speakerdock

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  • RCA's Internet Music System blends detachable Android tablet, boombox

    by 
    Steve Dent
    Steve Dent
    10.02.2013

    Though RCA has slipped from electronics giant to maker of niche products, it's just announced an intriguing music streaming system that is rumored to cost $178 at Walmart, according to Android Police. The Internet Music System (has RCA fired its branding department?) features a removable Android tablet of as-yet unknown size that plays music via Bluetooth to the docking amp and speakers. Music sources can be Google Play Music and apps like Spotify, as well as CDs via a player and yes, FM radio. As a topper , it'll also stream video from the likes of Netflix and YouTube to your TV via an HDMI cable. At the above price, it might be just the device for those tired of explaining for the eighth time how to play a YouTube song through the home theater system. To see how it works, check the video after the break.

  • NES cleverly turned into an iPhone speaker dock

    by 
    Kelly Hodgkins
    Kelly Hodgkins
    06.17.2013

    E3 took the gaming world by storm last week, so it's fitting that we take a walk down memory lane today with this old Nintendo Entertainment System that is now an iPhone dock. Made by Pete Morris, the same guy who did the Atari speaker dock, the speaker system tightly integrates into the remnants of what once was Nintendo's crown jewel. Housed inside the console is a speaker system with six EQ settings, FM radio and support for apps. The iPhone fits in the front of the console, and the open lid provides a convenient backrest for the device. The dock uses a 30-pin connector, but a Lightning adapter is available as an optional accessory. Once plugged in, the NES controller lets you change the volume, control playback and power on the dock. The lighted display on the dock can show the volume, the frequency of the current radio station and even the time when the dock is off. It's a clever new use of old technology. The NES speaker dock is available to purchase on Etsy for £185.00 (US$290). The dock is designed for the iPhone 3GS/4/4S, but you can convert it to support the iPhone 5 by purchasing a Lightning port adapter for £25.00 ($40).

  • Sony outs Lightning-friendly speaker dock in Japan, alarm clock and radio features in tow

    by 
    Edgar Alvarez
    Edgar Alvarez
    04.06.2013

    Sony may have unveiled a slew of new audio products back at CES 2013, but the company has been relatively quiet when it comes to launching ones that are compatible with Apple's novel Lightning connector. That being said, it looks as if folks in the Land of the Rising Sun will soon be able to pair their current-gen iOS device with a dock from the PlayStation maker, thanks to the recently announced SRS-GC11IP. Pictured above, this little 0.8W speaker isn't loaded with fancy features like Bluetooth 4.0 or WiFi, but it does offer convenient functions such as an alarm clock and AM / FM radio -- these, of course, go along with the ability to also play tunes straight from a Lighting-ready iDevice or, with the proper RDP-NWC11 model, a new-era Walkman and many different smartphones. Whether we'll ever see the as-yet-unpriced tubular peripheral hit other markets, well, that still remains to be seen, with Sony only going so far as to listing it as "coming soon" on its Japanese website.%Gallery-184886%

  • 3D printing iPhone dock adapters

    by 
    Michael Grothaus
    Michael Grothaus
    03.17.2013

    A French 3D printing company by the name of Sculpteo has begun offering 3D printed iPhone dock adapters for third-party iPod speakers. The adapters allow users to use Lightning connector iPhones and iPods in older dock connector speaker systems. The beauty of this system is that it allows Sculpteo to offer these adapters for a wide range of older speaker systems without the upfront costs of hiring a factory to manufacture thousands of units. From a user perspective, it's advantageous because, theoretically, any old iPod speaker system they have could have an adapter made for it quickly so it's compatible with new Lightning connector iOS devices. Currently the adapter made by Sculpteo will fit over 15 iPod speaker systems. Users will still have to buy the Lightning to dock connector separately from Apple, but when used with Sculpteo's adapters new devices will fit snugly in the old speaker systems. Sculpteo's adapters currently cost US$17. [via TechCrunch]

