Listen to Your Favorite Tunes While Charging Your Device
The iPod completely changed the way we listen to music. Detaching from physical file formats, such as tapes and CDs, has been a revolution, but one of the big disadvantages of these devices is that you can only listen to music with headphones, that is, unless you have speakers. A dock, or docking station, for your iPod helps maximize the functionality of these devices.
What Is a Docking Station?
- An iPod docking station is an all-in-one control system for your iPod. It's a device where you plug in your iPod to charge, and it also doubles as a stereo system so that you can listen to audio without headphones.
- Some stations are designed by Apple, but you can also get one from other manufacturers that specialize in speakers and audio.
Which iPod Dock Is Right for My Device?
iPods have changed quite a bit since they were first introduced to the market.
- The most important aspect of a dock is the adapter. The one for the original iPods and iPhones is different than the one used on later models, and they are incompatible. The older ones simply will not fit the newer, and vice versa. Make sure whichever docking station you choose has the right setup for your device.
- Check whether the docking station supports the actual iPod or iPhone you plan to use. For example, if you have a 4th Generation iPod Nano, make sure the dock you choose supports it. The main reason for this is charging. Even when the adapter is right, if your device is not supported, you may still be able to play music, but you might not be able to charge your iPod while docking it.
Can I Get a Wireless or Bluetooth Dock?
- If you don't need to charge your device, or you simply have the dock on the other side of the room, many options come with Bluetooth capability so that you can play music from a distance. It does not need to be physically plugged into the iPod docking station for it to work.
- Make sure the device you are planning to use supports this technology. Some of Apple's earlier iPod models are not equipped with Bluetooth.
- If this is the case, you can still use your docking station in wireless mode. Many come with a remote control so that you can change the song and browse through your library from the other side of the room.
- For those who want to go completely cable-free, there are battery-powered options. When fully charged, or when it has fresh batteries, you do not need to plug in any cable for the device to work. Of course, these options do not last as long as those that plug into an outlet.
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