Cyber Acoustics Portable Digital Docking Speaker for iPod (Black) Review

[Update: In answer to some questions, this stereo has a conventional audio input, so you can easily use it with sound sources other than an iPod.As someone has observed, the Cyber Acoustic web page claims the Nano 3g can't be charged by the CA-421 dock. Au contraire!When using electrical power and the included dock adapter, I had no difficulty charging a Nano 3g with this CA-421 dock.In fact, contrary to the company's description, it did the same with a Classic and the Touch (I don't own an iPhone, though.)Since writing the following, I've "gone through" other speakers, including the most popular rechargeable Altec Lansing and Logitech, both of which balk at playing the newest Touch. This inexpensive iRhythms model actually sounds competitive and continues to be the only portable I can depend on (no doubt due to the well-constructed adapters and the provision for using regular AA alkalines).As for the outdoors volume limitation, even the very pricey, much lauded Tivoli iPal falls flat on its face when used outside. These battery-operated machines simply are not backyard party animals. Finally, these are far and away the best labeled and designed adapters I've seen.]

After becoming attached to a JBL Micro, I decided I could use another, more affordable version. The Cyber Acoustics dock-speaker seemed like a worthy candidate, especially at a half to two-thirds the price of the JBL. Frankly, I wasn't expecting a unit as good as the vaunted JBL but was willing to sacrifice some quality to save a few bucks.

Surprise.If anything, the Cyber Acoustics sounds better than the On Stage Micro!Tastes will vary, but the CA-421 is slightly warmer, has deeper and fuller bass, and is less inclined to distort when playing files recorded excessively "hot."The Micro is a bit more crisp-sounding with a slight edge in treble frequencies (as noticed while comparing the drum's hi-hats and ride cymbals on the two units).I'm finding the Cyber Acoustics unit "wears" better for extending listening stretches.

Aside from the sound of the two units, the Cyber Acoustics-421 will seem agreeably light and trim--unless you've owned a JBL Micro, which wins on style points (the impressiveness of the Micro's sound is partly due to its coming from such a tiny saucer).The JBL also gets points for finishing touches and detailing--the look and feel are less "plastic" (even though, unlike the boxed CA, it comes sealed in virtually impenetrable plastic laminate).Also, the JBL's carrying bag is supple and cushioned (with interior pockets and velcro straps to keep Micro, iPod, and cords tightly and neatly packed); the CA's is basically a functional "sack." On the other hand, the Cyber Acoustics has clearer labeling of the plastic inserts for adapting different iPod models; the JBL comes with the inserts, but the user has to pick the right one through trial and error.

Even if the cost of the two units were the same, the CA-461 would still be competitive, if for sound alone. Perhaps the most compelling reason to go with the JBL in that case is its inclusion of a remote--admittedly handy for starting, stopping, and changing tunes when the speaker is on the other side of the room.But even without the remote, I doubt you'll find a better value in an iPod dock-speaker than this little Cyber Acoustics overachiever.

Finally, give the Cyber Acoustics people credit for making the power adapter light and compact, easily deployed whenever the user wishes to save on batteries(I returned a JBL On Stage II because the power adapter was practically the size and weight of a small boat anchor, making it clumsy for use even with some electrical installations.)

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Product Description:
Cyber Acoustics' CA-461 Digital Docking Speaker offers a compact, no-frills sound solution for your iPod or other portable device.


A compact, no-frills sound solution for your iPod or other portable device. Click to enlarge.
Inserts for various iPod models included.
Rear aux input.
Charge and Play Your iPod
Choose the appropriate insert for your iPod model, and connect it to the CA-461. It will receive a charge while you enjoy your music, so it'll be ready to head out the door when you are.
Big Sound, Small Package
The CA-461 is designed to deliver plenty of sound, despite its compact size. Two-inch, full-range speakers offer six watts of room-filling stereo sound. The "Xtreme Bass" feature ensures the low-end is not left behind.
Magnetically Shielded
Because the CA-461's drivers are magnetically shielded, they can be used near computer or video monitors with minimal interference.
Portable Power
Use the included power supply when near a wall outlet, or pop in four AA batteries when you're on the go. Perfect for picnics or other gatherings, the CA-461 also includes a convenient carrying pouch for transit.
Auxiliary Input
The rear auxiliary input is convenient for amplifying your non-docking iPods or other MP3 players.
What's in the Box
CA-461 Digital Docking Speaker, Power Supply, 3.5mm Audio Cable, Carry Pouch, Dock Inserts

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