iLounge

Wadia Digital, maker of high-end digital audio products, has announced that it will demonstrate its new iTransport iPod Dock at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next week. According to Wadia, the iTransport is the “first digital player dock to retrieve a direct digital signal from an iPod.” The dock bypasses the iPod’s internal D/A conversion and output stage, allowing for output of pure, bit-perfect digital audio from full-resolution file formats (such as .WAV and Apple Lossless) stored on the iPod. “Until now, there has been no real bridge between the convenience of an iPod and the high-end audio listening experience,” said John W. Schaffer, president of Wadia Digital. “The goal of making the player a true high-end media server has been hampered by the need to send the digital signal through a portable player’s D/A converter rather than that of a high performance audio system. Instead, we designed iTransport to bypass the player’s converter and output stage altogether. When used with an iTransport, the iPod becomes a digital music source equal to some of the finest sounding transports in the high-end audio market.” In addition to S/PDIF digital audio output, the iTransport will also feature component outputs for DVD-quality video, as well as analog audio and video outputs, and will also feature compatibility with Apple’s standard remote control. Wadia Digital’s iTransport is compatible with all latest-generation, Dock-enabled iPods, including the iPod touch and iPhone, and is expected to be available in February for $349.

Proporta has announced its new Dual Skin Silicone Case line for the iPod classic, touch, 3G nano, and iPhone, as well as the new Splash Proof Sports Kit for the 3G nano. The Dual Skin cases will feature two layers of impact-resistant silicone in a variety of colors, and will also feature cut-outs for access to the iPod’s ports and controls. They are expected to sell for $22 each when they are released. The Splash Proof Sports Kit for the iPod nano (with video) comes with a Dual Skin Silicone Case, a polycarbonate clear screen protector, an adjustable armband, a lanyard attachment, a splash-proof base that hooks over the lanyard attachment to protect the headphone port from spills, and an optional belt clip. It is expected to sell for $40. Proporta’s Dual Skin Silicone Case line and Splash Proof Sports Kit are expected to be available in the coming weeks.

iLive has announced that it will introduce the iT188B, a new sound bar-style speaker system with an iPod Dock, at the Consumer Electronics Show next week. The iT188B is designed to mount on the wall as a “complete flat screen TV 2.1 speaker system,” and features a remote-controlled, motorized iPod Dock which “disappears completely” when not in use. Other features include two high-power speaker enclosures, an AM/FM radio, a full-function clock, auxiliary input, dual AV inputs, video and subwoofer outputs, and a full-function remote. “We worked very hard to bring the very best quality sound and functionality with this product,” said Bill Fetter, CEO for DPI, Inc. “It’s fair to say that our efforts have met with a great response from our retail customers.” The iLive iT188B will include both a table stand and wall mounting hardware, and will be available in April for $100.

Hitachi Maxell has unveiled its Audio Transmitter/Dongle for the iPod, one of two new Bluetooth-enabled products featuring SRS WOW HD audio and bass enhancement technology. The adapter connects to the iPod via Dock Connector, allowing audio from the iPod to be processed with SRS WOW HD audio enhancement before being transmitted to any Bluetooth enabled headset or speaker system. The WOW HD process, which according to the company provides “improved sound quality and restored fidelity to all files residing on the iPod,” can be turned on and off via a small SRS-branded button on the dongle. The second product is a Bluetooth 2.0-enabled stereo headset, which processes received audio using WOW HD before playback. “We wanted to work with SRS Labs because they are an industry leading audio provider with proven high quality sound techniques,” said Akio Mishima, Manager, Brand Business Div. at Hitachi Maxell. “SRS WOW HD audio and bass enhancement incorporated into our new Bluetooth devices provides significant sound improvement for all types of audio content commonly stored on portable media devices.” No release date or pricing information has yet been provided for the new products.

Alpine’s Spring 2008 catalog (PDF link) has revealed three new standard-sized, iPod-oriented receivers, as well as a new double-DIN unit with iPod video playback. The iDA-X100, -X200, and -X300 are new models based on the iDA-X001, and offer full speed connections for all Dock-connecting iPods, lack CD drives, and feature a large dial for control and navigation. All three models are HD Radio ready, but it appears only the iDA-X100 has support for iTunes Tagging. The IVA-W505 is also HD Radio ready with support for iTunes Tagging, and features a double-DIN design with a 7-inch touch screen display, DVD-R/-RW/MP3/AAC/WMA/DivX playback, a full speed connection for Dock-enabled iPods, and support for iPod video content playback, as well as album artwork display. No pricing or release information is yet available for the new units. [via Engadget, AudioJunkies]

Over the holidays, iLounge editors spotted new, previously-unannounced iPod accessories from both Sony and iHome. The Sony TMR-BT8iP is a Dock-connecting Bluetooth 2.0+EDR adapter for iPod, which sells for $70. It is interesting that the BT8iP doesn’t come in a bundle, but is instead sold by itself as a solution for those wishing to send iPod audio to a Bluetooth-capable device. We also spotted a new line of iPod-docking table lamps from iHome which combine a JBL On Stage-like base with adjustable single-bulb lamps of various types. Official introductions of the products will likely take place in the next few weeks; continue reading for more pictures of the new products.

