Belkin readies iPod music recorder, mixer

CES 2007 Accessory maker Belkin today unveiled what it claimed is the first four-channel audio mixer and recorder for Apple's fifth-generation iPod. It also introduced a Bluetooth music streaming kit for the iconic digital music player.

Belkin's TuneStudio turns a 5G iPod into a portable recording studio. Recordings are made directly to the music player at CD-level 16-bit quantisation and a 44KHz sampling rate. The unit processes the stereo signal to keep recording levels within the iPod's sound spectrum, Belkin said. Each channel can be set using a three-band EQ, and pan and level controls.

The TuneStudio has a USB port allowing it to be hooked up to a Mac or PC. Either end of the link can be both a sound source and play audio streamed from the other.

Belkin also introduced an A2DP Bluetooth wireless stereo audio kit comprises a plug-on transmitter for any 4G or 5G iPod, iPod Nano or iPod Mini, and a receiver that connects to a hi-fi or other amplified music player.

The Bluetooth Dock Adaptor is scheduled to ship in March for $130. The TuneStudio will follow in the summer, Belkin said, when it will go on sale in the US for $180. Worldwide availability of each product should follow soon after the US launches. ®

Read our complete CES 2007 coverage at Reg Hardware

Related review

iKey Plus portable USB recorder