Polk, Apple intro iTunes Tagging on HD Radio

Polk Audio today introduced the i-Sonic ES2, the second generation of its hybrid digital radio and iPod dock. The new device introduces a new feature in collaboration with Apple known as iTunes Tagging. Songs properly marked on HD Radio stations can be tagged by the radio and have the information sent to a docked iPod; when the iPod returns to its home Mac or PC, the tags create an automatic iTunes playlist with links to buy the songs directly from the iTunes Store. This gives audiophiles a new way to find new music and enjoy it immediately, Polk says.

No mention was made of which iPods would explicitly support the new feature, or whether iTunes Tagging would allow the iPod touch to flag and buy the songs itself through the upcoming iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store. Apple itself has not formally announced the tagging feature.

In line with the earlier i-Sonic, the device emphasizes sound quality with speakers that output audio in 360 degrees and with porting that enhances bass response. The dock will pipe video on fifth-generation iPods or newer through RCA and S-video connections and includes its own dual alarm clock that wakes up users to the radio or an iPod's songs. Headphone and auxiliary input connections are onboard the ES2, which should ship in October for $499.