High-end Focal XS iPod dock lands in Singapore

Kelvin Low | Oct 01, 2009

(Credit: Focal)

Focal is a French company which specializes in home theater sound, automotive audio and professional monitor speakers. The Focal XS is its latest hi-fi accessory for the iPod to land in Singapore.

Retailing at the jaw-dropping price of S$899 (US$648.58), the Focal XS is capable of delivering 2 x 30W of power for the speakers and 70W for the subwoofer. Beneath the black and anodized aluminum finishing, the satellite speakers house a two-way driver arrangement that consists of a 19mm tweeter and a 8cm driver, while the subwoofer contains the amplifiers and a 16.5cm driver.

(Credit: Focal)

Unlike many iPod speaker docks, the Focal XS can be hooked up to a PC or Mac via either a USB connection or the traditional 3.5mm jack. For those who're concerned about the quality of their audio, the Focal XS uses an onboard Burr-Brown Digital-Analogue converter (DAC) to process USB data into audio signals. Plus, the ability to reposition the individual satellite speakers will help in optimizing the sound stage.

A flick of a USB mode switch at the back of the right speaker will sync the iPod (over the same USB connection) with iTunes. It also comes with a remote control for iPod playback, and this attaches to the speakers magnetically. However, unlike premium speaker docks such as the upcoming US$599 Bose SoundDock 10, the Focal XS lacks the GSM shielding needed for the official iPhone accessory certification. In other words, it is not designed for use with the iPhone.

The Focal XS is now on sale at Tangs TechnoBay, Challenger and Apple stores in Singapore. We'll keep you updated soon on its availability in other Asian cities.

Kelvin Low is CNET Asia's freelance writer for Music & Play. When he's not fiddling with gadgets or setting up new PC rigs, he can be found hitting the dirt tracks on his mountain bike. Kelvin is currently studying mass communications at Temasek Polytechnic in Singapore. Email Kelvin.

Filed under: Music & Play
Leave a comment | Bookmark | Share