8. JBL On Time: Originality Above All!

Eccentric design

Esthetically speaking, the JBL On Time is without doubt the most successful dock in our entire selection. Both handsome and original, it won’t leave anyone indifferent. Under the dome of speakers is a small blue LED, which will look exceedingly cool once the lights are out. And as with most of this maker’s products, the finish is impeccable.

Rise and shine!

The main function of this dock is to wake you up. You can configure two different alarms. JBL has taken the concept even farther by including presets - you can set your alarm to go off every day, from Monday through Friday, or only on weekends. The alarm can either use the iPod, the radio or a traditional alarm for the wake-up function. All settings are made directly on the dock. There is no remote control.

Appropriate performance

This model is intended for a very specific use. It has an alarm-clock-radio function and will most often be used for that purpose. Since it’s intended to operate in a bedroom, it doesn’t require high volume capabilities. In general, its sound quality is clear, but it can easily reach the saturation point.

And The Winner Is

For sheer sound quality, the Bose SoundDock is the hands-down winner. It is powerful and has everything it needs to make your playlists sound as good as they can. Yet, a dock is a complete system. And the lack of functionality, ergonomics and esthetic quality brought our sound-quality leader down to second place. The gold goes to the Logitech AudioStation, which will make a better replacement for your old stereo. It’s complete and ergonomic, and deserves the top prize despite sound quality that’s a little below that of the Bose unit. But your choice has to suit your needs, so another iPod dock might be better for you.

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