New Apple iPod Universal Dock

Its only real selling point over previous docks is that it comes with a series of trays that allow it to be converted for use by any iPod with a dock connector (that's the serial port on the base of the iPods). That includes any ipod back to the 3G models. This is good news, as some docks Apple produced recently weren't compatible with older generation iPods, leaving the owners of such machines to hunt down end of line docks for their models on secondhand websites. Finally it would seem that Apple is giving some thought to those who brought into the whole iPod trend early and have held onto those machines.

Even better, and more suprising, the iPod remote will work with older generation iPods via the dock. You don't get full functionality (the 'menu' button on the remote doesn't work with my 3G pod) but you can skip tracks and change the volume and it works better than many of the remote units already on the market. Of course you have to buy the remote separately.

And yes, the complaints about the lack of any cables with this iPod dock are valid. Unfortunately no iPod dock has ever come with cables, unless bought as part of a stereo connector pack, so don't expect this to change anytime soon.

So overall, whether you're new to the whole iPod revolution or you're the proud owner of an older generation iPod, if you want a dock for it this is the one to choose. The remote system is a nice addition, but as always with Apple extras and peripheral equipment are thin on the ground for the price you're paying.


Mean old Apple   February 7, 2006
Dogbertd (Dundee UK)
37 out of 38 found this review helpful

OK, so it's an iPod dock. Nice construction and has a reasonable weight which makes it seem sturdy. If you wanted a colour other than white you're out of luck. It comes in a big box (bigger than an iPod box!) but when you open it up there's the dock on one side (the instructions are hidden behind this) and about 5 dock adaptors (aka little bits of plastic to make sure your particular iPod will fit into the dock).
But there's no cable. How mean can Apple be? Everything you can do with this dock requires a cable of some sort, but they don't provide even the basic USB:iPod cable which would allow you to connect the dock to your PC/Mac. And there are instructions for the remote control - but that, of course, is something else you have to buy separately. Mean, mean, mean.


Yes... Its a dock   January 20, 2006
tom
31 out of 32 found this review helpful

hmmm... not much to say hear really appart from maybe apple could have include this with the i-pod, like they did with the 3rd gen version. The dock can be plugged into your computer via the usb (if you dont have a mac ;) cable that comes with your i-pod, or it can be hooked up to the mains to charge... but, dont be fooled because IT DOESN'T COME WITH A MAINS ADAPTOR! you need to buy this seperatly.
This is a well made product that does the job, it's just not worth the benjamins