Showing posts with label top rated clock radios. Show all posts
Showing posts with label top rated clock radios. Show all posts

JENSEN VM9424 6.2-Inch Double-DIN Multimedia Navigation Receiver

JENSEN VM9424 6.2-Inch Double-DIN Multimedia Navigation Receiver
  • 6.2" touchscreen
  • Made for iPod via USB
  • Secure Digital Card slot
  • A/V playback via USB
  • Built-in navigation
  • 6.2-inch touchscreen

Since theres not a lot of people that wrote reviews, I thought I'd write a more detailed review.

Shipping is very fast, packaged very well.

Unit comes fully loaded with almost everything! GPS, IPOD capable, Rearview camera capable.

I installed this into my 2003 Honda Element. I used the 70-1721 wiring harness from this site. All the wires are pre-cut so wiring was easy.

The unit itself is fairly easy to navigate around, any dumbass can do it. The sound is incredible, the one thing I like is you can preset the sound to any level when it starts-I sometimes forget I blast it!

Navigation is quick, it boots up and finds me from 10-15 seconds. The user interface for this is also very easy, again any dumbass can use it.

I posted complete specs of the unit below. Happy buying guys!

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Jensen's VM9424 navigation receiver lets you upgrade your car's audio system to a multimedia powerhouse with a user-friendly 6.2" touchscreen. You'll have access to a powerful built-in navigation system and CD/DVD playback, along with a well-rounded set of audio and video capabilities.

Audio and video at the fore

Play your all your audio discs on the VM9424 -including CDs or DVDs you've loaded with MP3 and WMA files. You can connect and control your iPod® via USB, while Jensen's MediaLink cable offers a single connection center with an audio auxiliary input, A/V input, and USB input. Refine the sound in your cabin by adjusting the 3-band equalizer, or keep it simple by selecting one of the preset EQ curves.

You can enjoy DVD movies on the 6.2" video screen when you're parked, or share the fun with backseat passengers by adding video screens to the two video outputs. For iPod video content, add Jensen's optional J-Link cable. Jensen includes a full-featured remote so your passengers can control the entertainment.

Navigation built in

You'll find your way with ease with the VM9424's navigation system, developed hand-in-hand with industry leaders like Horizon Navigation, NavMate, and Tele Atlas. The receiver boasts 11 million points of interest throughout the United States and Canada, with accurate routes, reliable guidance and time estimates. Maps and information are preloaded on an easy-to-access 2 GB SD(tm) card, so updating down the road is a quick and easy operation.

Convenient system building

If you're building a high-powered system, you'll enjoy the utility of front, rear, and subwoofer preamp outputs, with a sub level control to boot. Large vehicle owners, you'll appreciate the ability to add a rear-view camera to this receiver -put your vehicle in reverse and the view behind you pops up on the screen.

*

General features:

* in-dash navigation receiver with 6.2" touchscreen

* internal amp (13 watts RMS CEA-2006/40 peak x 4 channels)

* fits double-DIN (4" tall) dash openings

* built-in navigation system with 11 million points of interest

* plays CDs and DVDs (including MP3 and WMA files on disc)

* remote control

*

Audio features:

* 3-band equalizer

*

Expandability:

* iPod control built in, add Jensen's jLinkUSB adapter for video content

* compatible with Jensen Bluetooth adapter and XM receiver

* inputs: rear A/V input, front auxiliary input, rear USB input, front SD card slot, rear-view camera input

* outputs: two video outputs, 5-channel preamp outputs (front, rear, and mono subwoofer)

*

Other information:

* compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)

* CEA-2006 compliant

* warranty: 1 year

Display Features

2-DIN Chassis: The Jensen VM9424 has a 2-DIN chassis (also known as Double DIN or size DD), and will fit in many vehicles with a large dash opening. The unit can be ISO-mounted using factory brackets, or Euro-mounted using the supplied mounting sleeve.

Note: As always, please consult Crutchfield's Vehicle Selector to verify fit with your vehicle.

6.2" Touchscreen Display: The Jensen VM9424 features a fixed 6.2" wide, 16:9 touchscreen display with a TFT active matrix system. The screen has a resolution of 1440 (H) x 234 (V) with 336,960 total pixels. This unit has touch screen controls with interactive video graphics, making menu navigation easy. The unit has a front-loading disc-slot to make loading your disc easier because there is no panel to slide or fold-down.

Aspect Ratio: You can choose from the following aspect ratio modes for the unit's integrated monitor:

* Full: The entire screen is extended horizontally to the aspect ratio of 16:9.

* Normal: The conventional display image has a 4:3 aspect ratio of horizontal to vertical, leaving a blank area on the right and left sides of the display.

Dimmer: You can adjust the picture's brightness manually, or set the display to automatically dim when ambient light is low.

PRK SW: For safety reasons, you cannot view a video source on the built-in monitor as long as the vehicle is in motion. In order to display video, the supplied pink wire must be hardwired into the vehicle's parking brake light circuit, and the vehicle's parking brake must be engaged. The pink parking brake wire is used to connect to your parking brake light wire (video on the LCD monitor can only be displayed when this unit's pink PRK SW wire senses that the parking brake has been engaged in the vehicle).

Hard-Key Controls: In addition to the unit's LCD touch-panel controls, the VM9424 also features hard-key controls on the left edge of the screen. The unit offers a rotary volume control, source button, NAV button, and eject button.

12 or 24 Hour Clock: You can set the unit to display a 12 or 24 hour clock.

Anti-Theft Feature: The VM9424 is equipped with an anti-theft feature requiring you to enter a 6-digit password upon initial power-on.

Built-in Navigation

Horizon NavMate Navigation System: The Jensen VM9424 features a built-in navigation system to lead you straight to your desired destination. It's easy-to-use and intuitive interface lets you plan your trip to suit your personal preferences and interests, find and save (bookmark) interesting destinations before you begin your trip, and navigate your route.

GPS (Global Positioning System): The VM9424 uses a vehicle GPS-based navigation device which utillizes digital map data to guide you form your selected location (A) to your desired destination (B), using information obtained from a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS).

Note: The initial GPS location lock is best established when your vehicle is in park. If the device is in motion, the signal can take longer to initially connect. Once the initial coordinates are established, the navigation software will follow you as you move and navigate.

Tele Atlas Map Data: The navigation map data covers the continental US, Alaska, and Hawaii.

Visual & Audible Commands: The built-in navigation software will guide you along the shortest or quickest route from point-A to point-B using an on-screen map and voice commands. You can choose between a male or female voice (English only).

Map Screen: During navigation the Map Screen display your route (in yellow) and your surroundings. A red/blue arrow indentifies your current position. The upcoming maneuver is visualized in the upper left corner, along with the distance and approximate time before that turn. When you come up to a turn, you will hear a voice command at the appropriate time.

2D/3D Map: You can changes the perspective of the map from 2D North-Up (displays the map in 2 dimensions with North at the top), 2D Track-Up (displays the map in 2 dimensions with your direction of travel at the top of the screen), 3D Track-Up (displays the map in 3 dimensions with your direction of travel at the top of screen). You can also choose a split-screen which displays both a 2D and 3D map side-by-side.

Color Modes: Select between Day (for a bright background), Night (for a dark background) or Auto (to automatically switch between the two).

Look Ahead Feature: The integrated NavMate software offers a convenient interactive look-ahead search function to prevent misspelling when entering in a destination using the units touchscreen keyboard. Only keys that lead to a search result can be pressed, while all other are grayed out.

Destination Search: The Jensen VM9424 offers the following destination search modes.

* Home: Allows you to save your home address, so you can quickly navigate to your house from anywhere.

* Office: Allows you to save your office address, so you can navigate back to it quickly.

* Address: Allows you to enter an address (street, city, zip-code) as a destination.

