Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I already have a quality 800 watt, 7.1 surround sound system via digital optical cable directly from my Macintosh computer, which produces GREAT powerful sound. So I've learned one really can't combine a whole lot of quality, power and portability in one easy to use stereo.
The iPod doesn't have the ability to transfer good sound to begin with, one can add better speakers and all, but that only goes so far.
What I needed was something to take and play in different locations without headphones, the design and price of this iLive stereo attracted me, as well as a lot of features and power input options.
The sound quality of this iLive unit is ok, much like a pair of iPod headphones is ok.
My opinion of decent sound would be something like a Bose Wave Radio or a iPod HiFi, but these items cost over 3x the amount of this iLive stereo and not suitable or lack a lot of features, power input options etc.
The iLive is priced very reasonable and makes a great general purpose iPod player, it's certainly attractive in black, which makes the black iPod w/video sort of blend right in with it like a perfect match. There is a tiny bit of background noise coming from somewhere and the bass isn't as deep as I would like (spoiled on my 200 watt sub woofer I guess), but hey it's only $79 and can play cd's, radio and iPods and charge them up too.
There is a few things I've found lacking, a handle for instance. But the strap could be made shorter. There doesn't seem to be a way to lock a iPod into place so it doesn't accidentally pop out, perhaps a piece of velcro in the right location will do the job. There is no cover either, but I guess one can be modified to protect the iPod from scratches and dirt, paint, wind blown sand and other nasties.
Overall I'm very pleased with this unit, I know it's not a kick [...] system like my expensive home stereo, but it will allow me to watch movies, TV shows (with video iPod), listen to music etc. with complete portability if the power goes out or at the gym or at the beach or campsite etc. without paying a lot.
In places like college dorms and such where thieves abound, this makes a great unit because the expensive iPod part can be taken out and the cheaper bulkier part left behind.
Click Here to see more reviews about: iLive IBCD3816DT Portable 2.1-Channel CD Boombox with iPod Docking Station (Black)
Ideal for dorm rooms and backyard barbecues, the iLive 2.1-channel boomboxpacks a solid array of features into an affordable package. The primary selling point ofthe IBCD3816DT is its built-in iPod docking station, which not only amplifies the iPod3G and 4G, iPod video, iPod photo, iPod mini, iPod nano, and iPod shuffle, but alsocharges the unit while you listen. Users will also dig the included remote control, whichlets folks operate all of the aforementioned iPods (except the iPod shuffle) from adistance. It's perfect for parties or lounging on the couch, as you needn't amble up to theunit to adjust the volume or skip a track. The boombox also includes a slot-loading CDplayer (with support for CD-R/RW formats) and an AM/FM tuner, along with severalintuitive knobs and buttons for quick and easy system control.
The boombox owes its smooth audio performance to its pair of stereo speakers andaccompanying dual side-firing subwoofers, which deliver thumping bass that's fardeeper than most portable iPod speaker systems. In addition, the IBCD3816DTaccommodates older iPods and other audio devices--such as MP3 players, personal gamesystems, and personal CD players--through its auxiliary line input. Add in a video outputfor playing videos and slideshows on a connected TV and you have a great boomboxfor the modern media landscape. Other details include a sleek black housing, four presetequalizer settings, an easy-to-read backlit LCD display with a digital clock, and a stereoheadphone jack.
The boombox, which runs on either eight D batteries (not included) or AC/DC power(an AC cord is included, but the 12-volt DC car adapter is sold separately), measures 17.5by 7.4 by 7.6 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a limited 90-day warranty.
What's in the Box IBCD3816DT boombox, remote control, AC cord, shoulder strap, dock inserts for iPodnano and iPod mini, auxiliary line-in cord, user's manual.
