There’s no shame in trying to hang on to Apple’s coat tails considering the US company is now by far the most valuable technology company in the world. XtremeMac wears its allegiance on its sleeve, and its latest offering, the Tango Bar speaker, offers a surprising amount of clout and functionality for what looks like an incredibly simple device.

Although it claims suitability for both Mac and PC systems, the XtremeMac Tango Bar was clearly designed with the iMac in mind. Its feet elevate it sufficiently to allow the base of the iMac’s stand to fit underneath it, and at 21-inches wide it fits the smaller of the two iMacs perfectly.

Curiously, the primary connection is a USB cable that carries both power and audio. Though there is a 3,5mm line-in port, the USB cable is still required to power the device, whether from a power outlet or USB port, meaning the only way to free up a USB port on the computer is to plug it into the mains. Considering how short the cable is this could prove awkward.

Nevertheless, the benefit of USB connectivity is that the device offers simple plug-and-play functionality. All a user need do is change their computer’s audio settings to push audio via USB.

In terms of specs, the Tango Bar is impressive. It makes a vague claim about offering “twice the output power of most traditional USB speakers”, which we assume means most USB-powered speakers are 5W while the Tango Bar includes 10W amplifiers.

The device includes six speakers with dual-dome tweeters, midrange drivers and passive radiators for additional bass output. The rear of the bar also offers a sub-out port alongside the 3,5m line-in and headphone jacks, meaning it’s easy to augment with a subwoofer.

Aside from the ports on the rear, the only other control on the device is a backlit volume dial on the right of the speaker. The orange backlight is inoffensive and the dial moves smoothly. It’s unlikely to get much use, however, as we found ourselves controlling volume via system audio rather than reaching for the dial.

Of course, the most important aspect of any speaker system is the sound, and here the Tango Bar performs admirably. Because of its intended use on a desk — and hence the user’s proximity in general use — the stereo effect is surprisingly well realised.

Generally, the output is crisp and clear and although bass-heavy tracks distort fairly quickly when the volume is raised — and particularly if the bass output is deliberately boosted — in normal use the quality of the audio and the balance between bass and treble is excellent.

Ultimately, the only thing lacking from the package is a 3,5mm to 3,5mm extension cable to connect the line-in to external devices like a mobile phone or digital music player. With a price tag of R999, we’d think that would be included.

Because of its USB connectivity, the Tango Bar really does work on both Mac and PC computers, but with its styling being so Apple-orientated it seems unlikely many PC users will pick one up. — Craig Wilson, TechCentral