Showing posts with label computer speakers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label computer speakers. Show all posts

7/04/2012

Altec Lansing SoundBar Speakers Review

Altec Lansing SoundBar Speakers
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I am no audiophile. I just needed/wanted decent sound for a new computer I bought that did not come with speakers (I wasn't interested in buying the optional computer speakers because I wanted decent sound since I planned on using my 22" monitor to watch movies across the room). SO, I read A Lot of reviews on Many different speakers and chose the Altec Lansing SoundBar Speakers. They never received Rave reviews nor did many have horrible things to report. That was interesting (often items get "polar reviews"). I braved the $40 bargain and hoped I hadn't wasted what I thought was half of what I should pay for a decent computer speaker. I AM VERY happy with my new speakers let me tell you why:
PROS:
1- Volume is loud enough to hear movies 10-12' across room
2- Sound is rich enough to listen to music files 10-12' away!
3- Handy volume dial AND mute function at fingertips!
4- Optional headphone jack on side of unit!
5- You probably won't wake the neighbor with this speaker!
CONS:
1 - A power cord and speaker cable exit the back (it cannot run on batteries). This is not a "portable" speaker if that is what you need.
2- It sits a little too high for my new monitor. I don't know why it was designed to sit 1" off the desk (it would be perfect height for me if it didn't, so I put my computer on a platform and put the mouse there when not in use).
3- A little "bulky" looking - do not buy it for its looks!
4- You probably won't wake the neighbor.
After a week of testing, I can honestly report that this speaker has surprised me! The Altec Lansing SoundBar Speaker has impressed me with it's rich sound, volume capability, convenience features and saved me from paying what I thought I Had to for decent sound!!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Altec Lansing SoundBar Speakers

Immersive soundis an audio advance that changes the listening experience. Music no longer seems to come through a speaker but from an extended soundstage. Altec Lansing s proprietary SFX signal-processing immersion technology audibly widens the soundstage to a startling degree. Tuck it under your flat-screen monitor for a new audio experience and enjoy a refreshingly open desktop improved wire management and simplified speaker connections to your PC and iPodor CD player.

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6/06/2012

Sound Freaq SFQ-01R Sound Platform (Red) Review

Sound Freaq SFQ-01R Sound Platform (Red)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I was looking for a dock for my wife's iPhone4 and my Blackberry. I had 2 mandatory requirements other than good sound quality:
1. It should work with an iPhone 4 in a bumper case.
2: I should be able to use it with non-Apple devices using the AUX input.
I first purchased the Philips Fidelio DS8500 Speaker Dock with Remote for iPod/iPhone (White/Silver) (Note: I have posted of review there as well) based on the good reviews on Amazon but returned it because it wouldn't allow the iPhone4 to dock with the bumper case and there was an omnipresent hum when I used the AUX input. The sound quality however was excellent. I then purchased the Soundfreaq and was able able to compare it with the Phillips before I shipped the Phillips. Here are my conclusions:
1. Sound: Phillips wins hands down. The bass is fuller and it can be played at a higher volume. Having said that, the Soundfreaq is no laggard. The bass isn't as deep but the sound over all is excellent. My wife listens mostly to older Indian songs and podcasts, neither of which requires big thumping bass. Both genres are more vocal oriented and the Soundfreaq does a good job. I have a different system for my periodic dose of classic rock/metal and any sound dock in this price range will most likely not do the trick anyways.
2. Connectivity and convenience: The Soundfreaq is the outright winner. The iPhone4 connects without any adapters even with the bumper case. No problems! Even better, I don't even need to actually mount the iPhone on the dock because of Bluetooth connectivity. It took 5 - 7 minutes from the moment I signed the UPS receipt for the box to having a song from the iPhone 4 playing through this dock via bluetooth. It works like a charm. Setup is a breeze and the convenience of Bluetooth is a HUGE plus. Similarly, I was able to connect my Blackberry via Bluetooth, so I no longer need to use the AUX input for my BB. The device can stay in your pocket or you can do something else on it while the music plays through the dock. Also, the AUX input works perfectly with no background hum like the Phillips.
3. FM radio: Works fine on the Soundfreaq. Not present on the Phillips. This isn't a very big differentiator but since I'm spending more for the Soundfreaq, its nice to get more too.
4. Looks/aesthetics: both systems look pretty good. I liked the Phillips but the retro, vacuum-tube radio like design of the Soundfreaq is very nice.
5. iPhone app: Phillips' app is buggy, clunky and is more of a hindrance. Soundfreq app does what it is supposed to and stays out of the way. Neither app needs to be used but the Soundfreq app doesn't irritate like the Phillips.
Conclusions:
1. If you want deeper bass and all round richer sound, go with the Phillips. I am however very satisfied with the Soundfreaq in this department.
2. The convenience of the Soundfreaq cannot be matched by the Phillips. I really like the fact that I can switch on bluetooth on my phone (I don't have it running all the time to conserve battery), connect and I'm in business from anywhere in the room. No wires. No need to even get close to the actual dock.
3. Soundfreaq is more expensive, and more than what I was planning to spend but I think I'm getting decent value for the extra money.
I'm happy with my purchase of the Soundfreaq and more important, the wife loves it. I'm keeping it and will ship back the Phillips.

