News, Review, and Pictures of the Cambridge Soundworks PlayDock MP3 Speaker System
Cambridge Soundworks is known for its family of home theater speaker entertainment sound systems. But their recent acquisition by Creative Labs means they are making a bigger push into the market for speaker systems for MP3 players. The PlayDock MP3 is a portable speaker "pod" that allows you to plug in most MP3 players with a standard 1/8 inch plug that fits into the headphone jack (designed for Dell, Apple iPod mini, or Creative Labs MP3 players, but works with any, though they may slide around). Keep in mind that is DOES NOT support line out, as found in some designs like Sony Walkman Network MP3 Players or Cowon iAudio X5. (some larger pictures below).
It has a built-in rechargeable battery, so you can disconnect the AC plug whenever you want and take it outside, to another room, etc. (when plugged in, it charges your MP3 player as well). Battery life is not bad - 4+ hours on a charge. Unfortunately, it does not come with a remote and it doesn't show remaining battery life when in portable mode, but the sound quality is very good from the 3 speaker design, as is volume (15W bass, 6.9W satellite). It comes with cushioned liners that specifically fit the Creative Nomad Zen, Zen Touch, and Zen Micros, as well as Dell Pocket DJ and the Apple iPod and iPod mini MP3 players. Again, you can connect any other player but it will not fit snugly and may move around if you are carrying this unit around - on a desk or counter, you should be fine.
Cambridge Soundwords MP3 Speakers PlayDock specs:
Dimensions: 9.1 by 10.8 by 10.3", Weight 12.5 pounds
Colors: Black, white, or grey
Remote Control: NO
Subwoofer Channel Power: 15 watts @ 10% THD, 100 Hz
Left/Right Channel Power: 6.9 watts @ 10% THD per channel, 1 kHz
At around $199 bucks, it may cost more than your player. But the versatility it brings to enjoying your music without headphones makes it a good purchase. If you have an Apple iPod, you may want to look around at the iPod specific designs that are out there. Check out the iBoom or the inMotion iM7. Final word - 7 out of 10. Good sound, heavy, nicer looking designs out there.
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