Altec Lansing debuts new iPod-ready speakers [photos]

Altec Lansing on Wednesday unveiled its new corporate logo, and the first offerings with its new industrial design ideals, including three mobile audio speaker systems, and a peculiar-looking set for computers. The FX3022 Expressionist Bass speaker system provides users with two 10-inch high speaker towers, with 1.5-inch drivers and 4-inch woofers built into each. Audio controls sit on top of the left speaker. The FX3022 speakers will sell for $130 in October, and will be available in either black or white.

Two iPod-specific speaker systems were also unveiled, the inMotion Moondance GLOW (or iM402) and the inMotion MAX (iMT702). The iM402 offers a dual-alarm clock radio and a "multicolor diffused illumination system" to display the time and other information. It also includes a wireless snooze remote, so tired users don't swat the player off of their nightstand. Altec is selling the iM402 for $200 in October.

The iMT702 is a more potent system, with four speakers and, what Altec Lansing calls, "proprietary ESS technology" and "XdB bass-enhancement" to enhance sound. Altec claims the unit is properly shielded against cell interference. The iMT702 can also receive FM radio, and can display RDS text where applicable. An integrated rechargeable lithium ion battery adds 3.5 hours of music. Altec is shipping the unit in October at a price of $180.

Finally, the Orbit MP3 iM237 offers an inexpensive portable speaker that runs on three AAA batteries, for around 24 hours of playback. The cord can be tucked away when not in use, while a lanyard allows users to carry the unit securely. It also includes a lit power button, after complaints of the first Orbit draining its batteries because the unit had been turned on by accident. Altec Lansing will soon ship the iM237 for $40.

Filed under: iPod, accessories, audio
Other story tags: speakers, altec lansing