Turn your iPod into a bookshelf stereo for $50 (after rebate)

(Credit: Logitech)

My iPod spends more time in its speaker dock than it does anyplace else. The dock resides in the kitchen; the iPod serves up tunes when the Cheapskate clan is cooking, cleaning, eating, and so on. My only regret is that it doesn't have a radio, meaning we can't listen to NPR when the mood strikes.

That's why I'm seriously eyeballing the Logitech AudioStation, an iPod speaker dock that also has an AM/FM tuner. It's packed with other features, too, like a remote, an audio input jack (for connecting non-iPod players), and composite and S-Video outputs (for watching iPod videos on a TV). It also charges your iPod, of course, and cranks out 80 watts' worth of audio goodness.

The AudioStation sold for $300 (!) when CNET first reviewed it (and rated it 8/10), but now you can grab one for a mere $49.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate.

Note that TigerDirect won't let you return the item unless it's defective, and even then you can only exchange it for a replacement. On the plus side, it's backed by a 24-month Logitech warranty.

[jenick3]

Any suggestions for high quality wireless speakers. Due to limitations on space, I want to put a bookshelf system across the room (out of sight) and have just speakers sitting on the counter. Is this even possible?

[mmmGuinness]

You may want to consider using Apple's AirportExpress with AirTunes (http://www.apple.com/airportexpress/) Basically, you can use it as a box that wirelessly connects to your router. You connect speakers to it then you can stream music via iTunes to those speakers.

Note that this is iTunes only and so is controlled by your computer rather than your iPod but this may be what you're looking for.

Also note that the box can also be used as a wireless router but it doesn't have some of the features/security capabilities that you'll need. Also, it can be used as a print server via USB port.

[mmmGuinness]

whoops! forgot to add that you bring your own wired speakers to plug into the AirTunes box. Connection is via standard 3.5mm headphone jack.

[beelissa]

This one looks sweet. I wish more of these type of products had the audio input jack so those of us who don't have iPods could use them. I have a cheap no-name under-the-kitchen-cabinet CD player/radio that has audio in, I got it at Aldi's for $23. The instructions were written by someone who didn't actually speak English, but it works fine and I can listen to podcasts while doing the dishes or cooking.

This item here would be great for the bedroom.

[R.Jefferson]

good luck on CompUSA following through on that rebate. I purposefully do not buy items that have a rebate, because you have to work to get the "sale" price, and that you have no recourse to get that 50bucks if compusa drags thier feet or just throws your rebate out.8-12 weeks processing because they want you to forget about it.