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The Duo-i offers additional connectivity options in the form of two aux-in ports. The first, located on the front of the unit, will take any 1/8-inch headphone adapter for use with something like another digital media device. The second port is located on the device's rear and uses standard RCA analog plugs (red and white). There's also a headphone jack next on the front panel.
Included with the Duo-i is also a slim remote control. While you can't navigate through your iPod with it, you can control every function the device has to offer. Additionally, we liked the remote's magnetized bottom that attaches to the unit's metallic front grilles for easy storage when not in use.
In terms of overall sound quality, we were quite impressed with the oomph that the Duo-i delivered. It handled every source we threw at it with ease. From Green Day to Amy Winehouse, Dr. Dre to The Police, the Duo-i always packed a heavy punch and never sounded dull or flat--even radio reception sounded great. We should also note that we slightly tweaked the unit's bass and treble settings, which were very effective. We were even able to push the Duo-i to the loudest it could physically go without our source music distorting--the dual 3.5-inch stereo speakers worked wonders, delivering a far better and meatier sound than you get from smaller, lighter iPod speakers. We could even see it being used on an outdoor patio or deck because of the sheer amount of sound it's able to output without distorting. (Of course, you'll need to be close to an electrical outlet since the Duo-i doesn't have a battery option.)
Overall, we're glad Boston Acoustics decided to go with an all-in-one in terms of its iPod and AM/FM radio models. The Duo-i combines the functionality of those models we've seen and has a very attractive price. Despite a $200 MSRP, as of September 2008, the Duo-i can be had for $130 online--that's even cheaper than the Horizon-iDS2, which has only half the functionality. We'd also recommend the Duo-i over the iHome H9--its higher price will be worth it for listeners looking for better sound quality and more connectivity options. And if iPod playback isn't your thing, you can check out the Boston Acoustics Horizon Duo, which is essentially the Duo-I, but without the iPod dock.