Mustek has announced its PF-i700, a new seven-inch digital picture frame with an integrated iPod dock for playback of music, video, and picture files stored on the device. The PF-i700 features a seven-inch LCD panel with 480x234 resolution, support for MPEG, Xvid and motion-JPEG formats, a high-gloss black bezel, stereo speakers, a headphone jack, and a removable stand that allows the frame to stand in portrait or landscape position. Other features include a card reader with support for SD, xD, MMc, MemoryStick and MemoryStick Pro memory cards, as well as a USB 2.0 port for connecting to a thumb drive or PC. “For years consumers have stored their music libraries on iPods and now they’re saving their favorite photos, TV shows, video clips and movies there, too,” explained David Ficken, National Sales & Marketing Manager for Mustek. “The new PF-i700 has the expanded multimedia capabilities to play all these digital entertainment options on one screen without the cable clutter, redefining today’s iPod experience.” The Mustek PF-i700 is expected to be available in March 2008 and will sell for $130. [via Engadget]

Boomwave has announced its new Klique leather cases for iPod touch and iPod classic. Both styles of the leather cases are available in embossed and laser-engraved designs, in one of eight colors. The cases also feature a flip-up front cover with snap closure, a back loop for connecting to the included wallet chain, and an included screen protector. Boomwave Klique Leather cases for the iPod touch and iPod classic are available now and sell for $28; Boomwave says an iPhone-compatible version is “coming soon.”

Tuewear has introduced its Prie Rawhide case for the iPod nano (with video). The Prie Rawhide is a flip-style leather case that is designed without hooks or clips to minimize bulk and make the case more pocketable. The flip-up front cover offers protection for the nano’s screen and Click Wheel, as does included Tunefilm clear protective film. The Tunewear Prie Rawhide for iPod nano (with video) is available now in black leather with four eyelets and in tan hunter leather with cross stitch; models in tan hunter leather with side stitch and in black leather with a single eyelet hanging tag will be available soon. All four models sell for $25 each.

Proporta has introduced its Shine and Mini Mod Alu-Leather cases for the iPod nano (with video). The Shine is a flip-style patent leather case with magnetic closure, internal mirror, removable lanyard, and cut-outs for access to the nano’s ports and hold switch. It sells for $40. The Mini Mod Alu-Leather case features a leather exterior with a white stripe that is wrapped around a thin sheet of aluminum for added protection, as well as a magnetic closure and in-case access to the nano’s ports and controls. It sells for $46. The Proporta Shine and Mini Mod Alu-Leather cases for iPod nano (with video) come in black or red and are available now from Proporta.com.

Fusion Audio Technologies has introduced the iPowerRush, a portable, battery-powered charger for the iPhone and Dock-enabled iPods that claims to increase the run time of the devices by “more than 50 percent.” The unit is comprised of the main charger body, which holds six AAA batteries and features a sliding power switch and a push-button power indicator, and a short cord with a Dock Connector at the end. “This is a great holiday present for all iPhone and iPod users, especially since the iPhone and iPod batteries are not user-replaceable,” said Ken Klarfeld, president of Fusion Audio Technologies, Inc., the U.S. distributor of the product. The iPowerRush is available now from ipowerrush.com and sells for $30.

JayBird Gear has introduced its JB-100 Bluetooth Stereo Headset and JB-BA-100i Bluetooth adapter for iPod. The JB-100 Bluetooth Stereo Headset is designed for listening to music and for taking calls, featuring noise and echo suppression technology. JayBird claims the JB-100 is the “smallest Bluetooth stereo headset ever made,” and it also features water and sweat resistance, along with an included charging dock and carrying pouch. The JB-BA-100i Bluetooth adapter for iPod is a Dock Connector-based adapter that enables the iPod to output 16-bit stereo audio using A2DP. It is compatible with every generation of iPod nano, the iPod touch, iPod classic, and fifth-generation iPod. For those using iPod shuffles or other devices, the JB-BA-100m Bluetooth adapter connects to any audio device with a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. The JayBird JB-100 Bluetooth Stereo Headset sells for $130; the adapters sell for $50 each. All three accessories are available now.

Sababa Toys has introduced the iNo, a new music trivia game system with a built-in iPod Dock. The object of the game is for players to guess the album, artist, or song that plays (or a combination of these) when an iPod is placed into the module. The iNo game system includes a music player with a built-in speaker, four electronic wireless remote controls that stop the music when activated and lock out the other players, and four color-coded scoreboards on the base of the device that keep track of players’ right and wrong guesses. Sababa Toys’ iNo Game System requires 6 AA batteries and is available now at Target.com for $60.

