Just when you thought that everyone had already unleashed an iPod radio, here comes TEAC. The wait does appear to be worth it. The company just announced its Designer Series, which includes two models, the SR-80i (pictured right) and SR-100i (below).

At $199, the TEAC SR-80i promises powerful bass and high fidelity, all at a lower price point. This model pumps 15 watts out of each of its two speakers, and has an AM/FM PLL synthesized tuner, a USB port, and a video output for TV use.

The SR-100i is a slight step up, with a retail price of $299. Features include 50 watts of output per speaker, a 1.25-inch tweeter, a 3.5-inch subwoofer, a USB port and an AUX input. Also, for those times when your iPod is nowhere to be found (in the couch, perhaps?), the SR-80i has a CD player and an FM radio.

Both also include TEAC’s own iPod Digital Direct feature, which can decode and play back the digital data stream directly from an iPod or iPhone. No external decoders are necessary.

The TEAC SR-100i and SR-80i are available now through authorized TEAC dealers.

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.