Polk Audio miDock Portfolio Conclusion

Performance

The sound quality performance evaluation of the miDock Portfolio was done using two sources - an iPod Nano 2GB and a PC with a Creative X-Fi XtremeMusic sound card connected through the auxiliary 3.5mm input. MP3 listening with bit rates of 128kbps and 320kbps was performed on both sources, as well as playing music CDs from the PC. A wide selection of classical, rock, alternative and hip-hop music was used in the evaluation.

The initial listening sessions with the miDock proved that it is capable of handling different genres of music, but with varying degrees of success. Right out of the box, the miDock performed admirably for such a small audio device when playing alternative, classical and hip-hop music. I found that the vocals were produced clearly and true to the source material, with tonal quality rivaling more expensive speakers. The sound stage was also surprisingly wide for such a small unit. The 4 separate speakers and the built-in amplifier do a very nice job of producing an expansive soundstage that easily fills a kitchen, bedroom or den area with clear, accurate music. The wide soundstage provides good listening positions even if you are not directly in line with the speakers - a notable feat for a small audio device. High frequencies were also impressive, with smooth playback and clear separation of high notes from horns, trumpets and cymbals. I did find the high frequencies to be a bit too bright sounding for my taste, but not so much that it distracted from the overall sound produced by the miDock.

On the other hand, playback of rock and hip-hop music was not as impressive. This was entirely due to the fact that the miDock struggles with low end frequencies. Bass extension is minimal and I found that low end sounds, such as those from a bass drum, were lacking. Given the size of the 4 speakers in the miDock and overall size of the device, this is not particularly surprising. I was not expecting to hear emphatic, punchy bass from a portable MP3 docking station. With that expectation in mind, the sound quality was superb and the miDock produced a very enjoyable listening experience.

Portability and Other Considerations
Most people will consider the portability of such a device to be nearly as important as the sound quality. After all, what good is a sweet sounding set of iPod speakers if you can't easily carry them with your iPod? In this area, the miDock Portfolio really excels. I found the ability to fold the miDock flat and store it in the included carrying case extremely handy for traveling. Once folded, it can easily be stowed away in a laptop bag, briefcase or suitcase. The helps to keep the exterior finish from getting scratched or dinged during transport. I did notice that the glossy exterior is prone to fingerprint smudges, but they are easily wiped away with a cleaning cloth or towel.

The one extra feature I would have liked to see in the carrying case would be a couple of extra pockets for carrying the iPod and the AC adapter with the miDock. Without these extra pockets, you are forced to pack your iPod and the AC adapter separately.

Also important in terms of portability is the amount of playback time you can get by using 4 AA batteries instead of the AC adapter. During my testing I was able to squeeze out 7 solid hours of playback using batteries instead of AC power, which is a respectable length of time given the extra weight added by 4 AA batteries. I should note that while testing the battery life, I inadvertently left the miDock powered on overnight. This most likely had an impact on the batteries, as I am sure that a small amount of power is used to keep the blue "Power" light activated and the amplifier powered on.

miDock with iPod docked		miDock Carrying Case

Polk Audio miDock Portfolio

The Polk Audio miDock Portfolio absolutely succeeds in the two areas where a portable MP3 speaker system should - sound quality and portability. Sweet, room-filling sound and easy transport are highlights that the miDock Portfolio provides. Although it is not the perfect solution for those who primarily listen to hip-hop or rock, it is a great choice for all other types of music. At a very attractive $99 MSRP, you really get a lot of bang-for-your-buck and an outstanding value with the miDock Portfolio - and it definitely deserves the Top Review Shop "Highly Recommended" award.

Pros: Excellent sound quality; easy to use and light weight; easy to transport in the included carrying case; 7+ hours of battery life; compatible with nearly all MP3 players.

Cons: Bass is lacking.

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