iPort Adds In-Wall Docks For iPods

By Staff On Jul 25 2005 - 6:00am

iPort, a sister company of Sonance, has expanded its selection of in-wall iPod docking stations that integrate with custom-installed distributed audio systems.

One of the five is designed only for local-zone use, and the others feature integrated IR and optional or standard RS-232 ports for control from other-room in-wall keypads, touch screens and other control devices. The four step-up models are the company's first to display iPod metadata and menus on a distributed-audio system's displays. All five are the company's first with universal docking systems that use a single adjustable insert to hold any iPod model in place.

The $200-suggested opening-price version features unbalanced audio output for local-room application and features optional unbalanced video output to display stored photos on a local TV.

The $350 model adds integrated IR and optional RS-232 port, both of which allow for control from in-wall keypads and other control devices in a distributed-audio system. The RS-232 also distributes iPod metadata to remote distributed-audio keypads and touch screens when connected to an RS-232 control system. An optional balanced audio out and balanced video out distribute an iPod's audio and photos beyond the local room.

Models at $600, $800 and $1,100 incorporate some or all of the optional features as standard. Shipments of all products were expected to begin in July.