  • Crafter converts Atari 2600 systems into two-of-a-kind iOS speaker docks

    by 
    Jon Fingas
    Jon Fingas
    03.09.2013

    There's few things more heartbreaking to gamers than an Atari 2600 whose original components have given up the ghost. UK craftsman Peter Morris must not want all that faux wood to go to waste, as he recently converted two broken 2600 systems into speaker docks for the iPad and iPhone. Both include digital amps to improve the tunes, a line-in jack and both on-device as well as remote controls. We'd love to have either of them providing the soundtrack to our Pong sessions, although pure logistics may work against us: the iPad and iPhone docks are unique examples that ship from Morris' UK homeland at respective prices of £180 ($269) and £150 ($224). As such, there will likely be just a few Brits who'll get to mix modern sound with their childhood Combat memories.

  • Atari 2600 turned into an iPhone speaker dock

    by 
    Kelly Hodgkins
    Kelly Hodgkins
    03.08.2013

    Etsy shop owner Peter Morris took a much-loved, but now broken Atari 2600 game console and turned it into an iPhone speaker dock. More than just a pretty showpiece, the dock includes 6 EQ settings, an FM radio, a 3.5mm jack for non-Apple devices and a remote control. You can check out pictures of the retro dock on Morris' Etsy page. There's only one unit available for sale and it'll cost £150.00 (US$230) plus shipping. [Via Waylou]

  • Gear4 spreads Lightning connector love with $129 alarm clock, $79 portable speaker dock

    by 
    Zachary Lutz
    Zachary Lutz
    03.05.2013

    Looking to build up a collection of accessories for that newfangled Lightning connector on your iPhone 5? Well, Gear4 is hoping that you'll start off with an alarm clock (and in the process, forget about iHome's duo of bedside companions, which will soon hit the market). Vying for your attention is the AlarmDock Halo 3, which retails for $129.99 and is on sale as of today. The system includes a companion app called SmartLink that lets users choose from a variety of music sources -- iTunes, Spotify and networked tunes all qualify -- and the app also ensures that any alarms you set on the Halo 3 will be synced to the iPhone, and vice versa. The AlarmDock Halo 3 also offers FM radio, line-in audio, a dimming LCD display, customizable alarm sounds (for when your iPhone is lost in the couch cushions) and, thankfully, a snooze button. Also shipping from Gear4 today is the StreetParty 5, a portable, Lightning-loving speaker dock that's powered by four AA batteries. Sadly, there's no line-in audio support here, but if you're properly equipped, the $79.99 system will have you disturbing the peace in no time. Hop the break for a peek, won'tcha?

  • Test-driving the Geneva Sound System Model S (updated)

