Abstract: An adapting device for adapting a first portable media player to emulate selected mechanical and electrical characteristics of a second portable media player includes a housing having first and second connectors. A signal converter is operatively connected to the first connector and the second connector for converting a first signal representing at least one command received over the second connector into a second signal representing the command to be transmitted over the first connector. A mechanical interface is configured to interconnect the second connector with an accessory device that accommodates a second portable media player having the second connector.

Abstract: A stand system with an integrated electrical plug for portable electronic devices such as speakers and the like includes a housing with a resting surface, the housing having a desired position upon a support surface. A female fitting is operably connected to the housing for conducting electrical signals. A male fitting integrated with a housing stand is further provided, the male fitting adapted to mate with the female fitting and conduct electrical signals. Mating the male fitting with the female fitting causes the housing stand to provide support for the housing, in combination with the resting surface, permitting the housing to maintain the desired position upon the surface, and permitting electrical signals to be conducted between the male fitting and the female fitting.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for remotely generating sound from a musical instrument. In one embodiment, the system includes an input configured to receive a signal representative of the sound of a first musical instrument, an exciter for converting the signal to mechanical vibrations, and a coupling interface for coupling the mechanical vibrations into a second musical instrument. The method for remotely generating sound includes the steps of generating a signal representative of the sound of a first musical instrument, transmitting the signal, receiving the signal at an input, converting the signal to mechanical vibrations, and coupling the mechanical vibrations to a second musical instrument capable of producing sound waves.

Abstract: A dual-mode speaker system comprising a selector that selects between a first audio mode and at least one other mode; an audio pack for receiving an input signal from an external device, and for converting at least a portion of the input signal into a first signal for audio reproduction by a speaker driver when the selector is in the first mode, and for converting at least a portion of the input signal into a second signal for audio reproduction when the selector is not in the first mode; a speaker driver connected to the audio pack, the speaker driver adapted to receive the first and/or second signal for audio reproduction and to output an audio reproduction corresponding to the received signal; wherein the selector is operated by changing the orientation of the speaker driver with respect to at least one other portions of the system.

Abstract: A portable media reproduction system preferably includes a housing with an attached docking component for receiving a portable media player, the docking component being recessed into the housing when in a closed position such that the first side forms a uniformly substantially flat surface. A latch is provided for holding the docking component in the closed position, and a connector connects to the portable media player. The connector is positioned on the docking component to receive the portable media player when the docking component is in an open position. A base component is recessed into the second side of the housing when in a closed position such that the second side of the housing forms a uniformly substantially flat surface. The base component is extendable into an open position such that the it supports the portable media reproduction system in a substantially upright position.

Abstract: A portable system capable of receiving audio signals from one or more sources and reproducing the signals via speakers contained therein. The portable audio reproduction system can include a docking station or similar means for communicatively coupling an audio device to the portable audio reproduction system, thereby reducing desktop clutter and simplifying connecting the portable audio reproduction system with the audio device. The speakers of the portable audio reproduction system can preferably be received within a base portion of the system, thereby protecting the speakers during transport and reducing the overall size of the system for improved portability. External connections may also be provided, thereby enabling the portable audio reproduction system to receive audio signals from additional sources, and a mixer allows the system to reproduce signals from a portable audio device and an auxiliary source, such as a computer.