* Intersection: You can select to navigate to where to roads intersect.

* Coordinates: Route to a destination by directly entering latitude and longitude values.

* POI: Allows you to select from a points-of-interest directory (over 10 million) for your destination. You can quickly find POIs such as gas stations, restaurants, hotels, banks, movie theaters, etc. You can even create your own POI category. These places can be near your current position or near a selected State or Province.

* Favorites (Address Book): You can save your favorite destinations and addresses, so you can quickly access them.

* Recent History: Previous destinations (up to 15) are automatically saved to memory (History). This feature helps you quickly locate the address and return to a previous destination.

* Browse: Or, you can simply browse the map and press a spot on the map to navigate to.

Route Preferences: You can determine how the unit's built-in navigation software will calculate your route by setting the following preferences.

* Shortest Time: Calculate route based on the fastest time.

* Avoid Freeway: Try not to use highways when calculating routes.

* Avoid Tolls: Do not use toll roads when calculating routes.

* Use Ferries: Use ferry travel when calculating routes.

Simulation: This function lets you preview the route that has been calculated for your destination.

Intersection Zoom: As you approach an intersection, the map will automatically zoom in to show a close-up view of the roads near the intersection point on the right side of the screen.

Auto Reroute: If you intentionally or accidentally leave the current route, the NavMate software will automatically recalculate the route and prompt you to get back on track to your destination.

Turn-by-Turn List: While navigating, you can view a turn-by-turn list of upcoming maneuvers.

Detour: If you are unable to complete the route as calculated, you can add a Detour to the route that will allow you t stay on track to your destination.

Trip Computer: The Trip Computer provides information about your vehicle speed, trip related timing, elevation, odometer, and clock readings.

Trail Book: The Trail Book feature allows you to create a path using map points when navigation data is not available.

Trip Book: The Trip Book is a collection of trips, with each trip representing a set of multiple destinations.

Audio Section

D/A Converter: The VM9424 is equipped with a high-performance 24-bit, 192kHz digital-to-analog converter with a multi-bit Sigma-Delta modulator.

CEA2006 Compliant: The power specifications for the VM9424 are compliant with the CEA2006 Mobile Amplifier Power Testing and Measurement standards from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). These standards were developed as a way to equitably compare power specs from model to model and between manufacturers. The power output specs for the VM9424 are as follows:

* CEA2006 Specs:13 watts RMS x 4 channels (at 4 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 1% THD-N)

* Maximum Power Output: 40 watts x 4 channels (160 watts total)

5-Channel Audio Preamp Outputs: This unit has five audio preamp outputs (stereo Front, stereo Rear, and mono Sub). In addition, the subwoofer preamp output has an adjustable low pass crossover (80/100/120/140/160Hz), and level adjustment (-7 to +7)

Start Volume: You can set the headunit to turn-on to the last volume level adjustment when turned off, or turn-on to a pre-defined volume level every time you power up the radio.

Preset EQ: Preset EQ curves are stored into memory, allowing you to recall the best setting for different types of music. You may choose from the following presets: Jazz, Pop, Classical, Rock, News, Urban, Rave, Movie, Techno, Flat, or User.

3-Band EQ: In the User EQ mode, you are able to manually adjust the headunit's Bass, Midrange, and Treble. You can also choose the center frequency to be adjusted.

Source Level: You can increase the relative volume (-7 to +7) of the unit's source inputs to match the external source's output level. The Source Level can be used for the VM9424's Radio, Disc, USB, SD, iPod, Auxiliary, Navigation, or Bluetooth (optional).

Beep Tones: An audible beep tone confirms each function selection. The beep tone can be disabled/enabled in the Setup Menu.

Heat Management: The unit has a heat management system which incorporates forced-air cooling to keep the chip-sets operating at nominal temperatures for reliable operation and sound quality.

Radio Functions

AM/FM Tuner: The headunit features a built-in AM/FM tuner with manual, seek, preset, and direct tuning.

Preset Tuning: The unit features 3 FM bands and 2 AM bands with the capability of storing 6 presets for each band giving you a total of 18 FM presets and 12 AM presets (30 total). You can also automatically store the six strongest stations in your area inside the current selected band.

Preset Scan: In addition, the tuner features a Preset Scan function which allows you to preview your stored preset stations in the selected band.

Direct Tuning: The built-in AM/FM tuner also allows direct frequency tuning through the unit's touch-screen panel or supplied wireless remote control.

Local Seek: The unit's tuner also is equipped with a Seek mode that when used with the Local function, only allows radio stations with a strong local radio signals to be played.

European Tuning: The tuner features selectable North America and European tuning.

XM Satellite Radio: To receive XM Satellite Radio connect the optional CNP2000UCA XM Tuner and the CNP-JEN1 Jensen adapter cable (package item number 700XMJEN2, sold separately).

Disc/SD-card Playback

Disc Compatibility: The VM9424 is compatible with the following discs:

* DVD: DVD Video, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD+RW DL

* VCD: Video CD, Super Video CD

* CD: Audio CD (CD-DA), CD-R, CD-RW

* Compressed Files: MP3, WMA, JPEG, MPEG 1/2

Note: 8 cm discs should not be used in this unit.

MP3/WMA Playback: The VM9424 can play MP3/WMA files with ID3 Tag capability that have been recorded on CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, and DVD+RW discs. The files must be recorded in ISO 9660 or Joliet formats. The recommended bit rate is 128 kbps and sample frequency of 48 kHz. Up to 1500 songs/files can be supported from a compatible disc. This unit will only recognize 3 folder levels.

JPEG Playback: The unit supports playback of JPEG still images recorded on CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, and DVD+RW discs. You can view a thumbnail display of available images as well as rotate a selected image 360-degrees in 90-degree increments.

SD Card Slot: The Jensen VM9424 is equipped with a front-panel SD-card slot. The headunit supports playback of MP3/WMA (128kbps) audio files recorded on SD/SDHC memory cards up to 8GB. It will also playback JPEG still images stored on an SD/SDHC card. Up to 1500 songs/files can be supported from a compatible disc. This unit will only recognize 3 folder levels.

Note: SD/SDHC-memory cards larger than 8GB are not supported.

DVD Touch-Screen Controls: While playing a DVD you can press the screen to access disc information and playback functions. The following are some of the playback controls that are displayed when the bottom of the screen is pressed while viewing a DVD disc.

* Fast Forward/Fast Reverse: When playing a DVD, there are four fast-play speeds in both directions: 2x, 4x, 8x, and 16x.

* Repeat Play: When playing a DVD, you can repeat the current chapter or title.

* A-B Repeat: A-B Repeat allows you to repeat any portion of a DVD.

* Direct Search: During DVD you can use the numeric keypad on the remote control or on the touch-screen display to access a chapter directly.

Note: When playing a Video CD, the repeat function is not available. For MP3/WMA, you can repeat the current file.

Random Play: When playing a CD disc, you can play the tracks or files in random order.

Intro Scan: During CD-audio playback you can play the first 10 seconds of each track or file.

Multi-Angle Display: This function allows you to choose the viewing angle of scenes that were shot from a number of different angles.

Note: This function is limited to DVDs recorded with multiple camera angles.

Zoom: When playing DVDs and Video CDs, you can enlarge the picture using the zoom feature. You can choose one of four zoom settings.

Parental Lock: The DVD system has a built-in Parental Lock feature to prevent unauthorized persons from viewing restricted disc content. By default, the rating system is unlocked. You can choose from 8 different levels of Parental Lock. Once setup, the parental lock is released only by entering the user 4-digit password.

Off Eject: You can eject a disc with the unit powered off. You cannot insert a disc with the headunit powered off.

Mounting: For proper operation of the CD/DVD player, the chassis must be mounted with 30-degrees of horizontal.

