Sony Dream Machine
Sony Dream Machine is Sony Electronics' long-running line of clock radios. Models range from basic AM/FM models[1] to more expensive models sporting iPod/iPhone docking, a LCD screen, and internet connectivity.
Devices
ICF-CL75iP
Described as an assimilation of an alarm clock with a digital photo frame and an iPod dock, the ICF-CL75iP was released in October 2009. Engadget knocked the limited codec support, but lauded the attractive design and low ($149.95) announced price tag. They also suggested Sony should add Chumby widget support,[2] a wish Sony later granted with their Dash alarm clock. CNet Australia felt that although it was missing some features consumers might expect from stand-alone devices, the combination of functionality makes up for the shortcomings of each of its parts.[3]
ICF-CD3iP
With a round face (designed to hold CDs) and slide-in iPod dock, Gizmodo called the ICF-CD3iP "the most attractive iPhone/iPod Clock/Radio Dock I've seen yet."[4] Laptopmag.com called the model's speakers "subpar", but stated that the "unobtrusive design, retro CD tray, and ease of use make for a good budget bedside companion." [5]
ICF-C318
A clock radio with a large display and two independent alarms, which can be set to a radio or buzzer. Other features include a 0.9" green LED display, an extendable snooze bar, a built-in calendar with automatic daylight saving time adjustment and a lithium battery for a full power memory back up. Battery life is approximately up to 250 Days with the Sony battery. The model also has a built-in AM/FM radio, with a Ferrite bar antenna for AM, a wire antenna for FM, and mono 66mm speakers.[6]
ICF-CD853
Sony Dream Machine alarm clock radio FM/MW/LW CD player ICF-CD843. 8 cm Orange LED display with different brightness options. Almost round in shape. Small footprint. Circa 2002.
Features
- 25 Programmable station memories for easy access.
- CD player.
- Headphone Jack for adding an optional stereo headphone.
- Nap Timer.
- Triple Alarm - 3 Times/3 Modes (CD/Radio/Buzzer).
- DayLight saving option.
- Snooze
- FM, AM(MW,LW) radio
- Headphone jack
- Boost button for Bass.
Sony official site photo of appearance: https://sp.sony-europe.com/da/2/839.jpeg
Variation of models
- CD853V, CD853L: CD853V has provision for TV & weather stations.
- colours : blue-silver version, Black-silver version, white-silver version.
Pros and Cons
- + small footprint.
- + good for one person basic needs of entertainment.
- + easy to assign radio stations.
- + snooze button is bigger with features that can be found by touch & eye closed.
- - No battery back up. In case of power cut, no alarm.
- - Retro feature: volume control with a dial, at the side.
- - looking for radio stations takes time.
- - antenna is soft wire which users have to hang & stick it up.
ICF-C717PJ (2010)
It has a surprising form, it looks like a sound bar. The alarm sounds are nature records.
References
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Sony Dream Machine. |
- http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10186055-1.html
- https://www.engadget.com/2009/09/02/sony-icf-cl75ip-alarm-clock-digital-frame-ipod-dock-a-surpri
- http://www.cnet.com.au/sony-dream-machine-icf-cl75ip-339299142.htm
- Wilson Rothman (September 10, 2008). "Sony's (Yes, Sony's) ICF-CD3i the Neatest Looking iPhone Clock/Radio Dock Yet". Gizmondo.
- http://www.laptopmag.com/review/accessories/sony-icf-cd3ip-cd-clock-radio-for-ipod-and-iphone.aspx
- https://docs.sony.com/release/specs/ICFC318_mksp.pdf
Notes
- https://archive.is/20130130194712/http://nexus404.com/Blog/2009/09/04/sony-icf-cl75ip-dream-machine-7-in-800x480-lcd-screen-1gb-internal-memory-10-second-voice-recording-for-alarm/
- http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10186055-1.html