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Review on ๐ŸŽต Altec Lansing iM9 inMotion Mobile Speaker Dock for iPod (Black): Dynamic Sound On-the-Go! by April Anson

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Completely satisfied with portable speakers and docking stations

I first bought a Cyber Acoustics portable iPod dock ($47) to use in my home gym. But after realizing that the CA didn't support my iPod 3G, a 30GB model purchased in 2003, I returned it to Revain and began looking for a suitable replacement in the same price range. Reviews of the Altec Lansing iM9 ($50) convinced me this might be the ticket, so I gave it a try. I'm glad I did. Wonder of wonders, my iPod went straight into the dock with no adapters (although there were three or four different sized adapters in the box), the charger worked and the sound was amazing - clear and rich. What do you like about this model besides its sound quality and performance? A really nice feature is that the stand that holds your iPod rotates to charge with a simple press of the eject button, then snaps back into place with a light fingertip at the top center, after which it locks into place. This has two advantages. First, it prevents the iPod from falling or rocking during transport, which can damage the pins. Secondly, it protects both the iPod and the dock connector from dust. (The only exposed part of the iPod is the front.) Another nice feature is the rubberized exterior, which gives it a muscular feel that doesn't have to be childish. This thing is really solid and conveys seriousness worthy of its 4 pound weight. It is only 8 inches high and 11 inches wide, the size of a standard paperback book when fully open. The third good feature is the surprisingly small size and lightness of the power supply. Unlike the virtual bricks that come with models from some manufacturers, the palm-sized iM9 power supply is small enough to plug the end of the power cord into a wall outlet. In fact, it even has a plug. The fourth nice feature is that the volume buttons ("+" and "-") are located on the top edge of the device and are therefore easily accessible. You just press the button you want and the volume will change gradually. However, you have to press hard because the sensors are located under a hard rubber coating. Another notable feature that is the first thing that catches your eye is the elegant packaging - both external and internal - of this device. Opening the box reminded me to open almost every Apple product. We put a lot of thought and good taste into making sure every aspect of the packaging is both functional and beautiful. It showed a level of care that put my mind at ease - and it turned out to be consistent with the design and functionality of the product itself. 200 dollars. At Revain's current price of $50, I'd say it's a hell of a deal.

Pros
  • Like all before
Cons
  • Definitely bad product