Updated 08 Feb, 2012, 6:07 pm IST

REVIEWS / DOCKS / ALTEC LANSING, SPEAKERS (RASHI PERIPHERALS PVT LTD)

Altec Lansing inMotion MAX iMT702 iPod Dock

15 Jun, 2009, 12:00 pm IST | Shayne Rana | Docks Docks

Altec Lansing has had their hand in the audio world for a long time now and their portable products are quite popular as well. The latest to make it to our labs is the inMotion MAX or iMT702 iPod dock. Here’s how it fared.

Form Factor
The iMT702 is equipped with four speakers – one set of two 2-inch (50 mm) full-range drivers and a second set of two 2-inch (50 mm) passive radiators. Above the speakers is a 1.5-inch LCD display and above that on the upper rim of the dock are touch sensitive controls. Between the speakers, at the bottom, is a small tray with the docking port for the players. It’s designed to slide back in if you’re not using an iPod. The company has also provided all the necessary converters to suit all the iPods that are supported.

A little pop out stand at the rear also has a cut off switch when folded. This ensures that the device shuts off to save battery when not ‘in tow’. An RCA port for the FM antenna (wire included) as well as a DC adapter port and 3.5mm axially input are also located at the rear of the dock. A convenient remote storage space is just above the battery portion. The remote itself, is quite basic and allows you to perform basic tasks and offer a limited control of the iPod and radio.

Features and Performance
The iMT702 sounded better than most of the other docks I’ve tested so far. There’s a pleasant and resounding Bass level thanks to the Xdb bass enhancement technology with an almost even distribution of higher frequencies. The reason I say almost is because on closer scrutiny I noticed that the highs tend to be a little bit shrill. Not enough to be disturbing or annoy your ears though. On peak volume most tracks sound a bit distorted with the speakers jarring frequently. Irrespective of price or company this should not be the case. Though it’s quite loud and clear with the volume quite high, what’s the point of full volume if it can’t be used?

Altec Lansing has also incorporated ESS (Expanded Sound Stage) sound widening technology that expands the range of audio. This gives the sound emitted from the dock a bit of a surround feel. It does dip the bass a bit but overall the experience is not bad at all. Though the list of devices includes the iPod Touch (2nd Gen) and the iPhone, both devices gave me an error when hooked up. The funny thing is both played without a hitch, but the error message of the dock not being a compatible accessory would pop up from time to time.

Tags: Dock , Apple , iPod , iPhone

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