Apple Lightning Dock - Line Level Output?

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Level 1

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Apple Lightning Dock - Line Level Output?

I have a question that maybe you audiophiles out there can help with. Descriptions and reviews of the 30 pin connector dock for the early pre touch screen iPods claimed (correctly I believe) that the 3.5 mm mini stereo output port of those early docks provided line level audio output offering better audio quality when connecting to RCA inputs of the aux channel on amplifiers of home audio systems. I am trying to determine whether the currently offered Lightning Dock for late model iPhones and iPods offers the same line level output signal from it's 3.5mm port. I'm having a hard time getting a definitive answer. My searches here, on the web, and answers from Apple in-store geniuses have conflicting opinions. Specifically I want to be able to use the Lightning Dock to connect a 5th Gen iPod or iPhone 6 to my home stereo system. Thanks

iPhone 6, iOS 9.3.1

Posted on May 12, 2016 6:08 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Malcolm J. Rayfield

Level 7

23,077 points

May 23, 2016 2:14 AM in response to Daniel Figucio1

Look like they changed the function of the 3.5 mm jack on the later versions of the dock. The 5C and 5S versions (A1520 and A1505) have fixed volume audio line out. The A1605 and A1717 versions (with protruding lightning plug) have headphone playback support with volume control.

https://support.apple.com/HT202783

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Answer 2

May 22, 2016 9:34 PM in response to Malcolm J. Rayfield

Funnily enough I find the exact opposite. I have a 3.5mm to stereo RCA cable plugged into a space grey lightning dock - model A1717 - and a stereo RCA line in on my alarm clock. The iPhone volume controls definitely affect volume - and it reads "headphones" on screen when I use those controls.

I also tried with a standard 3.5mm male to 3.5mm male from the dock into a line level input in my car...

Is there a specific cable type to be used?

D.

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Answer 3

May 23, 2016 3:16 AM in response to Daniel Figucio1

The naming is confusing. They are all lightning docks, but the official names are:

A1505: iPhone 5s Dock

A1520: iPhone 5c Dock

A1605: iPhone Lightning Dock

A1717: iPhone Lightning Dock (available in four colors)

The last two, with "Lightning" in the name. have headphone volume control, indicated by the headphone icon next to the 3.5 mm jack.

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Answer 4

May 23, 2016 3:28 AM in response to Malcolm J. Rayfield

So why 'The iPhone Lightning Dock also has headphone playback support and audio line out.' ? The emphasis is mine but the capitals are Apple's which implies a product name, not description.

I can assure I have tried with both models and there appears to be no audio line out.

Oh well...

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Answer 5

May 23, 2016 3:56 AM in response to Daniel Figucio1

I have the 5S version and use its line out. Its level is not affected by the phone's volume controls. It will drive iPhone headphones, but at a fixed volume.

I suppose they list "headphone playback support and audio line out" for the later models because they do have headphone volume control, and can be used for audio line-level if the volume is set correctly.

I prefer the fixed volume since I have it connected to my stereo system, but others may be using it at bedside and want to listen with a headset and have volume control (and be able to answer phone calls).

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Answer 6

srmartin Author

Level 1

90 points

May 23, 2016 7:38 PM in response to Malcolm J. Rayfield

Thanks for the additional clarification. Looks like no way to get line level output from an iPhone 6 series. Good thing I didn't order the A1717. Can I use an A1505 or A1520, i.e. i Phone 5 series dock, with my 5th Gen. iPod? Are they even still available?

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Answer 7

May 23, 2016 9:48 PM in response to srmartin

The A1505 or A1520 have a recessed plug so the iPod would have to fit in the recess. If the iPod is the same shape as the iPhone 5s or 5c then it will fit.

You can use the other docks with the headphone jack if you set the volume correctly.