It's time to ditch the earphones and share your collection, writes STEPHEN FENECH

THERE are a number of ways to give your iPod a voice for all to hear. The products can help your iPod be heard in the home, in the bedroom, on the go and even in the car.

PHILIPS DC200
Philips has released the DC200 – a mini clock radio that has an iPod connection dock so users can wake up to their own music using one of two alarms.
The device ships with four different dock adaptors so all the latest iPods will feel right at home.
A USB port can also be utilised to connect other digital players and a large display showing the time and source being played.
The DC200 is simple to operate both as a radio and alarm and as a set of iPod speakers.
As far as sound quality goes, the DC200 is not going to take the place of your main stereo but the gutsy 5W speakers are still good enough for some bedside listening.
It’s priced at $129.95 and available by calling 1300 363 391 or going to philips.com.au

LG FB163
The FB163 is a piano black micro audio system with a central console slightly wider than a CD jewel case.
A glowing blue touch sensor on the front allows users to navigate the many features of the product.
Atop the console is a dock allowing the connection of the latest generation of iPods, including the Classic and Nano.
Users will also find that there is a vertical slot to load CDs to hear music directly or to convert the music to MP3.
This is made possible thanks to the USB Direct Recording, which means CDs can be ripped to a USB or MP3 player and the music can then be enjoyed anywhere.
The FB163 can also play DVDs and act as a mini surround system.
Incorporated into the products is a proprietary LG technology called VSMTM Pro, which can simulate a multi-channel system.
This works quite effectively in a small room and while it isn’t  a full-blown system, it punches above its weight.
The LG is small, but delivers thanks to the 160W of power and three-way speakers.
It’s priced at $399 and available by calling 1800 725 375 or going to lg.com.au

iMAINGO
The iMainGo looks like a slightly overweight case but zip it open and you’ll find it is much more.
Inside is a small compartment for the iPod and a clear plastic window that lets listeners see and control the iPod from the outside.
The small speakers are powered by four AAA batteries – good for about 30 hours.
The iPod can be connected to the speakers via an internal cable that plugs into the headphone socket.
The iMainGo’s sound exceeded expectations.
The sound was quite clear with good bass and clarity and virtually no distortion at higher volumes.
For its size and price, iMainGo is excellent value and ideal for anyone who wants to pack up the iPod – and even leave the earphones at home.
It’s priced at $129 and available by going to imaingo.com.au

BELKIN TUNECAST AUTO
This device connects an iPod or iPhone to tune into the car’s stereo system.
It scans for an FM frequency so the music can play through the speakers in the same way the radio or a CD does.
Belkin’s TuneCast Auto has a new feature called Clearscan, which finds a station with a push of a button.
A small control pad allows the user to adjust the volume and an easy-to-read backlit display shows the current FM band being used.
The iPod is constantly being charged so there’s no chance of running out of juice halfway through a trip.
It’s priced at $99.95 and available by calling (02) 4350 4600 or going to belkin.com.au

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