Omnidirectional speakers work well, easy interface and iPod control

No rechargeable battery, no radio, distortion at full volume

The Pure-Fi Express Plus is a decent-sounding combination of alarm clock and iPod dock that will suit casual users.

Project sound both forward and backward, remote control

Bass and mid-range get bloated and distorted at times, some harshness in the highs, no AC power

A basic set of PC speakers with a few quirks, the Logitech Z-5s operate entirely via USB, which means you need a PC to use them. The audio quality is adequate but nothing special.

Built-in radio, detailed mid-range and highs, sweet treble notes

Quite a bit of distortion, lack of clarity in the mid-range, remote can't surf the menu, bass somewhat weak

A good but not great iPod alarm clock, it has a few nifty features like its motion sensor but the audio is merely average.

Good looks, clean sound

Not as much detail as we would have liked

Edifier's mid-level M3200 speakers work well for casual music and PC gaming. If you're looking for anything special, though, keep moving along. They're capable little workhorses but they won't blow you away with volume levels or sound quality.

Folding design, AC or battery operated, charges while playing, auxiliary input

No included line-in cable, no remote control, no bass/treble adjustment, distortion at high volume levels

The iM310 is a fair travel solution, but don't expect brilliant sound quality. At this price it's pretty decent value.

Wireless setup, stylish looks, warm sound

Two power packs, fiddly Bluetooth

Parrot's DS1120 wireless hi-fi speakers cram an expansive sound-stage into a tiny, stylish package. The Bluetooth configuration might be a headache, but the speakers themselves are quite capable.

Quirky design, simple operation, excellent sound quality considering its size

Battery is non-removable

This strange-looking device is actually a very useful speaker. Don't let the design fool you, as Sony Ericsson's MBS-100 is a commendable mobile phone accessory.

No distortion, sweet sound

Lacking bass at higher volumes, expensive

If you've got the money, it's hard to go past the Audiobytes as a pre-built PC sound system. These speakers blow their mainstream competitors out of the water with clear, analytical sound - even though they are a little bass-shy at higher volumes.

Portable design, good separation, battery powered, very functional remote

Lack of control in mid-range and bass, bass not all that punchy

If you're after a portable iPod speaker solution then JBL's On Stage IIIp may be just the ticket. While it does have a few small sound quality issues there is no denying that its small size, carry bag and battery support make it ideal for road ...

Great bass, detailed mid-range, rich sound, powerful remote, handle makes for great portability

Dock placement is poor, slightly rolled-off low treble notes, no bass or treble controls

Harmon Kardon's Go + Play is a brilliant high-end iPod dock. Its audio is well balanced and almost flawless. The design has one niggling issue, but the large, sturdy handle certainly adds to the unit's portability