Apple’s iPod has become a cultural phenomenon akin to Sony’s Walkman, the market for iPod accessories has exploded—some of the biggest names in computer and home audio have responded with systems specifically made for the iPod (and, just as significantly, incompatible with other portable players). Bose has recently joined the fray with its $300 Sounddock speaker system, which uses the now-familiar dock connector base for iPod connectivity. Featuring a glossy white body and large, full-face metal grill, the SoundDock is a good aesthetic match for full-size iPods (and even silver iPod minis) with an attractive but simple appearance that won’t dominate your decor.
It would be tough to find a speaker system that’s easier to set up than the SoundDock. When you first open the SoundDock box, the interior box flaps provide clear illustrations of the three-step setup process:
1) Attach the dock slot adapter for your particular size iPod—five sizes, for any dockable iPod except the new iPod Photo, are included.
2) connect the power cable.
3) place your iPod in the dock slot and enjoy the music.
Your iPod is also charged while it’s in the SoundDock. The only other piece in the box is the included credit card-sized, wireless remote, which lets you play, pause, skip forward or back, adjust the system volume, and turn your iPod on or off.
The SoundDock does not include a dock slot adapter specifically for the iPod Photo; Bose’s official position is that the included adapter for the 30/40GB (3rd-generation) iPod should be used for iPod Photo compatibility. In my testing, this adapter works, but as the iPod Photo is slightly thicker than previous iPods, the fit is very tight — a bit too tight for my tastes, as I was concerned that I was bending the dock connector or scratching the iPod’s front by forcing it into the slot.
Like JBL’s On Stage system, the SoundDock is not designed to be a portable system, despite its all-in-one design. It requires AC power, and although it’s certainly smaller than a full-size system, at 11.9”W x 6.7”H x 6.5”D it’s sizable enough that carrying it from room to room is the extent of its practical transportability. It’s clearly intended for home or office use.
At $300, the SoundDock is more expensive than competing systems that offer a few more convenience features (such as auxiliary inputs and syncing ability). However, it’s currently the best sounding of the “one-piece” speaker systems I’ve tested and its uncluttered elegance and ease of use make it an appealing offering for those willing to plunk down the change. If you’re using the SoundDock in the types of environments for which it’s intended—on a desk, or in a bedroom, office, or kitchen—you’ll be rewarded with good sound in an eye-catching package.
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