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5/22/2012

Creative GigaWorks T20W Series II Wireless Multimedia Speaker System with BasXPort Technology Review

Creative GigaWorks T20W Series II Wireless Multimedia Speaker System with BasXPort Technology
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I bought these speakers and the Sound Blaster wireless audio transmitter for my son for Christmas. I plugged in the speakers and hooked them up via the direct audio cable to gauge the sound. I thought I had to install the software and pair the speakers to get them running on wireless but as I plugged in the transmitter I thought I would just uplug the audio cable to see what happens. Sure enough the music from his laptop was streaming wirelessly to the speakers. The sound is clear and continuous. The base is good enough for a medium-sized room. There was some distortion when you crank the volume up beyond about three quarters but that was the only drawback. Remeber this is only through the usb transmitter and no additional stations were needed for same room sound.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Creative GigaWorks T20W Series II Wireless Multimedia Speaker System with BasXPort Technology

The Creative Labs GigaWorks T20W Series II wireless multimedia speaker system is ideal for music and gaming enthusiasts. Complementing existing Creative wireless audio products, you can now enjoy uncompressed Xtreme Fidelity music anywhere in your home. Enjoy well-balanced audio with dedicated tweeters for sharp, detailed highs and robust mid-range drivers for richer, fuller sound. BasXPort technology for enhanced bass will enhance the low frequency response without the bulkiness of a subwoofer. Listen to uncompressed Xtreme Fidelity music from Creative wireless audio products across the room or around the house conveniently with no delays or dropouts of up to 100ft. The built-in receiver accepts wireless audio from Sound Blaster X-Fi Notebook, Cambridge SoundWorks MovieWorks HD for iPod, and other select Creative wireless audio products. A perfectly easy set-up, these sleek speakers come with contemporary black finishing and will fit neatly on any desktop! Specifications include: 28 watts RMS speaker power, 50Hz-20kHz Frequency Response, 80dB signal-to-noise ratio, up to 100ft wireless range.