    by 
    Steve Sande
    Steve Sande
    02.10.2013

    Update: In this review, one of my major complaints is that the Model S does not have Bluetooth capabilities. Just after the review was published, Geneva contacted me to note that a Bluetooth version of the Model S will be available in the Spring of 2013. In a world seemingly dominated by cheap, tinny-sounding iPhone/iPod speaker docks, I'm always on the hunt for manufacturers who focus on quality sound and classy design. I received the Geneva Sound System Model S (US$299.95) for review quite a while ago, but didn't have the time to write it up until now. What I found when I finally unboxed this product was a speaker dock clock radio that seems perfect for older iPhones and iPods; however, the Model S lacks some features found on newer (and much less expensive) competitors. Design Geneva Labs makes a full line of speaker docks for iPhone and iPod, ranging from the tiny Model XS I reviewed last summer to the huge $3,500 Model XXL that will be available next month. The Model S has been around since 2010, which means that it's missing one very important feature -- a Lightning connector. That's not too much of an issue, since you can always use one of Apple's $29.99 Lightning to 30-pin Dock Connector adapters to bridge the generation gap. The review Model S came in glossy black on an aluminum table stand. You can remove that table stand if you wish, although I think it adds some panache to the device and also seems to make the speaker sound a bit louder. The front of this black box (it also comes in red, silver, and white, although the red and white versions are shown as "out of stock") features a perforated metal grille for durability and cat-proofing. Through that grille you can see the red LEDs of a display, which displays the time when the speaker is not in use. The top of the Model S is the big surprise: it's touch-sensitive. There's a small fingertip-sized indentation on the top back right corner of the speaker dock, which powers up the device with a light tap. When the power's up, the magic begins. A motorized iPhone/iPod dock rotates into view, ready for you to plug your device in and blast music. As it uses a mechanical connection, you also get the benefit of having your device charged while it's on the dock. %Gallery-178426% You also see a very classic iPod-like set of controls glowing atop the Model S. There's a scroll wheel with embedded OK button, the standard play/pause, skip forward, reverse buttons, a menu button, and a mode button. The mode button toggles between the iPod mode, FM radio mode, and Line In input. On the back of the unit you'll find a very generic power plug (fortunately, the power supply is built into the Model S, so there's no ugly power brick), the aforementioned Line In socket, and a place to attach a telescoping FM antenna. Functionality As mentioned, the Model S has a 30-pin Dock Connector. When I plugged the adapter into the device and plopped my iPhone 5 on top of that, it looked ... a little weird. And you definitely don't want to power down the Model S with the adapter plugged in, as it will keep the motorized dock from disappearing into the top of the unit and could possibly damage it. Once you've plugged an iPhone or iPod into the Model S, it recognizes it and the word iPod appears on the LED for about a minute. After that time, it switches back to the time display. All of the controls on top of the Model S work nicely, and there's an infrared remote control for those times you want to sit across the room on the love seat with your honey and go through your Al Green collection. That remote allows six presets for the FM radio, and controls all manner of settings. There are buttons for controlling the level of bass and treble through the twin speakers embedded in the case, volume controls, a way to set the clock and/or alarm clock, switch modes, and control playback on your iPod or iPhone. I found the sound quality of the Model S to be much better than average for a speaker dock of this size. As mentioned earlier, I found the sound from the Model S to be a bit more "full" when the speaker dock was sitting on top of its three-inch pedestal. Now, my complaints. As mentioned, this speaker dock has been out for almost three years now, which is a lifetime in the tech world. Many of the newer docks boast AirPlay compatibility via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth streaming, while the Model S is stuck in the past with only the 30-pin Dock Connector and line-in. For that very reason, I'd recommend the Model S only for people who have devices that use that connector and have no way to stream music wirelessly. One other issue is the price. While $300 isn't out of the question for a mid-level FM radio alarm clock speaker dock, there are a number of docks that do embrace the new technologies and are priced more reasonably. The iHome iW4 ($249.95) has streaming capabilities, an FM radio and alarm setup, and works with iPads -- which the Model S won't do. If you don't need streaming but need the other functions, the Philips DC291 Docking Clock Radio is a bargain at $119.95. Finally, like most touch interfaces, that fancy touch input on top of the unit grabs fingerprints like a CSI. Unlike the surface of your iPad or iPhone, it's not oleophobic. As you can see from one of the images in the gallery, the smears with clean fingers can look pretty bad. Conclusion While the Geneva Sound System Model S provides good sound quality and has some unique features, it seems a bit dated and is in need of an update to add AirPlay streaming, a Lightning connector, and the ability to work with iPads as well as iPhones and iPods. Pros One of the best sounding speaker dock / alarm clock systems I've tested Touch controls on the top of the Model S and an IR remote control make it easy to operate Stylish design Unique table stand (removable) Easy setup and operation Cons Relatively expensive for a speaker dock clock radio No AirPlay / Bluetooth streaming capabilities Has a 30-pin Dock Connector instead of a Lightning connector Rotating connector seems like a electromechanical failure waiting to happen Can't be used with iPads Who is it for? Owners of legacy iPods or iPhones who want good sound from an FM speaker dock clock radio and have no issues with paying a bit more.

