The number of Apple-branded media devices in my house has grown significantly over the past year. With the number of devices now floating around my abode it is always helpful to have an array of available connectivity, charging and docking options. (This became even more important when upgrading the devices to the new 2.0 firmware since it significantly downgraded their battery life.) Problem is, those accessories can add up quickly.
Enter Cygnett’s GroovePowerPack and GrooveSafari.
The GroovePowerPack has every connectivity option you might want for your iPod or iPod Touch.
It includes-
A Dock
A Wall Charger and USB Cable
A Car Charger and Cable
An Earbud Splitter and An RCA Cable for Output to Stereo
Each piece of the GroovePack is simply styled in plain black plastic and offers exactly what you want in a docking/charging kit- it is unobtrusive and it works.
The iPod Dock features USB, FireWire and Audio-out ports but, unfortunately, the FireWire will only work with devices that were originally configured for it. That means current devices can charge via Firewire but will not sync.
The is available from for a retail price of $49.99.
When you consider that Apple’s Universal Dock alone costs the same amount this may well be a great deal for you (especially if you need a complete power kit and don’t need the Universal Dock’s remote).
The GrooveSafari Mini Wireless FM Transmitter with Charger
Cygnett’s GrooveSafari FM Transmitter completes the iPod kit by allowing you to pass your iPod’s sound through your car or home FM stereo.
The unit is small and feels well built. It can be powered by the iPod directly or by your car’s battery, thanks to the included power kit.
The design is simple. It snaps into the bottom connection easily but securely. It offers touch-sensitive controls rather than physical (read- easily broken) keys for tuning in to your station of choice. The station readout is backlit.
Like all FM transmitters the device works by transmitting your player’s audio to an “empty” FM station. As is the case with all such devices, the GrooveSafari works best when located physically near the stereo and in an area with at least one “open” frequency. In my testing of it is performed fantastically in rural Pennsylvania but saw significantly more interference in more “frequency-filled” New York.
If your car does not have a direct iPod input the GrooveSafari Transmitter is a good way to bring your tunes with you.
Together, the GroovePowerPack and GrooveSafari make a complete iPod accessory kit for under $100.
The GroovePack is available from Target.
MSRP: $49.99
What I Liked: Complete kits in a single package
What Needs Improvement: Nothing. Does what it says.
The GrooveSafari FM Transmitter is available from Buy.com
MSRP: $49.99
What I Liked: Small, light, solid, does what it says
What Needs Improvement: Nothing (but suffers from same downside as all FM transmitters in busy areas)
