Philips has been keenly analyzing the changing iPod dock landscape, with an eye on making a complete range of products to suit all levels of music consumerism. For one thing, they've determined that among those homes already equipped with a speaker dock, the average is actually 1.4 docks per home, suggesting higher demand than ever. Further, they've figured that the "ideal" speaker dock for the iPod/iPhone is ultimately a tricky balance between price, design and performance, hence the different technology and features at different price points across their new line of Fidelio products, recently shown in New York City.
The $69.99 MSRP DS1100 Fidelio Docking Speaker automatically synchronizes with iPhone/iPod's clock settings, while the $79.99 DS3000 offers the convenient option of AC or battery power. The compact, lightweight DS7550 ($129.99) is travel-friendly, with a long-lasting rechargeable Li-ion battery, aluminum finish plus a carrying case, versus the larger and more elegant DS8500 ($199.99), delivering a rich, room-filling sound from its striking quasi-seashell housing.
On top of the heap is the Philips Fidelio DS9000 Lifestyle Dock ($499.99), starting with PureDigital technology to maintain the digital integrity of the signal from source to amplifier. The passive crossover separates each part of the audible spectrum, combined with tuned bass pipes, and shielding to help block mobile phone interference. The look and build of the DS9000 are high-end as well, composed of metal, fabric and a curved, lacquered wooden rear panel, providing strength and enhancing the acoustics. A spring-loaded docking port accommodates any iPhone or iPod--even in a carrying case--without the need for adapter inserts.
Control-wise, the DS9000 benefits from a coordinated remote as well as a proximity sensor which automatically activates the backlit control panel. Philips has also created a free dedicated application to enhance the Fidelio experience. It's available in the iTunes App Store, or it is offered directly to consumers the first time they dock a compatible iPod/iPhone in the speaker unit. It's essentially Philips' own interface, to adjust the EQ, turn the dock into an alarm clock, and more. As a result, the sleek hardware itself packs a minimum of buttons.
All Fidelio models are available now, although the DS9000 is currently an Apple Store exclusive.
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