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There is a theory as to why Apple decided to revamp the iPhone Dock when they came out with the 3G. It seems if you want to use the iPhone while it’s in the dock, the cradle itself muffles the microphone and speakers which are located in the bottom of the phone.

The new (and very hard to find, we’re told) 3G dock minimizes that problem. Problem is, the 3G doesn’t come with a dock: an apparent cost-saving ploy what helped Apple cut the cost of the new phone in half.

So since the new docks are not only an extra expense, but difficult to get your hands on too, some iPhone users have developed a crafty solution: modify your old dock with the help of a Dremel or old fashioned razor blade. The Dremel will certainly give you a more professional appearance, but if all you want is something that works, a sharp knife will do the trick.

Here are the complete instructions posted on Flickr:

Tools used: Clear packing tape Sharp tool (a pocket knife will do)

Small flathead screwdriver

100 Grit Aluminum Oxide sandpaper (found in the Paint isle of any home improvement store for about $2.50)

Step 1: Cover the male (inside cradle) and female (on back of dock, along with the Line out input) dock connectors. Don’t want plastic shavings to ruin the connectors!

Step 2: Start carving out the inner sides and back of the dock with the sharp tool of your choice. Cover your desk with something for easy disposal of all the shavings. Carve for 5 minutes at a time, and then take the tape off the male dock connector to test out your progress as you go. Use the small flathead screwdriver to help take the tape off of the male dock connector. Don’t forget to re-cover the connector with tape after each test. Do not worry about making your carvings even or smooth. We’ll worry about that on the last step.

Step 3: Once you think the iPhone sits nicely, test out the connection to make sure you iPhone 3G syncs (taking the tape off of the connectors, obviously.)

Step 4: Reapply the tape to the connectors. Step 5: Sand down your carvings with the 100 grit Aluminum Oxide sandpaper. This is pretty messy, may want to do this part over a trash can with safety glasses.

You’ll need to decide for yourself if it’s worth the time and effort.