Creative D100 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)Given this is the first review, I will be thorough.
I've owned the Creative D100 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker for two months (paid $78.47). I'm very pleased. The sound quality is excellent for this type of speaker. The volume is loud enough to completely fill a room or a small outdoor area (e.g., patio). I've enjoyed it on the beach and found quality does not suffer much at high volumes.
Like with any small speaker, if you crank it to max volume, there is some distortion on bass-heavy songs. But the distortion is slight, and the bass sounds great if you have the volume appropriately set for the type of audio you are streaming.
On that note, there is no remote. The only way to control the volume is the `volume up' and `volume down' buttons on the front of the speaker or directly from streaming device ONLY IF it allows it. That is, my iPhone (3G - iOS 3.1.3) CANNOT change the speaker's volume while streaming, but my laptop can. In my use, I have not needed a remote. Usually I directly set the speaker's volume for the environment (e.g., bathroom, patio) and forget it. No remote also means you must control the streaming media from your device. There are no media control buttons on the speaker.
There is an auxiliary input on the back of the speaker, if you want to hook up a non-bluetooth device, or maybe just to save battery by not using Bluetooth.
Pairing with Bluetooth-capable devices (in my case, iPhone 3G and HP laptop) is simple and quick.
Battery life (four AA) is excellent. It is so long I cannot even put an estimate in terms of hours. It also came with an AC adapter, but I have never used it. The battery compartment is underneath the speaker.
The speaker is fairly small and very light. I actually carry it from room-to-room to enjoy while I am doing chores.
My only concern with the speaker is the build quality. The plastic casing is sturdy, but the front face of the speaker (surrounding the name plate and volume controls) is made of cloth. The cloth is spongy, but I am worried that it will inevitably tear with my heavy use of the speaker. There is no travel case included with the speaker.
Looking for a portable Bluetooth wireless speaker, I also considered the Logitech Z515 ($90, smaller and cloth-free). I've never used that Logitech speaker, but I ultimately chose the Creative D100 based on superior reviews for sound quality and bass quality. Look into both. There are good reviews for them and a comparison on CNET, if you want more information.
On the front of the speaker:
Volume up button
Volume down button
Bluetooth connect button
On the back of the speaker:
Power (on/off) switch
Aux input
5V AC adapter input
Underneath the speaker:
Battery compartment (four AA)

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Built with award-winning Bluetooth technology, the Creative D100 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker lets you play music wirelessly from your smartphone, laptop, or other A2DP-enabled mobile device. The Creative D100's portable design and full-range drivers make it ideal for outdoor parties or afternoons at the beach. The speaker system comes in four colors and is compatible with PCs, Macintoshes, and most Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices.

Creative D100 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker (Black)Portable design allows you to take it outside and enjoy high-quality wireless audio. View larger.

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Soundfreaq SFQ-01W Sound Platform (Ghost) Bluetooth Wireless Audio System Review

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(More customer reviews)I was looking for a dock for my wife's iPhone4 and my Blackberry. I had 2 mandatory requirements other than good sound quality:
1. It should work with an iPhone 4 in a bumper case.
2: I should be able to use it with non-Apple devices using the AUX input.
I first purchased the Philips Fidelio DS8500 Speaker Dock with Remote for iPod/iPhone (White/Silver) (Note: I have posted of review there as well) based on the good reviews on Amazon but returned it because it wouldn't allow the iPhone4 to dock with the bumper case and there was an omnipresent hum when I used the AUX input. The sound quality however was excellent. I then purchased the Soundfreaq and was able able to compare it with the Phillips before I shipped the Phillips. Here are my conclusions:
1. Sound: Phillips wins hands down. The bass is fuller and it can be played at a higher volume. Having said that, the Soundfreaq is no laggard. The bass isn't as deep but the sound over all is excellent. My wife listens mostly to older Indian songs and podcasts, neither of which requires big thumping bass. Both genres are more vocal oriented and the Soundfreaq does a good job. I have a different system for my periodic dose of classic rock/metal and any sound dock in this price range will most likely not do the trick anyways.
2. Connectivity and convenience: The Soundfreaq is the outright winner. The iPhone4 connects without any adapters even with the bumper case. No problems! Even better, I don't even need to actually mount the iPhone on the dock because of Bluetooth connectivity. It took 5 - 7 minutes from the moment I signed the UPS receipt for the box to having a song from the iPhone 4 playing through this dock via bluetooth. It works like a charm. Setup is a breeze and the convenience of Bluetooth is a HUGE plus. Similarly, I was able to connect my Blackberry via Bluetooth, so I no longer need to use the AUX input for my BB. The device can stay in your pocket or you can do something else on it while the music plays through the dock. Also, the AUX input works perfectly with no background hum like the Phillips.
3. FM radio: Works fine on the Soundfreaq. Not present on the Phillips. This isn't a very big differentiator but since I'm spending more for the Soundfreaq, its nice to get more too.
4. Looks/aesthetics: both systems look pretty good. I liked the Phillips but the retro, vacuum-tube radio like design of the Soundfreaq is very nice.
5. iPhone app: Phillips' app is buggy, clunky and is more of a hindrance. Soundfreq app does what it is supposed to and stays out of the way. Neither app needs to be used but the Soundfreq app doesn't irritate like the Phillips.
Conclusions:
1. If you want deeper bass and all round richer sound, go with the Phillips. I am however very satisfied with the Soundfreaq in this department.
2. The convenience of the Soundfreaq cannot be matched by the Phillips. I really like the fact that I can switch on bluetooth on my phone (I don't have it running all the time to conserve battery), connect and I'm in business from anywhere in the room. No wires. No need to even get close to the actual dock.
3. Soundfreaq is more expensive, and more than what I was planning to spend but I think I'm getting decent value for the extra money.
I'm happy with my purchase of the Soundfreaq and more important, the wife loves it. I'm keeping it and will ship back the Phillips.

