Philips Fidelio DS8550 30-Pin iPod/iPhone/iPad Speaker Dock

by Philips

Product Features

• Compatible with all iPod products with a 30-pin connector (except iPod shuffle)
• Superb gaming sound effects via Bluetooth; PureDigital for unsurpassed sound clarity;
• Precisely tuned bass pipes for deep, tight bass reproduction; SoundCurve for superb crystal-clear sound
• Great look with or without iPhone/iPod/iPad docked; dock any iPhone/iPod, even in its case
• Built-in rechargeable battery for even better portability; comfortable hand grip for easy relocation

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Product Description

Amazon.com

Delivering exceptional sound performance in a compact package, the Philips Fidelio DS8550 Docking Speaker plays music from your iPod, iPhone, or iPad in stunning detail and enables wireless Bluetooth streaming for undocked music playback. Designed for audiophiles, this speaker is engineered with PureDigital technology and a curved profile to provide tight, precise sound, and its built-in rechargeable battery provides up to eight hours of playback on a single charge. Unlock additional features using the complementary Fidelio app, which gives you access to custom alarms, equalizer settings, and more.

Fidelio DS8550 Docking Speaker:
Obsessed with Sound

• PureDigital sound processing technology offers audio clarity and balance
• Precisely tuned bass pipes provide deep, tight bass reproduction
• Midrange driver volume matches acoustic requirements for strong, rich bass
• Curved back reduces internal resonance for precise, natural audio reproduction

Get more out of your music, games, and video from your iPod, iPhone, or iPad. View larger.

Bluetooth Streaming for Undocked Playback

The DS8550 supports stereo Bluetooth, which means you'll be able to stream your music remotely--even when your device isn't docked to the speaker. Simply establish a Bluetooth connection with your iPad or iPhone and enjoy your music, videos, and games without the inconvenience of docking. You'll be able to operate your device while simultaneously enjoying crisp speaker playback.

PureDigital Processing for Unsurpassed Fidelity

Unlike traditional iPod docks, the DS8550 processes sound digitally. The result is far clearer audio performance. Using PureDigital, the DS8550 collects the digital output of your iPod, iPhone, or iPad and processes it at each stage of the circuit, resulting in a much higher signal-to-noise ratio. This allows the speaker to reproduce the audio files on your mobile device with greater clarity and fidelity.

Optimized Drivers Add Precision

If a speaker's drivers aren't optimized to match its acoustic requirements, it will produce distorted sound. Fortunately, the DS8550's drivers have been fine-tuned to provide clear performance at all frequencies. High tones are precise and distinct, while low tones come out deep and tight. Bass reproduction is particularly rich: the mid- and low-range drivers have been specially engineered to create crisp, penetrating audio reproduction.

Curved Design Creates an Ideal Acoustic Environment

Chic and elegant, the DS8550's curved design is not only an eye catcher--it's also an effective structure for acoustics. The concave architecture of the speaker creates an ideal acoustic environment for your music: it dramatically reduces distortion and resonance, resulting in more precise and natural sound.

iPad stand included. View larger.

Free Fidelio App Unlocks Additional Features

If you own an iPod touch, iPhone or iPad, you can unlock even more features for your docking speaker using the complementary Fidelio app. The Philips Fidelio app lets you control your speaker dock's acoustic properties, access 7000+ free internet radio stations, share music you are listening to with friends via facebook and twitter, set alarms to wake to your favorite music, photo or weather conditions and much more using your iPhone, iPod touch or iPad.

Dock Any iPhone or iPod, Even in Its Case

The speaker's spring-loaded docking port accommodates any iPhone or iPod, without special adaptors. What's more, it works even when most protective cases are on--just dock your iPhone or iPod as is for fuss-free enjoyment of your music.

Compatible with iPad, iPods, and iPhones

The DS8550 is compatible with iPad and iPad 2 and includes an iPad stand. It is also compatible with most iPod and iPhone models, including: iPhone, iPhone 4, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPod (5th Generation), iPod Classic, iPod mini, iPod Nano (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Generations), iPod Shuffle, and iPod Touch (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Generations).

What's in the Box

DS8550 Docking Speaker, iPad stand, AC power supply, remote control, 3.5-millimeter auxiliary cable, and user manual.

FIDELIO DOCKING SPEAKERS: OBSESSED WITH SOUND Whatever genre or artist you prefer, the Fidelio docking speakers are designed to let you hear every note of your music for an authentic sound experience.
DS1100 Docking Speaker Music and style for your bedroom.	DS1110/37 Speaker Dock Wake up to your favorite iTunes.	DS3000 Docking Speaker Clear audio that fills your space.	DS3010 Docking Speaker Style and sound for any room.
SBD7500 Docking Speaker Pristine sound wherever life takes you.	DS7550 Docking Speaker Booming audio that goes places.	DS8500 Docking Speaker Exceptional sound quality and style.	DS8550 Docking Speaker Beautiful sound anywhere you want it.
Primo DS9000 Docking Speaker Unleashes full fidelity from iPod/iPhone/iPad.	DS7700 Docking Speaker Stylish iPad dock with brilliant sound.	DS3510 Docking Speaker Portable and powerful for all iPad media.	DS1210/37 Speaker Dock Wake up with your iPad.

