By Patrick Avenell

Marantz has today officially released its new Consolette docking station, first unveiled at a launch event on 31 August 2012. Two weeks later, Apple unveiled the iPhone 5’s new Lightning connector, meaning this RRP $1,650 30-pin dock requires an optional accessory to work with the latest iPhones, iPods and iPads.

Local distributor QualiFi stressed that the Consolette can do much more than just playback music a la an iPod Dock, listing the following features in its media release:

•    Solid construction with luxury materials
•    Class leading sound quality from advanced audio engineering
•    AirPlay Wireless Music Streaming from any Apple iOS device
•    Docks and charges any iPod, iPhone and iPad with a 30-pin dock connector
•    Easy connection to the home network with Marantz NetLink or integrated WPS function
•    Wireless music streaming from any Apple iOS, Android device and Windows device
•    Music Streaming from storage devices connected to the home network
•    Built-in Internet Radio with more than 17,000 stations
•    Easy operation through dedicated Apps for iOS and Android

Apple currently sells Lightning to 30-pin Adaptors starting from RRP $35.