From the moment you open its box, the Geneva Lab Model L speaker and dock announces itself as more than just an iPod accessory; it is wrapped with such care that you know you're dealing with a product of stunningly high quality, although its high price tag probably should have suggested this, as well.

The Model L is much, much larger than most other docking systems; it's really a speaker that happens to have an iPod dock on top. It is available in glossy black, white and bright red, with floor and shelf stands available separately.

This speaker offers a lot of sound for our average size room; in fact, the audio quality blows away that of pretty much any other speaker or iPod dock, and for the price, it had better. For the cost of a Model L, you could purchase a set of individual components and high-quality speakers, but the Geneva is an elegant solution for anyone with a minimalist aesthetic and appreciation of good audio.
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Some will find that the Model L is all the audio equipment that they need; in addition to the dock, this speaker includes a built-in CD player and FM tuner. The speaker itself sits on four sturdy feet, so it is easy to keep stable on a flat surface without using stands. Set-up is simple, and a welcome CD serves to introduce you to the Model L's sound benefits.

It's difficult to get rich well-rounded sound from a single source, but this speaker does an excellent job of it. Treble and bass adjustments can be made from the remote control, which is a nice touch. Listening to music of all genres through the Model L is a treat, but this speaker is best appreciated when playing good old rock and roll at top volume. More nuanced recordings are also handled well.

Only the FM reception falls flat. Even with its simple external antennae attached, reception is spotty and audio quality markedly reduced when compared to recorded sound. And while we're quibbling, the remote could use a bit of tinkering; response time is slow and programming FM presets is a bit of a trial. The remote's iPod navigation allows only for powering up and off, as well as skipping through songs; selecting and navigating playlists requires use of the iPod itself.

Connections and ports are hidden underneath the speaker. A luminous LED display floats behind the speaker grill announcing the audio source or adjustment levels. There's a CD slot just behind a small flat that opens to reveal the iPod dock and four control buttons.

For a system this sophisticated -- and expensive -- you can't be faulted for expecting more precision in the details, but if you have the money to burn and are intrigued by this speaker's design and sound quality, you owe it to yourself to give the Model L a try.


Pros: Great sound, FM Tuner, CD player, excellent design
Cons: Sluggish remote control, very expensive

Warranty
1 year