After cases and headsets, speaker docks are
one of the more popular iPhone and iPad accessories. Plopping your device in
the dock simultaneously recharges it and redirects your music or other audio to
the dock's built-in speakers.
Note, though, that all of the docks in this
article have the 30- pin connector common on iOS devices up through the iPhone
4S and iPad with Retina display. But all new iOS devices are expected to have a
9-pin connector. Adaptors are expected to be available, but in many cases they
won't likely work with these docks. So if you have a device with a 9-pin
connector, be sure to look for a new dock specifically for your device. As this
is being written, the newer docks weren't yet available, but some of the most
prolific manufacturers, such as Altec Lansing, Phillips, iHome, or iLuv, will
likely have new versions out in an instant.
In this article we'll look at a range of
docks, from the more expensive models with sound quality suitable for
audiophiles to inexpensive portable docks with solid sound. The first group
consists of docks for the iPad, iPhone, and iPod, while the second group lists
docks only for the iPhone and iPod touch. And I'll also list a dock that's only
for the iPad.
For iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch
JBL
OnBeat Xtreme
This stylish dock is a high-end speaker
system that accommodates the iPad as well as other iOS devices. It includes
Bluetooth wireless streaming and a speakerphone for answering calls while your
iPhone is docked. The rotating dock connector lets you use your device in
either landscape or portrait mode. The RF remote lets you control menus on your
iPhone or iPad, iTunes songs, playlists, photos, and videos, as well as letting
you change tracks and system settings. It comes with an auxiliary-in jack and
composite video output for connecting the OnBeat Xtreme to a TV to display
video content. A USB port lets you sync with your computer, and it includes a
free app that lets you adjust the sound.
JBL
OnBeat Air
The OnBeat Air has great sound quality,
with a range of features. While it offers both portrait and landscape modes
for your iPhone and iPod touch, it's portrait-only for the iPad. It includes
Wi-Fi networking and AirPlay for streaming music, composite video output for
connecting to a TV, a USB port, and an IR remote for navigating your device.
iLuv
ArtStation Pro iMM514
The ArtStation Pro works well with the
iPad, with an arm that lets you rotate your iPad, iPhone, or iPod to both
landscape and portrait mode. It has good sound, and a free app turns your iPad
or iPhone into a multi-featured alarm clock. It includes an auxiliary-in jack
and a remote that lets you adjust volume and skip through tracks.
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Info
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Price:
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$149
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Website:
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www..com
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Ratings:
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3.5/5
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Satechi
iFit-2
The iFit-2 has surprisingly good sound for
a speaker stand that can be purchased for under $30. It not only works with the
full range of iOS devices, but also phones and tablets from other
manufacturers. Unlike the other devices listed here, it's a stand rather than a
dock: it doesn't recharge your device. The speakers are powered by a
rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts up to seven hours.
For iPhone and iPod touch Only
Audyssey
Audio Dock
The Audyssey speaker dock has top sound
quality, the sort that you expect from high-quality speakers. But it also has a
range of useful features, including Bluetooth streaming, a built- in
speakerphone for answering calls, a compact form factor, a remote, an app for
customized sound, and computer connectivity.
Bose
SoundDock Series II
Bose is legendary for quality sound, and
the SoundDock maintains the tradition. This is one of the best sellers on the
higher end of speaker docks. It comes with a remote that lets you control
power and volume, as well as playlists and track-seek. An auxiliary port lets
you use it as a speaker system for other devices.
Altec
Lansing Mix BoomBox iMT810
This dock has a retro boombox style and a
booming stereo sound to go with it. The Boom- Box comes with a digital FM tuner
and a remote that lets you toggle between all your music sources, including the
FM radio. It also lets you control the power, volume, track-seek, EQ, and play/
pause, as well as having four preset buttons. The dock has dual auxiliary-in
jacks, and can run on battery or AC power. It automatically pauses the music
when you get a call on your iPhone. A set of controls let you tailor the sound,
and the LCD display gives information on what's playing.
Soundfreaq
Sound Platform SFQ-1
The Soundfreaq is another dock with good
sound combined with useful features. It includes Bluetooth wireless streaming,
FM radio reception, an auxiliary-in jack, and an accompanying app that lets you
use your iOS device as a remote.
Logitech
S715i Rechargeable Speaker
One of the bestselling speakers for the
iPhone and iPod, the portable Logitech S715i includes a remote, travel case,
and rechargeable battery with an 8-hour life. Customers say the sound quality
is excellent, making this unit a good value.
Sony
ICF-CS15iP Speaker Dock with Alarm Clock and Radio
This Sony docking speaker has very good
sound quality for the price. The many features include an alarm clock, LCD
display, sleep timer, and wireless remote with full menu control of your
iPhone. This speaker also features Sony's Mega Xpand and Mega Bass sound
technologies, as well as an auxiliary-in jack.
Philips
Fidelio DS3010
The Phillips is a quality speaker dock on
the lower end of the price range. Despite its small size, it has good sound
quality. Features include bass boost, USB for syncing with your computer, and a
free app that lets you adjust the sound, access over 7000 radio stations, share
music, and set alarms. Also, you can dock your iPhone without removing the
case.
Altec
Lansing InMotion Compact iMT325
One of the least expensive, the InMotion
Compact portable speaker system is a lightweight and basic dock with good
sound and a few features. It runs off AC or AA batteries and has a built-in
carrying case that folds into a stand.
For iPad only
Logitech
Speaker Stand for iPad
Designed exclusively for the iPad, this is
a sturdy speaker stand that not only accommodates both portrait and landscape
mode but also just about any viewing angle. And although it's called a stand,
it is in fact a dock to recharge your device. Plus, it includes speakers, an
auxiliary-in jack, and controls for power and volume.
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Info
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Price:
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$97.99
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Website:
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www..com
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Ratings:
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3.5/5
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