Sony Ericsson Home Audio System MDS-70

We raved over Sony Ericsson’s Walkman phone, the W810i, back in September. Now there’s a companion speaker system in the mould of ‘so many’ iPod speaker docks. The MDS-70 is a two part affair: the main unit sports two 5W speakers and there’s a separate 15W subwoofer. The front of the former sports a Sony Ericsson phone dock, while at the back are 3.5mm jacks for line-in and a FM radio antennae wire (included). A small remote changes volume, source and graphics but won’t let you skip tracks.

Considering the small size we were very impressed with the quality which got room-filling loud while retaining fidelity and clarity. Bass was punchy and lyrics always remained distinct. We even liked the ‘surround sound’ mode which certainly added a dispersed ‘je-ne-sais-quoi’ to music (less so film).

A concern is the proprietary connector at the front – these speakers will last longer than your phone and it will put off others wanting them. Considering this and the fact you can buy a decent 5.1 system for the same price, we can’t recommend them.