Super test: iPod docks pt3

Overview Price: £250 More info: KEF Size: 101x29x85mm (main unit) Weight: 0.75kg (main unit) Amplifier power: 50W Connections: line-in, composite video out, S-Video out, Subwoofer preout Remote control: Yes Tuner: No Alarm clock: No KEF Picoforte One KEF's so-called 'egg' speaker designs have always been eye-catchers and this small system gets our vote as one of the most stylish around - although it also has substance to match. The multi-part system comprises a pair of KHT1005 speakers with a two-box unit featuring the amplifier and separate charging dock, with all beautifully finished in a glossed black/white lacquer. We would have preferred a single box system as the connections can detract from the clean design but clearly labeled cables are included and it's no effort to set up. There's also a similarly styled remote to enhance functionality. Another useful feature is an S-Video connection that can be hooked up to your display to view menus and photo or video content if you have one of the latest iPod designs - there are nine separate cradles, which should accommodate practically every model in existence. The sound isn't necessarily earth shattering but it's still impressive coming from such small dimensions, while the more substantial Picoforte Three model (£400) offers more power if you need it. And there's also a dedicated subwoofer output - although we suspect it will go largely unused in a system like this. Compared to typical MP3 accessory manufacturers you can appreciate hi-fi-centred KEF's more cultured sound with impressive detail, superb integration and a greater sense of musical timing - it simply sounds classy. There are systems that sound equally as good that cost less but none with the same sense of style that the KEFs offer. Verdict Plus points Stylish design; extensive compatibility; video connectivity; classy sound Minus points Too many cables

Overview Price: £60 More info: Philips Size: 161x191x164mm Weight: 1.34kg Amplifier power: 12W Connections: line-in Remote control: Yes Tuner: FM Alarm clock: Yes Philips AJ300D Philips' AJ300D is less of an iPod stereo system and more an elaborate alarm clock that lets you wake up listening to your own music collection. It's designed to work with the company's GoGear MP3 player, although it's also compatible with most iPod models and comes with 11 different dock inserts. The unusual, diminutive design won't be to everyone's taste and features front speakers that are positioned a mite too closely together, which constricts the overall sound stage - although there is a small subwoofer at the rear to help round out the bottom end. As an alarm clock it's a great device, which also includes an integrated FM tuner with five station presets in case you get bored of your 160GB collection of digital tunes. It comes with a string antenna but reception was clear enough not to warrant using it. But there are no extracurricular dock features such as a video output for watching clips or photos and the basic remote doesn't let you access your player's menus. There's a small LCD above the iPod dock, which displays the time and allows you to set two separate alarms in case your other half wakes up at a different time. And programming the alarms is exceptionally easy while there's also a large control across the top that only needs to be tapped to activate the snooze mode, which will give you an extra nine minutes in bed. This isn't really a dock that you can use away from your bedside table as even at high volumes it isn't especially loud. The separate subwoofer does give the sound some weight but it comes at the expense of clouding the midrange and vocals are not always clear, especially compared to some of its hi-fi associated rivals. Philips' AJ300D is a very decent clock radio with iPod facilities for the price, but the sound quality is distinctly average compared to more substantial systems.

Verdict Plus points Build quality; integrated alarm and FM radio; ideal for the bedroom Minus points Awkward design; lean sound quality; no extras

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