Sony launches new iPod speaker docks

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Posted on 9 Jun 2010 at 10:56

Sony has announced two additions to its iPod speaker dock range aimed at two quite different markets.

The RDP-X80iP is a stylish, portable speaker dock that has been tuned specifically for British listeners by Sony’s UK sound engineers. The RDH-SK8iP, dubbed the ‘Skate’, is a fully customisable speaker dock aimed at teenagers.

“We’ve been listening to our customers who are demanding great audio quality and the ability to personalise their products,” explained Ben Law, category marketing manager at Sony UK.

“The RDP-X80iP has been designed just for the UK and, with 7 hours battery life, is perfect for both the garden and around the home.”

During a brief demonstration, Law showed the RDP-X80iP’s potential in a few audio tracks. Our first impressions were fairly good, but we’ll have to reserve our judgement until we’ve tested the unit in our Labs.

It includes a newly-developed Digital Amplifier, which delivers a “generous” 20W + 20W RMS output. There’s also an on-board Digital Sound Processor which gives users a choice of five sound modes – Rock, Pop, Jazz, Vocal and Flat – to suit personal listening preference. There’s no customisable equaliser, though.

The ‘Skate’ is quite different to the X80iP and Sony claims that you can “express your own style” through its customisable skinning. There are four designs included in the box and you can create your own online for around £12. What’s more, you can use existing photos or artwork to create an even more personalised skin.

Its 75W RMS output has been tuned for teenagers, with an emphasis on powerful, bassy sounds. It’s definitely not targeted at audiophiles, but Sony says that it’s gone down well with its focus groups made up of teenagers. It’s also likely to annoy the parents, too.

Both iPod speaker docks will be available soon, with the RDP-X80iP expected to hit around £250 and the RDH-SK8iP about £170. However, Sony stated that it is up to its retailer partners to set the price.

Author: Tim Smalley