Bose SoundDock (black)

October 7, 2008 08:16

5.0/5
I tried the Altec Lansing IM 600 and it was a pain and did not dock my 30 gig iPod properly. But I only paid $100.00 for it but as they say; "you get what you pay for". I took it right back. It had more features and was battery portable; but it could not deliver the solid sound and range of clarity that this 1st generation Bose Sound dock does.

Yeah, I paid $250.00 for the Bose took it home and was immediately satisfied as I knew I would be. The bells & whistles did not make up for that solid, rich, & full range sound that put the smile on my face. I know Bose always carries a high price tag but Bose "always delivers" and I consider it money well spent. It's the best accessory you can buy for iPod; this thing kicks!!!

- cablecop4

September 6, 2008 09:25

3.0/5
I can see why Bose chose to design a sound dock for the Apple iPod - together, it's a great product. It's everything you'd expect from the Bose; fortunately for me, I was able to purchase the sound dock for slightly under $200, with a 30 day return policy!

I am mostly disappointed with the product due to the lack of options and components. I would have liked -- at least a tiny clock, more ports on the backside to make good use of the speakers, and the option to use other mp3 players on it. It can also use more options on the remote controller (this is very minor, but for the price and brand name.. give us more!), like EQ settings that corresponds to the iPods.

Then we have the quality of how it was PUT together. The black plastic they use in the over design is not assembled together that great. The bottom portion, which docks the actual iPod, is very flimsy -- as well as the back plug cord. When moving the sound dock, the metal speaker front pushes in. Usually that part is easily and obviously secured to the main frame.. not with Bose (as other reviewers mentioned).

But overall, the Bose sound dock is all about simplicity -- THAT, I can appreciate. It's easy, simple and produces great quality. If that's the kind of system you're looking for, it'll be a great fit. Most people don't want to be bothered with wires and all of the miscellaneous mess with electronics. I still have 20+ days to make my final decision. I will be scouting the electronics store for something that is comparable with more options, until then... I am enjoying the sounds of Bose.. which is its purpose!

Updated on Sep 6, 2008

9/6: I forgot to add this tidbit.. while relaxing at home, I noticed a buzzing sound.. then I realized that it was coming from my Bose sound dock. At first I couldn't believe it, but yes, it was. So I sugest that you unplug the cord, or take the iPod off the dock if it's not in use, or else the buzzing noise coming from the idle iPod will drive you crazy. Again, another con. I don't remember any of the other reviewers mentioning this, but this was very annoying. TO AVOID THE SLIGHT BUZZING NOISE, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR IPOD OFF/IDLE ON THE SOUND DOCK IF YOU DO NOT NEED TO CHARGE IT!

- xbebz

April 7, 2008 02:12

4.0/5

- eshn

December 12, 2007 09:19

4.0/5

- SRSone

November 7, 2007 05:38

4.0/5
First of all, I am an audio guru; so I have owned just about every brand speaker there is to own--whether it be for home or car audio. And, through the years, I have discovered that--in terms of sound quality and sound system durability--Bose is ALWAYS the best.

Ever since Bose produced this system, almost every speaker company that I can think of has attempted to produce a system of comparable quality; and they have failed on a staggering level.

The Apple iHome is probably the most credible competition this system has: in terms of sheer loudness and bass, it slightly outweighs the SoundDock. However, the iHome just cannot compete with the SoundDock in terms of sound quality, size, and durability. The iHome is about four or five times the size of the SoundDock, and it is funny to me that the SoundDock still produces--by far--the best audio.

If this system seems expensive to you, do not worry: at first, I felt the same way; however, if you manage to pass the buck, I guarantee that you will not regret it.

- Jackal57

September 2, 2007 05:39

3.0/5
The Bose SoundDock really disappointed me. Actually, it's not bad as a product by itself. But when you start seeing it compared to the other speakers out there (like the Apple iPod HiFi), it starts to look bad.

Sound quality is good, nothing great though. It's what you would expect from Bose. What really got me though was the flimsy build quality. The little base in which the iPod sits in, at least for my unit, literally seems like its attached to the rest of the unit by just one screw. If I really wanted to, I could too easily rip it off. Then, the little tabs in the dock connectors broke off. Lastly, the power adaptor connector in the back is a weird shape in that you can put it in wrong.

If I were you, I'd just go get an Apple iPod HiFi or one of JBL's units.

- vdblu

March 9, 2007 01:19

4.0/5
This is a very clean and attractive solution for playing iPods in an office or room. The device is small, attractive, complements the design of the iPod (something the Apple HiFi doesnt do). The sound is quite clean and clear and the base responce is good given the size. Jazz sounds really good and clear.

- JVerderame

January 22, 2007 12:41

5.0/5
I gifted this to my dad on his bday... He was on top of the world.. He listens to this system daily... And I am really happy to see my dad using it.. Its the excellent Music system for home-office.. I recommend it to everyone.. Just go on..

- rohramanish

August 14, 2006 07:31

5.0/5
Greatest thing invented for the ipod. This is at the top of every chart!

- kmitz74

July 23, 2006 04:52

4.5/5
This unit works well right out of the box. The sound is outstanding, with full rich sound through all volumes.. Fills a room with balanced crisp sound.

If you're after "boomy bass", then this is not the one for you.. This box is clear, balanced and coupled with the IPOD's clarity of sound produces an experience that leaves you coming back for more.

- musician1956