Sony Dream Machine

Sony Dream Machine alarm clock, with trademark "dream bar" snooze button

Sony Dream Machine is Sony Electronics' long-running line of clock radios. Models range from $20 basic AM/FM models to $599 spy-cam models with automatic night-vision.

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. Endgadget 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, 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.

ICF-CD3iP

With a round face (designed to hold CDs) and slide-in iPod dock, Wilson Rothman Gizmodo called the ICF-CD3iP the most attractive iPhone/iPod Clock/Radio Dock I've seen yet." 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."

Notes

• 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