Big Thodio iBox ~ Technology And Information

Portable speakers are a dime a dozen. Sure, many of them sound great, but how many of them look good as well? And hence why we’re so attracted to the new iBox (remember the original?). We haven’t had an opportunity to get our mitts on one, but if it sounds as good as it looks we’re in for a serious audio treat.

Hardware wise you’re looking at dual 5-inch coaxial kevlar speakers with softdome tweeters, two 70 watt RMS amps (the original used 25 watt amps), an integrated rechargeable battery which is good for up to 12 hours of playback, Bluetooth connectivity for wireless playback, an 30-pin dock for all things iOS (except the iPad), battery indicator lights, 3.5mm input jack and distortion indicator lights hidden behind the speakers.

You can choose from a variety of wood finishes: teak, zebrawood, purpleheart, oak and unspecified custom finishes. That said, it ain’t light, weighing in at 14.5 pounds and measuring 34 x 22 x 23cm.

Much like the original, the new iBox ain’t cheap; it starts at $585. And that doesn’t even include Bluetooth connectivity or the iPod dock. You can tack on $100 and $170 respectively for those.