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

49 of 50 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Definitely worth the extra money over DS8500 November 23, 2010

By T Rose

Amazon Vine™ Review (What's this?)

I have the older model (DS8500) and I was absolutely thrilled with it until I got this model. The sound on this model is just as amazing as the old one and this one has features that blows the older model away.

Here are the reasons I feel the DS8550 is worth the higher price:
+ Bluetooth capability: I can keep my phone right next to me while using the docking station so I get the best sound possible but I still have the ability to keep my phone close (texting, calendar, etc.) The sound will be interrupted for calls and such but I won't have to get up to look at the docking station to see who is calling or texting or to use any other function of my phone).
+ Portability: The docking station can be charged and taken anywhere. I can easily bring it into another room/outside without having to unplug it and find another outlet. The carrying cutout on the back makes it easy to move around too.
+ The older version had a mesh type fabric over the speakers which wasn't sturdy. I was always afraid something would bump into it and rip it. This model has a metal frame which I find much more attractive and durable.
+ Controls: The controls on the station are sturdier than the older model. The older model had a thin strip of metal that ran across the bottom of the station. Over time it bent a little bit. Not a huge issue at all, just something that now seems 'cheap' in comparison to the new model.

This model is ipad compatible and comes with a separate stand if you want to use the bluetooth capability. I keep the stand next to the docking station and use it to hold the remote.

The Fidelio ap works OK but I don't see the need for it.

Overall the sound is AMAZING and the new features make this docking station by far the best I have ever used.

**Update**
A year and a half later and the unit is still going strong. It has held up to daily use and multiple charges each day as well (iphones and ipod touches). I couldn't be happier with it.

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Incredible sound, whether plugged in or running on battery December 12, 2010

By Juniorverse1 TOP 1000 REVIEWER

Amazon Vine™ Review (What's this?)

I am really becoming a fan of Phillips because of products like this. The sound is fantastic, even better than many computer speakers. Whether the speakers are plugged in or running on battery, the sound is the same. It sounds crisp and has great bass. The Bluetooth audio connectivity is great so I can be across the room and change songs from any of my devices. In addition to my iPad, I am also able to stream music from my computer and my Droid via Bluetooth.

The build quality is excellent, and seems quite tough (although I am very careful with my electronics so I won't put this product through any torture tests). The hidden handle in the rear makes it easy to pick up and move to another location. It is almost surreal when you unplug the speakers and they keep playing with the same quality without a hiccup.

The only thing I really dislike is that these speakers automatically power off and cannot be turned back on without the remote. I wish there was some sort of standby option so as soon as it detects audio again that they power back up.

If you are picky about your speakers and how they sound, I highly recommend these... especially if you are looking for a set with Bluetooth connectivity.

29 of 35 people found the following review helpful

3.0 out of 5 stars Not worth the asking price December 14, 2010

By Michael Smith VINE™ VOICE

Amazon Vine™ Review (What's this?)

There are some great things (device durability, rechargeable battery) and some mediocre things (bluetooth, remote, price) about this device. At the MSRP, I suggest looking elsewhere.

You've got a multitude of connection options -- Apple dock connector, 3.5mm audio jack, and bluetooth (though more on that later.) The rechargeable battery is probably the most redeeming feature of this device -- giving you a truly cord free speaker option. The speaker system is hefty -- I think about 6lbs/3kg -- reasonable for portability, but not that lightweight either.

The sound quality is good -- it is well balanced and the same whether plugged in or not. However, with my unit, I'm getting the occasional sound crackle -- and it doesn't matter what connection method I use. You need a discerning ear to tell, but nonetheless, in quiet songs, it can be annoying. Powering up and using the device is also straightforward. I did not install any Fidelio app on any of my iDevices, not sure why I would need another useless app...

I had difficulties with the bluetooth -- I cannot get my iPhone or iPad to sync with it or even see it. I have not performed extensive troubleshooting, and in the interest of saving battery life and better sound quality, plugging devices is the better option and not much trouble. You can dock the iPad right on the device (as well as a smaller device like the iPhone) -- a nice touch. For what it's worth, my MacBook Pro synced right away and sounded good. However, every subsequent try provides terrible, skipping audio -- like a scratched record even when the device is right next to the source. In my opinion, bluetooth audio is overhyped -- especially when you're talking short cable runs anyways.

Those used to the Apple Remote will be confused by the remote provided by Philips. The white on black is a bit hard to read and the buttons aren't in the most logical of order. Sometimes you need to press the buttons a few times in order for the device (or your iDevice) to respond (even if you're right in front of the IR sensor.)

While not a disastrous buy, make sure you figure out exactly what features you are looking for. You'll likely find better options for less.