While the social impact of the iPod and portable music cannot be denied, Apple’s less than high end music and video formats may be harming the high end audio and video markets, according to audio|video revolution.

Even though the iPod is the most important thing to happen to music since the CD, music from an iPod sounds significantly worse than it does from the CD. And yet music from an iPod seems to be the preferred source. Moreover, iTunes music isn’t recorded in any of the advanced surround sound formats.

"For many consumers," Jerry Del Colliano wrote, "the little earphones that come with an iPod are just good enough, which is leaving the audiophile business, and in many ways the music business reeling in pain and failing to reach their next generation of clients. A generation Apple isn’t really reaching with a high performance solution either."

In terms of video resolution from movies bought from Apple, there is also a noticeable lack of the high-end experience. "f the likes of Music Giants are trying to sell higher resolution audio by the download – why can’t Apple? Where is the leadership in the world of surround sound when selling basically a wireless router with a video output and calling it HD?" Mr. Del Colliano asked.

Apple is a great leadership position. With sub-par audio and movies that aren’t really high definition, Apple seems to be turning away from the level of excellence they are known for in their other products. The author concluded, "Apple has the power, money and background to lead in the world of high-end convergence. Now all they have to do is step to the plate and hit a home run."