Altec Lansing Orbit MP3 iM237

IPod speakers don't get much smaller than the Altec Lansing Orbit MP3, a portable speaker that connects to iPods, iPhones and other MP3 players through their headphone port. It weighs only 6.7 ounces and measures just over 3 inches wide. The Orbit runs on three AAA batteries and comes with a protective travel case, so it is highly portable. Don't expect impressive sound quality, though, because experts say speakers this size just can't match the audio performance of larger speakers. Reviewers say the Altec Lansing Orbit gets plenty loud, but bass-heavy music sounds flat, and audio distorts at high volumes. Overall, most reviewers are impressed with the Altec Lansing Orbit MP3 iM237, and they recommend it for those who need an ultraportable speaker. If you have more room, the 13-inch-wide Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere 2 (*Est. $120) will give you better sound quality, but it's also more expensive.

Several sources test the Altec Lansing Orbit MP3 iM237. ILounge.com is particularly useful because it compares the iM237 to the previous model, the iM207. Macworld and Audioholics.com include the Orbit MP3 in roundups of portable iPod speakers, which provide helpful comparisons with other ultraportable speakers. CNET, PC World (Australia) and the iPod Observer also have testing-based reviews. More than 150 owners review the Altec Lansing Orbit MP3 on Amazon.com, and their opinions are generally in line with expert conclusions.