IPod dock vs line in?

Question

I just bought a home theatre system, and one of the options is an iPod dock, which I didn't buy.

Is there any difference in sound quality using a dock vs just plugging the iPod into the audio input of the system with a male to male mini RCA jack?

Is the only advantage to the dock that it also charges the iPod?

Answer 1

not at all...it just depends which one you like........

Answer 2

Tech_Woman is right, there is no difference in fidelity.  Sometimes when a dock is used, there is more functionality such as the remote can control skipping forward/backward, the iPod Screen  and Menus can be seen on the TV, etc.

Answer 3

I think only advantage is charging, I don't think there's any difference in fidelity.