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Keep the Power in Your Hand, Not in a Dock You use your mobile devices (iPad, iPhone, Android, Blackberry, etc.) for just about everything: to make calls, write emails, browse the web, listen to music, watch movies, play games, and use countless apps. But it's hard to multi-task with home audio systems that still require docking. With built-in Bluetooth capability, you can stream audio directly to Sound Platform without missing a beat; letting you keep your device exactly where you want it- in your hand.

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Altec Lansing inMotion SoundBlade Bluetooth A2DP Speaker/Speakerphone (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)What I was after:
- Amplified Loudspeaker
- Highly Compact & Portable
- Dual powered (battery & mains)
- Wired & Wireless connectivity
To sum it up: The whole point of a product like this is to get the best possible sound in the least possible space with the highest degree of flexibility.
The Altec Lansing SoundBlade was the best fit.
This speaker gets about as loud as the speaker gets on a typical television, so it can actually fill a room. Unfortunately, you cannot adjust the tone, as it tends to be a little too bass heavy. When you max out the volume of your source and on the speaker, distortion is quite noticeable. For the most part, listening to audio at reasonable levels actually produces a very clear and rich sound that suggests a sophisticated piece of hardware.
The Bluetooth connectivity may be tricky for people new to the technology, but once you understand the process of pairing it with your unit, it's a snap. With a clear line of site I've managed to move it a full twenty feet from my laptop before I experienced any dropouts with the device.
It's not just for iPods or Zunes. It's agnostic towards the brand of audio player you are using, so it can easily be used with any standard 1/8" audio output jack. Once the wired connection is made, the wireless functionality is automatically disabled. Your favorite MP3 player is going to sound great.The estimated 24 hours of use for 6AA batteries seems about right. Having a built in charger might have made it seem more convenient, but when you value portability, replaceable batteries actually make more sense in the long run. Having the option to plug in the speaker to standard AC power makes for a nice backup plan too, and there's nothing that says you can't use your own rechargeables.
The thin, sleek design is a major plus. It's a flat, smooth rectangular unit. The glossy black finish allows the SoundBlade to easily slide into your laptop carrier, briefcase, or backpack. The built in kickstand latches securely in place during travel and provides exceptionally stable support on any flat surface when you take it out for use.
The price is a bit fierce, but I have yet to find anything else that meets or exceeds all of the above criteria
Bottom Line
-----------
Pros:
Good sound
Excellent portability
Cons:
Unable to adjust tone
Expensive

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The Altec Lansing inMotion SoundBlade Bluetooth A2DP Speaker is designed to untether you from your cell phone, letting you take a call or listen to music in comfort. With Bluetooth support, the speaker doesn't require any cables, and setup is extremely easy. With this unique speaker by your side, you can listen to music or take a call with crystal-clear sound every time.

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Soundfreaq SFQ-02 Sound Step Bluetooth Wireless Audio System Review

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(More customer reviews)Just picked up the Sound Step today and love it! I have used other iPod docks before, but I think this has the best blend of price, size, performance and ease of set up. Getting all of my devices set up for wireless playback was a cinch. and the sound step really packs a punch that is much bigger than it looks like it would/could. so much better than listening to music on the MacBook Pro's speakers... Recommended!

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Spracht WS-4010 Aura BluNote Portable Wireless Speaker System with Bluetooth--Stream Music Wirelessly from Any Bluetooth Device Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this by accident while saving items to my wish list. When it arrived, I immediately contacted Amazon to return the product but thought I would at least see if it provided good sound quality. IT DID and MORE!! It has amazing sound quality! I kept it and use it constantly. I take it outside while I'm working in the yard (on battery power) and use the bluetooth connection feature on my Nokia Xpress Music Cell phone, I take it into my workshop and plug it into a/c connection and I connect it to my HP laptop with the 3.5mm jack. I've even started using it in my truck because it has better sound quality that my factory speakers.

