If you're an iPod owner searching for a way to share tunes, there's no shortage of iPod speakers from which to choose. The problem is distinguishing them from one another, and one of the easiest ways is to look for something with a unique or innovative design. Creative Labs manages to do both with the TravelSound i80 for iPod Nano, an ultracompact speaker that sells for AU$89.95 and gets surprisingly loud. It's only compatible with the third-generation iPod Nanos and it doesn't sound great, but it's cute and travel-friendly, so it's still a solid choice for frequent-flyers with an eye for design.
Clearly, the standout is the TravelSound i80's design. The bulk of the unit is composed of high-gloss white plastic. The front features an integrated iPod dock, and two clear, plastic rails serve to cradle the Nano in place. The backside is wrapped in a brushed silver speaker grille made from anodised aluminum. Minimal controls consisting of a volume knob and power switch as well as a standard mini USB port for charging line the right edge of the speaker. The entire thing is about the size of a Zen Vision:M, measuring 10cm high by 6cm wide by 2.5cm deep. Creative also includes a stand for propping up the speaker during use, as well as a USB power adaptor and a simple black pouch for transport.
Performance for the TravelSound i80 is mixed. On the one hand, it gets shockingly loud for a speaker of this size. Also, the rated battery life of 15 hours is plenty adequate, and the fact that it charges the Nano while plugged in is nice. However, sound quality isn't very good. We noticed a background hiss, and music overall suffered from the hollow, tinny effect often heard in speakers this size. As one might expect, bass does not thump, but it isn't entirely absent, which is surprising — in a good way. Also, music sounded clear in general, not muffled at all, although there is distortion at the highest volume. Finally, don't expect any stereo separation here, because you won't get it.
Iandxb
18/06/2008, 03:49 PM
rating
8/10
Ideal travel speaker, compact, no fuss, and surprisingly clear sound. Excellent for what it is designed to do, get the audio OUT of your Nano!
Pros: Very clear sound, can go 'loud' without being intrusive. Great for Podcasts. Ideal travel companion 'all in one' in minimal space. Excellent battery life.
Cons: Stereo effect limited.
Sound is to the rear so for watching a video it's best to place the speaker side it in front of a book or a wall to 'bounce' the sound to the front.
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FrankR
23/05/2008, 03:00 PM
rating
9/10
Great sound for a small package! Creative also has a TravelSound for iPod Nabo:
Pros: Small, 15 hours of battery life, sounds good for what its is.
Cons: No booming bass! Ha! Who would like?
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