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4/13/2012

Soundfreaq Sound Platform for iPad and Smart Mobiles Review

Soundfreaq Sound Platform for iPad and Smart Mobiles
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I was looking for a dock for my wife's iPhone4 and my Blackberry. I had 2 mandatory requirements other than good sound quality:
1. It should work with an iPhone 4 in a bumper case.
2: I should be able to use it with non-Apple devices using the AUX input.
I first purchased the Philips Fidelio DS8500 Speaker Dock with Remote for iPod/iPhone (White/Silver) (Note: I have posted of review there as well) based on the good reviews on Amazon but returned it because it wouldn't allow the iPhone4 to dock with the bumper case and there was an omnipresent hum when I used the AUX input. The sound quality however was excellent. I then purchased the Soundfreaq and was able able to compare it with the Phillips before I shipped the Phillips. Here are my conclusions:
1. Sound: Phillips wins hands down. The bass is fuller and it can be played at a higher volume. Having said that, the Soundfreaq is no laggard. The bass isn't as deep but the sound over all is excellent. My wife listens mostly to older Indian songs and podcasts, neither of which requires big thumping bass. Both genres are more vocal oriented and the Soundfreaq does a good job. I have a different system for my periodic dose of classic rock/metal and any sound dock in this price range will most likely not do the trick anyways.
2. Connectivity and convenience: The Soundfreaq is the outright winner. The iPhone4 connects without any adapters even with the bumper case. No problems! Even better, I don't even need to actually mount the iPhone on the dock because of Bluetooth connectivity. It took 5 - 7 minutes from the moment I signed the UPS receipt for the box to having a song from the iPhone 4 playing through this dock via bluetooth. It works like a charm. Setup is a breeze and the convenience of Bluetooth is a HUGE plus. Similarly, I was able to connect my Blackberry via Bluetooth, so I no longer need to use the AUX input for my BB. The device can stay in your pocket or you can do something else on it while the music plays through the dock. Also, the AUX input works perfectly with no background hum like the Phillips.
3. FM radio: Works fine on the Soundfreaq. Not present on the Phillips. This isn't a very big differentiator but since I'm spending more for the Soundfreaq, its nice to get more too.
4. Looks/aesthetics: both systems look pretty good. I liked the Phillips but the retro, vacuum-tube radio like design of the Soundfreaq is very nice.
5. iPhone app: Phillips' app is buggy, clunky and is more of a hindrance. Soundfreq app does what it is supposed to and stays out of the way. Neither app needs to be used but the Soundfreq app doesn't irritate like the Phillips.
Conclusions:
1. If you want deeper bass and all round richer sound, go with the Phillips. I am however very satisfied with the Soundfreaq in this department.
2. The convenience of the Soundfreaq cannot be matched by the Phillips. I really like the fact that I can switch on bluetooth on my phone (I don't have it running all the time to conserve battery), connect and I'm in business from anywhere in the room. No wires. No need to even get close to the actual dock.
3. Soundfreaq is more expensive, and more than what I was planning to spend but I think I'm getting decent value for the extra money.
I'm happy with my purchase of the Soundfreaq and more important, the wife loves it. I'm keeping it and will ship back the Phillips.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Soundfreaq Sound Platform for iPad and Smart Mobiles



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3/30/2012

Jawbone Jambox Wireless Speaker and Bluetooth Speakerphone Review

Jawbone Jambox Wireless Speaker and Bluetooth Speakerphone
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This is seriously one of the coolest accessories I have ever seen. This is a great product that completely exceeded my expectations.
Uses:
- The Jambox is perfect for a full, quality sound in a limited space (1-2 rooms) and for any casual gathering.
- It is not intended as a system replacement that would fill 10 rooms of a house party with club volume sound.
Pros:
- The speakers sound great at all but the very loudest setting with strong highs/mids and surprisingly good bass from such a tiny system. Great sound from both Pandora (free content) and iTunes (AAC 192 K VBR compression).
- Better sounding than any other tiny speaker systems (not fairly compared with any of the high end iPod/iPhone dock systems)
- The pairing from both my iPhone and iPad was a snap and I was pleasantly surprised I can keep both paired at the same time.
- Elegant and solid physical design that is in a class all its own (nothing else comes close at this size)
- Polished interface and software design with upgradable firmware and feature add-ons. I plan to test this soon.
- Smaller and more solid than expected
- Excellent speaker-phone performance (as expected from Jawbone). Others could not tell I was on a speaker-phone.
- The battery came fully charged.
- High end packaging (iPhone inspired no doubt) that contained a large array of cables (unlike iPhone). Cons:
- The range is ok but probably closer to 20 or 25 feet and not the 35 claimed.
- As expected the Bluetooth doesn't work through walls (at least not the solid walls with oil paint used in my apartment, which also severely hampers our wi-fi).
- Price is steep but I consider that the cost of miniaturization and early adoption. I would not be surprised to see this come down to $150 in a few months.

