Sonic Gear i-Steroid review

What you need to know

Reviewed by: Chris Stevens

Reviewed on: 11 October 2006

Tags: Sonic Gear, Sonic Gear i-Steroid, remote control, electronics, speakers

We like:

Simple setup

We don't like:

Valve does little to enhance the sound, though it does colour it in a way that has subjective appeal to some listeners

You might also need:

Other audio sources can be added at will -- so long as they have a 3.5mm output

CNET UK judgement:

Transistors overtook valves decades ago, but for some audio equipment (notably guitar amplifiers and some microphones) tubes give a warmer, subjectively more enjoyable sound. It's a struggle to justify a cheaper valve stage in an entry-level iPod amplifier, but the i-Steroid gives it a decent try

Full review:

The hearty, reassuring glow of valves was once a common sight inside electronic equipment. These little beacons to the electrical age still hold a romantic appeal today. They're the open-hearth fire of the information revolution. Many modern musicians use valves in their Marshall stacks, and some of the most sought-after studio equipment is packed full of the bright glass bulbs. Continue Reading...