Chinon USA (http://www.chinonusa.com) has announced the next generation of its AVi portable iPod docking/charging station: the US$199.99 AVi-MKII. Like the original AVi, it features a 7-inch TFT LCD monitor, an ATSC digital TV tuner to capture over-the-air TV signals, compatibility with the iPod and a retro-style “boom-box” housing.
The new AVI-MKII is compatible with all generations of the iPhone to allow consumers to play music and videos stored either on their iPhone or iPod. Compatibility also means access to the iPhone’s Wi-Fi to enable streaming of Internet videos onto the LCD, so you can watch sites such as You Tube, Hulu and Netflix.
To use you dock an iPod or iPhone into its top, and the AVi-MKII instantly expands iTunes movies, music videos, and TV shows on its widescreen (16:9) LCD screen. Select another function and you can showcase digital photos on the LCD. Chinon engineers integrated a SRS WOW Surround Sound system into the AVi-MKII, featuring dual 3W speakers.
Thanks to the ATSC tuner you can watch TV programs anywhere, any time. The tuner receives over-the-air (OTA) HDTV channels — up to 40 or more in most urban and suburban areas. It auto-scan presets TV stations for quick selection. The AVi-MKII also features a built-in telescopic antenna for FM radio broadcasts and works as an alarm clock.
The AVi-MKII comes with a standard DC 12V/2A power supply, plus users can insert eight “C” batteries for portable entertainment. An optional rechargeable battery pack is available that delivers up to 3.5 hours of operation.