Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for blending audio signals are provided. In accordance with the present invention, a user can configure an audio device to receive sounds from the user's environment and selectively combine them with sounds generated by the device. This feature can be used with any device that generates audio signals (e.g. music player, telephone, two-way radio, etc.). The device can be configured by the user to personalize the combination of the sounds. For example, a user can select to filter the external sounds to remove unwanted noises or adjust the volume of the external sounds relative to the generated audio signals.

Abstract: An improved media delivery apparatus is disclosed. The media delivery apparatus can, for example, be a portable speaker system. In one embodiment, the media delivery apparatus is used with a portable media player. According to one aspect, audio output characteristics of a media delivery apparatus can be controlled based on whether a removable component is attached or detached. Another aspect pertains to improved techniques to attach a removable component to a media delivery apparatus. According to still another aspect a portion of a housing of an electrical device, such as a media delivery apparatus, can be utilized as part of a connector or plug.

Abstract: A consumer electronic product (e.g., a portable media player ported to a media delivery accessory) is powered by a limited capacity DC power source (such as a battery or mini-fuel cell). The consumer electronic product limits the maximum allowable sound pressure level (SPL) that can be produced by the speakers. In one embodiment, the maximum allowable SPL is based upon an amount of stored energy available in the limited capacity DC power source.