Logitech Unveils Killer iPod Speaker

Logitech has just released details of its forthcoming iPod stereo speaker system, the Logitech AudioStation. Underneath the device's removable speaker grilles are two 1-inch dome tweeters and a pair of 4-inch woofers all in a single box that measures 16 by 7.25 by 4.25 inches and weighs 8 pounds. It also has an integrated AM/FM tuner—the AM capability makes it a rarity among iPod accessories. The company is lining it up to compete with the Bose SoundDock, though it could potentially give the Apple iPod Hi-Fi a run for its money. The AudioStation will be available in a black finish in October for $299.99 (direct), and there will also be a portable version called the AudioStation Express for $129.99.
On paper, the AudioStation looks to be a fairly impressive speaker/dock. It charges your iPod while it plays, and it has touch-sensitive backlit controls on the unit itself. A built-in LCD provides a clock as well as radio station info, and you can use it as an alarm clock thanks to the sleep timer and alarm functions. On the back of the speaker, there's a 3.5-mm auxiliary input for connecting any audio source, a composite video output, and an S-Video output. The included 16-button wireless remote control gives you access to all of the speaker features, as well as a 3D wide stereo button, which engages a digital signal processor that widens the perceived stereo image.
Other relevant specs on the AudioStation include 80W (RMS) total power output, a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 110dB, and a frequency response of 36Hz to 23kHz plus/minus 3dB. These are all fairly impressive numbers given the size and price of the speaker system, but don't forget to check back in October for my full review, complete with lab test results.