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Logitech on Thursday announced the release of the AudioStation, a complete home speaker system for Apple's (Nasdaq: AAPL) iPod.
The compact unit, which measures in at 16-inches long, 4 1/4-inches deep and 7 1/4-inches tall, features a digital AM/FM tuner and matching satellites. The satellites have two drivers each and 1-inch, soft-dome tweeters for producing high frequencies with detail and clarity. Four-inch woofers create deep bass.
Not Just a Pretty Face
In addition to its audio performance, the AudioStation's design is also notable. The elegant one-piece system has a black finish, removable cloth grille covers and front panel controls which are all touch sensitive. When powered on, small LEDs illuminate these controls for turning the unit's power on and off, adjusting the volume, selecting radio stations, and switching the input from the iPod to other audio sources.
A large LCD above the control panel displays such information as radio station channel, the time, or an audio spectrum analyzer. The LCD also can display track information using Radio Data System (RDS) for FM stations that support RDS. An included remote offers the same functions as the system's front panel, in addition to those for a sleep timer, 3D stereo mode, and an options menu. Among these options are bass and treble levels, display brightness, and iPod backlighting.
The AudioStation can charge an iPod's batteries while playing music from it, and features a 3.5 mm input designed to connect to other MP3 players and audio devices.
Redefining the Category
The AudioStation redefines the premium iPod speaker category, says Jef Holove, vice president of product marketing for Logitech's audio business. Referring to "cutting-edge design" and "unanticipated extras," Holove calls the Audiostation a "sophisticated and complete stereo system for any room in the house."
Logitech says the AudioStation will be available in the U.S. in October at a suggested retail price of US$299.99.
