Monster's iCruze is out of the gates
Monster's iCruze system, which connects the iPod to any factory-installed and some Alpine car stereos, is now shipping and available, the company announced late last month. The iCruze has actually been available in stores for a couple of months now.
Acting as a "virtual CD changer," the iCruze provides a way for existing car audio systems to access different iPod playlists and songs while at the same time charging the music player, Monster says. The iCruze is installed in or under the dash behind the car stereo. The dock connector cable can be installed to either mount your iPod on the dash or hide it away in the glove box or center console.
Although the iCruze has gotten some positive online reviews, most users or potential users are complaining about the $200 to $250 price. Consumers at iPodlounge and Engadget called the price "ridiculous," and offered less expensive alternatives. One Engadget reviewer, who was willing to spend a little extra money because he had always been happy with Monster products, warned consumers of technical problems he's having with his iCruze.