Video output allows you to view images and video stored on your iPod photo or iPod video on your TV
Audio input allows the system to function as a PC speaker
Wireless remote lets you adjust the settings from across the room
Stylish, high-gloss black cabinet finish; wall-mountable
Charges your iPod while docked
Rating: - My 2 Cents Worth
Well, I agonized over the myriad of available Ipod speakers after biting the bullet and getting the top of the line 160GB Classic iPod. I didn't want junk, but I didn't want to waste a mortgage payment either - so the B&W Zeppelin was out (for now). My wife likes Bose and I was going to get a SoundDock until I discovered they have power supply issues. Next in line was the Klipsch RoomGroove but I discovered this unit after pouring over many reviews which likened it to Bose. I'm not a big fan of Bose, but it seems to be the bar everyone compares everything else to. Well, I have a 7.1 component system with 10 speakers pushed by over 800 watts of juice I'm used to listening to (analog as much as possible thank you very much). So I didn't expect too much coming from 'toys' (or an iPod full of digital MP3's). While it doesn't compare to a custom built component system costing $8,000 - I feel I got my $30 worth (plus shipping).
I had checked a few of the local stores but I don't think anyone has restocked after Xmas. Noone had anything on the shelves. I thought this was strange; but this precluded me any first hand kicking of the tires on any make and model.
Anyhow, here's the meat and potatoes...
The sound is quite clear covering the spectrum respectably although a little on the flat side. Sufficient bass for a little unit, mids are very prevalent with the highs coming up slightly short although I haven't listened to a wide selection of music yet. I favor Country, Rock and Oldies none of which exactly take advantage of the higher end of the listening spectrum - typically falling off around 10K-12K. While the sound field is inadequate for my large listening room (27'x16'), it would grace a more normal size room effectively. It's a hair large for a desk - at least my desk.
I'm not used to sound coming from in just one direction. Although true stereo, with the speakers so close the effect is lost. I had to go right up to the unit to tell that it was stereo. All in all the sound quality is quite good for a little plastic box with a pair of small speakers. Also, in my research I discovered this unit was made by one of the big names in the audio world (forgot who at the moment) and they are marketing it under the Athena name and one other. I think this unit is a good value even if you pay the MSRP. I bought an open box on eBay (with warranty).
It has an RCA video out which I have not got to work yet. I may have to upgrade the iPod software (?). The manual which is scant, states that it is merely a pass through. There is a dial for the iPod depth as opposed to those cheap little plastic shims. This is a nice feature, but being an iPod neophyte, I had not a clue which setting to use - the manual did not give me a clue. Fortunately the setting it came on seems to be the correct one.
The unit came with a remote which has basic functionality and you can forget it is in your shirt pocket. Don't set it down anywhere, you could lose it!
The unit also has a USB port on the back and will charge your iPod.
My only pet peeve would be that upon turning it on the volume is at max. And speaking of max volume, while there is little distortion, you don't really want to listen to this unit cranked up to max. I don't care how well they make these little puppies, there just ain't enough horsepower under the hood! Most of the units I reviewed are rated somewhere in the 10 watt neighborhood. This claims 25 watts per channel. Since the unit weighs only a few pounds, I'm skeptical. The power supply in my Yamaha weighs at least 20 pounds.
I meant this to be a positive review as I rated this unit with 4 stars but still provide some critique. For the money, you won't be disappointed. The most positive thing I can say is that my MP3's have never sounded better which is the bottom line.
Rating: - Disappointed!
I bought the Athena iVoice without ever having heard it, based on the great reviews here. I must say I was hugely disappointed. The highs lack crispness or are sometimes missing altogether, and the lows are muddy.
This product is not even in the same league as the Bose or Klipsch, and the Altec Lansing M602 has far better sound for a comparable price.
Rating: - overall good
has the ability to get loud without getting tinny or scratchy. Also is lightweight for easy transfer from room to room.
Rating: - Good For An iPod System - But Mediocre Sound
Mediocre sound - highs are not particularly crisp, lows are limited and a little muddy.
That being said, it's the best of the iPod speaker systems that I've heard - I suspect that the small enclosures in this type of device just don't have enough volume to get good bass. The sound is easily bested by any name-brand satellite (2 speakers + (sub)woofer) system that I've heard, even those costing $30 or so.
The system is very portable, good looking, and it's wonderful that the unit plugs straight into a wall outlet without needing a power supply brick.
Athena iVoice Direct Radiating Dock & Sound System for iPod Reviews
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