Appletell review - eFizz HiFi speaker system for iPod

Section: iPod + iTunes, iPod Accessories, Docks & Speakers, Features, Review Product: HiFi station for iPod Developer: Ewoo Minimum Requirements: Any iPod starting with the 1st gen nano Retail Price: EUR399.00 (≈$500.00 at press time) Availability: Out now The Ewoo eFizz speaker system caused some conflicts here at Appletell Towers. About half of us liked the black, curved styling, the other half felt it looked like the midsection of a mannequin that had fallen apart. About half of us felt it was too large, the other half felt it’s not much bigger than your standard desktop stereo system. Most of us felt the price was a bit steep, while others are used to paying more for quality stereo equipment. What all of us could agree upon, though, is the sound. Ah, that sweet, sweet sound. The Ewoo eFizz is easily the best sounding iPod speaker system I’ve ever had the pleasure of hearing. Before I get into that, though, I want to reiterate the cost. With the current exchange rate, you’d be paying just above $500 (EUR399.00) for the eFizz. If that’s a deal killer, we totally understand. But if you’re willing to pay the extra cash for rich, full sound that will allow your iPod to fill a room (and possibly your whole back yard) read on. The eFizz (an ironic name, considering “fizz” isn’t a term I’d apply to quality audio) features a 2.1 70 Watt RMS audio system from Cabasse. The non-detachable speakers sit side-by-side in the unit, of course, with the subwoofer sitting below and pointing down to the desktop. The eFizz sits comfortably on three rubber feet, offering a half inch of clearance for the bass to pound through. And pound, it does. The sound from the eFizz is fantastic; big and full when loud, but, more impressively, big and full when it’s not loud. I’ve used iPod speakers before that sound good when cranked up, but sound tinny or hollow when turned down. The eFizz system still sounds great even played back at lower levels. Although I like the gloss black finish and curves of the eFizz, the unit itself may be too clunky for some people. It stands about 11” high, 16” wide and 12” deep. A deeply recessed area in the top houses your iPod, which connects just like any other docking system and comes with adapters for iPod nanos 1G/2G/3G, iPod 5G 30GB video, iPod classic 60/80GB, and iPod touch. Even with the right adapter, though, there’s no back support, and it’s possible to place your iPod at a bad angle. And because of the iPod docking location, you have to keep the eFizz on a lower shelf or you won’t be able to see what you’re doing back there. In addition to the iPod dock, the eFizz contains standard RCA analog auxiliary inputs and an auxiliary digital optical input (SPDIF) on the bottom behind the subwoofer. There’s also a USB connection (mini-USB cable supplied) so you can hook the eFizz up to your computer for audio playback and to download firmware updates (a unique and welcome feature amongst iPod speakers). In front of the iPod dock (and much higher up) is the charging cradle for the HandMusic 2.4GHz 2-way remote control (500 foot range). This handy device allows you to access your iPod’s music with controls similar to the iPod itself (although not nearly as responsive, so it can take a long to cycle through your collection). The 1.8” LED screen displays your album art, but the graphic is so small that it’s fairly useless in that regard. Instead, the remote’s true functionality comes when providing EQ options (preset only) and iPod menu access (most standard iPod options appear on the remote screen). In addition, you can create a playlist directly from the remote; no need to plug your iPod back into your computer first. You’ll also find yourself using the remote’s play/pause and track skipping buttons because those included on the eFizz itself are barely marked and hard to see. They sit just in front of the remote cradle, and are nothing more than five small buttons with embossed text in front of them to indicate what each is for. Easy to memorize, sure, but some LED lighting would’ve been welcome here for those not familiar with the system or when using it in the dark. Whether this is all worth $500 will depend upon what you want out of a speaker system. It doesn’t make sense in an office setting, but could look really good in a living room or bedroom with modern decor. If you don’t have use for CDs or a radio, it’s perfect in that regard. I would’ve loved to have a unit such as this in my college dorm room (of course, the iPod hadn’t ben invented yet, so…) It would also make sense as the stereo unit in a den or to take outside for parties; the big, full audio won’t get drowned out by the sound of people splashing around in a pool, for example. That’s basically what you’re paying for, anyway: sound. The eFizz offers up a lot of it; certainly more than you would’ve thought possible from your iPod. And whereas some here are still conflicted, it’s the sound that sold me. Appletell Rating: Buy the Ewoo eFizz HiFi Station for iPod Full Story » | Written by Kirk Hiner for Appletell. | Comment on this Article »