  • iLuv unveils the Aud 5: a Lightning speaker dock with Bluetooth connectivity for non-Apple wares

    by 
    Billy Steele
    Billy Steele
    01.07.2013

    Lightning speaker docks have started popping up on the regular and now iLuv is looking to join the party. The outfit has outed the Aud 5, a speaker dock that connects to the latest iPhone and iPod while sporting both Bluetooth and 3.5mm aux connections for the rest of your gadget arsenal. Touch controls get cozy up top for track adjustments and "high power amplification" for the sound output. While pricing details haven't been released, we do know that you'll have to wait until May to snag one.

  • Belkin introduces Thunderstorm Handheld Home Theater for iPad, we go hands-on (update)

    by 
    Nicole Lee
    Nicole Lee
    01.06.2013

    While Belkin has long been at the forefront of Apple accessories, offering everything from keyboard cases to baby monitors, it somehow left the audio arena unexplored. That ends today with the introduction of the Belkin Thunderstorm Handheld Home Theater. Behind that mouthful of a product name is essentially a portable speaker dock for the iPad housed inside a protective case, which seems a lot more reasonable than Bang & Olufsen's pricey speaker "wedge." The Thunderstorm's front-facing speaker system boasts full-range drivers and integrated air channels for "immersive sound" and "deeper bass." All the internals are powered by Audifi, a mobile audio engineering outfit that Belkin specifically hired for the project. As for the cover, Belkin took a cue from Apple's own magnetic offering, but went a step further with the addition of multifold creases for different viewing angles. We spent a few days with the Thunderstorm and so far we're impressed with the volume and depth from such slim speakers. Though we didn't have a chance to test it, Belkin is also offering a free iOS app to accompany the product -- it essentially lets you fine-tune the audio with presets for music, movies and games. However the Thunderstorm is not without a few annoyances: the case adds an unsettling amount of bulk to the iPad and it's currently only available with the now-ancient 30-pin connector (we're told a Lightning-equipped version is due in Q2 2013). If you're happy with the ole universal dock though, you can pick this up in the coming weeks from Belkin's online store, Amazon.com or the Apple Store for $200 a pop. In the mean time, you can get a closer look at it with the galleries after the break. Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub.

  • Engadget's holiday gift guide 2012: speakers and docks

    by 
    Zach Honig
    Zach Honig
    12.05.2012

    Welcome to the Engadget holiday gift guide! Picking presents for friends and loved ones is never a simple task, and with thousands of options for each category, buying technology can be an especially frustrating experience. We're here to help. Below you'll find today's bevy of curated picks, and you can head back to our hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the holiday season. And don't forget to enter our giveaway -- leave a comment for a chance to nab AT&T's Samsung Galaxy Express. Apple may have killed off the ubiquitous 30-pin connector, but that doesn't mean the dock is dead. Millions of older iPhones and iPads remain in use today -- and will for many years to come -- and Bluetooth and WiFi-equipped speaker rigs let you pipe in tunes regardless of your device's hardware port. Apple's Lightning adapter will also let last year's docks remain relevant, while standard 3.5mm inputs ensure compatibility with nearly any audio source. You should, of course, be aware of each system's connectivity before making a purchase, but don't let that previous-gen plug dissuade you from picking up an otherwise awesome setup. As always, we're happy to assist as you sort through the selection -- here are our top finds for every budget, so queue up some tunes and blast past the break.

