Anyone who listens to their iPod at home needs some kind of speaker system, but most of us don't want to invest in big stereo systems. These portable iPod speakers fit the bill perfectly. While these iPod speakers are mostly portable around the house, they sound great and almost all cost under $200. (NOTE: This list covers only products I've reviewed, not all iPod speakers available.)
1. Boston Acoustics i-DS2
image copyright Boston Acoustics
When it comes to judging iPod speaker docks for the home, there are two major points to consider: sound quality and price. Secondary factors, such as style and extras, also factor into the equation. When judged on all these criteria, the Boston Acoustics i-DS2 iPod speaker dock is a terrific success.
2. Harman Kardon Go + Play
image copyright Harman Kardon
The Harmon Kardon Go + Play portable speaker system blends a lot of great features — high-quality speakers, an iPod charger and dock, a terrific remote, simultaneously retro and futuristic styling — into a compelling package. Though the price tag for that package may strike some as a little high, the Go + Play is another great product from Harman Kardon.
3. JBL On Stage 200iD
image copyright JBL
If you're looking for a small, high-quality iPod speaker dock that can you serve you well throughout the house, JBL may have just the thing for you in its On Stage 200iD speakers.
4. XtremeMac Tango Studio
image copyright XtremeMac
The first thing that catches your eye about XtremeMac’s Tango Studio iPod speakers is its looks. A small black rectangle with a blue digital readout seemingly hidden inside the speakers, the Tango Studio is an appealing package, especially when the display lights up. It’s not a perfect speaker system, but for its price, it offers solid quality.
5. Tannoy i30
image copyright Tannoy
If you like design, you’re going to like Tannoy’s i30 iPod speaker system. And rightly so: it’s sleek, small, black, and shiny. It’s the kind of product that inspires gadget lust in those prone to it. But that lust may be dimished a bit by a few shortcomings and a high price.
6. JBL On Stage IIIp
image copyright JBL
JBL’s On Stage IIIp iPod speaker dock packs a lot into its small shape. But, due to unexceptional sound and a slightly high price, it’s not quite as distinguished as some of its features might lead one to expect.
7. Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere
image copyright Logitech
The Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere portable iPod speaker system is a very good entry into the portable iPod speaker market. While it won’t have you considering dumping your home stereo system, if you need music on the road or in rooms where your stereo isn’t, consider it.
