If you bought the new iPhone 5 or iPad mini, the first thing you realized was that the iconic and familiar dock connector has been changed to a much smaller “lightning” connector. Good for faster connection, but bad for your dozens of accessories now rendered useless. And if you were a speaker dock fan, you had to go back to listening through the anemic integrated speaker. But there’s good news: The first speaker docks with a lightning connector are now available.
JBL has just released the OnBeat Micro ($99) and OnBeat Venue LT ($199). Both feature the full, rich sound you’ve come to expect from JBL, and both are made to fit the new Apple IDevices. The Micro is a battery powered compact speaker that can go just about anywhere. Perfect for those who like to keep it simple.
The larger Venue LT is better suited for audiophiles who need a little more versatility. Boasting two full-range transducers and two tweeters, the Venue features their exclusive TrueStream Bluetooth technology, and can connect to up to eight devices, and can also connect to your TV via component connectors. You also get the free, downloadable MusicFlow™ app, which allows you to create customized playlists, edit mixes, adjust volume and EQ settings, and browse album artwork.
The new lightning connector is finally starting to sound good.
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