  • Logic3's Ferrari-branded headphones and speakers make their stateside debut, no license required to rock

    by 
    Joe Pollicino
    Joe Pollicino
    11.21.2012

    Ferrari isn't a stranger to licensing its brand for use on gadgets. As of this week, the automaker's added some new offerings in the US on the audio front with the help of Logic3. Way back at CES we got our eyes on the duo's full lineup of co-branded headphones and speakers, and now folks in the US can officially get their hands on two such offerings (Tim Stevens-approved racing gloves not required). Its $400 Cavallino T350 headphones come in black or tan, featuring 40mm drivers, active noise cancellation, an inline remote / mic for your smartphone and a tangle-proof cord. As you'd expect, they're crafted from premium metal and leather for an extra luxurious feel on the ears. Those looking to fill a room with sound should take note of the $500 Scuderia FS1. It's a 2.1 speaker system complete with Bluetooth and the ever-aging 30-pin connector for older iOS devices. Sure, it's been a slow start to market, but here's to hoping the performance matches the prices -- hey, it still beats an actual payment on one of Ferrari's actual whips. Full press release after the break.

  • JBL intros first Lightning-equipped speaker docks, we go ears-on

    by 
    Joe Pollicino
    Joe Pollicino
    11.15.2012

    That larger JBL speaker dock looks familiar, doesn't it? Near the end of September, Harman gave us a peak at its latest consumer audio products. Curiously, however, a slew of new iOS-focused speaker docks were shown off, each lacking a Lightning connector. Today that's changed, as JBL has announced a duo of systems that are equipped with Lightning docks. To start, the larger unit is dubbed as the OnBeat Venue LT ($200). This speaker is essentially a Lightning-enhanced version of the 30-pin loaded Venue we recently spent time with, featuring the same 30 watts of power and Bluetooth connectivity with Apt-X support. Like it's sibling, the dock can be set flush with the front, and better yet, you'll even be able to dock your iPad mini into it. Sizing things down a bit is the OnBeat Micro, a $100 bedside system that'll play nice with the iPhone 5 and the new iPod nano. While it doesn't benefit from Harman's Bluetooth know-how (a pricing consideration, as we're told), it can be loaded with four AAA batteries for quick bouts away from wall power. Based on a quick listening session, we can report that the Venue LT sounded very full and clear. Even with the optional bass- or vocal-boosts enabled, it didn't seem like the speakers were having trouble pushing out high levels of volume. The Micro on the other hand sounded decidedly tinny, which we're frankly not surprised about given the size. Both systems are compatible with JBL's MusicFlow app as well, giving you some extended options for tweaking EQ. The rigs felt fairly sturdy, but we were immediately able to notice some niggles with the Lighting connector. Our iPhone 5 and Harman's iPad mini and iPod nano clicked into place easily with the connector, but the hinge it's built on is very loose without any tension. A slight knock could potentially send an iOS device leaning forward, which would have us concerned in a party situation (the problem is more apparent on the Venue). Secondly, the docks won't play nice with common cases like Speck's CandyShell, so you'll need to have your devices naked before docking. JBL noted the quirks, stating that they have little control over the behavior of connector itself, as it's supplied by Apple. %Gallery-170981% JBL expects that the OnBeat Venue LT and Micro will be the only Lightning-packing speaker docks for at least the holidays, so check out the press release after the break for more details if you're interested. As for us? We'd say the Venue LT is definitely worth a look, but we'd just as easily pass on the Micro given the myriad options out there for smaller Bluetooth-equipped speakers.

