Product Reviews

Macally's TunePro looks very different from other iPod radio alarm clocks we've seen. In fact at first glance you wouldn't guess it was a clock radio at all. The clock LED is displayed from behind the mirrored fascia, actually an NXT flat panel speaker that plays audio from a docked iPod, the radio, or any device with a 3.5mm input jack.

Along the front of the unit beneath the speaker are buttons for setting the two alarms and the clock, sleep, radio preset and volume,

ADVERTISEMENT

and selecting the audio source. There's also a large snooze button, which doubles as the on/off and mute switch. We're glad to see the snooze button in such a prominent position but its proximity to the dock itself could cause an iPod to be knocked over during early morning fumbling. And that could be disastrous.

On the back are an FM antenna, sockets for line in and included AM antenna, a DC connector, and buttons that dim the display and add more bass or treble.

The TunePro is easy enough to set up and operate and looks reasonably good, although the mirrored speaker does smudge easily. The whole unit and especially the speaker feel a little flimsy though.

Audio quality is reasonable. The NXT speaker packs a fair punch and picks out detail well. However, there's a lack of warmth in the tone but other than that, it's pretty good.

At £79.95, the TunePro is a bit expensive and unless you're bowled over by its handsome looks or space is at a premium, it may pay you to consider alternatives from iHome, Gear 4, and XtremeMac.