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3/28/2012

Jawbone JAMBOX (Black Diamond) Review

Jawbone JAMBOX (Black Diamond)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I decided to try out this highly rated bluetooth speaker for my iPad and iPhone and was shocked at its ease of use, sound quality, small footprint, portability and long battery life. I liked the choice of colors which makes these small speakers standout and easy to spot. When I first opened the package, I was pleased that the company included several high quality cords including both short and long micro USB cords for recharging and computer synching, charge adapter, and a tangle-free audio cord for non-bluetooth sources. You can create an account on the Jawbone MyTALK site to download voice profiles and apps. In pairing mode, it easily connected with all of our iPads and iPhones. I tested the iPad first with Netflix, Pandora, Hulu+, Air Video Server, and iTunes. Considering that the speaker is only the size of 2 stacked Wii controllers, the sound was surprisingly strong, clear, full-bodied, and free of hisses or pops that I have experienced with other bluetooth speakers and maintained the bluetooth connection without a single drop. Next, I paired both an iPhone 4 and 3Gs and both easily paired with the speaker. I ran Pandora and tested the speakerphone function which worked nicely. You can program a quickdial number that can be immediately dialed by pushing the round botton on the top when paired with a phone. You can download apps for voice commands which I didn't try since I rarely ever use, but the transmission and receiving sound quality is quite good. The next day, I went to work in the operating room and everyone was curious when I pulled out the small speaker and placed my iPhone by its side. There's no need to bring any cords which is the real advantage of using this speaker for true convenient portability. When I started playing my Pandora selections from the iPhone, no one in the O.R. could believe it was coming out of this small speaker. It obviously isn't going to challenge a Bose SoundDock or Dr. Dre Beatbox, but we all had a pleasant day in the operating room doing a full day of cases with great tunes and the speaker lasted the entire day using only 50% of the battery life. At home, I was surprised when my son was playing games on the iPad downstairs and the sound was coming through the Jambox speakers located upstairs with perfect clarity. I researched all of the bluetooth speakers currently available, and this stands out by far. Personally, I prefer using this small speaker which I can pull out of my labcoat, rather than carrying around a large heavy sounddock with cords shoved in a bag. I now leave the sounddock in my office. The only reason I didn't rate this 5-stars is due to the sticker-shocker price which I personally feel is a bit excessive and would be more competitive in the $150 - $170 range. At the $200 pricepoint, most people are audiophiles and will likely make the unfair comparison to larger sounddocks. On the other hand, this is perfect for people like myself willing to sacrifice a bit of room-filling base-rumbling sound for a truly portable wireless speaker with accurate sound reproduction. Overall, I am very pleased with my purchase and will buy another when and if the price drops.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Jawbone JAMBOX (Black Diamond)

JAMBOX, the biggest sound. The smallest package. More Jam less Box: JAMBOX. It's the best little Speaker you've ever heard. One device lets you listen to all of your favorite audio--music, podcasts, video, apps, games, and more--from any phone, music player, tablet, or laptop. Take JAMBOX with you wherever you want audio--from room to room in the home or while on the go. Free yourself from the clutter of big, dedicated speakers and the constraints of cables and docking stations. JAMBOX portability solves all of your listening needs in one small package. Experience big stereo sound and earth-shaking bass in the palm of your hand. Share calls on the go using JAMBOX as a portable speakerphone. It only gets better with time ... Gets apps, software updates, and new functionality at: mytalk.jawbone.com.

