Alpine eX-10 dash-top iPod controller with Bluetooth

The Alpine eX-10 is a new dash-top solution for iPod playback and Bluetooth connectivity that works with any vehicle's FM radio system.

This no-installation product consists of a 2.4-inch full color display unit that sits on top of the dash, a remote control, and a power module that plugs into the vehicle's cigarette lighter.

The unit connects to any iPod with a dock connector via Alpine's own KCE-422i Full Speed™ Connection for iPod cable (included).

If the iPod displays album art, this art will be shown on the eX-10's screen. The iPod music is played back through the car's sound system via the built-in FM transmitter or line output jack.

The eX-10 also delivers upon Alpine's renowned sound quality. The eX-10 allows users to pick one of 10 equalizer presets (such as Pop, Rock, Jazz/Blues or Hip Hop/Rap) for custom sound, depending on the listener's music preferences.

The supplied remote control offers full control of the iPod, allowing the iPod to be safely stored away and charged while driving. A thumb jog dial on the side of the remote is used to navigate through the iPod files.

The remote lets users scroll by Song, Artist, Album, Playlist, Podcast, Audiobook, Composer and Genre. The remote's "View" button brings up three screen choices that show combinations of song, artist and album artwork. Familiar iPod controls like "Shuffle" and "Back" have dedicated buttons on the remote.

The combination of iPod and Bluetooth capabilities in one plug-and-play unit makes the eX-10 a unique and convenient device. Users will no longer have to buy two separate devices to use both their iPod and hands-free Bluetooth services in their vehicle. The eX-10 can control a Bluetooth-enabled phone or device, allowing for a hands-free conversation to be played through the car's speakers. Phone features such as "Phonebook List," "Missed Calls," "Received Calls" and "Dialed Calls" are accessible through the eX-10 and are displayed on the unit's screen.

The growing popularity of streaming music playback from Bluetooth devices has created a new demand for this type of music storage, and the eX-10 is ready to meet this need. If the phone or device has the A2DP protocol, music can be streamed from it to the eX-10, then played through the car's sound system. Devices with AVRCP further allow for "Track Up," "Track Down," "Play" and "Pau