Many newer home stereos have iPod integration -- typically requiring a $100 dock accessory. For the same price you can get Apple's dock+cables and connect it to any stereo/tv (take it with you if needed). Other than being able to semi-control the iPod with a stereo's remote (vs Apple's mini remote), is there any advantage in going with an integrated system? I believe most docks are transferring analog signals (post DAC that is) which leads me to believe AV quality is about the same (video is limited to 480 anyway).
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Apple dock vs AV receiver with "Pod integration"?
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Well I'm always on the go from work to home to where ever... So I like using the Apple's dock+cables. I have been looking at all the different dock radios, but I can't bring myself to spend that much on something that I can only use when I'm in my living room... That's just want I think... 
I recently bought a Pioneer receiver that has an integrated iPod connection. I used the Apple iPod dock on my old receiver. Sound quality is the same (both use the docking output and not the headphone output). The benefit to the integrated system include on-TV-screen display of the iPod songs and/or album covers, and the ability to use the receiver's remote control to select menus, songs, skip, fast forward, etc.
I didn't choose the receiver because of the iPod features, but they're a nice bonus.
I didn't choose the receiver because of the iPod features, but they're a nice bonus.
I would guess its all about what life style us are in... Like people that are not on the move all the time would rather have the Bose sound dock... and others that are never at home would just get the Bose earbuds LMAO