Tivoli Audio iPAL

The Tivoli Audio iPAL can be somewhat tough to categorize. While it's primarily billed as a portable iPod speaker, many critics say it makes a better table radio. Experts and owners call its basic design nothing new or innovative; it's essentially a repackaged version of the Tivoli Audio Portable Audio Lab, or PAL (*Est. $220), that adds weather-resistant cladding and iPod-inspired styling. Despite the name, there's no iPod dock, although you can play back music from an iPod or any other device via the audio input jack.

Regardless, reviewers agree that the iPAL performs just as well as advertised. Both professionals and users say the small, mono-only speaker produces rich sound backed by a surprising amount of power. AM and FM reception are said to be strong, and the radio's analog tuning is called smooth and precise. A wide array of color choices is available for listeners who want to customize the iPAL's look.

If there's an Achilles heel among reviews, it's the price of the Tivoli Audio iPAL. Several note that other iPod speakers offer the same features in a smaller, less expensive package. Others point out that the iPAL's bulkier form affects its practicality as a portable speaker. On the flip side, some of the same reviewers say the sound quality is good enough to make the iPAL worth using as a stand-alone table radio.

We found several older but very detailed expert reviews for the Tivoli Audio iPAL at CNET, iLounge.com and PowerBook Central, all of which include hands-on testing and critical analysis. Dozens of iPAL owners provide useful feedback at Amazon.com.