PRODUCT REVIEW
iPod Speaker System Keeps Tunes Flowing in Wet Conditions

The last time I reviewed a waterproof case (Otterbox; May 2, 2007) I was impressed, but in real life I never used it once the review was done, mostly because the waterproof earphones I reviewed with it (H2O Audio Waterproof Headphones; May 2, 2007) weren't very good. The nicest thing I could say about them was:

They work. You can listen to music, even when your head is completely immersed. However, that's about all I can say for them. The sound quality is so-so, they're not particularly comfortable, and the coiled cable ("to eliminate tangles") is shorter than I'd have liked.

Because iceBar2 combines a case, amplifier, and a pair of tiny speakers, the whole waterproof headphone thing is a moot point. And as a result I'm using this product every day and enjoying it immensely.

Waterproof or Underwater-Proof?

iceBar2 has several compelling features besides its waterproofness and built-in speakers. For one thing, I really like the integrated flip-out stand.

I appreciate the click-wheel membrane, which provides full control of my iPod nano. Another nice touch is that it includes a wrist strap and floatable buoy so if you accidentally drop it in the pool or bathtub, it won't sink to the bottom.

Speaking of submerging, the instruction booklet implies that it might not be such a good idea. To wit:

Although the product is waterproof, it is not designed for use underwater. Do not submerge underwater.

So, of course, I felt obliged to do just that. (There's no end to the things I'll do for you, gentle reader.) Anyway, I dropped it into the bathtub a couple of times for a couple of minutes and my iPod nano was dry and unscathed both times.

Speak Up

I'd be remiss if I didn't point out a couple of things that irritated me. First, while the unit has an automatic shut down feature, it works by detecting audio input. So although the feature works as promised, it only works if you pause or turn your iPod off. If you leave your iPod playing, you'll not only run down the iceBar2 batteries (4 x AAA) but you'll drain your iPod's battery as well. I'd have preferred a timer that didn't depend on me remembering to do something (i.e. pause or turn off the iPod).

Although the amp and speakers sound pretty darn good considering the size of the unit, I found that I could barely hear soft passages -- like the introduction to Maroon 5's live acoustic rendition of "If I Fell" or the first part of Wilco's" At Least That's What You Said," from (A Ghost is Born) -- in the shower.

Still, none of these gripes is a deal-breaker. I like this little device and expect to use it in my shower for a long, long time.

The bottom line: I like to listen to music when I shower, shave or take a bath, and so far this is the best thing I've found. I just wish it could be turned up just a wee bit louder.