Harman International Industries has introduced the US$599 JBL OnBeat Xtreme, a stylized iPad dock that provides “room-filling” sound in a table-top stereo system.
The JBL OnBeat Xtreme is optimized for the iPad and iPad 2, yet its rotating dock connector also works with the iPhone and iPod touch. Through Bluetooth wireless speakers, the JBL OnBeat Xtreme connects with an iOS device to play when detached from the dock, as well as with Android smartphones or tablets and wireless MP3 players.
The JBL OnBeat Xtreme can be used for hands-free calling through Apple’s FaceTime or Skype or used for video conference calls. Its speakerphone works with Bluetooth-enabled phones via a built-in microphone, while the sound is enhanced through digital sound processing (DSP) and echo cancellation, says Sachin Lawande, EVP and co-president of Harman’s Lifestyle and Infotainment divisions.
The wireless speakers’ sound emanates from dual Atlas bass drivers and Ridge tweeters optimized by DSP equalization. Users can control the iPad docking station’s settings through an OnBeat Xtreme app available free through the Apple App Store. The app can control playlists and EQ settings, and set an alarm or a sleep timer. The OnBeat Xtreme ships with an RF remote control.
The iPad dock supports advanced A2DP and AVRCP Bluetooth profiles for interference-free operation, and uses the AAC codec — supported by Apple’s iOS devices, gaming consoles from Sony and Nintendo as well as Android smartphones — for superior audio streaming, says Lawande. Besides a built-in 30-pin connector for iPad docking, the JBL OnBeat Xtreme includes a standard 3.5-mm input jack to connect with other music players and smartphones and a USB port for firmware updates and iTunes synchronization. For additional info, go to http://www.JBL.com .