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I performed the upgrade without any problems using an old 128Mb stick I had lying around (made sure nothing else was on it). Basically because 1) they didn't read the directions and use a memory stick < 1Gb, and 2) if they had other files on the memory stick the I-Sonic would get a bit confused. I called Polk Audio and insisted they email me the firmware (They wanted to mail me a memory stick). I enjoy this system tremendously. So you should be able to request the same from Polk Audio. The firmware was outdated when I received it, and I quickly found out that Polk Audio no longer provides the firmware on their website for download. Sounds great for such a small package. It seems too many people were having issues flashing the ROM.
First off, I would state that I am not an expert audiophile. The rear firing speakers do allow for less directional sound, so can sound ok from different listening locations, but of course you will not get great separation from a small box. I guess I was expecting a tiny bit more, due to some of the hype and other reviews. I would say that the sound is clear, but lacking some fullness that would make it exceptional.
So, for someone who wants the best sound in a very small size, this would fit the bill. Remote is quite small, but is ok. I bought this unit mainly to play music from MP3 player and will probably connect DVD/CD player. Again, just dont expect it to sound as good a real home theater system or stereo. I wanted the best sound without having a big system to set up and take up a lot of room. Impressive sound for its size, however it does not sound better than a real home stereo system.
I think the unit is a little pricy, especially since it does not include CD or DVD player. It plays fairly loud without distortion. It can easily fill a small room.
Highly recomended. This is a really nice device. The HD radio works quite well and the iPod dock is top notch.
You may confirm this in the chart at the bottom of:http://www.polkaudio.com/homeaudio/isonic/This useful chart also compares the features of competing products.[I have no personal experience with the product, so I put in the current average rating]. Contrary to the product description, this product does NOT contain the CD/DVD player of the original I-Sonic.
My iPod kept freezing when I first used it on the I-Sonic and finally died altogether. Polk Audio I-Sonic Entertainment System 2I cannot recommend the Polk I-Sonic 2 too highly. Since the I-Sonic 2 is the only tabletop HD radio that is iPod ready, the purchase was a no-brainer. Polk is the tops.
The problem was that I had been using an incorrect adaptor to connect the iPod to the I-Sonic. Ken's last call was to tell me that at Polk's expense my I-Sonic and my iPod were being shipped to me in Los Angeles by two day UPS air delivery. The iPod was put through internet tests, which determined that it was fully functional; the hard drive, undamaged. Once Polk had the radio, Ken in Customer Relations phoned me four times from Baltimore to keep me informed about the progress of the investigation into the problem.
And the radio sounds better than the radio tuner of my expensive stereo system. I sent the I-sonic back to Polk. The HD sound really is as good as they say; the AM does sound like FM, and the FM, like CD. A techie at the Apple store told me my hard drive was no longer operational, and I would need to get a new hard drive ($150) or buy a new iPod ($250).
It is incredible. My iPod sounds much better on the I-Sonic 2 than on either of my two docking stations with speakers. I should also mention Polk Audio's customer service.
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