Logitech Pure-Fi Express review

It only costs fifty quid, so don't expect the Earth to move when you play your music, but for lazing in the bath with tunes, it's the perfect accompan Tested at £50.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Portable and solid-sounding, it's a great iPod dock for the money

Pros

  • +

    Well-balanced sound

  • +

    takes batteries

  • +

    relatively portable

Cons

  • -

    Lacks the composure and presence of bigger MP3 speaker systems

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The Pure-Fi Express joins Logitech's range of speaker systems that complement the ubiquitous iPod. This product includes a protective case, and the dock runs on batteries, as well as mains, so is clearly geared at those wishing to share their little Apple portable's tunes wherever they go.

However, unlike its slightly smaller Pure-Fi Anywhere sibling, the Express doesn't come with an internal battery-charging system. Instead, it runs on six AA cells, which give up to 10 hours play. This situation isn't a major problem, but it does mean its family rival nudges ahead a couple of steps in the portability stakes.

A little more bass
Where the Pure-Fi Express makes more of name for itself is in one area that does count for plenty: the sound department. This unit's added bulk over the helps it deliver greater bass reach than its smaller sibling. Now we're not talking about ground-shaking lower stuff – for that you need something bigger: say, Acoustic Energy's complete-with-subwoofer Aego M-System. However, you can at least detect some of the lower depths to Massive Attack's unearthly rumblings during Karmacoma.

The Bristol band does, however, swiftly expose most docks of this relatively compact size: hook up your iPod, select Protection, twist the dial north, and the little speakers take fright, leaving you with a somewhat confused and distorted sound.

Still a simple system
Stick to less frequency-pushing tunes, though, and this unit is fine. Give it just a little shelf space, and it'll happily deliver a well-balanced sonic background to your chopping in the kitchen, lazing in the bedroom, or soaking in the bathroom.

So despite criticism, this unit still earns a very fine five-star verdict. For £50, it's not fair to expect a life-changing audio experience.

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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