Top 7 portable stereos - The Boomboxes
1. Apple iPod Hi-Fi
Apple has created a device that redefines the word boombox. This is one outstanding performer, with a long-throw 133mm woofer for great bass and two 80mm full range speakers for stereo sound. It produces an astounding 102dB/w sound output, (that means it'll play loudly with very little wattage), making it more efficient that many top-quality home stereo speakers . This is great for entertaining outdoor gatherings that are going to be spread out over a lot of space. Recommended! Uses 6 "D" cells.
2. Altec Lansing iM7 iPod Boombox
All I can say about this device is WOW! The iM7 is a serious competitor to the iPod Hi-Fi. This portable powered speaker system features separate tweeters and midrange drivers and a side-firing subwoofer to pump out big sound with wide frequency response (60-20,000Hz) that's also nicely textured in detail. Thirsty for power, it gobbles up 8 "D" cells to put out its incredible 25 watts per stereo channel and 25 watts more just for the subwoofer! All in a handsome 8lb package. Let the music play!
3. JVC KS-SB200 Sirius Boombox
Sirius is positioning itself as the "outdoor fun" satellite network. With two nice portable options from JVC supporting the portable Sirius radios, you can take Howard Stern and hundreds of other channels whereever you want to, even outdoors. This unit is stylish and gives connection to the separate Sirius receivers, but its power output is anemic, at 4 Watts per channel from 8 "D" cells. It's cool because it does satellite on the run. Don't look for loud from this one, look for convenience.
4. Philips Soundmachine AZ1836 Boombox
Philips' entry in boombox sound is more than unique. You don't need a computer to rip MP3s to CD, just use this boombox to do it from your in-unit CD player to your external MP3 player via the built-in USB connection. Talk about futuristic! I don't know who'll be thinking about ripping a disc as they bob their heads to the beat from this boombox but it's nice to know the capability is there. At 4 lbs, it's also the featherweight of the group, so it's easy on the arms.
5. Sony ZS-H10CP Boombox
Here's one CD boombox that can take a licking! Sony's ZS-H10CP offers a case with water- and dust-resistant seals. The lid for the built-in CD player forms an airtight seal to keep it safe from the elements, while the handle doubles as a protective bar for the top of the unit. Control knobs are large for easy operation even if you're wearing gloves. This piece runs on 6 "C" cells, and sounds like it: only 2 Watts per channel output. Sounds are great, it's just that there isn't enough on tap.
