Fluance.  The name alone exudes a certain level of snobbery.  And by that I mean high end, lacquered opulence.  The speaker company isn’t widely known, but they contacted me asking if I’d be interested in there FiSDK500, an iPhone/iPod dock.  So I said sure, and along it came.  I really had no expectations going into this review, but for starters I can say that I’m a bit surprised, and here’s why.

Right out the box, the first thing I noticed was the all black glossy finish of the Fluance FiSDK500 speaker dock.  It’s an almost completed sealed cabinet, which is something you often see in high end home theater speakers, and it’s equatable in luster to that of a grand piano.  Yup, it’s built with the kind of respect your teenage son could never grasp.   Ultimately, the Fluance FiSDK500 is a no frills, or thrills speaker dock with a heavy focus on build and, well, sound quality (more on this latter point shortly).

The included remote allows you to access additional controls- click to enlarge

On the face of the FiSDK500 is a small, brightly lit LED display.  By design, the FiSDK500 enters a standby mode when you power it down, which is signified by a “-”.  Again, this is something you often see in high end home theater equipment, amps to be specific. So yes, there is a trend emerging, but needless to say it’s a good one.  Hit the standby button on the FiSDK500 and the system clicks on with a slight thud.  Again, another indicator that this is a home theater manufacturer.

Slight glue leakage – click to enlarge

Fluance has included 4 metal pegs for placing the dock on a soft surface.  It’s a nice touch, but hardly nescessary in my opinion given its hefty weight. But you can’t knock them for trying and it’s just another attempt at conveying its solid build quality.  However, with further examination, I noticed that the face of the dock is actually glued into place.  Unfortunately, it’s not a perfect job, as the top had a few glue smears.  Not a deal breaker, but a little disappointing since it over shadowed the box’s high end glossy finish.

Update: Fluance reached out and said they have addressed the glue leakage on all future shipments.  So it should be a non-issue from here on out.

Two full-range premium 5” woven fiberglass composite drivers make up the horn section, while a integrated amp powers up the tunes channeled from the 30-pin dock.  The cabinet is made from audiophile grade MDF wood, and is specifically designed to reduce resonance.  The rear is outfitted with two bass ports, an AUX video ouptput (a nice touch) and an RCA input for other non iOS devices.  Though the cabinet sports a limited button configuration (power, input and volume), Fluance has included a remote that allows you to adjust the treble, bass, volume and interact with the iPod’s menu (it won’t work with Spotify or other audio apps).  Now, down to brass tacks.

Rear of the FiSDK500; includes the RCA and video outputs – click to enlarge

The Fluance FiSDK500 is an excellent sounding system, and for $200 it most certainly can sonically keep pace, if not out perform similarly priced docks.  In fact, given the build quality I thought it had to be at least $300+, that is until I checked out the product’s website.  However, despite it’s lower than expected price tag, it does have some short comings in the audio quality department.  At normal (20) to louder (30) volumes, the FiSDK500 can hold its own, displaying no distortion or loss in audio production.  But crank it to 35+ (it caps out at 40) and the music will begin to distort and lose its clarity.  I made sure to test it with a wide range of music and unfortunately this occured with pretty much any genre I threw in its path.  Some relief can be found by lowering the bass output, but the higher frequencies still lost their clarity at peak levels.  So this leaves me to believe that the FiSDK500 is slightly underpowered, since distortion at higher volumes is generally a reflection of this.  Nonetheless, playback at an amplitude between 30-35 is plenty loud, though it may lack the necessary oomph for some.  Comparing it to a pair of Audioengine amplified speakers I noticed that the voice section of many tracks didn’t boast an equitable gusto and was ever so slightly muddled with the other sections of the music.

So, to reiterate, the Fluance FiSDK500 is a great sounding dock for the money, it just loses face at higher volumes.  But that isn’t to say the build quality is anything short of exceptional, though the front of the dock did suffer from leaked glue marring its glossy finish ever so slightly.  The addition of a set of tweeters, as well as a power boost could help resolve some of the docks sonic short comings, however that might increase the price and subsequently place it at another level.

