Sendstation PocketDock review: Sendstation PocketDock

SendStation's PocketDock AV is a well-made, portable, and affordable means for connecting your fifth-generation Video iPod to your TV. At just $37, it beats out Apple's own Composite AV Cable and Universal iPod Dock in both price and features. Unfortunately, the PocketDock AV is not compatible with the TV output function of the latest third-generation iPod Nano or iPod Classic.

The SendStation PocketDock AV comes in two parts: an adapter that connects directly to your iPod's proprietary dock connection and a 5-foot cable that runs from the adapter to your TV or stereo. The benefit of being able to use the PocketDock's cable independently of the adapter is that the cable can double as an AV adapter for any of Apple's 15- and 17-inch PowerBooks that use a 7-pin video output jack (the latest MacBooks are incompatible, however).

Two features that really make the SendStation PocketDock AV stand out from the competition are the high-quality S-Video output connection, and the pass-through USB connection for syncing and charging your iPod. With some fifth-generation iPods capable of only two to three hours of video playback off the internal battery, the ability to use the PocketDock AV to charge your iPod over USB is a big asset.

Along with the S-Video output, the PocketDock AV includes the more widely used composite video connection as well, though the video quality of S-Video is much better. For audio output, the PocketDock AV uses color-coded stereo RCA cables, capable of connecting to the vast majority of televisions, stereos, and AV receivers. As a bonus, SendStation also includes a useful Velcro cable tie for quickly and neatly wrapping up the PocketDock AV and taking it on the go.