** Update June 11, 2009 **I just wanted to correct an error below where I indicated that the iLuv wasn't properly charging my iPod. I don't know what was happening when I was trying it out but I really have had no problem across 2 different iPods with charging since I posted the review.
Still can't think of any use for the remote however... :)
** End Update **
I picked up the black iLuv iPod speaker system after doing considerable research online. These reviews are pretty helpful so I thought I'd add my 2 cents worth so that you can know what you're getting.
By and large the other reviews agree with my experience. The sound quality is very good for a small unit. You want to pick a playlist before you go to bed otherwise you get whatever is randomly selected from your library (I presume this is due to my election to shuffle all songs in my iPod settings).
I don't have much use for the remote but it's nice that it's included and it works well when I *do* play with it.
The unit has performed excellently since I purchased it two months ago but I'll make some observations:
- the rotating volume and tuning dials are apparently supposed to continue the click wheel paradigm from the iPod, but they do so mechanically and are often a little awkward to use.
- do NOT count on the unit properly charging your iPod. It *does* charge it somewhat so the iPod seems to me like it will run indefinitely while attached to the unit. But I've found that the iPod is not fully charged when I pull it off the iLuv. Fortunately, realizing this, I just make sure that I plug in my iPod when working out in my gym or I leave it attached to my computer until it *is* charged when I'm picking up my podcasts in the morning. This may just be my unit but it was a low point in my commute when my iPod battery ran out of steam that first time before I realized what was going on. I'm pretty rigorous about ensuring that it's charged before I leave the house.
- I agree with others that the minimum volume for alarms needs to be lower. It would also be nice if the volume ramp-up time could be adjusted. The unit comes on and fades up to the pre-selected volume pretty quickly.
- Finally the lights, that dimmest setting may seem dim in the middle of the day, but it's pretty overwhelming in an otherwise pitch-black room. A "Glow" setting or similar would be nice. As it is, when I want to know the time at night I hit the dimmer button to check the time, then hit it three more times to cycle the light through medium and high intensities and then to off again.
None of the above items are showstoppers for me, just 'nits that you can either live with or can't. Knowing what I know now, I would purchase the iLuv again. It has most of the features I need and the price is reasonable.
Click Here to see more reviews about: iLuv i177 Alarm Clock Speaker System for iPod (White)
Product Description:
Break the monotony of going to bed and waking up the same way everyday with the i177 from iLuv. With this stereo audio system featuring the rich sound of jAura acoustic speaker technology, you can start and end the day on your own terms. You can fall asleep or wake to your iPod, AM/FM radio or buzzer. The music can even automatically increase in volume incrementally to help you wake up gradually. Made to accommodate most types of iPod, including iPod shuffle, this system also features a digital clock display with brightness control. Of course, once you're up for the day you can output your favorite videos to your TV through its AV output if your iPod has video capability. It not only starts and ends your day, it can help you along the way. Features include enjoy rich sound with jAura acoustic technology, watch your favorite videos on your TV with your 5th generation iPod 30GB/60GB/80GB, plays and charges your iPod, supports iPod shuffle, AM/FM radio with PLL digital tuning technology, digital clock display with dual alarm, wake to your iPod, AM/FM radio, or buzzer, fall asleep to your iPod or AM/FM radio, aux line input for 1st and 2nd generations of iPod and other audio devices, LCD display with white backlight and four-level dimmer control. Specs include total audio output of 6 watts RMS and 12 watts peak, 30-pin male connector, 9-pin male connector, 3.5mm line level audio input jack, 3.5mm AV output jack, 3.5mm stereo headphone jack, and AC adapter power. Works with iPods with dock connector including iPod touch, classic, 5G, 30 to 80GB video, iPod nano 1st and 2nd generation, iPod mini, and ipod 4G.You can also use two AA batteries (not included) to provide time setting backup. Included in the box are stereo audio system, remote control with battery, AC adapter, AV cable, AM loop antenna, dock adapters, and instruction manual.
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