Speakers / docking station for iPhone 3G

charise

So, I'm trying to turn my iPhone into a little stereo. I saw a few speakers/alarm clock combos from iHome. I know there are other manufacturers out there...anybody have any opinions?

whyfi

For the most part, they stink in terms of performance, and are... well, not very well thought out in terms of functionality. Let's think about this - you NEED a computer to even load your iPod, so why not go straight to the computer and let it be your jukebox? I would rather get decent speakers for a computer or find a way to stream music from my computer to my stereo (via Sonos, SqueezeBox, Apple AirPort Express, etc, etc, etc.). I have no problems spending good money on things that serve a purpose and will last the test of time, but to me, iPod-based systems are a throw away purchase.

If you really want to use your iPod as a quasi music server, get a stereo mini (headphone jack)-to-RCA cable and connect it to a real stereo. $15 and done.

reality casting prods.

Thanks, WiFi.

My stereo (crappy as it is) is in my living room. I want something small near my bed, which is why I ruled out both my laptop and my stereo as solutions

whyfi

Do you intend to use it as an alarm? If not, this is a fun little system -

It's called the Fatman iTube

carnivore

Wait, a vacuum tube amp for an mp3 player? Isn't that kind of like serving up Spam topped with foie gras?

FWIW, I like my Altec Lansing speakers for travel, but I wouldn't use it as a stereo at home. They don't make my model any more, but I'm sure some of these are good:

http://www.alteclansing.com/index.php?file=north_listing&icat_id=All&iparent_id=portable_speakers

slappy mcbluelips

Definitely the one made by Bose. I got one as a gift and it sounds amazing. It sounds like I have huge speaker playing and it's really small. I would recommend this without hesitation. No alarm clock though - not sure if you needed the alarm clock to be part of it. I think this sells at Target for $300. Target actually has a good selection of similar items by different brands too.

whatchuwant

$300 and no alarm clock? I know its Bose and all, but that's a bit much...

homeowner

The apple store recommended a JBL clock/speaker dock for my IPhone. I didn't see it on their website now, but was told it was the best option when balancing sound vs. cost.