  • Behringer iNuke Boom Junior for iPhone, iPad

    by 
    Kelly Hodgkins
    Kelly Hodgkins
    10.09.2012

    Behringer is known for its professional audio and music equipment, and the company is keeping this tradition alive with its iNuKe Boom Junior. The Boom Junior is a scaled down version of the iNuke Boom, a monstrous dock that delivers 10,000 watts of audio power. The Junior delivers the same quality audio hardware and a 3-way active speaker design in a dock that is 1/23 the size of the original BOOM. Unlike the Boom, which is too large for personal use, the smaller size (8.7 x 16.5 x 9.8") of the iNuke Boom Junior is perfect for your house or apartment. It'll throw off enough sound "to throw a party or get you thrown out of your apartment," says Behringer. The Boom Junior is available for US$179 from Costco and is compatible with the iPhone (4 / 4S / 3GS / 3G), iPod Touch, iPod Nano, iPod Classic (5th Generation), and the iPad (1 / 2 / The New iPad). [Via Engadget] Show full PR text BEHRINGER SCALES DOWN THE WORLD'S LARGEST, LOUDEST, 10,000 WATT DOCK TO FIT INTO YOUR HOME: INTRODUCING THE iNUKE BOOM JUNIOR OCTOBER GIVEAWAYS: BEHRINGER will giveaway one iNuke BOOM Junior every weekday during October on Facebook SEATTLE – October 4, 2012 – BEHRINGER, an award-winning innovator of professional audio and music equipment, has scaled down the world's largest and loudest dock ever, the 10,000-Watt iNuke BOOM, and is bringing it to you. We're excited to reveal the iNuke BOOM Junior - a 1:23 scale model of its powerful predecessor, packed with professional grade components and a 3-way active speaker design. Now, anyone can have the chance to sit back or rock out while enjoying concert quality sound at home with thumping lows, sizzling highs and crystal-clear sound at any level. "We wanted to shake up the whole i-device docking world with a product that brings home some of the magic of the original 10,000-Watt iNuke BOOM," says Costa Lakoumentas, BEHRINGER Senior Vice President of Marketing. "If you make a little room for the iNuke BOOM Junior in your home it will pay you back with stunning sound clarity and enough bass to throw a party; or get thrown out of your apartment." If you "Love" the iNuke BOOM Junior, then "Like" Behringer on Facebook for a chance to win your very own! Behringer is celebrating the launch by giving away one iNuke BOOM Junior each weekday in October. Entering is easy-- the giveaway hopefuls only need to visit www.facebook.com/inukeboom, and hit the "Like" button to be entered in the daily drawings. The iNuke BOOM Junior is available online exclusively at www.costco.com as item number 671770 (or search for iNuke) for $179.99 including Shipping and Handling, and it is compatible with almost all mobile phones or media players with its included cables. Specifications: • Indicators: Standby LED indicator, Line-In LED indicator, Aux LED indicator, iPod LED indicator • Connectivity: iPod dock, Line In, Aux In (stereo RCA connectors), Video Out (video) • iPhone / iPod / iPad compatibility: iPhone 4 / 4S / 3GS / 3G, iPod Touch / Nano / Classic (5th Generation), iPad 1 / 2* / The New iPad* • Batteries (remote control): 1 x CR2025 (included) • Speakers: tweeter (2 x 1"), midrange speaker (2 x 3"), woofer (1 x 5.25") • Power consumption: max. 50 W • Power requirement: 110-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz • Weight: 10.6 lbs. (4.8 kg) • Dimensions (H x W x D): 8.7 x 16.5 x 9.8" (220 x 420 x 250 mm)

  • Behringer iNuke Boom Junior shrinks a giant iOS dock, won't trigger as many earthquake warnings

    by 
    Jon Fingas
    Jon Fingas
    10.05.2012

    As enraptured as we might be with Behringer's monolithic iNuke Boom, the 8-foot-long frame and 10,000W output don't really lend themselves to a home installation. Not unless we want to produce false positives on the USGS' earthquake meters, anyway. We're happy to say the company has addressed that domestic oversight with the iNuke Boom Junior. The iOS- and iPod-capable speaker dock won't launch nearly as large-scale an audio assault at 50W, but it's also less than a twentieth of the size of its parent; no one will need a forklift to get Junior into the living room. In spite of the less than ego-inflating dimensions, the smaller system appears balanced with discrete woofer, tweeter and mid-range components as well as separate bass control. We just wish it was slightly more futureproof. As glad as we are that the iNuke Boom Junior's $180 price at Costco spares us from raiding our retirement funds, the speaker is still using a pre-Lightning dock connector and lacks any wireless audio -- iPhone 5 owners will have to turn to an adapter or the aux-in jack. At least we won't be violating any local noise laws in the process.