When I was originally looking at it on Amazon, I thought it was a lot larger. This is one of the reasons I was about to return it. It doesn't need to be larger to provide quality sound and also has plenty of volume without very much distortion at the highest volume. I grew up listening to 70's, 80's and 90's Rock at high volumes because I have genetic hearing loss in one ear. This little speaker system is a joy to listen to, anywhere, anytime.

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Listen to your saved music from your Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone, PDA, MP3 player, or portable game console with the Spracht AURA BluNote portable, high quality stereo speaker system. And if your device doesn't include the A2DP Bluetooth stereo music streaming profile, you can still connect it to the AURA via a 3.5mm audio jack. Nicely compact and lightweight, it weighs just 9.5 ounces and measures 7 x 3 x 1.25 inches--perfect for stashing in your bag or backpack for on-the-go tunes.
The AURA Speaker System's bass boost feature provides deep, rich bass tones for a more powerful sound, while the stereo widening feature creates a three-dimensional soundscape. It runs on four AA batteries for up to 10 hours of continuous playback, and it can also be plugged in via the included AC adapter.
Features and Specifications
Streams music wirelessly via Bluetooth (requires device with embedded A2DP stereo music streaming Bluetooth profile)
Stores up to 8 Bluetooth profiles so you can pair with multiple devices
DSP (Digital Signal Processing) based noise cancellation
Make and receive calls using the mobile phone hands free function
Bass boost produces a rich, deep, bass tones for a more powerful sound
Stereo widening creates a three-dimensional sound
Battery life: Up to 10 hours from four AA batteries
Audio input jack: 3.5 mm
Speaker output: 2 x 2 watts (4 watts of total power)
Bluetooth range: Up to 33 feet (10 meters)
Controls include volume up/down, bass boost, stereo widening, PTT (push to talk)
Dimensions: 7 x 3 x 1.25 inches
Weight: 9.5 ounces
Backed by a 1-year warranty

What's in the Box AURA BluNote speaker system, AC wall charger, 4 AA batteries, 3.5mm jack to connect to non-Bluetooth devices, user guide, quick start guide

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TENQA SP-99 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Review

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(More customer reviews)
Setting up the device was pretty easy. After a few seconds, I was streaming music from my iPhone. The next time my iphone immediately recognized the device.
The sound quality is good for the purpose being a small wireless speaker. It's definitely not a Bose but is comparable to other iPod speakers I've tried. For this price, I'm certainly not complaining. If you turn the volume all the way up, you will get some distortion. However, you can turn volume up enough to fill whatever room you're in. I can hear it clearly when I'm taking a shower.
The compact shape is nice with its curved front. It's small enough to fit on a nightstand. I also like the silver and black coloring. It really makes the product stand out.
The speaker is convenient when watching movies on my computer while in my bed. I just use Bluetooth to connect to my computer and keep the wireless speaker next to my bed across the room. Then I can easily control the volume from there. The SP-109 is definitely better than my computer speakers.
Also, I use the speaker to stream music to my kitchen when I'm cooking. My apartment's a pretty decent size and it works fine for me but you may want to be cautious if you have a big house. If you get too far away from the source, the music will start to cut out.
Overall, I'm very happy with it and think it's a great value!

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Remove the wires between you and your music at home or on the go. The Tenqa SP-99 Bluetooth Wireless Portable Speaker is a battery-powered, portable Bluetooth speaker that connects you with your music on your mobile phone, iPod touch, iPhone, mp3 player, computer, and more-without wires.

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TENQA SP-109 Bluetooth Stereo Speaker Review

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(More customer reviews)I was looking for an affordable wireless speaker that allowed me to stream wireless music directly from my cell phone (Samsung Instinct) and found the Tenqa SP-109 Bluetooth Speaker. I could not be more pleased with this product! This product is exactly what I have been searching for in terms of mobility. It's easy to use, practical, and has a good sound. The device is simple and straightforward to setup & pair with devices each use. The speaker is about the size of a radio alarm clock and includes a DC-adapter power cord. Pairing the device with my cell phone was a cinch. After powering on the device it immediately registered on my phone, I clicked connect and was done. The best feature of this product, for me is the mobility I can have. I can connect and control the music from anywhere in my apartment, allowing me to move from room to room without the hassle of leaving my phone plugged into a stationary device. I was skeptical about finding an inexpensive bluetooth speaker that could provide quality sound but after using the Tenqa SP-109 for a few weeks my doubts are gone. The sound is great for its size and for the price. I recommend this product to anyone who is looking for an affordable, quality wireless speaker system. I plan to purchase one as a Xmas gift for my sister who likes to listen to music on her iPhone but hates the hassle of having to leave it connected to a docking station. This is a five-star product without a doubt!

