The world’s a stage with this rechargeable iPod speaker.

For a traveling musician, event coordinator, or just someone who likes to party on the go, Ion Audio’s Block Rocker packs a punch in a portable, rechargeable package. This well-made audio system includes a ton of input and output options into a good-looking, great sounding package that leaves no excuse for failing to get your party started.

Start with ease of transport—the collapsible handle and rugged polymer wheels make it easy to take the Block Rocker almost anywhere, plus two roadie-style side handles give the 35lb box portability that most can manage. The built-in rechargeable battery is good for up to 12 hours in one go.

Attractively built with white side panels and brushed aluminum trim, the true beauty of the Block Rocker lies in its flexibility. If you’re just looking for an external iPod speaker that packs a punch, set your iPod into the built-in dock with adjustable support wedge (a handy alternative to the removable dock adapters many portable iPod players employ), and crank it up. The 25-watt two-way speaker can blast clear, rich sound that, if anything, we found a little heavy on the bass (more on that in a moment).

If you’re looking for a more interactive experience, this is where the Block Rocker shines. With a balanced XLR microphone input, 1/4-inch line-level input for an instrument or additional microphone, and stereo RCA inputs for external audio gear, the Block Rocker becomes an instant karaoke machine or backup band for the solo singer or musician. Each input channel features an independent gain control, and the unit has a Master gain control as well. The aluminum pots seem well seated in their channels, and all of the jacks and controls are well built. The unit also features a 1/4-inch stereo out jack to connect an external amplifier, PA system, or recording device and a standard 35.5mm pole mount.

One thing missing from the Block Rocker is a built-in EQ. While many users may simply rely on the speaker’s full, rich bass response to play prerecorded music from an iPod or CD player—certainly a positive feature and no drawback as far as it goes—instruments and microphones used with the Block Rocker would benefit from onboard EQs or pre-amps, especially given the Block Rocker’s beefy default sound profile.

If you’re looking for a flexible, portable audio solution, 
the Block Rocker hits all the right notes.

COMPANY: Ion Audio
CONTACT: www.ion-audio.com
PRICE: $299.99
REQUIREMENTS: iPod or other external audio source
Lots of input options. Easy connectivity to external amp or PA. Full, rich sound. Very portable.
Could use built-in EQ.