iPod interface kit for in-wall home stereo system

SpeakerCraft, an American manufacturer of in-wall speakers, has announced a solution to control and distribute audio throughout the home from the iPod using the company's MZC-66, a six-zone, six-source audio/video switcher. The keypad-based system allows users the flexibility of selecting and controlling multiple audio and video sources in up to six indepensent zones throughout the house. Leveraging the iPod codes embedded in the MZC system, the MZC/iPod Interface kit allows an iPod to become one of the six sources. The kit supports all iPod models with Dock Connector and includes an infrared naviPod for remote control of the system.

"With minimal effort and a few hardware connections, the iPod can be controlled from multiple in-wall keypads in six different zones of the house. Whether a person wants relaxing music in the bedroom or party tunes throughout the house, this system delivers."

The naviPod provides five commands; volume up, volume down, pause/play, next track and previous track. SpeakerCraft's naviPod kit includes a 5-button infrared remote control and a receiver unit that plugs directly into the top of the iPod. Also included is a SpeakerCraft IR emitter and four iPod replacement buttons. This kit combined with the MZC-66 Multi-Zone Controller provides several additional codes to add more functions than are available with the naviPod alone.

"The challenge is, once an individual gets used to the iPod they want the same flexibility in their home system." Says Dave Donald, SpeakerCraft's Vice-President of Marketing and iPod devotee. "I have my own iPod loaded with music. I am like many others out there who want to listen to that same music at home. That is why this solution is so necessary."

The kit includes a naviPod for receiving infrared commands from the MZC, an infrared transmitter, a miniplug to RCA cable for the audio connection, a hand-held remote and four iPod buttons for the keypads. The software commands can be downloaded at no charge from the SpeakerCraft website as part of the EZ Tools programming software.

Filed under: iPod, industry