Media Link Module

MediaLink Module: The Jensen VM9424 utilizes a separate MediaLink module for easy connection and disconnection of your iPod, portable A/V equipment, or other portable MP3 player. The MediaLink features an AV 3.5mm minijack and a USB type-A port. The MediaLink uses an attached 5' AV/USB cable that plugs into the rear chassis of the VM9424, which allows the MediaLink module to be installed under the dash or in other various locations to make hooking-up and unhooking your portable A/V equipment much easier. Dimensions: W = 2.375", H = 0.8125", D = 3.0"

Audio/Video Input: The included MediaLink features a 3.5mm AV input for connecting a portable audio/video device such as a portable digital media player.

USB Port: The Jensen VM9424's MediaLink module features a USB type-A port for playback of MP3 (128kbps) and WMA (128kbps) audio files recorded in FAT 16 or FAT32 on a connected USB flash memory device, as well as USB portable hard drives formatted to FAT 32. The headunit also support JPEG still image playback via USB. Up to 1500 songs/files can be recognized from one USB mass storage device (it will only recognize 3 folder levels). The VM9424HD will also display ID3 tag information.

iPod Control: The optional jLink-USB cable ( 110JLINUSB, sold separately) allows you to connect select iPods or iPhones to this unit through the headunit's included MediaLink module (using both the USB port and AV 3.5mm input). Once an iPod/iPhone is connected, you can playback audio/video content from your iPod/iPhone on the VM9424. The Jensen headunit will also display text information such as song, track or artist name from your connected iPod. You can directly control audio/video functions of your iPod from the headunit's touchscreen or supplied IR remote. During audio playback of your iPod/iPhone, the click-wheel and touch-screen controls will be locked. Your iPod/iPhone is also charged when it is connected to the headunit. If you only require iPod/iPHone audio playback, you can simply connect your iPod/iPhone to the VM9424 via the USB/Dock connector cable that came with your iPod/iPhone. The Jensen VM9424 and optional jLink-USB cable are "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and support the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of April 2010):

iPod/iPhone Photo Playback: Your iPod's clickwheel or touchscreen is locked during music and video playback. However, to view photos, you will need to use your iPod's clickwheel or touchscreen to control playback.

iPod Video Playback: The VM9424 does not support video playback from the iPod video (5th gen) when used with the jLink-USB cable. Instead the headunit requires an AV minijack connection for video playback of your iPod video (5th gen), which offers no information display, control, or charging.

Dual Video Outs: Dual rear-panel RCA composite video-output jacks allow you add external monitors such as rear headrest monitors (sold separately).

Multi-zone Audio Outputs: The VM9424 is equipped with a pair of stereo RCA outputs which can be used in conjunction with the dual video outputs for dual zone playback. The unit will only play the DVD/CD source for Zone 2.

AV Input: The Jensen VM9424 features a front-panel 3.5mm AV input for easy connection of your portable MP3 player.

Rear View Camera Input: The VM9424 features a composite video input and a green/white wire lead attached to the harness for connection of a rear view camera. If a rear-view video camera is connected, the unit is on, and the TFT monitor is retracted inside the unit, the TFT monitor automatically moves into the viewing position and Camera modes is selected upon shifting into Reverse gear. When shifting into Drive gear, the TFT monitor is retracted back inside the unit. If the monitor is already in a viewing position and in display mode, the monitor automatically switches to Camera mode upon shifting into Reverse. When the reverse driving stops, the monitor returns to its original input display mode. You can choose for the monitor to display a Mirror mode image or a Normal mode image from the rear-view camera.

Wireless Communication

Remote Control: The VM9424 also comes supplied with a 40-Key, full-function, infrared wireless remote control.

Steering Wheel Remote Control Compatible: The Jensen VM9424 features a 3.5mm steering wheel remote control input for connecting the SWI-PS steering wheel remote interface. The optional SWI-PS interface (127SWIPS, sold separately) allows you to retain the use of your steering wheel and/or rear seat radio controls when replacing the factory headunit in select vehicles with this Jensen headunit. In some GM vehicles, this adapter allows you to retain heater control buttons as well. The SWI-PS is compatible with over 95% of the vehicles made from 1986 to the present. Compatible vehicles include many Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury, Mini, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Suzuki, Toyota, and Volkswagen vehicles and Harley Davidson motorcycles.

Note: Please consult The Crutchfield Vehicle Selector to see if your vehicle is compatible.

Bluetooth Ready: The VM9424 supports Jensen's add-on Bluetooth interface ( 110BTM15, sold separately). The Jensen BTM15 is Bluetooth 2.0 compliant and supports the following Bluetooth profiles: HFP (Hands-free talking for safety and convenience from a Bluetooth enabled cell-phone) and A2DP/AVRCP (Wireless audio streaming and control from your Bluetooth enabled cell-phone or portable digital audio device). The Jensen BTM15 features a 9.75' cable terminated by a proprietary connector and 3.5mm connector which plugs into the headunit's BT-Bus port and microphone input (if equipped).

* Bluetooth Phone: The Jensen BTM15 (sold separately) allows for wireless communication between the headunit and your Bluetooth enabled cell-phone. The optional add-on Bluetooth interface features a built-in microphone to speak into during your phone conversation, while the other party is heard through your vehicle's speakers. Incoming phone call information will be displayed on the VM9424's integrated monitor. The Jensen BTM15 features a single "Talk" button which allows you to answer and end incoming phone calls. All other functions, such as dialing out will be controlled from the headunit and its remote control. You can enter a phone number using the touchscreen keypad, from your downloaded phonebook, or from a call history list (up to 10). The Jensen add-on Bluetooth interface features an attached visor-clip to mount the unit to your vehicle's sun-visor. The visor-clip can be removed and the BTM15 can be mounted to your dash using the supplied velcro strip.

* Bluetooth Audio: The optional add-on Bluetooth interface allows you to play back audio files from your Bluetooth enabled phone, PDA, or personal music player using a Bluetooth connection. You can also control the music stored on your Bluetooth audio player from the VM9424.

Note: Not all Bluetooth enabled devices will be compatible with the BTM15 and the VM9424.

Buy JENSEN VM9424 6.2-Inch Double-DIN Multimedia Navigation Receiver Now

I first saw this Nav Radio while on Vacation and noted the model number. I would have bought it then at the store price of 549.00 but I didn't have the room to take it. When I got home I did some research and found it on Amazon for 399.00. At that price for a Nav Radio with all of the features I though Ok lets give it a shot.

I received the product quickly and installed it the next day. If you have installed car stereos in the past this should be no problem. Just take your time and get the mating factory connector. The toughest part was deciding where to stuff all of the unused connectors as I didn't need the rear monitors or additional AV inputs.

I purchased a Dash Kit from Metra (also through Amazon) which fit the cars dash perfectly although needed to be trimmed to fit the radio, no big deal. A steering wheel control module, and the BT15 blue tooth kit as well.

All said and done everything works fine and even the rear backup cam that I all ready had in the car from a previous install just plugged right in. If you have a factory sub-woofer remember to add a 1500 ohm resistor to the amp turn on to eliminate the pop when the amp turns on.

Radio reception is as good or better than the factory Radio

Blue tooth works flawlessly ... using a Samsung OmniaII WM6.5 phone (downloads 350 numbers from address book only) It even plays MP3's from my phones media player. DVD Player works well (not that you watch DVD's while driving LOL) The Nav system is typical.

If you are looking to upgrade a factory radio with spending a fortune this system will do it.

So why only four stars? well I travel between the USA and Canada, and the unit did not include Canadian Map data, had to purchase new map data for another 50.00! Not really a big deal however almost all Nav radios these day's include USA/Canada data. I guess I could have contacted Jensen's customer support about this but I didn't really think that they would do anything and couldn't be bothered.

