iPod Docks can be termed your iPod's most flexible, friendly and functional companion. Let's find out how!

If you happen to spend considerable time watching video on your tiny iPod, we are sure that you've also yearned to watch it on a full size screen when at home. You've also probably wished to listen to your iPod music through your funky Hi-Fi speakers instead of irritating earbuds. An iPod Dock grants you both the wishes!

An iPod Dock acts a practical solution to both of the above-mentioned problems you often face. You simply need to slot your iPod into it, and connect the Dock to your television and Hi-Fi. Once you do this, you are all set to enjoy your videos and music. You can do so by simply using the remote control to choose your favorite videos and music - comfortably seated in your armchair.

An iPod Dock is a multi-faceted instrument. Let's follow what more an iPod Dock can do for you:

• It connects to your PC, so you can easily sync your MP3 files using iTunes.

• You can use your iPod to hold your music/video collection, rather than having to use a DVD player and CD player.

• It's much more convenient to see a video with friends if it's on a big screen, than if you're all crammed round a small sized iPod!

Based on their quality and performance, iPod Docks vary in price! But it all depends on your budget and exact requirements. Keeping in mind the fact that modern technology ensures optimum output even from the cheapest electronic goods, there seems to be no apparent advantage in paying over the odds for a Dock. You'll get pretty much the same audio & video quality either way. If you want, you may also purchase iPod Docks, with built in speakers. However, you will need to spend a lot of cash to get a good audio quality (especially bass) as you would from a normal Hi-Fi system, or even normal PC 2.1 speakers (with a subwoofer).

With some iPod Docks, you can connect the Dock to a speaker of your choice; Hi-Fi speakers obviously being the best bet. There are also good quality PC speakers available at a reasonable cost, which will give you adequate bass. Many iPod Docks, which come with smaller speakers, generate audio output that is similar to a pocket `tranny' (transistor radio), but you might get disappointed by it.

iPod Dock also recharges your iPod's battery even while it sits in the dock. This ensures that you never run out of power when on the move. If you keep your iPod in your Dock, rather than lying around, you are much less likely to forget where you kept it! iPod Docks generally come with a set of different sized iPod adaptors, so they'll fit most of the different iPod models that are on the market. In every sense, iPod Docks are very flexible and convenient to use!