I think this is a cheap alternative for iPad/iPhone: a monitor with a speaker. Apple products, iPad and iPhone, is notorious in its compatibility. If you connect your iPad or iPhone to a monitor without speaker (via a USB to HDMI adaptor) - you will lose your sound. (Even if you connect with bluetooth speakers or iPod already, you won't hear anything any more.) Therefore, a monitor with a decent speaker is the choice. This one serves the purpose. This is working fine at first, but a bright line appeared and I have to return it.