Bose Wave Music System

Experts and users agree that if the best sound quality is first, second and third on your list of must-haves for a table radio, the Bose Wave Music System should be a top consideration. Despite the sound quality and attractive styling, however, the price tag is hard to swallow. Other radios -- including table models with impeccable sound quality like the Tivoli Audio Model Two (*Est. $300) -- cost notably less, although to be fair the Model Two does have fewer features than the Bose.

That said, the Wave Music System isn't particularly feature-rich in the first place. There's a single-play CD player, a powerful AM/FM tuner and an easy-to-use clock radio, but not much else. Most controls have been moved from the radio itself to the included remote control, which adds to the radio's sleek look but could be an issue if the remote is misplaced. Available accessories include an iPod dock (*Est. $100), a multi-disc CD changer (*Est. $250) and a SoundLink upgrade kit (*Est. $150) . The latter gives the system the ability to stream music from a computer and is also available in a bundle with the table radio (*Est. $600). Each accessory adds functionality to the Bose, but also adds significantly to its already high bottom line.

If you can stomach the price, the sound produced by the Bose Wave Music System is sweet indeed, reviewers say. That it produces crisp, clear audio at normal volumes isn't necessarily a surprise, but it can do the same when cranked to the max -- loud enough to fill even a large room with terrific sound.

If you don't need a CD player, the Bose Wave Radio II (*Est. $350) is largely the same table radio minus that feature. The Acoustic Wave Music System II (*Est. $1,100) is a more powerful version marketed more as a stereo-system replacement than a table radio, but reviewers are lukewarm on its performance and value.

The Bose Wave Music System has been available for some time and although reviews are on the old side, they remain valid. The most complete come from CNET and the PC World (Australia) Good Gear Guide. DigitalTrends.com weighs in with a more recent report on the Bose Wave Music System with SoundLink upgrade. PCMag.com's evaluation is all of a paragraph but contains a few useful observations. Amazon.com is the best destination for user reviews.