Editor’s Rating:

3.5 out of 5 stars

Very Good

Bottom line: It’s a great sounding dock and looks cool for $200.  Unfortunately, it distorts at high volumes and some of the frequencies get a bit muddles since there are just two speakers.

You can buy the Fluance FiSDK500 from Amazon for $199.99.

Pros:

• Opulent glossy finish and build
• Good bang for the buck when you consider other docks in the same price range
• Very easy to use

Cons:

• Audio distorts at high volumes
• No battery operation

123►

Is it s projector?  Is it a speaker?  Is it an iPhone dock?  Nope, it’s all of the above.

Epson’s MegaPlex MG-850HD projector eliminates the need for an iPhone cord, speakers and external display.  While we can’t exactly call it portable, despite Epson’s effort to do so (they’ve added a handle) there is no disputing this device’s versatility.  At the rear is a 30-pin dock for any iOS device.  Connected to that is a set of built-in 10 watt stereo speakers and a 720p capable projector that can blast movies and images up to 100-inches in size at a max output of 2800 lumens, enough intensity for conference rooms that aren’t draped in black cloth.

For some added versatility the MG-850HD can be used as a stand alone speaker without displaying video.  They’ve also included a USB port, HDMI input, component and composite inputs.

Today Pioneer has introduced two new table top systems; the X-SMC3-S Music Tap and X-SMC4-K Elite Music Tap.

They’re essentially the same in terms of specs, though the SMC4 Elite version boasts Bluetooth connectivity.  But that’s really a moot feature since each of these semi-sexy music system are built to work with Apple’s Airplay tech.  But if you’re low on juice you can slide out the hidden 30-pin dock and connect your player using the good old wired method.  In the event you’re not a proud owner of an Apple device, there is an AUX input as well as support for DLNA, a standard the enables users of non-Apple devices to connect wirelessly and stream tunes.

Power for each system is drawn from 2-channel digital amplifier and dual full range drivers in a passive radiator enclosure.  There is also a 2.5-inch color display on it’s face, an Ethernet input, a USB input, composite video support and an accompanying remote and iPhone app to let you control the unit from across the room.

The X-SMC3-S Music Tap and X-SMC4-K Elite Music Tap are compatible with other Pioneer equipment allowing you to enjoy music throughout your home, provided you’ve already got it installed. They’ll also work with AirPlay-enabled apps like PANDORA Internet radio, iHeartRadio and other music streaming service apps.

The X-SMC3 costs $399, while the Elite sells for $479.

A book placed bedside is a fitting fixture that strangely enough adds a warmth and presence to any bedroom.  Why do books boast this quality?  A room with a book shelf stuffed full of novels versus an empty book shelf is more welcoming, just begging for you to come in.  Perhaps it’s the vast amount of knowledge contained beneath their covers, or that someone has taken the effort and time to convey their thoughts and perspectives to anyone willing to pick up the paper binded apparatus.

Whatever the reason, we’re drawn to the The Vampire Dracula Book Charging Dock for iPhone and iPod.  It’s an Etsy creation, which means that it is handmade and not mass manufactured.  So the chances of someone else having this charging dock in their room is slim to none.  But there is more to like about this dock than just its rarified nature.  It’s made from  a NEW leather bound copy of Bram Stoker’s classic Dracula.  The inside of the book has been hollowed out, which keeps the cord neatly tucked away, though you’ll need to use your own wall wart.

The Vampire Dracula Book Charging Dock for iPhone and iPod is currently available for $55.

Don’t bank on Sony’s latest desktop stereo system coming to the US anytime soon, but here’s hoping.  The CMT-CX5 can be wall mounted or placed on a desktop.  Anything wall mountable is a plus in our book, especially since it reminds us of Bang and Olufsen’s uber expensive, and overpriced systems.  There speakers can be separated from the body if necessary, though don’t get your hopes because we seriously doubt they’re wireless.  There is the quintessential iPod dock, 40 watts of power, CD player and ports for other media sources, includes a USB port and 3.5mm audio input jack.  Sony says this audio player promises big sound, large in part to something called the Dynamic Sound Generator.

