This RCA Ipod/Radio plays the Ipod as well as charges it. It runs off of it's AC to 12 volt DC wall wart or as I did can be plugged directly into 12 volts. I like it because I can use it inside or out...at home or in the cabin. It also comes with a full remote so you can lay in bed or sit around the fire and select the tunes or change the volume. All this for about $40!