Altec Lansing’s Octiv Mini might be the most cost-effective bedside dock available on today’s market. It’s small enough that it doesn’t take up a great deal of space, it’s simple in function, and it includes a free iPhone app to bring it’s (surprisingly good) alarm clock feature to life. At the same time, the Octiv Mini is more than meets the eye, providing a better than expected audio experience, with surprisingly full base and crisp treble. It won’t replace your $500 Dr. Dre professional sound dock, but for the money, it’s unique design and comparatively good audio are a winning combo.
The box includes everything you need to use the dock – iPhone adapter with a back stand, an iPod Touch adapter, an AC power brick, and the Octiv itself. It didn’t come with an iPhone 4 adapter, but I happened to have one lying around. If you don’t, the Octiv holds your iPhone 4 perfectly steady without any adapter at all, making this a truly uniform solution.
Conclusion: The Altec Lansing Octiv is a great solution for someone who wants a decent sound dock or alarm stand for their iPhone, but doesn’t want to spend a lot of money. It wont sync with your iPhone, but then again that isn’t it’s purpose. For more information, or to purchase the Octiv Mini direct from Altec Lansing ($50), visit their product page on the web.