JBL launches Radial Black speaker dock...

JBL has launched its JBL Radial Black, a speaker dock for iPod that delivers high- and mid-frequency sound with distortion-free bass. The Radial Black dock can send iPod photos and video to a TV monitor through a Video Out port, and is compatible with most docking iPods via a Universal Dock. A stereo mini jack allows users to connect a variety of other audio devices, such as the iPod shuffle or satellite radio. The wireless RF remote control operates the unit from up to 20 feet, and offers full access to the iPod to change tracks, browse libraries, adjust settings, and scroll through extras. The JBL Radial measures 12 x 10.5-inches, is priced at $300, and ships with a Harman Multimedia warranty.

49% of MP3 player owners have an iPod

A new survey shows that 49 percent of MP3 player owners own an iPod, offering yet another reminder of Apple's dominance in the portable music player market. The world-wide market for flash- and hard drive-based players is expected to soar from 140 million units in 2005 to 286 million by 2010, according to a report from DMasia.com. Falling price points, legitimate subscription and pay-per-download online music sites -- such as Apple's iTunes Music Store -- are drivers for the market, as well as increasing flash memory capacities and greater functionality. Sales of low-end, flash-based players were particularly strong in 2005, especially in Asian markets where some players sell for as little as $25, according to the report.