11. 01. 2007
The iPort in-wall docking station
This isn't just another docking station (yawn) but an in-wall system for your Apple iPod or iPhone which transforms it into a home audio or audio-video system. Classy.
Reportedly, the iPort is easy to set up, installing seamlessly within any wall in the home, where it looks just like an average wall switch. While it's blasting your favorite Pennywise song, it also serves as a charging dock for your iPod, so you can enjoy your favorite playlists or view stored iPod photos without tripping over miles of cables across the floor.
Here's what the site says about the installation:
The iPort--which comes with an unbalanced wall plate, a universal docking cradle, and a power supply--is relatively easy to set up: After installing the wall plate, the user simply routes all the appropriate music and video sources through the wall to the unbalanced RJ-45 connectors, which are ideal for creating a local connection via Cat-5 cables to audio amplifiers and video display devices. The iPort IW-1also works with several separately sold connectivity kits, including an iPort remote control, balanced audio and video modules for longer cable runs, and a factory pre-loaded RS-232 module for two-way communication between the iPod and the control device.
Ok, they lost me at "unblanced wall plate," but a handy friend of mine claims it wouldn't be too difficult. Of course, he has done some construction and was throwing around terms like "drywall saw" so you might want to hire a professional.
With a universal cradle, the iPort is compatible with all iPods with dock connectors, including the 3G, 4G, iPod with video, and iPod mini. For the discerning home consumer, this is a prefect solution. Available at Amazon
An easier solution is the free-standing F-S model which is compatible with all iPods with a dock connector, including the iPod nano and iPod with video models, and connects easily to any home entertainment system, whether it’s an all in one or a multi-component system. There are five versions in a range of prices starting at around $100.
What's to like? The free-standing iPort's integrated pushbutton volume control, infrared remote-control receiver, audio and video outputs optimized for cable runs up to 25 feet (cable not included), sync to iTunes at the touch of a button, and the upgrade potential. The new FS Series can be used with any programmable universal remote. (Why they don't make a remote is beyond me.) Until I buy a home with the iPort in-wall system, this is going to have to do.
You can pick up one of these babies at Amazon or sign up to our newsletter where you can win one. Doesn't get better than that.
Posted by Evan
Category:
accessories
Tags: docking iphone ipods
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| Comments (12)
Comments (12)
it looks like a dream machine..what else...
rashi | November 2, 2007 5:08 PM
November 2, 2007 17:08
I would love to win this for my son, as a house warming gift!! He would be so surprised!!
teresa | November 2, 2007 11:24 PM
November 2, 2007 23:24
Just got a new iPod... now I need one of these!
jennifer kalstrup | November 2, 2007 11:41 PM
November 2, 2007 23:41
This is so cool!--love to give this to my daughter!!!
stacy miller | November 3, 2007 9:36 PM
November 3, 2007 21:36
Ever since I got my iPod, I've been wanting one of these! Thanks!
Carol Ezovski | November 4, 2007 12:59 AM
November 4, 2007 00:59
My daughter has been wanting one...i would love to make her dream come true on Christmas morning.
Suzanne | November 5, 2007 10:16 AM
November 5, 2007 10:16
nice
Kyle Hoyt | November 5, 2007 10:28 AM
November 5, 2007 10:28
I would love this
Nicole Kennard | November 5, 2007 8:17 PM
November 5, 2007 20:17
I would love to have this as a house warming gift for my new place in nyc!
sylvana | November 7, 2007 11:21 AM
November 7, 2007 11:21
I would love to win this! I had something like it but my boyfriends FRIEND broke it!
veroncia velasco | November 8, 2007 11:50 AM
November 8, 2007 11:50
THIS WOULD BE A GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT :)
ZIGGY | November 9, 2007 11:31 AM
November 9, 2007 11:31
Love iPort in wall system...what will they think of next. One for the toilet so you can watch videos while you ummm...relax. Or a waterproof model for the shower?
Freestanding model...like the design and love the fact it can connect to my home entertainment system. As for the remote...universal remote works for me big time. Hate having too many of those things laying around.
Marie N. | November 9, 2007 4:20 PM
November 9, 2007 16:20