Audio Quality
Given the relatively small stature of the iLuv i199BLK (compared to larger audio systems), I was reasonably impressed with the audio quality offered by this stereo system. The audio fidelity was able to hold up for most music genres, but I did find that there was a fair bit of distortion as I approached the maximum volume level. This was particularly apparent with bass-thumping hip hop (Kanye West), but I also experienced some distortion with less bass-heavy tracks from Coldplay and Smashing Pumpkins. You would probably get a lower level of distortion with, say, classical music, but I don’t listen to classical music.
Unfortunately, there is no graphic equalizer whatsoever, so you are stuck with the default audio settings. Seeing how this is supposed to be more than just an iPod speaker dock, I expected there to be at least a few equalizer settings to choose from.
The relatively impressive audio quality comes largely because of the jAura technology from iLuv. They say that this can provide full range sound quality that is “surprisingly crisp, clear and defined.” This is achieved by the “properly proportioned mix of forward and backward sound waves.” As we found out, it does a pretty darn good job.
Conclusion
It’s clear that iLuv knows a thing or two about creating quality products surrounding the Apple iPod line of portable media players. The i199BLK mini audio system is one of the better iPod speaker docks on the market, largely because it offers good sound quality and an abundance of input options. Unfortunately, the controls are limited and there are no equalizer settings to speak of so that you can fine tune the sound to your tastes.
Used together with one of iLuv’s other products, the Bluetooth Stereo Backphones (which we will be reviewing later), I can see how the i199BLK would provide a very pleasant (wireless) music experience. It’s also very nice that you can stream music from a Bluetooth cell phone or laptop too. Just be prepared to shell out a few hundred dollars for the whole shi-bang. Now if only Apple would catch up and add stereo Bluetooth to their products (ahem…iPhone).
Pros
- Loads of input options, including iPod, USB, and MP3 CD
- Generally good sound quality
- Bluetooth technology is a definite plus
Cons
- No equalizer settings
- Limited A/V output options
- Very limited iPod control
Overall Rating: 8.0/10
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