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)
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.