Blast - iHome iH7R iPod alarm clock

iHome has just come out with another upgrade to the everyday alarm clock.

Compatible with all versions of the iPod, except for the new versions of the iPod Shuffle, the iH7R makes waking up and falling asleep smoother than ever.

The volume of the alarm and sleep settings increase and decrease smoothly with gradual wake and sleep features to avoid startling the user. These features allow the user to be slowly awakened or lulled to sleep with either tunes from their iPod or the AM/FM radio.

A buzzer alarm option is also available for those who need a quick wake up call in the morning. There is also a dual alarm feature for those who like to sleep through their alarms or in cases where two people need to wake up at different times.

The iH7R sounds impressive with its Reson8 speaker chambers, known for the their clarity, depth and power. A bedside satellite speaker allows for a surround sound effect, but it doesn’t reach much past the width of your bed, though-this is due mostly to its short length. The speakers live up to their reputation by producing high-quality sound from such a compact unit.

The radio and iPod can be controlled from any part of your room using an included remote, as long as it’s a straight shot to the iHome base, despite claims otherwise by the manufacturer.

The only major downside here is that the menus of the iPod can not be accessed through the remote. This makes it tough to get picky from the other side of your bedroom.

A patch cord is included to play your CD’s and other audio devices as well.

Overall, the iH7R packs an impressive sound and user friendly features.

For $149.99, it’s a great investment for those who always want to have their iPod around.

Briana King is a freelance writer from Boston

In Audio/Video, Gadgets, Reviews, Technology on May 1, 2007 at 01:58