Read Best Reviews of JENSEN VM9424 6.2-Inch Double-DIN Multimedia Navigation Receiver Here

First, installation was a breeze. First attempt with connecting my battery back on and the unit was fully functional. I would only recommend self-installation of this unit if you have installed CD decks in the past.

Navigation function is awesome! No delay on finding my location even upon first start-up! It seems the NAV is always working in the background which makes switching to it seamless.

Ipod function is great. You only need the accessory cord if you want to view videos from ipod or iphone. Music pauses for incoming call from iPhone.

Great addition to any vehicle.

Want JENSEN VM9424 6.2-Inch Double-DIN Multimedia Navigation Receiver Discount?



In addition to the head unit, I also had the Bluetooth adapter, rear-view camera and steering-wheel control module installed. For videos, it plays DVDs as well as MPEG files from an SD card. I believe it also reads video files from the iPod/iPhone connection, but I haven't tried it. You can stream music files through Bluetooth. Once paired, the phone connects to the system automatically.

The navigation works well enough gets your location and calculates the route fairly quickly, though you need to download and install the free software update to fix the volume issues. The system boots up in good time (which is key if you have the rear-view camera) and the touchscreen is very responsive check out the video more details. Biggest issue I've had is with transferring phone contacts it re-transfers the contacts every time you restart the unit. And the contacts don't appear to be displayed in any type of order.

Overall, it's a nice value head unit that pretty much does everything. Would highly recommend purchasing the Bluetooth module (part BTM15).

I've had this unit for about a week now. Made a 900 mile road trip and am mostly happy with it. For the money, it can't be beat. I bought the BT adapter as well and I like it. Touch screen is responsive and many options for what I can connect. Ipod, mobile phone, mp3 player, etc. There are several cons, but for the low price, most of them I can live with.

Pro:

Hundreds of dollars less than other units with GPS

quick GPS lock

good GPS routing

DVD playback is good

sound quality is good

BT for phone calls is excellent!

Individually adjustable levels for all input sources.

Con:

When playing music via BT A2DP it is not possible to view GPS at the same time.

Ipod controls on the unit are not so good. Some older Ipods are locked out and you need to use the controls on the dash. When you use the on ipod controls on a supported ipod/iphone the dash display for song info does not update.

Like other reviewers have said, the touch screen is recessed. If your radio is low on the dash area, you cannot see the top 1/4" of screen. Annoying when entering GPS locations, can't view clock.

POI search is not great.

At one point, my BT connectivity stopped working. Had to factory reset the unit and it repaired itself.

1 heads up: If you are doing a self install, make sure to remove the 2 phillips head screws in the top of the unit before you mount it in the dash (DVD/CD lock for shipping). If you do not, discs will not load.

iHome iP4GZ FM 30-Pin iPod/iPhone Speaker Dock Boombox (Gunmetal)

iHome iP4GZ FM 30-Pin iPod/iPhone Speaker Dock Boombox
  • Pivoting connector charges and plays iPhone and docking iPod models
  • Powerful amp pushing two 4" woofers and two 1" tweeters for huge sound, with SRS TruBass and 5 band EQ
  • Digital tuning FM radio; also works with iHome Radio app for access to thousands of internet radio stations
  • Operates on included 100V - 240V universal voltage AC adaptor or 6 D batteries (not included)
  • Magnetized remote control and aux line-in jack

I actually ordered this from the iHome website, but regardless I decided to write a review since there aren't many on this, seeing as it's fairly new and I know some are wondering about the quality and if it is indeed worth purchasing or not.

First off let me say that I love the look of the product, the retro boombox style looks great. The rubberized coating makes the surface smooth and gives it a nice matte tone. It's lightweight, and you have the option of using an AC adapter or batteries (6 D I believe, so you can carry it aroundit is a boombox, after all). It comes with a remote (battery included), an arm strap for carrying, AC adapter, FM antenna, the unit itself and instructions/warranty information. The iHome itself has a handlebar on it in case you don't want to use the strap.

The unit itself has a volume knob, tuning knob for FM radio, on/off button, mode button, play/pause button, SRS audio enhancement button, and 5 graphic equalizer buttons. On the back there's the AC adaptor jack, remote button (disables remote when operating on your batteries if you wish), and a line-in for the included FM antenna or you can hook up another audio device with a standard 3.5mm jack.

Now for the soundI've owned two iHomes before but none have compared to the amazing sound this has WITH the enhancer on. According to the one review I found online, it's iHome's best sounding system yet. I'm not sure about that, but I'm very pleased with the sound. The SRS TrueBass makes all the difference, I always keep it on lol. Basically it enhances the audio, and the equalizer buttons at the top let you adjust for your optimum sound. Without the SRS on, it has mediocre sound and I'm not sure why you would need to turn it off, it's nice that they give you the option however.

I was also a little hesitant in buying because it doesn't have a clock display, and there wasn't any app enhanced sign on the product on iHome's website, and I was worried that it wouldn't let me set alarms. However it's all in the appif you download the iHome app from the app store, you can easily display the clock on your iPod/iPhone while it's docking in the iP4, set alarms, sleep times, wake times, reminders, etc. etc.

Basically it has everything I wanted and I'm very pleased! If you like the look of the iP4 and are in need of a new or your first iHome I highly reccomend this one. Very unique and cool :)

Buy iHome iP4GZ FM 30-Pin iPod/iPhone Speaker Dock Boombox (Gunmetal) Now

I don't normally buy things for the looks, but the design of this boombox hooked me the first time I saw it. Eagerly awaited it's arrival in the mail. My plan was to replace an old stereo in my room for private listening, with a line-in to my iPad stand. I was also sold on the idea of tossing some D's in there and jamming outside. On my bookshelf, the thing looks like a work of art.

Unfortunately...the sound is not anything to write home about. Granted, this is a boombox, not a full-fledged stereo. It's not meant to stand toe to toe with the Cambridge Soundworks I have hooked up to my PC. But the sound that came out of this thing just sounded cheap and hollow, like the mid range had no substance, and the bass had no oomph. I would have been okay with it if the thing had sounded close to or the same as my 10 year old stereo, but it couldn't even manage that. Despite finangling with the equalizer and keeping SRS turned on, I just could not coax a listening experience out of this thing that I felt happy with. At the end of the day, I want to listen to something that sounds good, not just looks good. Thus, I returned it.

It could be that I just had too high expectations for a boombox, but I don't really NEED anything that portable...it was just a nice option to have. Sound quality, in my mind, is still the most important thing.

For reference, these are the sorts of sound systems I'm used to and therefore end up getting compared to: a set of 2.1 Cambridge Soundworks PC speakers, a pair of Koss Portapro headphones, and an old Phillips 2 speaker stereo (which I am going to continue to use since it sounds better than the iHome).

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I never EVER buy anything impulsively but man when I first ran into that pink boombox at the store, I had to touch it, and once I felt its unusual rubbery texture, I had to ask for an audition.

