Looking over the choices, I came across the Ailph Jambox. The Jambox is a small (about the size of a wireless home phone handset, except a little thicker), rectangular box that comes in several colors (Blue, Red, Black, Blue, and Grey). Ailph claims the box can output up to 85 decibles of sound which is right in the middle of the sound output of an average motorcycle and a rock concert. The sound is generated by a pair of ultra domed speakers capable of both low (woofer) and high (tweeter) output. Based on my experience thusfar, I can vouch that the output from the Jambox can fill up a 25' x 19' room very nicely.
The Jambox comes with a mini USB cable for connection to a host computer as well as charging with the included AC adapter. Aliph claims a full charge can product 10 hours of continuous playback depending on the sound levels. While I have not pressed the Jambox, I can say that device battery life does quite well on continuous play that myself or my wife have put it through.
One of the very cool features of the Jambox is its ability to connect to a host computer to change various settings (i.e. Multiple BT connections) and apply new/additional software updates to the device. Everything from 3D "Live" sound, voice calling, SIRI access (when connected to a iphone 4s), and much more can be added at any time. All you need is to install the MyTalk installer and then navigate to the MyTalk page in your browser when the Jambox is connected via USB to your computer. Once recognized, the Jambox can be updated very convieniently thru the web interface.
Aliph Jambox - $199.99
Pros
- Good sound from a small, compact form factor
- Portability
- Easy to use and pair with phones, tablets, etc
- Good battery life on a full charge
- Additional features can be added via MyTalk
- Voice integration with compatible mobile phones
- Expensive
- Sound "muffles" at the highest volume levels