Onkyo releases a whole new range of accessories which cater to the needs of iPhone, iPod and HD radio users. The Onkyo UP-A1 dock and charger, UP-HT1 radio tuner module and DS-A3 dock are the various accessories unveiled. Some of these devices take advantage of the latest Universal Port connection.
The Universal Port debuted on Onkyo’s TX-SR507 and TX-SR607 AV receivers. The single cable connection can be used with a variety of devices. Customers can further explore their systems capabilities by using connections such as power, video, audio and control signals which are found on the U-Port. The Onkyo UP-A1 and UP-HT1 are also compatible with this Universal Port connection.
The Onkyo UP-A1 dock and charger lets users experience the iPhone and iPod capabilities via their home theatre entertainment system. These devices can be charged through the dock and users can operate their portable devices with the Onkyo AV receiver remote control. This is the first Onkyo product to be labeled with the ‘Works with iPhone’ certification. As well as charging the iPod and iPhone, this product also has the ability to carry component video and audio signals. A host of portable devices from Apple can be integrated with the dock. These include iPhone, iPhone 3G, iPod (4G, 5G), iPod Classic, iPod mini, iPod Touch (1G, 2G) and iPod Nano (1G – 4G).
The second device made available to Apple customers is the Onkyo UP-HT1 HD Radio tuner module. This accessory offers an easy way to add HD Radio reception to any UP-enabled receiver. The tuner’s control and display functions are located on the receiver’s remote control and front panel. There is also a Universal Port expansion which allows users to integrate more than one UP-enabled player. Customers can toggle between the tuner and the other UP device from a switch located on the front panel of the module.
Besides these devices, Onkyo also brings to its customers the Onkyo DS-A3, a third generation dock for the iPod. This product caters to devices which do not use the Universal Port functionality. The dock is able to charge the iPod, carry component video and analog audio outputs. It also comes equipped with a remote control by which users can access their device. Customers can view all their iPod content on the connected video display. The DS-A3 dock can also be managed through Onkyo’s Remote Interactive protocol which support advanced features such as sleep timer, alarm functions, automatic source selection and power-on.
The Onkyo UP-A1 dock and charger is priced at $109 (approx. Rs.5,445) and will be available in May 2009. The Onkyo UP-HT1 HD Radio tuner is available for a price of $159 (approx. Rs.7,942) and will be out in stores from July 2009 onwards. The DS-A3 dock is available to customers for a retail price of $139 (approx. Rs.6,943).
