Alpine Ships In-Vehicle Connectivity Solution for iPod

TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 28 -- Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., the industry-leading manufacturer of high performance mobile electronics, has shipped its highly anticipated interface adapter that enables consumers to control and enjoy their iPod or iPod mini music library from their in-vehicle sound system. The Alpine Interface Adapter for iPod (model KCA-420i) enables users to experience superior sound and control of their iPod music using any of Alpine's 2004 Ai-NET in-dash head units. The KCA-420i is now available from authorized Alpine dealers for $100.

"The anticipation for this adapter has been consistently building since we announced it earlier this year," said Stephen Witt, Alpine's vice president of Brand Marketing. "Consumers have told us they want a better sounding and easier to use solution for enjoying their iPod music in the car. This is the in-vehicle solution iPod users consider a 'must-have'."

Alpine's Interface Adapter for iPod enables the in-dash receiver's exclusive Bass Engine(TM) technologies to be used to experience optimized sound quality and control of digital music files in the car. The solution allows users to control iPod playback using the head unit's front panel buttons or remote; view song information (artist, album and/or song name) on the display; and easily search for songs through the receiver's Quick Search(TM) interface. Alpine's exclusive MediaXpander(TM) technology restores lost detail to compressed digital media, bringing essence and life back to the music as the artist had originally intended.

The Alpine Interface Adapter for iPod is a hide-away design and can be installed anywhere in the vehicle -- under a seat, in the glove box or behind the dash. A single cable connects the adapter to the Alpine head unit, while a second cable connects the adapter to the iPod through the iPod dock connector. When the vehicle is on, the Interface Adapter also charges the iPod's internal battery.

Consumers can learn more about the KCA-420i and use an interactive demo about the product at www.alpine-usa.com/driveyouripod.

Pricing and Availability

The Alpine Interface Adapter for iPod carries a target retail price of $100 and is compatible with any updated iPod with a dock connector or iPod mini. Alpine's 2004 Ai-Net head units, sold separately, are available through authorized dealers at target retail prices starting at $200. iPod and iPod mini, sold separately, are available in the U.S. through the Apple Store (www.apple.com), Apple's retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers. iPod mini is available for a suggested retail price of $249 (US). iPod retails for a suggested price of $299-$399 (US), depending on model.

Alpine Electronics

Alpine Electronics is the world's leading automotive consumer electronics system supplier and an ISO certified corporation. Alpine specializes in an integrated platform concept for mobile multimedia with premium components for digital audio/video media playback, and satellite linked navigation. With research and development facilities in Asia, Europe and the U.S., Alpine is the global leader for mobile sound systems and in-vehicle navigation for both after-market and OEM factory installations. Alpine Electronics is a consolidated subsidiary of Alps Electric Co., Ltd., one of the world's premier manufacturers of electronic components for computer, communications and car electronics equipment. Visit www.alpine-usa.com to learn more about Alpine products or to find an authorized retailer.