  • Jarre Aeroskull speaker dock packs dual 15-watt woofers, recently departed Apple Dock Connector

    by 
    Zach Honig
    Zach Honig
    09.20.2012

    Just in time for Halloween, Jarre's new Aeroskull dock embodies 70 watts of total power in a human-like cranium, complete with a pair of speaker-packing shades. Jarre is showing off the colorful chrome tune machine in black, white, blue, green, orange, pink, purple and yellow finishes, with a matching IR bone remote to boot. With a tinted lens appearance, the permanently affixed sunglasses actually contain two 15-watt speakers, with a 40-watt subwoofer occupying the skull's rear. The lofty £349 (about $565) sticker price will net you some of the latest technologies, including Bluetooth audio support and a standard 3.5mm audio input, but Apple's new Lightning port is notably absent, with a good-as-dead Dock Connector mounted up top, instead. With 70 watts of power and Jarre's backing, this seemingly bizarre rig may actually offer decent performance. You'll need to wait until its October ship date to see for yourself, but if a skeletal sound system is on your list of must-haves, you can rest in peace knowing that you have but weeks to live (with your current spirited setup).

  • Bluetooth dock adapter Pear disappears from Kickstarter, founders promise return under new name

    by 
    Mat Smith
    Mat Smith
    08.06.2012

    You might remember Pear, a recent Insert Coin debutant that connects your favorite iDevice dock to (almost) any Bluetooth-connected smartphone. However, you probably didn't notice its swift disappearance from Kickstarter just before the weekend. The people behind the project have contacted us, explaining that the crowdfunding site was hit with a cease and desist order for the dock converter, centering around a "trademark infringement issue." With its funding page down, Pear says it had no way to tell its supporters that product development would continue, albeit under a new name. Anyone that funded the project is advised to register at the source link below to keep up-to-date. The founders aim to return to Kickstarter in around 3-6 weeks, with several as-yet unannounced enhancements coming alongside a new logo and moniker -- something that it's going to task its backers with deciding.

  • Denon intros Cocoon Home and Portable AirPlay docks, will transform songs into musical butterflies

    by 
    Brian Heater
    Brian Heater
    08.02.2012

    Denon's got a snazzy new pair of iPhone speaker docks to show the world -- the Cocoon Home and Cocoon Portable. The Home features AirPlay streaming from iPhones, iPods, Mac and PCs through 100 watts of total power. Its 25-percent smaller sibling has 50 watts of power and battery life of up to five hours. Both docks will be hitting this summer for $599 and $499, respectively. We're crossing our fingers for a Steve Guttenberg spokesman deal. Full press details after the break.

  • Klipsch Gallery G-17 Air soundbar further befits its moniker with custom speaker grilles

    by 
    Joe Pollicino
    Joe Pollicino
    07.29.2012

    Remember Klipsch's $500 Gallery G-17 Air soundbar that wowed our ears last holiday season? If you weren't fond of the AirPlay-enabled rig's piano-black finish, you might be pleased to know that the company is ready to let you spice it up visually. If you'll recall, the unit features a removeable magnetic speaker grill, which can now be customized to your heart's desire -- provided you've got another 25 bucks, a 300 DPI image file and four weeks of waiting time to spare. Naturally, we're partial to seeing it affixed with the Engadget white and blue, but feel free to give it a go with something of your own favor at the source link below.

  • Grace Digital's MatchStick speaker dock for the Kindle Fire hits Amazon

    by 
    Donald Melanson
    Donald Melanson
    07.17.2012

    We heard back in March that Grace Digital's FireDock for the Kindle Fire would be available in July, and it turns out that was at least partly true. The device is now shipping from Amazon (at a $30 discount of its $130 list price), but it's been rebranded with the even more Kindle-esque name of MatchStick. It remains unchanged otherwise, though, packing the same rotating cradle designed specifically for the Fire (despite the silver-framed device in the press image above), an aux input for other devices, a pair of 3-inch speakers with a 16 watt class D digital amplifier, and an optional lithium-ion battery pack that will be available in August.