02.Results
The following models scored the best results in our test
| What to buy |
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| Brand |
Price |
| XtremeMac Tango # |
$299 |
| Teac SR-Lxi-B # |
$199 | |
The tested speaker docks can be used with most iPods (Apple's MP3 player), however, some early models may not fit. All docks except the Bose have an auxiliary input jack so you can connect other sound input sources such as a CD player, radio, computer or another brand of MP3 player.
Without an auxiliary line input, the Bose can be used only with an iPod. We think this is pretty limiting, especially as this model cost a fair bit more than the others in our test. It scored well overall but because of this limitation we’ve excluded it from the What to buy list (below).
The XtremeMac performed best in the test. The Teac scored lower for sound quality but is cheaper to buy.
About our test
The XtremeMac dock was the only one that our expert panel thought produced enough bass for dance music. It scored 73% for sound quality overall, whereas the others ranged from 40% to 67%.
Three of the four docks that scored 45% or less for sound quality were among the lightest and smallest in the test. Such low bulk can come at the cost of sound quality. They simply lack the power to fill a larger size room with good quality sound — some started to distort the sound when played at higher volume.
Energy use of the smaller docks in standby mode was generally good, but it can show how underpowered they are. Most only used about double their standby power when playing rock 'n' roll music.