Very stylish to look at. Produces very nice sound at moderate volume. USB port allows syncing with your computer while the iPad is connected
Up close it feels flimsy. Sounds awful at higher volume
The JBL OnBeat looks great and sounds pretty good at a moderate volume. Just don't ask too much of it....
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Published: 2012-02-05, Author: David , review by: cnet.com
The JBL OnBeat is a fairly compact iPhone/iPad audio dock. It offers decent-enough sound for its size and a pass-through USB connection for computers that allows you to sync a docked iPod/iPhone/iPad with iTunes on your computer.
The iPad can't be rotated to landscape mode when docked; speaker sounds a bit thin.
If you can look past its inability to dock iPads horizontally, the affordable JBL OnBeat is a decent little iPad/iPhone speaker dock that's well-suited for nightstand use.
Abstract: If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, diverse dock for your desk, bedside table or kitchen counter, the JBL OnBeat is a neat and not too expensive option that offers good overall audio. However, we feel this “loudspeaker” (as JBL titles it) shou..
Built for iPads, iPhones, and iPods. Quality audio performance at moderate volumes. Charges docked device even when powered off. Video output for television viewing.
Distorts at high volumes. iPad sometimes blocks IR sensor for remote. Dock arm supports horizontal viewing for iPhones and iPods only, not iPads.
There aren't any masterpieces in the affordable iPad speaker dock category just yet, but the JBL OnBeat is better than the thin competition, despite some irksome flaws. ...
Abstract: OnBeat continues and actually improves upon a new design theme JBL introduced last year: the “Weave.” Weave moves past the company’s earliest iPod and iPhone speakers, which used soft curves with alien-inspired shapes—saucers, alien pods, and the like...
Good build quality, Coherent design, Will hold an iPad
Bass falls apart at high volume
Small and well-built, the JBL OnBeat offers quality at a price competitive with its rivals. However, its diddy drivers struggle to dole out enough low end at high volumes, meaning they're only suitable for relaxed listening, not for powering a party or ro...
Abstract: Image Gallery: The JBL OnBeat has a rather snazzy oval shaped design, with swathes of silver edging and a peppered grille covering the speakers. Available in black or white, from the centre of the dock comes an interchangeable cradle arm. Two bracket...
Abstract: The JBL OnBeat is a great dock for the iPod, iPhone or iPad, with the style and the high performance audio you would expect from JBL. This speaker gets loud and stays crisp, making it a great addition to any party or living room.RELATEDJBL Unveils OnB...