Arcam rDock goes to extremes for quality
updated 02:30 pm EST, Fri March 9, 2007
Arcam's audiophilic rDock
Home theater designer Arcam today launched the rDock. As an alternative to other cradles for the iPod, the rDock is claimed to be the first to truly satisfy audiophiles. Its construction and materials are influenced by dedicated home stereo gear, and include a pre-amp as well as a low-interference power supply. The iPod's power is also carefully managed to preserve audio quality -- since even recharging the iPod can interfere, Arcam says, the charging system automatically shuts down when the battery is full. Despite this, listeners can also connect any dockable iPod to more sources through increased output options, including native RCA stereo output as well as RCA and S-video jacks for image-capable iPods. The rDock should be available in the UK now for the equivalent of $231.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Aug 2001
What a crock....
All this "audiophile" iPod gear is a joke. The difference in audio fidelity between moderately decent gear and audiophile gear is completely beside the point if your tracks are based on lossy algorithms. If you can't hear the difference between a standard AAC file and a full-fidelity track, then you've got no justification for dropping the cash on audiophile gear. And if you CAN tell the difference, and DO use lossless files, then you won't be able to fit nearly as much audio on your player.