Speakal's iPig speaker system rolls in the mud with your iPod

For those of you (we know, pretty much everyone in existence) who already picked up a set of Pink Pig PC speakers a few years back, you can carry on with your daily routine. For everyone else that owns an iPod, hold it right there. Speakal is delivering the iPod docking iPig, a unique speaker system that packs five total drivers (including a 4-inch subwoofer), adjustable bass controls, 360-degree sound distribution and a very debatable design. You'll also find a 3.5-millimeter auxiliary jack for hooking up every other source, and the bundled remote makes it easy to switch tracks and such from your sofa. The only problem? That $139.99 price tag. Check the full release after the jump.Continue reading Speakal's iPig speaker system rolls in the mud with your iPodPermalink | Email this | Comments

Review: B&W Zeppelin iPod speaker system

The Zeppelin is among the most expensive iPod speaker systems we've seen, and if sound quality is your only consideration, there are less-expensive alternatives. But, like Apple's own hardware, few systems can match the Zeppelin's combination of design, performance, and overall quality.

Review: Razer ProType keyboard

Razer's ProType is a unique keyboard that offers many specialized and programmable keys, as well as an integrated iPod dock. However, its size and system requirements may turn off some potential buyers.

iHome unveils computer speakers/iPod dock all-in-one

Section: iPod + iTunes, iPod Family, iPod Accessories, Docks & SpeakersI know how you feel. With your mouse, USB hubs, Boba Fett coffee mug (full of rubber bands, not coffee, of course) and Army of Darkness figures, who has room for speakers and an iPod dock? Well, rejoice. iHome has announced the iH69 and iH70, speaker systems for Macs and PCs. Now, iPod users can dock, charge, play and sync their iPods directly to their computer via their speakers, providing better quality sound and functionality with no extra wires, cables or space necessary. “At iHome, we continually strive to provide innovative products for iPod owners that enhance their listening enjoyment and maximize the functionality of their iPod,” said Evan Stein, vice president of marketing at iHome. “The new iH69 and iH70 are a perfect marriage of sound and design, and with their charging and sync capabilities, they are the ideal, all-in-one speaker solutions for the Mac or PC that will consolidate space and bring iHome’s advanced sound technology from audio speakers to computer speakers.” Compatible with all docking iPod models, the iH69 and iH70 charge, play and sync iPods while they are docked securely into the base of the computer speaker. The iH69 and iH70 are designed with high-fidelity Reson8 speaker chambers providing the listener with premium power output, computer port, sync switch, volume controls and headphone jack for private listening.  The iH70 builds upon this base with higher wattage producing speakers, a full functioning remote control and the inclusion of SRS WOW sound enhancement technology that expands the audio field for a richer sound experience. The iH69 and iH70 is currently available for pre-order at ihomeaudio.com, and will be available soon at major retail outlets nationwide for the suggested retail price of $99.99 and $129.99 respectively. Full Story » | Written by Kirk Hiner for Appletell. | Comment on this Article »

Digital Signature highlights multimedia speaker systems

Section: iPod + iTunes, iPod Family, iPod Accessories, Docks & Speakers Digital Signature has announced the launch of a new website highlighting its multimedia speaker systems. The website—designed to provide audiophile comparisons and specifications—will gather feedback from customers and feature secure e-commerce capability for online purchases and customer service. The new website, however, is not nearly as important as what you’ll find there. The Mint Digital Music Stations—in development for several years while the company found solutions to the manufacturing and technical challenges of producing a line of high value digital entertainment players—now offer the freedom of wireless connectivity for all your digital music, video, gaming and Mac or PC needs, at “category-busting prices.” Digital Signature has accomplished these goals by creating advanced digital acoustic designs built using top grade components sourced all over the world. Powered by digital amplification control and wireless transmission techniques created by Digital Signature, the Mint Digital Music Stations offer audiophile sound at an unheard of price. Digital Signature has branded this new approach to audio quality, Di-Fi™. Digital Signature’s newest system, The Mint 300 Digital Music Station, delivers top performance—with >100 dB signal/noise ratio and