Monitor Audio i-deck 200 review

The Monitor Audio i-deck is an accomplished speaker dock and at its new price is very appealing Tested at £250

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Low on frills but high on quality; at this price it's a sonic star

Pros

  • +

    Elegant design

  • +

    open, detailed sound

  • +

    balanced delivery

  • +

    capable of filling large rooms

Cons

  • -

    Lacks iPad support

  • -

    No USB connection

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This Monitor Audio dock has had a huge £150 removed from its price tag; it has, in consequence, gained a star.

On the face of it, the i-deck 200 is a simple speaker dock for iPod and iPhone.

There’s no iPad support, wireless connectivity, or USB connection for charging other devices. Extra features are limited to a 3.5mm auxiliary input and a smart, curved remote.

Two 4in bass drivers, twin 25mm metal dome tweeters and a bass management system take care of the dock's sound, while there’s also Automatic Phase Correction to adjust the sonic balance according to where it is in the room.

Sonically, it’s always been strong; at almost half the price, and among new peers, it’s only more impressive.

Listening to Lana Del Rey’s Off To The Races, there’s solid bass and a good sense of dynamics helping the track sound punchy and fast. Treble notes are exciting without sounding bright and Del Ray's languid vocals sound natural.

The i-deck was unlucky not to win five stars at the old price. If audio performance is your key concern, at this price it’s hard to argue with what’s on offer here.

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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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