Apparently the technology used in the IceKube, although robust, means that the frequency response is limited – especially at low end. And they are inefficient, requiring a bulky 15W power supply.

The K-box, only available here: http://www.kerchoonz.com/kbox does the pretty much the same thing, only much better. It uses SFX technologies patented “gel audio” technology which gives it a wider response (40Hz-20KHz) and only draws 1W which means it can be usb or battery powered. Looks pretty sweet too.

These could be really useful little devices in accessibility terms too – Imagine being able to turn your wheelchair tray or table (or absolutely any flat surface) into a loudpeaker – well stop imagining! Now you can.

How many people have poked a dimple or accidentally made a hole in a paper loudspeaker cone while exploring to see what the sound feels like? With these babies you’ll be able to feel the vibrations through your hands without worrying about damaging a loudspeaker cone. Ideal for increasing accessibility to music especially for deaf or hard of hearing children I’d think.

Cheers.

D

Lightweight – rechargeable battery and sound quality streets ahead of the others…. BUt Pretty expensive … Am sure if Battery use is not a concern you would be advised to go for the older models a £150 or so.

The other key point with this set is the ipod dock folds away making it pack much easier for keep in the luggage count down.

Am going to keep my eye on that Ice KUBE thingy though I think it may serve a vibro acoustic purpose….. time will of course tell.

but not available in the uk at the moment

http://www.noiseaddicts.com/2009/03/icekube-portable-best-speaker-gadget-ipod-laptop/

This would also work well perhaps providing vibrational feedback to kids….