JBL Onbeat Xtreme

Bottom line

Although pricey, the JBL Onbeat Xtreme is a well-built, great-sounding speaker that can accommodate Apple devices and any device with a standard 3.5 mm audio jack or Bluetooth connectivity. Its design allows an iPad to be positioned either vertically or horizontally. Additionally, there is a port so you can display what's on your docked device on your TV.

Ease of use

Simple controls. The JBL Onbeat Xtreme lays out its controls on the front panel, including the power, volume, source select and Bluetooth functions. In his review video, CNET's David Carnoy notes that you can also easily sync the Xtreme with a docked iPod via the USB port, making it easy to queue up all your favorite music. In Billy Steele's review on Engadget.com, he says that Bluetooth pairing "took only a couple seconds" and the remote worked without fail even when moving from room to room.

Appearance

Quirky design; iPod-like remote. The Onbeat Xtreme may look odd, but the quirky design allows for the ability to position an iPad in both portrait and landscape modes. Caleb Denison of DigitalTrends.com notes that the Xtreme's remote is reminiscent of the iPod wheel, giving it a sleek look and simple operation from up to 30 feet away.

Performance

Exceptional sound quality and range; powerful volume. The OnBeat Xtreme receives high marks for its great sound, particularly its bass response, which is often lacking in portable speakers. Denison at DigitalTrends.com says the bass was the first thing he noticed upon testing it, adding that sound remained crisp even in the upper register. On the subject of equalization, Billy Steele at Engadget.com say that the five presets (music, movies, chat, internet radio and game) are slightly confusing since there is no actual indicator of which mode you are in, just the option to cycle through them on the remote. Tim Gideon of PCMag.com notes, however, that leaving the Xtreme in its default EQ mode suffices for most music.

Two minor drawbacks are the video output and speakerphone components. As noted by CNET's Carnoy, the video output is composite (not high-def), which means the the quality of the video image will be less than stellar; "think VCR quality at best," he says. And Billy Steele says the speakerphone feature is nothing special.