According to Pocket-lint you can expect it to ship this August in your choice of black or white.

Eton’s Soulra XL packs a 72 square inch enhanced monocrystal solar panel just in case an apocalypse hits or you happen to reside in a densely settled area that experiences rolling blackouts.  Inside is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that completely charges in 5 hours of sun and provides an equal amount of playback, which is of course variable with volume.

It features an iPod/iPhone dock with an anti-glare cover, rubberized ends caps, 8 speaker drivers (2x tweeter, 2x woofer, 4x passive radiator), 22W output with bass boost, a removable gel-cushioned carrying strap and a storage compartment for the included remote.

You can preorder Eton Soulra XL now for $300.

Read

Beats by Dr. Dre have become a phenomenal success.  They’ve sold millions of dollars in headphones and in November launched a dedicated iPod/iPhone dock that retails for $449.95 (you can find it cheaper at Crutchfield, Amazon) called the Beatbox.   High price aside, the system really cranks and while I don’t think it will replace a stand alone home theater or stereo system, it definitely outclasses other speaker docks of a similar ilk.  

In terms of features the Beatbox is pretty barebones.  There’s a 30-pin dock for all things Apple, an AUX input and LED light to let you know that it’s powered up and running.  It includes a credit card sized remote and behind the metal grill are dual advanced 5.25-inch long throw bass drivers and two 2-inch concave high frequency drivers.  On top is a built in handle, which makes lugging it around from party to party a breeze, though no battery compartment is included, so parties in the park or at the beach will have to be relegated to the Jambox.  The top is finished in rubber which makes it pretty easy to grab and the bottom includes a rubber strip to dampen vibrations and secure it to any flat surface.

I’ll have a review posted of the Beatbox by Dr. Dre from Monster in the next week or so.  Until then, indulge in the unboxing video above and pics below.

Aimed at iOS devices, the MiLi HD docking station is set to debut at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show – that is, somewhere between the 6th and 9th of January. Charging iPads, iPhones and iPod Touches, the MiLi HD justifies its name with 1080i video HDMI output for HDTVs and home AV systems.

The rather teenage-looking MiLi HD gets its power through mini-USB and comes with a hi-fi speaker in case you’re not planning on connecting it to a more powerful system.

With one year warranty, the Mili HD will sell for $100, bought directly from MiLiPower.

MiLi Power to Unveil MiLi HD at 2011 CES, Bringing Your Mobile Content Directly To Your Home Entertainment System In High-Definition

HD Videos, music, and streaming services, played from your Apple device direct to your flat screen or home audio system

New York, New York – (January 3, 2011) – MiLi Power, specialist in design and development of docking stations, battery power and charging solutions, announces the release of the MiLi HD docking station. Equipped with HDMI output and Hi-Fi speaker, MiLi HD allows you to easily transfer media to your flat screen or home theater system directly from your Apple device. Compatible with all Apple media players, including iPad and iPhone, MiLi HD will be on display next week at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

With MiLi HD, users don’t have to struggle with wireless streaming and spotty WiFi connections. MiLi HD allows Apple users to watch their downloaded films, TV shows, and mobile services like NetFlix, in 1080i HD directly on their home television. Listen to your entire music or iTunes library playing through your high-quality home audio setup or through MiLi HD’s built-in HiFi speaker. “No longer does your mobile entertainment have to be just mobile,” says MiLi Power’s Executive VP, Robert Grossman. “MiLi HD provides the most reliable option to connect your mobile device to your home entertainment systems. 2011 marks a rebirth of MiLi Power, with a new management team and a slew of new innovative products to hit the market, it’s sure to be an exciting year!” MiLi HD, along with the rest of MiLi’s new product line will be on display January 6-9, 2011 at CES.

