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Kensington Enhances the iPod 

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The success of the iPod has seen numerous add-on products enhancing its functionality from companies such as Kensington.

25 years ago Kensington produced its first product.  This was a cooling device for the Apple Mac.  Since those early days, Kensington has built up a portfolio of over 300 accessories for use in the office, home and on the move.  The latest additions to the Kensington range have been designed to take advantage of the Apple iPod phenomena.

 

For those who want to increase the audio performance of their iPod, Kensington brings to market its SX2000 speaker system.  Currently only available in Apple white, the SX2000 consists of a flat panel loudspeaker unit with a docking station that provides recharging capabilities.  It makes use of SurfaceSound developed by NXT and, according to Kensington, the technology used in the SX2000 is capable of producing far superior frequency response and a wider “sweet spot” than the more conventional cone speakers. 

 

Measuring 41.1 x 18.3 x 9.9cm (W x H x D), the loudspeaker element can deliver clear treble and bass output from both the front and rear of the panel even when the music is turned up to full volume.  This speaker system is compatible with all generations of iPod, iPod mini and iPod nano.  For iPod shuffle users an adapter will be requires.  Other MP3 players could link via a lead attached to the headphone jack socket.  The SX2000 should be available for £99.99.

 

Anybody owning one of the latest video-enhanced iPods might be interested in the Kensington’s Entertainment Dock 500.  This piece of kit allows the iPod to communicate with a television, or other similar device, to view the available content.  As well as providing the conduit for transferring video and still images to the user’s choice of viewing screen, the Entertainment Dock 500 will also recharge the iPod either while it is playing or in standby mode.  A remote control, with an estimated range of 15 metres, is included as part of the standard package which has been priced at £59.99.

 

The third new addition to the Kensington product range is the Digital FM Transmitter/Audio Charger.  This product has been designed to work in conjunction with a car’s FM radio.  Using patented digital wireless technology developed by Aerielle, this device allows iTunes to be played via a car’s FM radio using one of its three programmable station presets or a user-definable frequency.  Compatible with all dockable iPods, this device can be powered by the car’s cigarette lighter socket.  No pricing information is currently available.

 

Completing the new offerings is the Pico FM Transmitter which allows an iPod to communicate with a car or home stereo system in order to play its content.  This is an ultra-thin device which is compatible with any iPod that has a 30-pin connector.  The Pico makes use of the iPod’s LCD screen to display information and has a side scroll-wheel for selecting an available band.  Two preset frequencies can be set.

 

However you will need to show some patience with regards to this device and its availability.  The current situation regarding radio transmissions in the UK does not permit this device to be legally sold in this country.  A Government initiative is expected to make the necessary changes to the legislation but until this happens no decision will be made as to pricing and availability. 

 

http://uk.kensington.com/html/6831.html

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