Metallo Design has introduced its new Gilty Couture line of gold, silver, and Swarovski crystal accoutrements for the iPod and iPhone. The new collection includes slide-on bezels for the iPhone and iPod touch, which are available in gold or silver with differently-colored Swarovski crystals in each, and are priced between $100 and $130. Also available are “Jewelry Cover” cases for the fifth-generation iPod, iPod classic, second- and third-generation iPod nano, and second-generation iPod shuffle. All models except for the shuffle feature a two-piece slide-together design, allowing full access to all controls and ports, EVA foam interior lining, and an included micropolish storage and cleaning pouch. Cases for the iPod shuffle feature a one-piece faceplate design, as well as the foam lining, full access, and cleaning pouch found in the other cases. Gilty Couture Jewelry Cover cases are available now and priced between $55 and $175. For more information on Gilty Couture Accoutrements for iPod shuffle, nano, classic & touch, check out our First Look article.

Denon Electronics has introduced two new S-Series Networked Audio Systems, the S-52 and S-32, both of which are equipped with built-in iPod Docks. The S-32 and S-52 also feature built-in Wi-Fi, Audyssey Bass-XT and Dynamic EQ audio processing, a multi-function scroll wheel on the top of the unit for easier iPod and menu navigation, the ability to stream music wirelessly from Internet Radio sources, network attached storage devices, and PC or Mac computers, the ability to decode MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV and FLAC formats, and the ability to connect to the Rhapsody digital music service. In addition, the S-52 also features a built-in HD Radio tuner, a slot-loading CD player, and a USB port, and is also XM Satellite Radio ready. Joe Stinziano, Denon’s Senior Vice President for Sales & Marketing, said, “Our new S-Series products embody Denon’s ‘Whole Home Audio’ strategy and are designed to provide ‘Boundless Entertainment’ opportunities for our customers. The S-Series Networked Audio Systems truly raise the bar for the entire compact category, offering users advanced networking, connectivity, performance and convenience features.” The Denon S-32 and S-52 iPod-docking Networked Audio Systems are available now and sell for $499 and $699, respectively.

Boomwave has announced the launch of its Nanopets cases for the iPod nano (with video). Nanopets are silicone cases with a canine-like design and feature access to all ports and controls, an included screen protector, and a neck strap. Nanopets are available now in four colors, and sell for $16.

iFrogz has introduced new car and wall chargers for Dock Connecting iPods. The 12V USB Car Charger plugs into any standard car outlet, and connects to the iPod via a USB-to-Dock Connector cable. The 110V USB Wall Charger features a standard two ply plug and also connects to the iPod via a USB to Dock Connector cable. Both the iFrogz Car Charger and iFrogz Wall Charger are available now in white, blue, pink, green, or black, and sell for $13 and $15, respectively.

Tunewear has introduced its Prie Ambassador case for iPod touch. The Ambassador is made from genuine nappa leather and features white contrast stitching, a removable hook, and a slim card holder on the back of the case, allows access to all ports and controls, and includes Tunefilm protective clear film for both the display and shiny rear casing of the iPod touch. The Tunewear Prie Ambassador for iPod touch is available now and sells for $46.

Blue Raven Technology has introduced its new Maestro 2020 and Maestro 2040 Bluetooth iPod Speaker Systems. The Maestro 2020 and 2040 share a common design of two magnetically-shielded speakers in separate housings, with built-in Bluetooth technology. The 2020 offers 20 watts of digital audio power and the 2040 provides 40 watts, both in the Bluetooth and the regular models. Frequency response is also slightly improved on the 2040 model. Other features include an auxiliary input, an included remote, and an optional sub-woofer. For those seeking a non-Bluetooth solution, both models are available with an integrated iPod Dock instead of Bluetooth, for a reduced price. The Blue Raven Maestro 2020 and 2040 are available in black, white or red; the Bluetooth 2020 sells for $200, the Dock version for $170, the Bluetooth 2040 for $300, and the Dock 2040 for $230.

Contour Design has introduced its Showcase nano v3 and Showcase touch cases for the iPod nano (with video) and iPod touch. The cases are made from shock absorbing rubber and clear polycarbonate, offering dual-layer protection. Other features include a hinged door, a hinged Dock Connector port protector, a removable, multi-position belt clip, a press-through hold switch cover on the touch model, and a play-through Click Wheel protector on the nano v3. “The Showcase is our flagship case, and we wanted these to perfectly complement the newest iPods,” said Mike Jackle of Contour Design. “These Showcases take our designs and features to the next level, using the dual layers of rubber and polycarbonate in ways we never have before.” The Contour Showcase nano v3 and Showcase touch are available now and sell for $30 and $35, respectively.