As expected, Apple jumped into the iPod peripheral space with the introduction yesterday of the new iPod Hi-Fi. This move is interesting as it’s the first real move from Apple to deliver additional hardware functionality that’s tied to the iPod. Could this signal a new direction for Apple that it’s considering moving further into the entertainment hardware space? It’s very possible folks.

So back to the Hi-Fi – what exactly is it? Well honestly, it’s just a speaker system designed for the Apple iPod. There’s a built in  universal dock up top and handles on the sides of the system for easy transport. It also includes the Apple remote control and the entire system measures 17″ x 6.6″ x 6.9″ – not exactly small by any means.

The Hi-Fi features three speaker cones that are custom designed to provide balanced sound across the entire frequency range that humans can hear. There are two 80 mm wide range cones and a single 130 mm woofer. The chassis is made out of double walled plastic to minimize vibration and resonance.

Why is the system so big you might ask? Well the power supply is built right into the unit so there’s no external brick to worry about.

So there you have it folks – the first speaker system from Apple designed specifically for the iPod. Are we impressed? Not really. Quite honestly, we think the design is somewhat ugly and the fact that the entire system costs a whopping $349 is a bit ridiculous. Sure the remote control is a nice touch and there’s no doubt the system will sell decently – especially to college students that need speakers to fill their small dorm rooms. However, it’s really not that different from other speaker systems from more reputable speaker manufacturers.

One also has to wonder whether it’s wise for Apple to go up against other hardware manufacturers in this space that are trying to capitalize on the iPod market. (perhaps that’s why they chose to price it higher than other speaker systems as to not piss off too many people at the same time). In any event, the Hi-Fi system appears to be somewhat of a dud.. we were more excited at the Mac mini than anything else.

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