Libratone Beat review

The Libratone Beat iPod dock is wool clad and comes in a choice of four colours Tested at £560

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Some docks sound better, but if the interesting looks and wireless convenience appeal, it’s a top choice

Pros

  • +

    FullRoom technology

  • +

    punchy, open sound

Cons

  • -

    Bass not as deep as the best

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.

The Libratone Beat isn’t your average dock. For a start, the cashmere-clad, 47cm-high unit has no dock – it’s wireless.

This isn’t another new Apple AirPlay product, though: instead it comes with a USB dongle for your PC and an iThing plug.

Sound bouncing off the walls
Within that luxury outer layer lie five drivers that use proprietary FullRoom technology to bounce sound off the walls and create a larger sense of space.

It works, too. The upright unit spreads music a decent distance, and you get much the same delivery straight on or to the sides.

There’s some loss of directness and impact, but put it about 20cm from a rear wall and it delivers a full, weighty sound.

It still doesn’t dig as deep as the best, or reach the sparkliest highs, but it is enjoyably punchy and open.

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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.

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