The iCube II is the latest gadget from boynq and is targeted toward budget-conscious buyers who like their iPod gadgets to come with some pizazz. The iCube II aims to combine fresh styling with a hint of retro feel into a small-sized iPod speaker dock. Available in black or in pink color, the latest boynq offering definitely stands out in a crowded market of iPod speaker docks. But with the flashy style aside, how does the iCube II deliver in terms of sound quality, functionality and value? Read on as we take a look close to find out.

Design

The design of the iCube II is what stands out the most when you first take a look at the product. The basic shape is a cube, but the front face is slightly curved inward and all of the edges are rounded to give the iCube a more curvy look. Each side of the iCube has a hole-punch style grille that protects the speakers from getting damaged.

A large volume knob dominates the front face, with a smaller knob on each side to control the bass and treble settings. The large, simple control for volume and the small bass / treble controls give the iCube II a slightly retro look from the front view. The volume knob has a dual-function as the power button as well -pressing the volume turns the iCube II on and off.

Designed to be paired with all types of iPods, the iCube II includes an array of adaptors that allow docking for nearly all the various iPod models. In case you plan to use an MP3 player from a different manufacturer, it also includes a line-in 3.5mm stereo jack for use with any other type of MP3 player. With size dimensions of only 4" H x 4" W x 4" D, the iCube II is extremely small. It takes up minimal space and can be easily blended into the surroundings of a kitchen, living room or dining room area.

Features

• Docking station for recharging and synchronization of the iPod via USB or FireWire cable
• 2 x 5W RMS full range drivers
• Includes 6 different size inserts to fit all sizes of iPod
• 3.5mm Stereo line in feature for iPod
• Line out for connection to home stereo (cables included)
• Treble and bass controls for optimal sound control
• AC-power adaptor included (100~240V)
• Frequency range 20Hz – 20KHz

Out of the Box Setup

The test unit came in black finish (also available in pink) and included the following::

• iCube II stereo speaker
• 6 inserts for iPod models
• Equalizer card
• AC-power adaptor
• Line-in cable
• Audio cable
• User Manual

Setup was extremely simple and involved picking the right adapter for my iPod Nano 2GB, attaching it to the top of iCube II, docking the iPod into the unit and then plugging in the AC power adapter. Overall, the set up was very easy and took only a couple of minutes to get the iCube II up and running and ready to play music.