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Pioneer has announced a pair of new iPod dock/shelf systems that are fully AirPlay compatible. The Pioneer X-SMC3-S Music Tap and X-SMC4-K Elite Music Tap both connect via Wi-Fi to AirPlay enabled iOS apps, and also include a pop-out dock for charging and syncing of compatible iOS devices.
In addition to Wi-Fi connectivity via AirPlay, the Music Taps include Aux-In, a USB port for connecting flash or USB hard drives with music files onboard, and the Elite model includes built-in Bluetooth for additional connectivity options.
The pair will be available in October, with the SMC3 for $399 and the Pioneer Elite SMC4 for $479.
(Hat tip to Gizmodo)
Tag: Pioneer
Top Rated Comments
I've considered bluetooth audio, but I've heard complaints on sound quality... at least for in headphone use.
SYNC seems really cool though. I'd consider it.
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Point being that Apple's been talking about cutting the cord, talk of micro usb standard charging in Europe, and Thunderbolt potentially replacing a lot of the existing functionality, I wouldn't be shocked if a future (6th gen?) iPhone would suddenly not have the classic 30-pin.
After all, there's nothing sacred about the 30-pin adapter... it's pin-out has changed before.
I'll still charge with it, but perhaps I wouldn't want it being the method of communication with my stereo.