I docked my iphone in, turned it on and the EQ LEDs started dancing. WOWWWWW! I was not expecting such a good sound from such a hot looking little thing, well, especially for under 200 bucks!!! Let's be honest here, don't expect "audiophile sound" by any mean but as an iphone dock? It really sounds awesome! Add a little remote , an AC adapter and the option to use batteries... Yeap, I simply love it . The only setback is I'm now afraid my girlfriend will steal it from me (she's been drooling over it the entire evening)

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I ordered the Altec Lansing Mix boombox for two hundred bucks and I enjoyed its sound and features. However, I had to return it because it was having battery issues that many others had the same issue. It kept on shutting itself off. I decided to try this iHome boombox and I am happy with it. I paid like 35% off the retail manufacture price. I use it mainly as a portable boombox for the tennis court. For about a 60' and 120' outside area, it is plenty loud enough. I pretty much keep it in the 27-32 volume range when it goes up to 40. I never went pass 35 on the volume because I never had to. With my altec lansing mix, I had the volume in the same area as well which was surprising to em even though the Altec Lansing puts out more watts. Here are my pros and cons for the ihome boombox:

Pros:

1. Sounds great! It does a solid job with the lows, mids and highs. It is very close in sound quality to the Altec Lansing Mix but the Altec Lansing Mix sounds better because it has the better bass. The iHome boombox is still a great sounding boombox. And as I said before, it really does get loud. No you won't have enough watts pumping out for a huge backyard party. Look at the size of the boombox and it only runs on 6-D batteries so that should give you an idea of its watts power. The iHome boombox runs on 15 watts of power but it is very similar in loudness to the 60 watt Altec Lansing Mix. The Altec Lansing Mix is using their watts to power their bass which you can see the subwoofer moving. It is probably why it has trouble with the batteries because the sub drains them too much. The iHome boombox has good bass with the SRS trubass but don't expect it to be pumping the same bass as the higher priced and higher watt boomboxes.

2. Very stylish retro/modern look! It has the old school look but it also looks modern with the rubberized feel, bright equalizer and design. When I first felt the rubberize grip, I thought it would wear or show markings but it actually holds up really well to wear and tear.

3. FM radio reception is a key feature for me and the radio sounds clear.

4. Remote works well and it is magnetized to fit nicely on top. The remote has never fell out of its slot. Awesome little magnet feature there.

5. Great value... I wouldn't spend $200 on this boombox but you can find it much less. It is much cheaper than some of the crazy expensive boomboxes like dre boombox and tdk boombox that is like 3 times more than the iHome boombox. JVC boombox and Altec Lansing is also lot more than this iHome boombox. Even though the iHome boombox doesn't pump out as many watts as the other very expensive competitors, it still sounds great. Are the other expensive boomboxes worth up to 3 times more? That is your choice but I don't think so even if they sound slightly better.

6. Battery powered! Not just battery powered but it runs on only 6-D batteries and I am already approaching like 35 hours on the same set of batteries and they are still working great. I would have been happy if I reached 25-30 hours. And D batteries aren't expensive when you buy them on sale.. With those really expensive boomboxes that run on batteries, they are getting more around 8-15 hours if lucky and running on 8-12 D batteries.

7. Portable... This is very easy to carry around because it is only 17"x9"x5", comes with shoulder strap and only weighs 7.5 pounds. My altec lansing mix was portable but this is much easier. Some of these other boomboxes reach around 30" long and some even weigh close to 40 pounds with their batteries. This iHome can be carried around much easier than the others.

8. 5 band graphic equalizer... If you know how to use it, you can tailor your music just the way you want.

Cons:

1. FM antenna... It has a built in antenna but to get great reception, you need to use the wire antenna. I said the FM sounds great earlier but the antenna is a wire antenna that is plugged in the back. I kind of preferred a regular telescope antenna and don't know why they didn't add it. To get the best reception, the wire antenna should be straightened out and pointing upwards in a certain direction. I put a piece of transparent shipping tape on the shoulder strap. When I listen to the radio, I simply take off the piece of tape from the shoulder strap and tape the straightened out antenna wire to a post. Put the tape back on strap when I am done with fm radio. Problem solved and I got great reception. I would have returned the boombox if I didn't discover this method. I order a 3.5mm antenna for like 2 bucks but the antenna is only like 10 inches and doesn't improve the reception at all.

2. No presets... There should have been like 6 radio presets on the remote.

I would give this boombox an 8.5 out of 10. It isn't perfect as it has some flaws but it does sound great (ipod or fm), looks awesome and has some nice features so I am keeping my boombox and I would recommend it to others. It is also much cheaper than some of the crazy expensive boomboxes like dre boombox and tdk boombox that is like 3 times more than the iHome boombox.

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This is a great boombox! I didn't buy it for a home theater system so it is not that quality of music. But for the pool and camping the big speakers work very well (and loud too!). We looked at a lot of units and this one has the best sound for a portable unit that will work on batteries. Couldn't figure out how to adjust the display brightness as it was not in the manual. Their tech support responded to my email promptly and told me that tuning knob will adjust when in iPod mode. Initially, I couldn't get left channel only when using my iPhone 4s, but it turned out to be the phone. My wife's iPhone 4s worked fine. I love this unit.

Floating FM Radio / MP3 Player

Floating FM Radio / MP3 Player
  • LCD display with digital clock
  • FM radio w/10 memory stations
  • Input USB key and SD card slot for MP3 player
  • Battery powered ( 6 x AA not included)
  • 2 - 2 inch speakers

I purchased this product and LOVE it!!!!! It very user friendly and has great loud sound! I plan on purchasing several more for gifts.....There really isnt anything I dont like about it....This is great for pools, hot tubes, boats, ect. It would be great for anyone who teaches water exercise classes.

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jWin JL-CD811 CD Clock Radio

jWin JL-CD811 CD Clock Radio
  • Stylish clock radio with top-loading CD player and digital AM/FM tuner
  • Supports CD, CD-R, and CD-RW formats; dual alarm function for 2-person households
  • Playback functions include random play and repeat (1 and all tracks) play
  • Easy-to-read jumbo LCD screen; adjustable sleep timer (59 minutes max)
  • 9-volt battery backup; measures 8.66 by 3.31 by 7.86 inches (W x H x D)

I bought this as a gift for my nine year old daughter. It has been a great purchase. After showing my daughter how to operate the different functions, she has been an independent user. This alarm clock allows my daughter to listen to music on the radio or CD player. She can choose to wake up to music,radio, or buzzer. The size is a plus; it has replaced her oversized radio/multi CD player,which was too bulky and had too many functions. The large #s are easy to read and can be dimmed w/dimmer button. The blue # color is a winner;it is different from the usual red or orange and is her favorite color. The sound quality is great for the product.

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even though this radio is cheap, I still expected something, anything, and what I got is an extra bright night light that keeps my gf up, and as a consequence i'm looking for another decent alarm. Did i mention it runs slow for me? It slows about 1 min per day, which is not a good feature in an alarm clock

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Don't buy this alarm clock! This CD alarm clock was a huge disappointment for me.

Things I like about this clock:

1. Big snooze button

2. Styling is decent

Things I hate about this clock:

1. Illegible in the dark -the portions of the display AROUND the numbers are so bright that there isn't enough contrast between the "background" and the numbers. As a result, the numbers are illegible at night.

2. Blindingly bright in the dark -Even on the "dim" setting, the display will blind you if you try to view it in the dark.

3. The labels for the various alarm settings (on, off, auto, buzzer) are misaligned with the slider switch that controls them. When you adjust the switch to the "on" position, the alarm is actually off. When you adjust the switch to the "off" position, the alarm is actually on "auto", etc. A nightmare.

4. The alarm functions are ridiculously complicated to set. Want to wake up to the sound of your favorite CD? Be sure to keep handy the owner's manual to remind you of the seven-step procedure you need to follow to set the alarm to play a CD.

Not worth the money. Not worth any money, in fact. It's on its way to the Salvation Army.

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The clock display does not match the photo above. The dark (background) area is actually lit up (a darker blue than the clock numerals) and it lights up the entire room at night. Audio quality is loud and clear, pretty good for the price.

I purchased this because I wanted an easy to read clock that would play CD-Rs & CD-RWs. It does not play them even though it is supposed to. Also, when playing a regular CD that was a very loud humming sound in the background. I was very disappointed.

The clock is easy to read and the radio seemed to work ok. But I wanted it for playing CD-Rs, so it is going back.

