I-Sonic vs I-Sonic ES2

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

Is the original I-Sonic generally considered to be a better unit than the newer ES2 version? It looks like several things are missing from the ES2 like XM< CD player, etc.

How is the sound on the ES2 compared to the original? No CD isn't a deal-breaker for me, but if Polk took a step backwards in terms of sound quality then it may not be the choice for me.

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

Actually, does either unit work with the iPhone 3G model? That'll be a requirement, so I suppose I should clarify that first. It says Iphone and Itouch compatible, but wanna make sure it works with and will charge the 3G model.

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

nobody?

[cfrizz]

My es2 sounds great. But I can't help you with the iphone question.

[mmadden28]

Actually, does either unit work with the iPhone 3G model? That'll be a requirement, so I suppose I should clarify that first. It says Iphone and Itouch compatible, but wanna make sure it works with and will charge the 3G model.

The Polk product page on the IS-ES2 says yes iPhone 3G compatible.

The product page also states "audiophile grade sound" from your iPod. Well I guess if Polkaudio says so, then I guess it is :p.
Can't imagine why they would take a step back in SQ. Anything in particular that gives you that concern?

By the way, the CD is also a DVD player.

Cnet Review on the ES2 (an comapred to the orig.)

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

Ah, ok there's a download for 3G iPhone support, didn't see that the first time.

What gives me concern about the sound quality is that this appears to be a stripped down of the original, as in no cd/dvd player, no xm, etc. That begs the question, did they decide to cut back costs in other areas as well?

I'll probably just go ahead and pick one up, I can always return it if I don't like it. I was really looking for any input that may help me choose between the two models, but it appears the original isn't as readily available anyway, so I'll just start with this one.

[mmadden28]

I have the original, but I didn't by it for XM or CD/DVD support. I bought it for the HD Radio support. The new model is probably just marketed more towards what more and more people seem to be looking for--a nice little sound system with iPod support. No so much for CDs, or hooking it up to a TV and using it as a DVD player? (I never really got that concept). I do however throw a CD in from time to time but usually I only use it for the FM/HD Radio.

Personally it would be ideal if it had FM/HD Radio support, iPod/aux in, as well as Internet and/or streaming radio (like the Roku Soundbridge).

[brettw22]

The reason for nixing the CD/DVD-P was QC issues with the manufacturer of those drives. Rather than having to constantly source new drives, they nixed them.