Belkin TuneStage II gives iPods extra control
updated 09:20 am EDT, Wed October 11, 2006
Belkin TuneStage II
The original Belkin TuneStage gave iPod owners a simple way to play their music through a home stereo without having to dock the iPod itself. Belkin today refreshed the streaming device by announcing the TuneStage II, a new model that reflects the advances in technology made since the original appeared in the summer of 2005. Its most significant addition is a volume control function for video-capable iPods and both iPod nano generations: these newer music players can control the volume of the TuneStage II itself, turning the iPod into the "ultimate remote control," according to Belkin. The TuneStage II can also charge an iPod through a USB cable and has upgraded to the more recent Bluetooth 2.0 standard for wireless transmitting, improving the connection speed and reducing both interference as well as power consumption. A 60GB iPod with video can play music through the system for seven continuous hours, according to the company's claims. The updated TuneStage will ship in late November for $150.
