iHome App-Friendly Rechargeable Speaker System for iPad, iPhone and iPod
Review by Karen Keyte : Good Sound, Great Value

I never know what to expect with apple-compatible devices. Over the years, I've found some that are very good and some that are just a step above useless. So I was pleasantly surprised by this rechargeable speaker system from iHome. Physically the unit is lightweight, yet reassuringly sturdy, meaning it's easy enough to move from place to place but also solid enough to survive constant relocation. The rubberized base eliminates any slipping - when you place it on a flat surface, it's going to stay there.

The system has several features which work well and provide flexibility of use. First of all, it's not only a speaker system, but also serves as a recharging port for your iPhone, iPod or iPad when the unit is plugged into an outlet. Then again, the speaker system has its own rechargeable battery, which means it can play your music anywhere, even when an outlet it not close at hand. The universal dock worked well with all of my various i-devices (I have five) and there is also a line-in jack for CD players, MP3 players, or other audio devices. The unit also works with remote control devices, although none is included. As an added feature, this system will operate with the free alarm clock app iHome+Sleep and also with the internet radio app iHome+Radio.

The most important thing about a speaker system of course is the sound quality, and this unit is about the best I've heard in it's price range. While it does not have separate controls for bass and treble level, the sound clarity is high and the bass processing very good. Overall I am very pleased with this unit - it's much more than I expected at this price point.

iHome App-Friendly Rechargeable Speaker System for iPad, iPhone and iPod
Review by setz : Pretty Awesome

I was reading these reviews and laughed at how people nit pick all these bad things about this dock. The remote issue for one was a small disappointment I will agree but you don't really need it. I have been using this system for days and haven't found myself missing a remote. It isn't so terrible to walk to turn it up or down. I guess we are spoiled on remotes. But hey, there IS a remote if you REALLY need it. Two the case issue. I also will agree it's not the most convenient setup but find a dock that is compatible with cases. Cases come in so many different sizes and varieties that how would they accommodate every case made?

As for the people who bought this device and was surprised it didn't fit their iPad 2: If it has a picture of the original iPad, that usually is an indication that the iPad 2 won't fit. If they had read what will fit into this system, they wouldn't have to return it. It clearly states "iPad" not "iPad and iPad 2." Plus they do make a part to let an iPad 2 fit with it.

The dock part is angled back, but it moves towards the front. This feature is nice because it forces the device to rest back so that it won't fall forward. It was strange at first but once I understood it I really appreciated this design feature. That's better than it falling forward and cracking the screen!

As for the speakers themselves, I found them to be great! It's so much louder and sounds great. No it's not dolby digital but it's great for $100 speakers that charge the device and can be used outside without buying batteries. It weighs like 2 lbs. It's small and sleek and easy to carry. Slips in any bag. But I'm not really sure why I'd take it with me anywhere. I'd prolly just use headphones to listen to the device if I went out. This is more of a stay at home system but it can be moved to the garage or yard.

If $100 is too much to spend on this system, try something non name brand then. I mean, this is the iHome; it's going to be pricey. Although, I didn't find anything even close as nice as this system for the iPad.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

iHome App-Friendly Rechargeable Speaker System for iPad, iPhone and iPod
Review by Janet Perry "Needlepoint and Bargello author" : Delightful sound, small, lightweight & useful

This speaker looks quite unassuming, it's small, lightweight, and only has one control on the front (volume). But the sound it produces is wonderful and rich.

If your iPad, iPhone, or iPod is playing music just plug it into the connector (the same as the standard Apple connector and immediately the sound comes through the speakers.

If the speaker unit is plugged in, it also recharges your unit.

On the front there is a line of lights that show you if the speakers are charging or charged.

I found with my iPod Touch that the volume needed to be only halfway to get a good rich sound with indy rock. And the sound was rich and complex, far better than the built-in speakers on either the iPod or my Mac.

I haven't tried it yet with the wider dynamic range of classical music, but I expect the sound to be great.

It would be nice to have more controls for balance, but for casual listening, they aren't necessary. The iHome speaker can't replace your best speakers, but they make a good, easily portable addition.

All in all, I'm delighted with this unit.

iHome App-Friendly Rechargeable Speaker System for iPad, iPhone and iPod
Review by Roselynde Barrow : Excellent little speakers! Big sound, compact size

This ipod dock is nearly perfect. It has great sound, though it could use a little more bass. The battery life is awesome, I have logged probably 8 hours and it is still going. I like that it comes with a proprietary rechargable battery, so I don't need to go out and buy 6 D batteries off the bat (it came charged).
One other reviewer complained about not being able to keep the ipod or phone in the case while it is in the unit, I say that is a pretty normal issue and he should suck it up and take it out of the case like I have to. If you have a smaller, thinner case, you might be able to fit it in, it sits somewhat loosely.
Cons:
- Doesn't charge older ipods. Charged my friend's iphone, but not my ipod classic
- Doesn't come with a remote, must purchase one for 20 extra dollars
- turning up the volume on the unit simply turns up the volume of the ipod. since my ipod doesn't recharge, this results in battery life being used up
- not sure if they make a case for it? wish it came with one though.