GrandStream GXV3140 IP Multimedia Phone With 4.3inch LCD

GrandStream GXV3140 IP Multimedia Phone With 4.3inch LCD
  • 4.3" digital TFT color LCD (480x272 resolution), 1.3M pixel CMOS camera with privacy shutter
  • SD/MMC/SDHC, USB, stereo headset with microphone, stereo audio output, video output, 2-angle stand, wall mountable
  • G.711 (a/u-law), G.722 (wideband), G.723.1, G.729A/B, GSM-FR, G.726-32 (pending) voice codec and AAC, MP3, WMA, Real, Ogg-Vorbis audio codec
  • Web browser, IM with Yahoo/MSN/Google, RSS feeds of weather/news/stocks, Internet radio, music/video streaming/playing from SD/USB card/Internet, Yahoo Flickr web photo album, alarm clock, calendar, games, music ring tone, etc
  • Intuitive graphic user interface with customizable skins, multi-language, multiple virtual screens

Believe me I have been waiting for this long time.

5 Years back I was already considering a solution like the GXV3140.

At that time the devices came with some kind of VOIP account bundle. So I was skeptical.

Especially Grandstream as a budget maker has a long history for hit or miss products.

If Grandstream can pull this product of the right way, make it work and actually deliver on the promises the brochure gives then this will be a 6 star product.

Grandstream has been promising before features that didn't make it into later firmware versions. So when I heard the GXV3140 comes out with all this killer applications built in I was even more skeptical.

The GXV3140 is clearly a device that focuses towards "one size fits all" in other words quantity.

The GXV3140 must be Grandstream's answer to the Germans "Eierlegende Wollmilchsau."*

Skype

Twitter

Facebook

Google voice

Browser

IM (Gmail, MSN, QQ, Yahoo)

Weather

Calender

(Display of holiday names in local language)

Currency converter

Calculator

Stock ticker

RSS feeds

Mp3 player

Internat radio (streaming)

phonebook

3 sip accounts

TV out connection (audio/video)

USB port

SD slot

With this vast amount of functionality the device can literally fulfill "little" technical wonders.

As a sidenode: The "bigger" wonders are fulfilled by you during the configuration period ;-)

The key to this success is that after configuration the user can enjoy all those applications without PC knowledge.

With all this privileges comes of course a new level of responsibilities. So keep in mind that running so many applications on a network device naturally increases the risk of becoming unstable.

The good thing (from security point of view) is most applications need to be started first before they can be used.

So first advice I would give is to update to the latest firmware.

(Users have been complaining about stability on earlier version.)

--Update June 2010: ---

Since the official GA release of Firmware 1.0.1.18 (GA) on 24th August 2009 the phone has come a loooong way.

It became considerably more stable and usable.

--Update November 2010 ---

Latest firmware version is 1.0.7.3

--Update March 20111 ---

Firmware was overhauled and Interface feels now fast and snappy.

Especially web browser seems to have been improved again.

--Update April 20111 ---

Linux Skype Ver. 2.2.xxx is now fully working with the GXV3140

This means that Grandstreams GXV3140 / Skype client now fully works with Windows / Mac / Linux Skype clients !!

Lets hope that next Skypes mobile client versions will include H.264 video.

Its pretty cool to have that much functionality after the initial 4 days of configuration.

So I don't need to startup my PC for smaller tasks anymore and my desk looks cleaner too.

My only complaint (for now) is that 3 sip accounts is no way enough for me.

(I would require roughly 6+). If you use 3 incoming DIDs (Tokyo, London, New York) with different providers and 3 others for outgoing calls than you already have an issue.

It can be an invaluable advantage to change the provider at a push of a button when the carriers voice quality varies. (as it does with many budget providers).

Having said that The GXV3140 has a remarkable voice quality even when the network is sluggish.

I am (still) a long term (5+ years) SNOM 360 user (and fan) and was buffled that the GXV3140 delivers even better voice quality.

The voice is literally crystal clear. Your partner will hear you taking a breath in and out. (and that's no joke !!)

I have to confirm yet if Netmeeting will work with it.

Ekiga does (think of it as a sip based Netmeeting) and there are other compatible softphones out there too like f.e portsip, eyeBeam etc.

Its pretty cool that you can receive PC calls.

This means that your partner does Not have to buy the GXV3140 if (s)he doesn't want to.

The video experience itself is pretty cool too, you can start to consider it a replacement for a video conference system.

For ADSL / SOHO users:

With Video Bit Rate : 256kbps it feels still like a web cam experience.

But, the video size is sufficient to confirm that its your mum on the other side.

That alone can make it worth if you live far away from people you care about.

I have read stories about it being used in health care as well.

For professional users:

With Video Bit Rate : 512kbps 1024kbps it delivers quality like a video conference system.

The video can be output on your TV screen.

The quality is so good that it will bring tears (not only) to your granny.

That stuff just wasen't possible not so long time ago.

The key to being able to enjoying it is the networks latency and that is where you (usually) don't have influence in long distance calls.

Nevertheless we have been running tests between Tokyo (Japan) and Frankfurt (Germany). The slower end of the line ran on a DSL 384 kbps SOHO connection.

We found that it gave us sufficient performance to make us want to deploy it further.

Summary:

Spending $250 on a VoIP phone is not cheap, but with this amount of functionality its well worth considering. You get the most used functions accessible from your desk for the fraction of a power consumption a PC has.

In addition it also offers non technical users accessible functionality in a new package.

If you think about being able to see the people that are close to you, whether or not they are within the same building or on the other side of the street, the country or the ocean, then this alone is a big time motivation.

While the video experience alone might be the most attraction for some, for me its really the combination with the other applications that pull each separate function together and make it a whole package.

Also note while most phones are not used when you dont call, this phone has a screensaver, digital photo frame function, mp3 player, internet radio streaming function, weather function, currency converter etc. all build in.

Have I even mentioned yet that the interface currently already supports 11 languages ?

English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Chinese (twice), Korean, Japanese etc. (the last language I am guessing is either Russian or perhaps Greek).

Overall, in its current state I think its well worth 4 stars.

Three things that immediately got my attention:

First, upgrade your phone to the latest firmware.

Second, I personally would like to see the GXV3140 offer at least 6 sip accounts.

This way I could take all current accounts from the "old" phone over to the new phone.

Thirdly, I would loved to see the device design more elegant and in different colours than black. (f.e coffee cream or pearl white) perhaps at some time skins will be available in several colors.

* A fairytale pig, which in addition gives milk and lays eggs and with a skin made of wool. You get the idea ? ;-)

This product shows Grandstreams commitment to develop it towards a six star killer application.

--Stay tuned ---

Buy GrandStream GXV3140 IP Multimedia Phone With 4.3inch LCD Now

I bought several HT 486 ATA to connect my family all around the world. It was easy to set up the device with Sipphone.com. The voice quality is great most of the time. When it is bad, I guess it has someting to do with the internet Traffic.

Pro: good value, light weight (both the adaptor and the 110-240 power adaptor) Actually, it is the smallest and lightest power adaptor I have ever seen (less than two thumbs put together, and very light). Offers a PC port and a PSTN port (when your voip fails, this PSTN port is your backup for regular phone). Economic in postage to send the unit overseas. The manufactuer grandstream.com website is very useful.

Con: Only has one phone line capability.

Read Best Reviews of GrandStream GXV3140 IP Multimedia Phone With 4.3inch LCD Here

I bought 2 of these devices and both stopped working in a few months, whereas Handytone 286 that I bought 4 years back works without any issues.

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Before everything, let me say that I purchased this product mainly because of the "Certified for Skype" note on the manufacturers web site. Other features seemed impressive as well so I thought it would be a great solution with some added features. Also, let me add, before I begin, that I am an IT guy so I have some technical knowledge.

Certified for Skype proved not to be really true. Out of the box my phone came without Skype or even Skype support. Had to find out, by reading blogs and support site, that I have to upgrade the firmware on the phone in order to be able to use Skype on it. This was not that straightforward, and I guess it would be difficult if you don't have technical knowledge.

