Photo gallery: Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin MiniThough iPod docks have been around for about five years, it has taken them a long time to be recognised as true "hi-fi" components. Sure, a lot of them are plastic-y, horrible things, but there are a handful that are truly superb. The original Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin is one of these, but its price can be off-putting.
To kick off what we've heard will be a new line of products, the English manufacturer is unleashing a cut-down version of the Zeppelin called the Mini. Like its bigger bother, the Mini features a "floating" iPod dock with a rotation of 90 degrees for easier access to your MP3 player — including Cover Flow.
The design is a little less ostentatious than the previous model, and is concave rather than convex. It features a reinforced plastic chassis, and a distinctive mirrored top designed to complement the Panorama soundbar.
While the Zeppelin Mini lacks the company's famous Nautilus tube-loaded tweeter it does feature the Flowport with golf-ball-like dimples designed to reduce a chuffing effect called "port noise".
The Mini now uses a USB connector which means the dock itself can decode both iPod and PC sound that could lead to an improvement in sound quality. Connecting the USB port to your PC means you'll also be able to sync your iPod. The Zeppelin will also feature regular firmware updates to ensure better compatibility in the future as new iPod developments are made.
Given that the Zeppelin was one of the best sounding iPod docks we have high hopes for the performance of the Mini. As fans of B&W's speaker range, we think the new Mini should be able to take it to the likes of Bose and hopefully act as a gateway drug to the joys of a full-sized speaker system. Look for CNET Australia's full review here soon.
The company announced the new speaker system last night at the opening of the first "Bowers & Wilkins Studio" at Audio Solutions in Mascot. The dock will be available late November/early December for AU$599.
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