|
When it comes to portable audio technology, some age-old questions persist, no matter which sonic device you use, like 'Why do smooth jazz radio stations always seem to have the strongest signal?' Well, the question here is less important than the reason we're asking. The important thing is that we now have Apple's own version of FM radio for the iPod.
Yes, Apple has finally released a radio accessory for all of us iPod owners to enjoy. Did we say all? Sorry, we meant just the owners of fifth-generation iPods. (There's a chance that many in the next year will be upgrading to the flashbased iPod nano or the video iPod, so hopefully the discrepancy will not pose too much of a problem.)
The two most useful aspects of the Radio Remote are right in the name. Apart from the FM(only)-listening capability, the remote allows you to tuck your iPod away somewhere safe and let the play/pause, volume and skip functions on the remote do the walking. At 1.3"x1.75" the little remote can clip onto your jacket. Unfortunately you can't switch back and forth between the radio and your playlists from the remote itself. You can, however, pause the radio, which we found very handy. You can also pre program stations if scrolling through static isn't your thing.
It is a bizarre feeling to have to wave your iPod or Radio Remote around in the air in an attempt to gain better reception. You might even appear to a passing bystander as an arrhythmic version of one of the iPod commercial dancers. When your station does come in, the user-friendly GUI can even display the song title and artist name on certain stations.
The Radio Remote connects through the 30-pin interface as if it were a power source or a dock station. You can connect your headphones through the standard iPod jack or, if you choose to simply operate with the remote, there is another jack right on top of the console. There also is a useful Hold function, in case your phone rings.
Including the less-than-stellar standard iPod headphones with the item only allows Apple to further hike up the price, which, at $60, seems a bit steep for a radio function. Overall though, it's a top-notch accessory that you'll be happy to tune in with time and time again.
–COLIN MORRIS
Radio Remote: 
Apple | www.apple.com | 800-692-7753 | $49
Pros: Great sound, the ability to pause, easy scrolling options, preprogrammed stations make for smooth channel surfing.
Cons: Only compatible with newest iPods, no ability to switch from radio to playlists on remote.
Requires: iPod nano or video iPod
macHOME recommends: Pre-programming your stations before you head out the door
|
