MP3 Speaker Buying Guide
MP3 speakers let you maximize the enjoyment you get from your iPod or other MP3 player by helping them do additional duty as a room-filling stereo system. Though small in size, MP3 speakers can produce surprising volume and clarity and are excellent for kitchens, bedrooms or small offices. If you’re so inclined, some larger MP3 speaker systems can even replace that rack of stereo gear sitting in the corner. What do you look for in an MP3 speaker system? Pronto’s MP3 Speaker System Buying Guide lists the key points to consider before you shop (see also Speaker System Buying Guide).
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the five
What are the five key points I need to look at?
Choose sound over looks
The popularity of the iPod has driven MP3 speaker design around the device, but many of these are compatible with other MP3 players so don’t rule them out just because you don’t have an iPod.
Portable or stationary?
Choose portable MP3 speakers for outdoor use and stationary for home or office use, especially if you’re purchasing the system to function in place of a component stereo system.
Spend more for better sound
There’s isn’t much MP3 speakers can’t do when compared with larger sound systems if you’re willing to spend the money. Look for separate speakers that handle high, midrange, and bass frequencies for the best performance for your investment.
Check the frequency range
Look for bass reproduction of 200Hz or lower in MP3 speakers. Poor bass response can make MP3 speakers sound tinny or give the sound a washed-out quality.
Additional Features
If you’re purchasing a stationary system, look for radio tuners, multiple RCA inputs for components and digital inputs. If you find yourself looking at systems that feature complete 5.1 and 7.1 capabilities, you may be better off with a home theater system if you desire that much sound.
pronto pick
What product do we recommend?
If you’ve got an iPod, you’ll love the features on the Coby CS-MP93 Speaker System. Its sleek UFO shape cradles almost any third or later generation iPod and charges the unit while the MP3 speakers play. Its four speakers provide good frequency response making this an excellent choice for personal use on a desk or nightstand.
experts say
CNET—“Altec Lansing has been in the iPod speaker market longer than anyone, and it shows. The inclusion of a rechargeable battery and an FM radio makes the iM600 Speaker System incredibly versatile.” Source: CNET
PC Magazine—“All in all, the Logitech AudioStation's design could be better, but it blasts furiously big output that'll be great for your next party, and it delivers sonic clarity at all volume levels.” Source: PC Magazine
ZDNET—“Overall, the Logitech mm50 provided impressive performance, with clear highs, a good midrange, and decent lows.” Source: ZDNet
hot buzz
What's the latest in the world of MP3 speakers?
Vers Audio has just launched its line of hand-crafted, all-natural wood MP3 speakers for the iPod family, including the iPhone. Not only does the wood provide users with a higher-quality listening experience, but it replaces 80% of what would have been plastic. Vers Audio’s 2X speaker system’s eco-conscious qualities don’t stop there—for more information on how Vers Audio is making a difference with these MP3 speakers, visit: www.versaudio.com
Wallet Impact
What can I expect in my price range?
| Price | Description | Good Pick (see all MP3 Speakers) |
| $ | Utilitarian MP3 speakers good for the office or the bedroom can be found from $5 to $60. Most MP3 speakers in this range are portable speakers with no additional features and varying sound quality. Be very careful with bass tones and frequency response at this price range. | |
| $$ | Better-quality portable MP3 speakers and practical stationary MP3 speakers can be found for $60-$175. There’s a lot of fancy audio circuitry floating around in this price range, including simulated surround sound and bass boost. Be wary of audio distortion in MP3 speakers with these features. You’ll get room-filling sound and good frequency response in this price range, along with many MP3 speakers that offer battery charging and PC syncing. |
Compare prices at 2 stores $83 – $88 |
| $$$ | At prices over $160, you’re starting to look at MP3 speakers that can compare favorably to home theater systems. MP3 speaker systems with separate, powered subwoofers are a good buy, although larger enclosures with bigger woofers can deliver excellent bass performance. Look for additional component inputs, detachable speakers, and dedicated midrange speakers in enclosures. |
Compare prices at 12 stores $110 – $149 |
shop talk
What are the terms and definitions I need to know about?
Amplifier
An electronic device that uses circuitry to increase the sound from an audio source. Some MP3 speakers will list their maximum volume, which is measured in decibels (Db). Higher numbers mean more volume.
Bass
The low end of the audible spectrum, comprising the frequency range from 200Hz to 20Hz.
Enclosure
The housing that holds the speakers in an MP3 speaker system. Enclosures can be built into the system, free standing, or detachable.
Frequency Response
The range of audio tones that a set of MP3 speakers is capable of playing, measured in hertz (Hz). The human ear can hear sound frequencies from a low range of around 20Hz to a high range of 20,000Hz.
Subwoofer
A separate, AC-powered speaker that handles extremely low bass frequencies. Because the human ear has trouble locating the source of low bass tones, subwoofers can be placed anywhere in a room.
Tweeter
A speaker that reproduces higher-frequency sounds. High-frequency sound travels easily and requires little speaker surface area, so small tweeters can be very effective.
Woofer
A speaker that reproduces low-frequency sounds. These sounds are difficult to generate, so the surface area of a woofer has a direct impact on frequency range and the quality of sound reproduction. For room-shaking bass, larger woofers or a separate subwoofer are needed.
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