iPod dock fittings are not included, though there is a sheet of what JBL terms "masking film for white color iPod adapters" with the black speaker. (These are just black stickers that cover white adapters to make them match the unit.) We wish JBL had thrown in an S-Video cable, considering the price of the speakers.
When you plug in your iPod and turn the Radial on, you'll immediately understand why the unit is one of the higher priced iPod sets. JBL packs the Radial with four aluminum-domed full-range drivers and one low-frequency neodymium driver. Translation: excellent, detailed sound with a thumping low-end. Everything from alternative rock to classical to hip hop sounds lovely on these speakers. The high-hats in Nirvana's grunge track "Come As You Are" were crystal clear and sparkly, and Nina Hahn's Bach Concerto sounded sublime--there's no other way to put it. Bass-heavy hip-hop and dance tracks sounded rich and full, yet were not overpowering on the low end. The speakers also get exceptionally loud, and thanks to their unusual shape, sound fans out to every corner of the room.
All in all, the JBL Radial even seems to improve the compressed digital sound coming from the iPod. JBL claims this has to do with its proprietary OCT (Optimized Compression Topology) technology. We don't know about that, but one thing's for certain: this system provides an excellent listening experience.
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- JBL,
- Apple iPod,
- Harman Kardon,
- speakers,
- adapter
Where to buy
JBL Radial (black):
$389.01
| store | price | in stock? | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
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Amazon.com Marketplace
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$389.01 | Yes |
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