We all know that there are a lot of options when it comes to choosing a sound system for your iPod. Gone are the days of building up a huge stereo system—everything nowadays has a focus on smaller footprint with big sound.
The new MIX Boombox from Altec Lansing delivers on both. As somewhat of an audiophile, I am generally skeptical of small speakers in a unit promising big full sound; usually these units focus all of the power into the subwoofers, giving an overly muddy and excessively bass heavy sound. Not the case here…
I was pleasantly surprised when I plugged my iPod into the MIX. There was a good separation of bass, midrange and highs, lending an overall balance to the sound. I was able to hear all of the speakers doing their part—the side firing woofers providing generous bass, and great separation between the highs (cymbals, high piano notes, etc) and midrange (general guitar work, keyboards, vocals).
But, the best part is that the MIX has a built-in equalizer so you can adjust the sound to your liking, either just bass and treble levels, or really getting into the frequency range and tweaking the 7 band EQ, allowing you to tailor the sound specifically to your liking. Want to groove to some bass-heavy hip hop and really feel the beat? Easily done. Want to listen to a Beethoven Symphony and hear the detail in the higher frequencies? Easily done as well.
I tend to listen to a lot of electronic music that uses the full audible sound spectrum, so the ultimate test for me is if a speaker system can support the sub bass and ultra-high frequencies present in this music without breakup—which this product does in spades. Oh, and it needs to be said that the MIX can go LOUD—and I mean shake-your-walls, annoy-the-neighbors loud. I love it.
One other very impressive feature of the MIX is the ability to connect three devices easily. There is one fixed dock that will charge and play your iPod or iPhone, and two auxiliary jacks allow your friends an easy way to plug their iPods or MP3 players in without having to undock your iPod or connect a portable CD player (if you still listen to CDs!!). Of course, you can always plug your computer into the system, making this boombox a staple at parties. Throw some batteries in and take it with you to the beach get a party going!
The MIX is an excellent portable system that delivers high performance sound and flexibility at a great midrange price point (and well worth every penny).
$299.99; See it here.