Orbitsound T12v3 review

We have to say that the iPod and iPhone integration is top-notch, with the v3 supporting every model we plugged into it. We’re pleased to see that you can even fit an iPhone 4 with the bumper case still attached.

There are also coaxial and optical S/PDIF and stereo phono inputs, which you can use for hooking up your TV or other audio device. Note that if you plug in a Blu-ray player audio will be downsampled to DVD quality as there’s no HDMI input. Even so, audio quality on all the inputs we tested was brilliant. The stereo effect helps fill a room and, unlike directional 5.1 systems, means that everyone in the room gets the same audio effect.

Speech is clear, while sound effects, such as bullet shots and explosions, are reproduced faithfully. If you don’t have a lot of room where your TV is or you just don’t want speakers everywhere, the v3 is a great way to add that extra dimension to films.

The optical input also means that if you don’t want to rely on your iPhone or iPod for music, you can hook up another device such as a Sonos ZonePlayer 90 and turn the v3 into part of a multi-room audio system.

In short, whatever you decide to plug into the v3, the sound it produces is just amazing. It is without doubt the best iPod dock we’ve seen and also the best standalone speaker bar. Its clever stereo technology works beautifully and the effect is something that you just have to hear to believe. It wins an Ultimate award.