Digital Trends

mStation 2.1 Stereo Orb

October 3rd, 2007 | by Jason Tomczak

Sound Stage & Impressions

Its unique shape and the resultant multi-directional placement of the speakers and subwoofer make for an interesting and refreshingly different sound experience. Instead of pushing two channels of sound straight forward, the Orb sends sound in an omni-directional pattern. Up close to the Orb, sound patterns are dramatically different every 90 degrees around the sphere. The farther away from the Orb you get, the sound fills out and seems to blend back into a comprehensive whole. In smaller rooms - private offices, bedrooms, dorm rooms, etc. - the Orb sounds very good. In much larger rooms or wide open spaces, the Orb loses some of its punch, delivering a limited zone of pleasing audio.

Under ideal conditions, such as in smaller rooms, the playback from the Orb is enjoyable. Don't be mislead in thinking that the Orb is on par with expensive systems that would appeal to audiophiles. It isn't, and it doesn't try to fake that status. It's a semi-budget sound system that produces good quality sound for just about $100 USD.

Conclusion

The mStation 2.1 Stereo Orb-U is a fun little iPod speaker system, ideal for use in dorm rooms, small offices, art studios, kids rooms, etc. The system produces good sound from such a compact little body. And though it won't appeal to any serious audio buffs, it's great for those who want a simple, casual way of enjoying their tunes. At only $100 USD, it's a fair bargain too.


Pros:

• Fun, compact spherical design
• Good, enjoyable sound
• Works with nearly all iPods, including older Firewire versions
• Bass and Treble controls on remote

Cons:

• Not for audiophiles
• Remote is way too big
• No video out port for modern iPods