MiLi HD
Watch HD videos from your Apple device directly on your flat-screen or listen to your full music library through your high-quality home audio system

• Compatible with all Apple products, including iPad
• 1080i HDMI output, built-in HiFi speaker
• Mini-USB connection
• Fully functional docking station with charging capabilities
• Apple certified with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty
• $99.99

Life Technolgies goes to work on applying the recent tech capabilities it acquired with its purchase of sequencing firm Ion Torrent. A benchtop printer-sized DNA sequencing machine based on PostLight semiconductor technology takes a full step off the sequencing procedure, making it possible to go directly from chemical base to digital information.

Not intended for making diagnostics, the Personal Genome Machine is still very much a research tool, measuring in real time the hydrogen ions produced by DNA replication. With its touchscreen interface, 65 pound weight, couple hour turn-around for results, and iPhone/iPod dock, it looks like a perfect example of the ongoing ‘gadgetization’ and miniaturization of real science equipment.

“Point-and-shoot digital cameras opened up photography to everyone because they were fast, cheap and easy – and people saw the results immediately, so they quickly became better photographers,” says Dr. Jonathan M. Rothberg, the founder of Ion Torrent. The device is currently being shipped to several locations in North America, Europe and Asia, with details about the price available only on request.

Read

Stem Innovation seems to be a completely new company, whose sole purpose is making Apple compatible devices, of which they are currently only selling two: a pair of speakers and the TimeCommand – an alarm clock dock for the iPhone/iPod/iPad.

You could probably put it anywhere, but it’s meant to be placed at your bedside, as its round shape was designed to elicit responses of love, mercy and cuddliness when it wakes you up in the morning. I obviously made that part up, but only because it’s so nice to see a round iPod dock – or a round clock – for a change.

In case waking up through means of sound seems barbaric to you, which it is, the TimeCommand can also command your bedside lamp, and turn it on in hopes of waking you up. If morning doesn’t do the job, what are the chances a lamp will? Try it and find out, I guess.

Or you could let TimeCommand combine light and music in a sort of morning alarm torture show synesthesia. It comes with an app that customizes the whole sleep/wake cycle, with dual alarms for waking and snooze controls.

TimeCommand can be found in Apple Retail Stores for $99.95, and when you see it, it would be wise to remember my loosely constructed description of it – morning alarm torture show synesthesia – before any purchasing decision is made.

Read

Speakal does not spare any expenses, or any dignity, in their race towards amassing as many shockingly unique iPod docks as they can. Or maybe it’s a race towards being seen as the gaudiest gadget maker of the bunch.

And while there may be a large bunch of gadget makers, when you build an iPod dock shaped like a pig, you’re well on your way to schlocky stardom.

The iPod dock pig wears sunglasses and carries much audio hardware in its belly. With four-watt stereo drivers instead of eyes, and a 15 watt subwoofer for a liver, the rest of it is very symmetrical – ports beneath the tail and controls in the snout.

Once you charge it up, the internal lithium ion battery will keep you musically entertained for eight hours, which should nicely fill up the many hours of loneliness you’ll be enduring once your friends find out you’re the kind of guy or gal that spends $150 on a toy pig.

Read

4 out of 5 stars

At first blush Xtrememac’s Tango TRX looks like any other iPod dock speaker. After all, it does have a speaker and the quintessential 30-pin dock connector (compatible with the iPad, iPhone and iPod).  Aesthetically it’s rather easy on the eyes thanks to the minimalist design and my personal favorite, black with orange highlights.  But it’s what’s inside, what the Tango RX accomplishes from a sound perspective that makes it not quite awe inspiring, but at the very least drives the desire to champion the product, especially in a category in which exists Goliaths, such as iHome, iLuv and Yamaha.

