iphone/ipod dock
 

I can't get straight answers out of "the Apple Store"...

I'm looking for something that I can just set my iphone (3G) in and [1] recharge it, and [2] be able to play the music on it thru my stereo while [3] using a remote to select songs.

also be nice if it was Black, not white

I don't want to have to connect any additional cables to it - my thought is that the small USB connector on the bottom should be able to provide an analog or digital audio out thru the base (i.e. I don't want to have to plug an extra cable into the top of the thing - call me old & lazy...)

AFAIK [based on wasting a bunch of time on searching & reading] - there used to be an 'old' version from Apple that is somehow better than the new Apple Docl (and you apparently cannot see what songs you are selecting when using the remote).

IS the 'new' Apple Dock the thing to get?

Is there something better thru a 3rd party?

There are many available. My advise is to go to Best Buy and try them. Most all are on display and you can try them out for what is best for you. That's what I did.

Ugh. Well, this puppy does not have a line out, but it has great sound, and 2 docks.

iHome Ip88:

iHome iP88 Dual Dock Stereo Triple Alarm Clock Radio for iPhone and iPod - Apple Store (U.S.)

http://www.ubergizmo.com/photos/2009/9/ihome-ip88.jpg

We are 2 iphone family, and we love this thing. It sits on our kitchen counter and looks pretty nice. Cool blue glowing display. It does have a remote. It also allows you to listen to streaming apps through it. Not perfect, but a lot of gear for the money.

Stick with the apple-certified ones to avoid the "Device not supported" error.

With remote
Without remote

Note you'll need to provide the USB->Dock or AC->Dock power cable.

I have the Sony one and it works fantastic when I use it. Realtively inexpensive as well.

I have had good luck with the cheaper off brand stuff - Dynex from Best Buy seems to work as advertised.

If you have a 3GS - make sure the device supports it.

I recently bought some cheap power cables off ebay - 3 kinds of chargers for an iphone delivered to my door for less than $6. They work fine so far.