Genius SP-Tempo 350 review

It's certainly cheap, but this dock's basic features, limited usability and confused sound make it thoroughly uninspiring Tested at £30.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

It may be cheap, but this dock is sonically uninspiring

Pros

  • +

    Allows you to transfer computer files

  • +

    cheap

  • +

    solid low frequencies

Cons

  • -

    Can't charge certain iPod's

  • -

    can't access iPod menus

  • -

    confused sound

Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.

Even compared to other docks, the Genius SP-Tempo 350 is super cheap, although there is a price to pay with regards basic features and functionality.

For starters, it can't charge the second-gen iPod Touch, 120GB iPod Classic or the fourth-gen iPod nano.

The credit card remote only performs basic functions and doesn't have the ability to access and navigate iPod on-screen menus.

There are, however, auxiliary and USB inputs, with the latter allowing you to transfer files from a computer.

Sound quality is a mixed back. Low frequencies are relatively potent and solid-sounding, but the overall presentation errs on the messy and confused side – there's no sense of clarity or openness to the sound and the speakers are too quick to show signs of distress when you ramp up the volume.

This dock is cheap, but sonically uninspiring.

See all dock system reviews

What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

Read more about how we test