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3/12/2012

Creative Inspire S2 Bluetooth Wireless Multimedia Speaker System Review

Creative Inspire S2 Bluetooth Wireless Multimedia Speaker System
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
These speakers are great. The audio quality is spot on for their price and size. And they'll get loud... really loud... without distorting. The subwoofer puts out great beats, and has a bass level potentiometer on the back. I've connected these speakers to my desktop via the included Bluetooth dongle. I plugged it in and Windows (7) installed the software in a matter of seconds, requiring nothing from me besides turning on the speakers. I also have them paired with my phone (MotoDroid) and my Bluetooth enabled laptop. Pairing was problem-free with both of those, I just have to push the button on the Bluetooth dongle to disconnect them from my desktop first. Also, I can have music playing off of my desktop using the speakers while using my Bluetooth headset to talk on my phone, all within about five feet of each other, and there's no interference or troubles. Overall, I would suggest these speakers to anybody.

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12/06/2011

Bose® SoundLink® wireless music system Review

Bose® SoundLink® wireless music system
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
"I was excited for this product to come out and hoped it would work with my iPhone "remote" application which it does nicely. I had the wireless key plugged into my macbook pro and everything works flawlessly as long as your wireless computer network is not on. When it is the Bose Soundlink can't cope and the music cuts in and out and is useless (the troubleshooting guide even acknowledges this!). It seems that you can either listen to your wireless music with the Soundlink OR surf the internet but not both at the same time. If you need to do both simultaneously do not get this product.
Instead get an Airport Express and the Bose Companion 3 speakers to set up a wireless music system through iTunes and AirTunes. You'll also save about $200 this way.
The Bose Soundlink is way too expensive not to have this wireless glitch resolved. Until Bose fixes this, beware of this potentially fabulous product."

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bose® SoundLink® wireless music system


iTunes®. Internet radio. Podcasts. Sports. There's an abundance of content available from your computer these days, much of it accessible nowhere else. Now, the SoundLink® wireless digital music system lets you enjoy that content in more areas around your house--your living room, kitchen or deck. It's easy: no wires, no software, no setup. And the system's robust sound quality will breathe new life into your music.
Just plug and playHow easy is it? Simply plug the small USB key into your computer, turn on the SoundLink system and select your music--iTunes, Pandora®, whatever you like. That's it. No networks to configure, no cables to run. And you can control your music using the handy remote.
Room-to-room portabilityAnd when you're ready to move--say, from the living room to the kitchen, or maybe out to the patio--your music moves with you. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery and convenient carry handle make it easy to take the system from place to place without missing a beat.
Bose quality performanceAnd all this convenience comes with no compromise in performance. Exclusive Bose waveguide speaker technology brings music to life, with the depth and clarity you were meant to enjoy. Voices sound natural and vibrant. Instruments sound clear and distinct. You may hear details you've never noticed before.
Get closer to your music--by moving away from your desk. The SoundLink wireless music system takes computer audio to exciting new places.
What's in the box--SoundLink® wireless music system (battery installed)--USB key--Remote control--AC power cord--Power supply adapter

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6/26/2011

Creative ZiiSound 2.1 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker System (T6) Review

Creative ZiiSound 2.1 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker System (T6)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Dont buy this Zii T6 item.It disappoints me totally. (Inspire s2 wireless bluetooth is 100 times better in sound quality.)
Especially sub woofer quality is too bad. No deep tight bass. No "Kick" in bass. (Prototype S2 bluetooth wireless delivers excellent woofer quality. You can dance when you play Josh music. Award winning product. Much Cheaper than Zii T6.)
I returned the product 3rd day.
Strong recommendation: dont waste 400$ on Zii T6 and dont disappoint. If you want to enjoy wireless music Just stick on to S2 bluetooth wireless speakers.It gives "Maza" in Music.

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