Choosing a satisfying, good-sounding set of speakers for your home is a lot like settling on a significant other. Call me a little too nitpicky, but I think it’s significant. I don’t want a noisy home with no harmony. And as with any other vital decision in life, some preparatory research/soul-searching always helps. Dr. Phil and CNET can give you some very useful general guidelines, but you’ve really got to spend some quality personal time with the entity in question to figure out if it’s what you really want.

This last week, my monthly impulsive buy was due, and I had my eyes set on a good iPod docking system. I queried Become for “ipod docking system” (blatant plug!) and began my search for a harmonious alliance. Looking through CNET, Macworld and playlist mag gave me a good general idea of which systems were widely recognized as quality products, so I short-listed my decision down to three that were worth a look: The Bose SoundDock, Apple’s new iPod Hi-Fi speakers and the Altec Lansing’s inMotion iM7.

But I quickly realized that those sites, while being fine sources of objective information, had their individual takes on the more subjective aspects of sound quality, treble detail and bass depth; in fact, they often held totally opposing opinions on the three systems. However, doing this research online armed me with a very good sense of the general pros and cons of each product. So when I walked into the nearest Apple Store, I knew which qualities and pitfalls I needed to look out for in the 3 potential buys.

I eventually settled on Apple’s iPod Hi-Fi system, persuaded by its more powerful yet smooth sound and its rich bass. Nothing’s perfect, so I had to compromise a little on the treble detail. I did my research, knew what I wanted and went for it–and I did it all without a counseling session on national TV.

Mustafa

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