After that Skype started working fine on the phone. But....

After several months, the phone screen would simply go black after turning the phone on and going to the Skype screen. Tried calling the support and was extremely disappointed. They basically told me to submit the ticket on their web support site. I explained to them that I already did and that it has been a week and nobody has even acknowledged my question. After that I got a feedback on the support ticket but when I replied with all of the items that they needed from me, again no response from them. It went so far that my ticket was automatically closed because there was no activity on the ticket from them! I called again and I explained that I had no response on the ticket, that the ticket is now closed and that I cannot use my Skype on the phone. Their response was simply to use other options on the phone to call people, to stop using Skype on it !!!!

So I went back on the forums and blogs and somehow figured out that I had to again do factory reset of the phone. I did that on my own and the phone worked for a while but several months later, again the black screen. Another reset and again it works, probably until the next black screen. Oh, and every factory reset that I do, deletes all of your data and settings so you have to do it all over again after every reset.

Support web site says that this is a firmware problem that has been resolved by a firmware fix. The only problem is that that was more then a year ago since they released that upgrade and I am still continuing to have the problem even though I have firmware that is up to date.

In essence, if you want to use this for Skype you might not have problems, but if you do you have to figure out how to resolve them yourself as "support" is useless.

I have not used other features of the phone a lot but they seem to work great.

I got this for my mom who refuses to master any kind of electronics. She's happy with picking up the receiver and pressing digits to dial a number, and that's it. So this phone is perfect for my use case mom uses it in a way she accepts and understands technology (effectively using one of my SIP accounts unbeknownst to her), but I can initiate the use of extra features. Say, I can call her and chat via video with absolutely no action required on her part.

First, the good stuff. It works.

Video quality differs. Skype is okay, H.264 at 512k, SIP not so much, H.263 even at 1024k sucks compared to skype's video.

Speakerphone is probably the best part of the whole experience. It's clear, loud, with full bass and treble.

Camera is actually quite good. What's more, it has a mechanical wheel on the back of the phone that adjusts the angle. This, combined with two-angle positioning stand gives the phone a lot of flexibility.

You could use it as conference room equipment the composite tv-out with stereo works just fine, and you can assign a hotkey for switching between LCD and a TV.

Another thing that 'just works' (although setting it up is not easy at all) is a screensaver feeding of a flickr account. I just upload pictures to my flickr and they appear on the screen of my mom's phone WITHOUT ANY ACTION from her. Priceless!

Now for the 'not so good' stuff.

The phone (purchased in 2012!) came with NO SKYPE support, despite the box and the manual. The recommended upgrade route (via TFTP via Grandstream servers) doesn't work. I had to set up an TFTP server and upgrade via it. Didn't bother with the 'stable' version, went for the latest beta instead. Consequently everything positive about this phone is based on the latest beta (which is NOT available on their web site, I downloaded it off some obscure internet forum. Their support looks like crap.

Just forget about anything else but the SIP/Skype functions. The Grandstream engineers must have figured that once they've built a computer inside, it's a shame not to load it with all sorts of crappy buzzwords. Too bad, it's all unusable. The browser just hangs (with the rest of the phone) when I try to stream a flash-based TV channel, thank you.

While fb/twitter and even some IMs technically work, using anything but voice+video is a pain. Grandstream clearly hasn't heard about the interface design and usability. It all sucks big time.

Even the non-essential phone functions suck: phonebook is unusable (to dial you need to press some 10-12 buttons, COME ON!), and for a truly great laugh just go to youtube and search for 'setting up a conference call on GXV3140': you need a full-time operator to be able to set up a conference call.

Things that work are: speakerphone, redial, hold, video loopback and transfer. That's it.

I'm still very satisfied, however: for $147 I paid for it it's a steal. I'm considering buying another one, for myself, to replace my ancient Cisco 7940G.

Hello Kitty: Digital Alarm Clock and Mini FM Radio

Hello Kitty: Digital Alarm Clock and Mini FM RadioI bought this for my daughter and simply read "Hello Kitty Alarm Clock with FM Radio" to me that says it is an alarm clock with a FM radio. That is not the case, the clock itself has no radio feature it comes with a bonus FM radio scanner. This scanner is hello kitty, you simply push a button and it scans for available FM stations it has no speakers only earbuds and the scanner quit working less then an hour out of the box.

This Christmas present is too soon to review for durability but it looks good. Only problem was the slow shipping....16 days from ordering!

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I bought this clock for my 3 year old daughter. It seems sturdy enough to handle being knocked off the night stand which I know will happen! The Hello Kitty sitting on top is the snooze button, and it seems securely fastened. Overall, it is very cute and made pretty well. I am glad I bought it.

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My wife loves this product. The alarm works very well. had this for over a year now and no issues. It keeps the exact time and the is bight display. Nice for kids or anyone who loves Hello Kitty.

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iLive iCP360 Color Changing 30-Pin iPod/iPhone Speaker Dock

iLive iCP360 Color Changing 30-Pin iPod/iPhone Speaker Dock
  • Dual alarm clock/radio plays and charges docked iPhone/iPod (iPhone/iPod sold separately)
  • Color changing can be set to automatically rotate or you can manually change the color
  • 20 FM radio presets with digital volume control
  • 3.5mm audio line input and composite video output
  • AC adaptor included, batteries sold separately

We just got the iLive ICP360 for our baby's room, so we can play music from an ipod in there. Overall i LOVE it, except for one rather annoying thing -we had the hardest time getting it into 12-hour (am/pm) mode, rather than 24-hour (16:00, 22:15, etc) mode. In fact we still don't know what we did to finally get it right. The instructions make no mention of it at all. We even called the company's customer service, and the person we spoke to said it did not have a 12-hour mode, which is obviously incorrent. Very annoying.

That said, here are the things i like about it:

cute! (for baby's room)

colors are great

acts as a night-light

ipod plays through easily

charges the ipod

clock has brightness settings

backup battery

ac power

audio line-in (for other sources)

video out (not sure why i'd need this yet)

2 alarms

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My daughter wanted this alarm clock for her 15th birthday. First of all, she could not get the time set correctly. And although it said it would work with any ipod touch, it would work with hers for a bit and then all of a sudden it would turn off the ipod. Obviously reliability is important when it comes to an alarm clock.

Also, the alarm clock is supposed to change colors and it shows it as a vibrant color, but it is not. After only having the alarm clock for a few days she said she wanted to return it and so we did and are awaiting a refund.

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DO NOT BUY!!!!I purchased this docking station for use in my son's room. It worked for a few weeks and then every time I tried to use it the sound didn't come out of the speakers. I have to unplug it to reset it every time I want to use and now that won't even work. This thing is a piece of junk. Amazon should ban this product from being sold and 30 days is not long enough of a return policy. It worked for 30 days, then crapped out. How is this my fault?

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We purchased this for our daughter last Christmas. It was really great and worked well with her iphone, for 5 minutes. Then it would work intermittently in 20 second increments. The clock and color changing features work beautifully, so we have a really cute clock. Too bad it didn't work as advertised and had a restocking fee to return it. :-(

My son was really excited about receiving this item along with his Ipod. Unfortunately, within 24 hours of turning the clock on, the LCD display stopped working. Well, started working too well would be more accurate. Every available spot on the display has remained lit for a while not despite several attempts to reset the clock. The speakers still work, but nothing on the LCD screen is legible.

