Audiovox is another name known fairly well in the aftermarket auto accessories world. They are using their expertise in bringing to market the iPod Mobile Interface Kit. This device, which will be available this month, is priced at around $200.
The iPod Mobile Interface Kit allows universal compatibility to most car stereos which have an included CD changer port. It allows for a direct connection to the iPod, with full functional control of the player through the car stereo’s controls while at the same time recharging the iPod’s battery. Those with steering wheel controls will also be able to control their iPod’s main functions.
Stereos with head displays will be able to show off song and artist information as a tune plays.
Monster:
Monster is a company best known for their knowledge of high end sound cables. Their iPod accessory for 2005 is the iCruze, scheduled for release sometime early this year. The iCruze, like similar devices from Audiovox and Pioneer, will allow direct connections between your iPod and car stereo.
The iCruze, which can hook up to a CD changer or satellite radio port on your car’s stereo system, will allow users to control functions of the iPod through either the stereo unit itself or steering wheel controls. Basic functions like volume and fast forward, as well as navigating playlists, will be possible without actually accessing the iPod by hand. The playlist access feature in particular, which corresponds to the number of CD changer selections a stereo is capable of handling, looks to be very useful
The iCruze, as an optional accessory, will offer a dash-mount LCD display. This display is mult-line, 20 characters and blue backlit, displaying song name and artist information.
