Good to Know: Speakers
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Big sound in small spaces
I’m a little short on room. Can I get good sound out of a small speaker system?
Absolutely. Many high-quality speakers come in space-saving, small-footprint designs that pack a big punch. Advancements in audio technology have resulted in products that provide a rich experience without large, room-cluttering speakers. The days of “bigger is better” are no more.
No More Wires
How about streaming music to other places—like the bedroom or kitchen?
Compact iPod speaker systems make a great space-saving addition to any smaller area where you would like to listen to music. Many small iPod speaker systems built for crowded spaces like the kitchen also feature a Line-In connection. If you would rather use the iTunes music on your computer, plug in an Airport Express within reach of your wireless network and connect it to a powered speaker. Now you can stream the same iTunes music to one or more speakers all over your house. Master the fine art of streaming here.
Concert sound in your home
What makes the more expensive iPod speaker systems worth the money?
Higher-priced iPod speakers don’t necessarily feature more or bigger drivers — the woofers and tweeters that actually generate sound. What they do offer is more advanced technology—proprietary designs that the company has spent many years and millions of dollars researching. Such designs, often featuring complex internal acoustics, allow their speaker systems to pump out the kind of rich, resonant sound you normally only hear in traditional, large living room speakers. But do they actually sound better? Only you (and your ears) can decide.
iTunes Tagging
What is iTunes Tagging?
iTunes Tagging is an exciting new way to discover and purchase music you hear on FM HD radio. Frequently we hear a song we like, and we forget the name, or forget to download it before a jog or road trip. Now you don’t have to remember. All you need are iPod speakers that can handle HD Radio and iTunes Tagging. When you hear a song you like, simply push the “Tag” button, and your iPod will store the song’s information. Then, sync your iPod classic or video-capable iPod Nano with iTunes on your computer, and iTunes will let you preview and purchase the ones you want. It’s that easy.
Taking your music with you.
I want to bring portable iPod speakers to the family picnic. Will I need batteries?
That depends on which of the two types of portable speakers you purchase. One type uses a built-in rechargeable battery that can’t be removed or replaced. These recharge anytime the speakers are plugged into the wall, so you’re always ready to unplug and take your tunes with you. The second kind uses normal batteries that you can swap out at your convenience. Although these speakers can’t recharge their batteries, they do let you put in fresh ones anytime, making them a good option if you’re going to be away from power for a while.
Connecting your iPod
I already have a stereo system I like. How do I play my iPod through it?
In most cases, a standard RCA-to-mini cable will be all you need. The RCA plugs into your system’s left and right input jacks, and the minijack plug goes straight into your iPod. It’s that easy. A standalone iPod dock will let you do the same thing with greater ease—and style.
Can I use my iPod to play TV shows and movies through my TV and pump up the audio with an iPod speaker system?
Yes. Many iPod speaker systems can be connected to your television. On the back of your speaker system, look for a video out connection such as S-Video or composite. Use the appropriate cable to connect this jack with your TV, and you can be watching a movie from your iPod and enjoying amazing sound from your speakers at the same time. If you have powered speakers that don’t have an iPod dock, you can still plug into their Line-In connection with a standard mini-to-mini cable. You’ll be able to watch your TV programming, movies, etc.—with great sound coming out of the speakers of your choice.
Speaker Return Policy
I’d like to buy from the Apple Online Store, but I also want to hear the speakers first. What’s your return policy?
When you buy from the Apple Online Store, you can try out your new speakers for up to 14 days. If you don’t love them, we’ll take them back and refund your purchase. We’ll even pay for return shipping — just arrange for FedEx to pick up the speakers at your convenience. Read more about this policy.