Onkyo DS-A1 review

What you need to know

Reviewed by: Steve Guttenberg

Reviewed on: 6 July 2005

Tags: Onkyo, Onkyo DS-A1, outputs, songs, dock connector

We like:

Docking station controls iPod transport functions such as play, pause, stop, forward; iPod-inspired styling; charges your iPod's batteries; video output for photo display

We don't like:

Video output doesn't duplicate iPod controls, so you can't see menu screens at a distance; no digital audio output; compatibility limitations mean that not all control functions, such as accessing playlists, are possible with older iPods or older Onkyo electronics; doesn't work with early-generation iPods that lack a dock connector

You might also need:

An Onkyo A/V receiver or home-cinema system

CNET UK judgement:

Onkyo's interactive iPod docking cradle makes it easy to play your iPod over your Onkyo home-cinema or stereo system

Full review:

The flood of podcessories is reaching catastrophic proportions, though much of it is mere flotsam and jetsam -- questionable designs, overpriced gadgets and some truly awful speakers. Onkyo's DS-A1 Remote Interactive Dock is a more serious contender, at least for owners of Onkyo components. Compatibility extends to literally millions of Onkyo units equipped with Remote Interactive (RI) jacks manufactured over the past decade, and all dockable iPods, including the iPod Mini and iPods with colour screens. The DS-A1 retails for around £70. Continue Reading...