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Remove the wires between you and your music. The Tenqa SP-109 Bluetooth Wireless Stereo Speaker is a desktop Bluetooth speaker that connects you with your music on your mobile phone, iPod touch, iPhone, mp3 player, computer, and more-without wires.

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Cy-Fi Wireless Sports Speaker for Bluetooth (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I commute by bicycle several times a week for over an hour each way and was really wanting something to break the monotony of that amount of time in the saddle. I refuse to use head phones due to the dangers of not being able to hear traffic and other cyclists. The Cy-Fi works well with my iPhone 3GS (which supports the A2DP bluetooth profile) and has been a great addition to my commute.
A few thoughts and observations:
1. It is very light (advertised at about 4 ounces). Doesn't add any appreciable weight.
2. The mounting brackets (2 included) are sturdy and strong. They lock the speaker in place so it won't accidentally shake off due to road vibration. They also come in two different sizes: One for handlebar-diameters and the other for larger-diameter top tubes, etc. They are also easy to put on and take off in case you need to move between different bikes or other forms of conveyance.
3. They sounds is excellent and certainly loud enough. However, in heavy traffic you may not be able to hear, which frankly is what you want. Better to hear the cars than the music. No appreciable bass from the speakers, but they do play at a respectable volume without distorting.
4. Battery life is quite good. I think they claim six hours. To test it out, I used the speaker while working in the garage for an extended period on a weekend. After four hours it was still going strong. Recharging is only supported using a customized cradle, which means there's more weight and bulk to carry if you're going on an extended (multi-day) trip.
5. The controls are intuitive and easy enough to use, although pressing buttons is perhaps a little bit stiffer than I would like. The unit does provide feedback that a button has been successfully pressed by beeping. Pausing/Resuming, adjusting the volume, and answering the phone all work great with my iPhone 3GS.
6. I have not been able to advance or reverse the current song, which is supposed to be supported. Perhaps a deficiency with my iPhone (but I haven't done the detailed research to see if it's supposed to support this.)
7. I really like being able to take a phone call. When the device rings, the music is automatically paused. You press the answer button and you're talking to the person on the other end. They seem to hear me well enough, but it's not entirely noise and interference free. Fine for a quick conversation, but probably not for an extended one. (And besides, who wants to talk much when you're huffing and puffing on a bike.) When the call finishes, you just press the pause/play button to restart the music, right where it left off.
8. The company claims the device is water resistant. I haven't had a chance to test the claim, but I'm dubious about the claim. There are slots on each side over the speakers where water can enter, and the various plastic seems couldn't likely hold out water from extended rain. It should be fine in a light mist or if some sweat drips on it. I plan put some additional sticky clear plastic or shrink wrap on it to bolster water resistance. (Have to plan for rain when biking in the Seattle area.)
Overall, I'm very pleased with the purchase and would recommend this product to others. The only down side has been not being able to advance or skip songs. (I'll solve that by creating a better play list.)


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Satechi ST-2412 Car Lighter USB Charger Adapter with Smart Converter for iPad 2, iPhone 4, Android Phones, BlackBerry Playbook, HTC Flyer Review

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(More customer reviews)Both charger and adapter arrived in a timely fashion. The charger itself is smaller than I expected, even from the picture, and if you are looking for a minimalist charger that effectively converts the 12v port in your car into a nearly flush USB charging port, this is it. The high-current charging adapter for tablets is also slightly smaller than the adapters sold by Edo Supply on EBay (barely larger than a USB plug), but works just as well on a Samsung Galaxy Tab, which I verified as fast-charging in my car (though I am guessing still not at the maximum charging rate, see below). The adapter is also still functional when used with other high-amperage chargers.
The only real complaints I have with this product are that 1) it only has the one USB port, and 2) the spec says this is only a 1.2A charger, though that is at least enough to get the Galaxy Tab to increase charge with the screen at full brightness and the GPS and data connections running. I eventually replaced the charger with a much bulkier one that had both a 2.1A output and a (standard) 0.5A output because I wanted the ability to charge two devices at once and maximize charging current more than I wanted the low-profile design, but I kept using the Satechi adapter to be able to get my tablet to recognize the high-current port on the other charger at all (the Edo adapters were thick enough to block the second port). Note that I am relying on stated specs for this; I did not actually perform charge time experiments on both chargers.
Wishlist: the ability to purchase the adapter separately from the charger, as it has a very nice form factor and works perfectly. A fifth star would have been awarded if the charger itself had 2A output and a second port, even if it had become slightly thicker as a result.

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