Amp Systems For The Apple Ipod And Other Mp3 Units

The Ion Tailgater PA is a pro quality speaker system and can be employed with a variety of inputs. Though intended basically for the iPhone and the iPod, the speaker can be used just as effectively with musical instruments as well as mp3 players. Styled to look like a classic electric guitar amplifier, the Tailgater portable is highly transportable and can be employed outside or at a venue just as simply due to it's self contained battery. Complete with an iPod docking station and multiple inputs the Ion Tailgater is without doubt the entire product.

It has a robust and rugged but portable construction including a carry handle. It's only mono, but most transportable docks are too little to really get stereo imaging anyway. It has a two way speaker design, with a six inch woofer and 1.5 inch 1.5" dome tweeter. The sole real con is that it does not have any bass controls and the default sound is a bit muddy, but this can be changed using the iPods equaliser. As for sound volume, it can get loud. Even outdoors I rarely go past third of max volume.

The Tailgater is compatible with a large range of musical instruments and mp3 players. Moreover it is also compatible with CD and DVD players. The amplifier is designed with several inputs for the microphone and other devices and a high quality microphone with XLR connection is incorporated with the package.

A further great characteristic is that it operates on both mains power and the built in chargeable battery pack. Battery life is stated as being eight hrs at two thirds volume according to the instruction book. We haven't been able to fully check it yet, but at two thirds volume it ran for 3+ hours and the meter still showed 3 out of four lights! Consequently there is no real doubt that the eight hour claim is possible which is amazing. charging takes about four hours and there is a handy battery level indicator to display the level of the present battery charge.

This fantastic piece of hardware is an audiophile's dream. The heavy duty output and the light-weight but rough construction make it the ultimate amp for outdoor parties and performances. But that isn't all. The sound system can be used within a venue just as well. The sound system has been widely appreciated by fans and critics alike.

So to recap the Tailgater PA's key features:
+ portable iPod docking station that lasts for eight hrs on the in-built battery
+ actually loud enough to be useful outdoors
+ 8 hour battery life
+ good sound quality
+ includes with a mic
+ works with iPhone and an array of other equipment
- no treble adjustment, need to use iPod equaliser to scrub up sound output if you need to
- claimed twelve hour full recharge time for the battery pack, just need to plan upfront for usage

By: Jeremy Smithson

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The Ion tailgater Portable PA is a professional quality speaker system and can be employed with a variety of inputs. Despite the fact that it is intended essentially for the iPhone and the iPod, the speaker can be used just as effectively with musical instruments as well as mp3 players.