CES 2008

JVC NX-PN7: His-and-hers iPod speaker

(Credit: JVC)

When it comes to iPod speakers, we thought we'd seen it all--models with vacuum tubes, 2.1 systems, ones that are totally tubular, and others that are as big as a microwave oven. But JVC's NX-PN7 is the first one we've seen with docks for two iPods. Despite doubling down on the music players, the unit is just 13 inches wide. In addition to being able to toggle between "iPod A" and "iPod B," the NX-PN7 features a clock, an auxiliary line-in, and a horizontal light beneath each iPod dock that can be set to any one of nine colors. It has a sleep timer, but apparently no alarm. If you're looking for a more traditional (single iPod) clock/radio, you'll want to opt for the JVC RA-P31--it sports dual alarms and is transportable (powered by six AA batteries when not plugged in). Look for the NX-PN7 ($150) and RA-P31 ($100) in April 2008.

(Credit: iLuv)

Debuting at CES is the iLuv i399, the successor to the i199, which we enjoyed for its array of features and affordable price. iLuv has completely redesigned the audio system into a much more compact unit.

Most of the features from the i199 look to be intact, although we're not sure the CD player survived the upgrade. What we do know is that the i399 has a built in subwoofer, support for iPod audio playback, an FM tuner, digital clock display, an auxiliary port, and features the next iteration of the company's "BluePin" Bluetooth dongle, called Bluepin 2.0. This allows for the transmitting of music to and from the device as well as using the system as a glorified speakerphone. Additionally, although we're not sure why, iLuv has added a rhythm-sensitive LED light at the base of the unit. Let's just hope that feature can be disabled. The i399 will be available in February 2008 for $230.