EmailNot all iPods and MP3 players connect to speakers the same way
Speakers can connect to an iPod in a couple of different ways. One is through the iPod's proprietary 30-pin docking connector (on the full-size iPod, iPod Touch/iPhone and iPod Nano, including on the latest models). Speakers that include a built-in dock usually, but not always, work similarly to Apple's iPod dock and will charge your iPod's batteries if the speakers are connected to a power source. This type of speaker usually allows you to use a bundled remote to control your iPod and other functions, such as overall volume. Some even have video pass-through, which will send a video signal from a video-capable iPod to a monitor or another display device.
However, not all iPods (such as the iPod shuffle) have a docking connector, and not all docking connectors are identical. Apple has addressed this issue somewhat by creating a universal dock that will mate with all present and future dockable iPods through the use of adapters. Unfortunately, not all speakers use the universal dock, thus causing compatibility issues.
Clearly, then, a key step in selecting a speaker system is to make sure that the model you
are considering is compatible with your iPod. Most -- but not all -- reviews we saw include compatibility information, but the best way to determine compatibility is to visit the manufacturer's website. Most clearly list the iPods they are compatible with, including specific generations of older iPod models.
Even if a speaker system you like is not compatible with your iPod, you can probably still use it. Almost all iPod speakers can connect to any iPod (or other MP3 player) via its 3.5 mm headphone jack. While connecting that way is not nearly as elegant as using a docking connector (it increases clutter because you'll need to use a cable), it certainly opens up your options. Most powered speakers intended for use with non-iPod MP3 players, laptops, desktop PCs and other devices can be connected via an iPod's 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Types of iPod speakers
While the wide array of iPod speakers can overwhelm a first-time buyer, it's fairly easy to separate what's available into five broad segments. While there is certainly some crossover between types, concentrating on the type of speaker system that best fits your needs and budget will help save you time.
Budget speakers: If all you want is to untether yourself from your earbuds and generate enough sound to fill a small room or office, budget speakers (under $100) are a good alternative. Although you should not expect top-notch sound quality, reviews say that some do a surprisingly good job without denting your wallet too badly.
Portable speakers: Portable speakers are designed for the traveling iPod user. Some are truly tiny -- small enough to fit in a briefcase or large pocketbook. Larger models will fit better in a suitcase or backpack. Remember that designing a speaker for size -- as is the case with portable iPod speakers -- usually involves some sacrifices, typically in sound quality. That said, a few portable speakers can hold their own with their stay-at-home brethren, according to reviews. Many portable speakers can run off a battery, so you can use them nearly anywhere.
One-piece bookshelf speakers: These larger (and heavier) iPod speakers are clearly intended to stay in one place. Sound quality is generally good, and sometimes very good. In addition, many feature innovative and attractive styling, making a statement beyond the sound they produce.
High-end iPod speakers: Speakers in this ever-shrinking category are designed for those looking for the best possible sound, regardless of cost. While some audiophiles remain aghast that any iPod speaker be considered high-end (because audiophiles consider compressed digital formats to be inferior), a few speaker systems have earned some begrudging respect. This category includes one-piece speakers as well as multi-enclosure component speakers that let you place the left- and right-channel speakers farther apart to achieve a better stereo effect.
Here are some points to think about when shopping for iPod speakers:
- Consider the connection. Make sure the iPod speakers you want will work with your iPod or iPhone (see above for more information on the different connection options). Manufacturers typically list this information on their websites. iPhone owners should look for Works with iPhone-certified speakers in order to avoid signal interference.
- Consider size. It's a matter of physics: Small speaker systems can't match their larger cousins in areas such as sound volume (without distortion), low-frequency response and more. However, you can't easily throw larger speaker systems in a briefcase or backpack to take with you when you hit the road.
- Check whether speakers can be battery-powered. Don't assume that all small iPod speakers include a rechargeable or user-replaceable battery. Many small bookshelf systems are light enough to be portable but don't include a battery. We saw some disappointed customers posting to Amazon.com who didn't realize that their system relied solely on electrical power, so check beforehand.
- High-end speakers can highlight the inadequacies of highly compressed music. Many iPod owners use high compression levels to get as much music as they can onto their players. That's fine for on-the-go listening through headphones and with most budget and mid-range speakers. But high-end speaker systems provide the fidelity needed to hear the difference between highly compressed recordings and those made with little or no compression. Reviews say that to get the most out of these speakers, audio should be recorded with little or no compression.