-screen control systems. Balanced audio, allows the iPort to be located as far as 500 feet away from the main stereo system; balanced video, which allows streaming of iPod photos to TVs or monitors up to 250 feet away. All FS systems are scheduled for release in the 4th quarter. http://www.iportmusic.com/.
All five FS music systems include a multi-function two-part mated cable for USB, audio, video, control and power. The multi-function cable reduces clutter and simplifies connection. One side of the cable splits off for connection to the computer providing the means to sync the iPod to the iTunes library. The other side of the cable connects to a "breakout box" that provides outputs for audio and video along with inputs for power and control.
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The basic systems, iPort FS-1 ($150) and iPort FS-2 ($200), come packed with a simple mini-breakout box that provides audio outputs for standard RCA cable connection to a stereo and video outputs for both composite video and S-Video cables for connection to any TV. An included power supply connects through the mini-breakout box and charges the iPod when docked.
With the iPort FS-1, the iPod is controlled manually through the iPod click wheel. The iPort FS-2 adds integrated IR remote capability and variable audio output. The variable audio output is controlled from volume up/down buttons built into the iPort face, or remotely from an optional iPort remote control or from a host of third party iPod and universal audio/video remote controls.
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The iPort remote control, REM-1 ($50) will control all in-wall and free standing iPort music systems equipped with an IR sensor and is due to ship at the same time as the FS music systems.
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The step up systems, iPort FS-3, iPort FS-4 and iPort FS-5, include all the features of the FS-2, plus they are packed with an advanced breakout box designed for integrating the iPort into whole home distributed audio and video systems.
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The iPort FS-3 ($600) features a balanced audio path that supports wiring runs up to 500 feet, as well as IR pass-through capability for operation from IR based control systems. Included with the iPort FS-3 are the advanced breakout box and audio sender and receiver wall plates.
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The iPort FS-4 ($800) is enabled for two-way communication. Users with RS-232 control systems can operate the iPod from any room or even outside and see the track, playlist, album and artist information just as if the iPod were right in front of them. Two-way control is as easy to use as the iPod itself.
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Completing the line is the iPort FS-5 ($1,100), which builds on the FS-4 adding balanced video sender and receiver wall plates, allowing users to send images on their iPod photo devices up to 250 feet for viewing on any TV or video device.
Stumble It! | Posted by Paul on September 21, 2005 1:26 AM
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