LED volume and source lights – the almost all black finish attracts dust

Hidden beneath the Tango TRX’s cold hard and really cool looking exterior is a 2.1 channel speaker system.  Packed inside the tiny box, which isn’t much longer than 12-inches are two midrange drivers, two tweeters and a subwoofer.  To play music through the speakers you’ve got a few options: the already mentioned 30-pin dock, Bluetooth connectivity and an AUX input for those that lack an iProduct or an MP3 player with Bluetooth. Perched atop of the Tango TRX are 5 rubber buttons: play/pause, bass, treble and source.  Their operation was a bit wonky and at times took two firm presses to illicit a reaction.  To adjust the bass or treble you use the volume knob after hitting the appropriate button. Lastly, just above the volume button are 9 LED lights.  They indicate the volume while the latter 3 do double duty and represent which source (iPod, Bluetooth or AUX) you’ve selected.

Volume knob; also adjust bass and treble when selected

Like all good and respectable companies, XtremeMac has produced an accompanying iPhone app.  Before you jump to conclusion and accuse it of being just another iPod player, like I did, you should know that it includes a 5 band EQ, not found any where else on the device.  Additionally, the app can change the actual volume and ‘source’ of the Tango TRX when you’re streaming your tunes over Bluetooth.  A neat little feature, which I discovered by happenstance, was that changing the Tango TRX’s volume, while connected to my iPhone over Bluetooth, was reflected in the apps volume slider in real time, as were the other functions.  The app does however lack the ability to peruse the iPhone’s music library.

Xtrememac includes a physical card credit sized remote.  Unfortunately, mine didn’t work, but to be honest I didn’t care all that much, though I couldn’t change volume or switch tracks while my iPhone was docked.  They’ve also tossed in a charging dock, which is convenient if you want to stream your tunes over Bluetooth from a set location (e.g by the couch) and not kill your battery.

Play/pause, bass, treble and source buttons

According to the instructions you can receive telephone calls when connected over Bluetooth on the Tango TRX thanks to the built-in mic.  I tried on multiple occasion, but to no avail could I get the callers voice to route through the speaker and nor could they hear me.  Perhaps a later iOS update will make this feature compatible – iOS 4.2 made the iPad compatible with the iHome iA100.

Aux and power input

While not completely bug free, albeit minor ones, I’m very pleased with the sound quality, build quality and over all design of the Tango TRX.  It should be a welcome edition to any room and thanks to its big output should fill the void for any audio enthusiast looking for an all in one sound solution with a small footprint and 30-pin dock.

Xtrememac’s Tango TRX can be purchased from Amazon for $179.99.  If you want the included charging dock it’s an additional $20.

We gotta hand it to JBL.  In the grotesquely crowded marketplace of iPod Docks they’ve managed to conjure up a design that is eye catching, though it’s probably not the most aesthetically pleasing.

The On Stage IV iPod/iPhone dock has four full-range transducers and a Weave design that JBL says “will flood virtually any room or outdoor space with realistic JBL sound”.  What if JBL sound is the crapiest thing you’ve ever heard?

It can be powered by 6 AA batteries for up to 16 hours of playback, and there is an include IR remote as well as an AC charger.

JBL is selling it direct for $149.95.

Read

Panasonic’s latest digital photo frame, the MW-20, is 9-inch LCD complete with stereo speakers and an iPod dock. Yes, it should work with your iPhone, so you can now rest easy knowing that you can display photos direct from the handset or watch a movie on the high rez screen.

There is also 2GB of storage, an SD card slot and the ability to wall mount this little sucker.  Bright lighting?  No problem, the MW-20 has an ambient light sensor which auto adjusts the screen brightness level according to the room.

Word on the street is that it will go retail this November for $250.

Read

They’ve got it for $59.99 – $30 coupon (HG$053JL2NX6LF) + free S&H = $29.99!

Don’t forget the coupon: HG$053JL2NX6LF (expires: 9/23)

Before you skip ahead on this post – you know, since it’s another iPod dock – consider this: you can Shuffle music from both iPod docks.  Cool, huh?  The Altec Lansing Octiv Duo of course charges both devices at the same time and has a USB port for 3rd party devices.  You’ll need to download Altec’s Music Mix app from the iTunes store if you want to shuffle from both players, though.

The wedge shaped design means you can stuff it neatly into a corner.  And speaking of which that back wedge has a slot for storing the remote.

It retails for $100 and will “arrive soon”.

Read