Philips DC290/37 30-Pin iPod/iPhone Alarm Clock Speaker Dock (Brushed Aluminum)

Philips DC290/37 30-Pin iPod/iPhone Alarm Clock Speaker Dock
  • Compatibility: iPod mini; iPod nano 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G; iPod classic 5G, 5.5G, 6G; iPod touch 1G, 2G; iPhone, iPhone 3G/3GS
  • Wake to iPod/iPhone or FM radio with dual alarms; separate weekday/weekend settings
  • 10 watts (2 x 5) output power with Dynamic Bass Boost and selectable EQ curves
  • Auxiliary input for connecting external audio devices
  • Stylish aluminum design for durable good looks

First off, I hate to make a big deal about what may seem trivial to some. But, when spending around $100 for an alarm clock, I expect it to live up to my expectations. This is a great item, as long as you don't care about its two flaws.

First and foremost, whenever you plug an iPod or iPhone in, the clock automatically starts playing music at a high volume. This can get really annoying, especially when you wife its in bed sleeping with your infant son. I had read the directions multiple times. I guess Phillips engineers believes that every time anyone plugs an iPhone into an alarm clock they must want to hear music. Call me crazy, but I sometimes plug my iPhone in at night just to charge it.

The second, and far more trivial issue is the back light dimmer.m every time you plug in an iPhone or iPad it automatically resets to the brightest level. I'm not sure what the engineers were thinking on this one.

I could overlook the issue with the backlight, but the automatic blaring music is just too much. I'm going back to my iHome IP9. It may not look as sleek, but at least I will not longer wake up my baby when I go to bed at night.

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I bought this item to use in the bathroom so I could listen to music and keep an eye on the time in the mornings. The speakers sound really good. But the display is so dim (even on the brightest setting), the clock numbers are kind of small, and because of the mirror finish, the display is not easily visible. The build quality is nice only the top plate and front grill are aluminum.

The first night, I tried it out as an alarm clock. In the morning, my thought was that the snooze button was a little too stiff. The display legibility was not much of an issue when you're that close, but I still wish the digits were a little bigger. I'm making these comparisons to my regular alarm clock the iHome iH9. Another nuisance was that because the alarm buttons are so close to the snooze button, that if you accidentally hit it when the alarm is going off, the snooze button no longer works.

Now it's back in the bathroom, being used as a good-looking music player that's a little selfish about revealing the time.

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I initially got this unit to have an extra place to charge our many iPhones and iPods and to use as an alarm clock. Upon setting it up, however, I was very surprised at the richness of the sound it produced. I am pretty picky about sound quality and I don't really like to play my iPod on anything other than my Bose Sound Dock. Although I wouldn't say it is on the same par with a Bose system, I am very happy with the sound quality of this unit. It's nice to be able to listen to music in another part of the house and to be satisfied with the sound. It isn't tinny sounding and doesn't distort while playing at louder volumes. The ability to charge both iPhones and iPods is a huge plus for us. The FM radio is very nice, too. We often get static when trying to listen to stations a little far away, but this unit brought them in loud and clear. I was surprised. The radio scans for clear stations and you can program several as favorites. I read in other reviews that some people were not happy with the brightness of the display on the clock. I can see what they mean, it is dimmer than most digital alarm clocks. For me, this was not a problem. There is a button to change the brightness to three different levels. It is sort of hard to see during the day, but I don't mind because I use other clocks to tell time anyway. If you would be using this unit as a clock, I you would probably want it to be brighter. I really like the handy little remote that this comes with. You can do everything with it easily, fast forward, rewind, pause, repeat, etc. The design of the unit is very nice looking and attractive. It's a silver color and doesn't stand out like and eye sore in the room. Overall, I'd highly recommend this dock and having tried it out, I'd buy gladly buy another.

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This Philips Docking Clock Radio is a great addition to my iPod/iPhone accessory lineup. To begin, I use this docking station with my IPHONE 4, and it works seemlessly. I could not find any information prior to receiving this radio about if it would be compatible with the iPhone 4, and to my surprise, it works perfectly and I haven't received any "incompatible" errors.

This docking station is quite small. At about 10.5 inches across, 7 inches deep, and around 3 inches high, it's a great size for a bed side table, or even a desk at work, which is where I keep mine.

Volume range is outstanding. I can listen quietly to Pandora at my desk without neighbors hearing anything, but if I need music for a presentation, I can take this into a conference room and fill the entire room with rich music.

I love this docking station. I think it's one of the best on the market. It's sleek, small, and powerful!

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This little clock radio is better than the average ones out there these days. It definitely has its good points but it has a few not so good ones too. The things that I like about this one starts with the sound. It is one of the best sounding MP3 dock/clock radios that I've heard. It has good volume without a lot of speaker rattle at the higher/louder levels. And it has a few pre-set EQ playback options, something that you don't get with very many of these, and has DBB too. And then you have the EQ settings in your iPod too for helping with the sound playback. What happened to radio's having controls that you can use to adjust the sound to what you like? Radios & Stereos used to have at least a Bass dial & Treble dial or High & Low dial sound controls. And the best ones had at least a 3 band equalizer (per side) or up to a 5 to 7 (or more) band equalizer. I haven't even seen one with just the single high/low dial in years. The radio is one of the better ones that I've tried. The town where I live sits down in a pocket in the Colorado Rocky Mountains and I'm almost completely surrounded by high mountains. This makes radios almost useless here since the radio waves cant pass through the mountains. But this one does manage to pick up a few of the stations in the area, a lot more than my expensive stereo can pick up since it won't get any of them at all.

Now for the dislikes; The little remote that comes with this is kinda handy but a little small. Its not really needed except for adjusting the display brightness and isn't really a very good idea in my opinion. That's all everybody needs is one more remote to try to keep track of and as small as it is that just makes it easier to loose it. At least the display brightness is adjustable but it needs to be brighter. Turn it on and it gets a little brighter but not very much. When you turn it off it drops to the medium level by default and you cant see that more than a few feet away. It also has a low level that you can only see right in front of it in a dim room, and then you can turn it off. It can only be adjusted with the little remote so if you loose that your screwed. Because when the radio turns on it automatically goes to the brightest setting and when you turn it off it drops to the medium setting. There's one other thing that I don't really like about it and that's the way that my iPod sticks up out of it. Sticking up in the air like that makes it easy to be hit by something or hit it with my hand when trying to turn the alarm off or hit the snooze. It might take a lot to hurt it but I don't really want to see if I cant break off the dock plug by hitting it accidentally trying to stop the alarm.

Overall its a pretty good little pod-dock/alarm-clock/radio thing. There's some better ones out there but there's also a lot of worse ones out there too. So, with its price and everything else, I'd put it at the upper end of your shopping/compare list if your looking for one of these.

SoundMaster FM Travel Alarm Clock with Docking Port for iPod

SoundMaster FM Travel Alarm Clock with Docking Port for iPod
  • Compatible with all iPod models(brackets included)
  • AM/FM Radio
  • Alarm and snooze function
  • Canvas travel bag included
  • Requires 4 AA batteries, not included.

I received this sound system as a gift and really appreciate it. It has settings for using my iPod (the setting I use most), listening to the radio, and also functions as an alarm clock. The fact that I can charge my iPod while using it with the speakers is one of its best features. I really like how portable it is with it's own case and everything. Although it can use battery power, I generally use it plugged in. I'd recommend this product for a more economical version of the iHome.

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I bought this for use in my college dorm, and personally, i regret it. It takes like.. 8 batteries. and I dont know if this was just the case for the specific one i baught, but the speakers were blown. you could barely hear the music over the loud static and crackle. what a waste. Invest the $50 dollars in the Ihome.

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Giving this item 2 stars is being generous. I bought this for my ipod to use in the office. The volume is crazy, level 4 is too low (even though I have it about 1 foot away from me) & level 5 is too loud. The radio never gets reception. It doesn't charge my ipod at all. In fact it acutally froze my ipod on several occasions. I've had my ipod docked all day & the battery is completely drained. Don't waste your money. Get an iLuv (which I bought for my home) or an iHome. 100% better quaility than this piece of crap. Extremely dissappointed.