Cheap & Simple Ways to Update an Old Bose SoundDock
Today, we welcome the newest Unplggd contributor, Vivian Kim. Hailing from San Francisco, Vivian is a self-described “geek at heart”, gamer and musician with a love for tech and DIY. Please tell her what you think of her first post here at Unplggd!
So you’ve had your Series 1 Bose SoundDock iPod speakers for a number of years–it still sounds great, and for being released in 2004, the design still manages to stand the test of time. However, because it has no auxiliary input and the earlier models can’t charge your iPhone, you’ve deemed it useless and have been tempted to replace it with something new. The SoundDock may seem like dated tech to some, but there’s no reason to throw it out! Here are two easy (and inexpensive) ways to update your SoundDock and bring it into 2010.
1. Make it Wireless
The small and sleek Anycom FIPO Module ($17.99) turns any iPod speakers that have a dock connector into wireless bluetooth speakers (fancy!). You can stream music wirelessly from any A2DP capable device (that includes iPhone 3G/3GS/4, 2nd/3rd Gen iPod Touch, and pretty much any laptop with bluetooth). The module is powered entirely by the SoundDock–all you have to do is simply plug it in and sync it with your device. Once synced, your device will automatically connect as soon as you’re within its 30-foot range.
2. Add an Auxiliary Input
The major drawback with the Series 1 SoundDock is that it only works with Apple products. Bose solved this problem with the Series 2 by adding an auxiliary input. But for under $15, you can easily add an AUX input to your Series 1 all by yourself. These Griffin Shuffle Dock Adapters ($11.99 on Amazon) were originally made for the 2nd generation iPod Shuffle. Just add a 3.5mm extension cable and you’re all set! You can even connect it to an airport express and stream your iTunes library.