Sometimes iPods can be a bit of a catch-22 for music lovers: they’re the ultimate individualized (sometimes antisocial) listening device, but with the right speakers they would also be the perfect vehicle for portable playlists at impromptu parties. Of course, there are plenty of iPod docks and speakers on the market, but plugging a device that’s meant to be so portable into a clunky set of speakers somehow feels incongruous, going against the take-it-anywhere spirit of the device.
As I come to terms with the fact that carrying a giant boombox everywhere you go is both inconvenient and occasionally inappropriate, I’ve been on the hunt looking for an iPod dock that looks good without taking up all my shelf space. It’s harder to find than you would think, but I’ve gotten to be a huge fan of the Altec Lansing Octiv Mini, which packs a lot of speaker power into its neat little 4.2 x 4.2 x 7.8 frame. It’s also compatible with all models of iPods and iPhones which, again, is harder to find in dock speakers than you would think. Different people have different speaker priorities, but to me this means that I can change music quickly (or yield DJ duty and let someone else plug in) without having to hassle with an elaborate system or, worse, subject my friends to the tinny sound of laptop speakers.
If you happen to be busting out these speakers for an end-of-summer barbecue, go ahead and put them to good use blasting Best Coast’s new album Crazy For You. A sweet, beach-y throwback, it’s the perfect soundtrack to the dwindling days of summer, the time when we simultaneously get sentimental about sunburns past and brace ourselves for fall. Yes, it really is just around the corner, so revel in these sun-drenched tunes while it still feels seasonal.
