Amazing sound from a very small unit

OK, so you have an iPod or MP3 player and all your favorite music is loaded on it. But it can be somewhat limiting to use only headphones or earbuds to listen to your favorite music. And, there are times when you would like to be able to share your music. Yes, you can play your instrument through the use of a patch cord into your PC speakers or home stereo system but those aren't very portable. This unit can be a solution for you!

This unit is manufactured by Sound Design, Inc. and the model number is iH19B, but on the box it says "iHome2go." That is bound to cause confusion because if you do a search for iHome2go, you will call up a different unit made by the same manufacturer but of a different format (not meant for portable use) and different model number.

WHAT IT IS
This is a very compact, portable, stereo speaker system powered by 4 AA dry cells or by the included AC adapter designed to securely hold your connected iPod with external controls for hold, on/off, volume and forward/reverse/pause selection of your selected playlist. It will also charge your iPod when powered by the included AC adapter. Easy access external connections for headphone and auxiliary input are also provided. The interior is fully padded to protect your enclosed iPod. The unit is compatible with all docking iPods. MP3 players can be used via the auxiliary input jack. It is "splash proof" - meaning water resistant but not for full immersion in liquids. A clever, quick-release, mounting bracket is included to allow use on bicycle handlebars or other slender items.

SIZE
Much smaller than a breadbox! About the diameter of a very large, fat, 8" long Hoagie sandwich. It weights just 2 lbs. with batteries installed. It's all black with brushed aluminum accents to further minimize it size appearance.

EASE OF USE
The unit opens easily via a zipper with 2 zipper pulls much like a miniature suitcase. Once open, the iPod connector is attached to the iPod and slipped under an elastic strap that secures the iPod in a foam-padded well for excellent protection. A playlist must be selected before closing the zipper. Once closed, all operations except selection of another playlist can be easily performed by the front-mounted external controls. The included AC adapter will recharge your iPod but not the 4 AA cells in order to allow use of either alkalines or rechargeable cells. There is also a strong, nylon cord handle attached to the 2 zipper pulls. There is also a handy velcro closure that covers the aux input, headphone and AC power jacks that also can be used as a temporary closure. The size and shape make for a truly portable and handy package.

PERFORMANCE
The sound reproduction for such a small unit is really amazing. When placed on a flat, open surface the sound is very good but not a lot of bass. But, when placed against a wall or in a corner of a room, the bass improves, considerably. Then, the sound is really amazing. The four alkaline AA cells will power the speakers for complete portable use for over 30 hours. Rechargeable cells can be used and length of use will depend upon the capacity of the rechargeable cells. The unit is capable of a very loud volume without distortion when used with fresh batteries.

COST
I paid $59.99 + tax from my local Target Store. It is available online from $56 to $70 at various e-tailers.

BOTTOM LINE
I am a very happy camper with this purchase. This is a very well designed unit. It works very well, sounds great and is totally portable and protects my iPod! It sounds equal to or better than most portable boomboxes that are much larger and bulkier!