TDK iWave iPod dock

iPod docks will never die, for the simple reason that iPods will never die. The term 'iPod dock' can be misleading to some — the thing is these devices are not different from music systems. They are mostly stereo, sometimes 2.1 speakers, all built into a snazzy chassis with iPod support and regular inputs for other audio sources/devices. Although TDK's previous encounter with us did not yield such a good review, we're hoping to get better results from their latest offering — the TDK iWave Dock. Let’s see if this one can make any waves and resurrect itself.

Design
When it comes to design, these guys always deliver something unique and attractive. Stylization is offered in the form of a concave, scooped out type front panel, which is covered with a shiny metallic surface. The speakers are hidden behind this, thus it is grilled throughout to let sound out. At the bottom is a black gloss finished strip with touch sensitive controls neatly arranged in a row. In the top half, centrally located is a rectangular LED screen with blue backlight, that varies in intensity when any button is pressed.

The sides too have some aesthetic highlights, like a circular metallic plate on each side panel, rimmed by a similar blue LED light, like the front screen. All these lights make the dock look futuristic, and will suit a décor of that caliber. The back panel has the power wire snaking out and a lone power toggle switch. The device comes with an Stereo 2.5 mm headphone out, a RCA Video out and also an audio in for other players. The iWave is a 2.1 system, as on the back there is a 3.5-inch woofer radiating out, behind a black grille.

The device support s full range of iPods from 1st generation iPods, Nanos, Shuffles (via line in) and also iPod touch. iPhones work in airplane mode. The remote is a small black flat one with well spaced out design. Besides music, the product comes with regular features like Alarm clock, sleep timer, FM radio (20 presets) and also a Surround function, which can be accessed from the button. The power output is not rated.