Harman unveils new iPod accessories

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Harman unveils new iPod accessories

Harman Multimedia has announced several new iPod products that it will debut this week at Apple Expo in Paris. The new accessories include the JBL On Stage II, the JBL On Tour Black, the JBL Creature II speakers in red and aluminum, “The Bridge�? iPod docking station, and the European version of its Drive + Play car interface for iPod.

JBL On Stage II - Updated version of its desktop speaker station specifically designed for the iPod and iPod mini. The JBL On Stage II features a new RF remote control, four Odyssey transducers with 12 watts of total power for “astonishing bass and clear, accurate sound.” It will ship in February 2006. (Pricing not available)

JBL On Tour Black - A high-gloss black version of the company’s portable audio system that is the “perfect match” for the black iPod nano and special edition U2 iPod. The system, which will be available in November, utilizes a pair of Odyssey transducers and features six watts of total power and comes equipped with touch volume controls, and an integrated protective cover and stand. (Pricing, photo not available)

JBL Creature II Red and Creature II Aluminum - New versions of its “organic, unique and quirky” desktop speaker system that’s compatible with all iPods, Macs and PCs (as well as other audio devices). Already available in white, black or grey, the new Creature II speakers will now also come in metallic-red or aluminium finish. They will begin shipping next month. (Pricing not available)

Harman Kardon Drive + Play (Euro) - The European version of Harman Kardon’s Drive + Play integrated iPod docking system specifically designed for automotive use. Like the U.S. version, it provides complete iPod control, including full browsing and playlist handling capability. (Pricing not available)

Harman Kardon The Bridge - A new iPod docking station that connects a compatible iPod to a range of special Harman Kardon AVR 40 Series audio/video receivers. The Bridge enables enhanced iPod functionality with remote control operation and on-screen menu display, according to the company. It will be available next month for $120.

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Comments

1

Interested in purchasing Wired FM Transmitter for the Drive and Play unit

Posted by David D. Coleman II on November 24, 2005 at 1:00 AM (PDT)

2

While your iPod looks and sounds great when plugged into The Bridge and using one of harman/kardon’s AVR x40 receivers, you must switch back and forth between The Bridge button and AVR button to be able to alternately switch tracks and control the volume. Worse, you won’t be able to access your artists, songs, or albums unless you have a half an hour to spare to get to the one you want. After testing it out and speaking with harman/kardon customer service, it’s official: there’s absolutely no way to fast scroll through the menus. You must sit there and punch the “forward�? button each time you want to advance to the next artist, song, or album. If you have 870 artists on your iPod like I do, you have to punch the “forward�? button 855 times to get to Yo La Tengo and 870 times to get to Zappa. There’s no way around it except to create playlists beforehand. Awful design flaw. The service rep was very agreeable and told me that h/k appreciates customer comments and forwards them to their engineers, and that maybe a future model will incorporate that change. Until then, don’t bother with this one unless this issue doesn’t bug you.

Posted by Riverman on January 19, 2006 at 10:17 AM (PDT)

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