Super test: iPod docks

There has been a 21st century shift in audio consciousness from sound performance towards style, features and convenience, most of which seems to culminate in one object, the iPod. But, if you want to free yourself from your earphones and listen to your 160Gb collection of tunes with freedom then you'll need an accompanying iPod dock. Modern docks allow you to play your digital iPod tracks through external speakers and offer other features such as integrated radios, alarm clock functions and video connections that let you view your movie and photo files on screen. Overview Price: £200 More info: Audioengine Size: 200x250x180mm Weight: 6.4kg Amplifier power: 45W Connections: 2x line-in, USB out, 2x sub preout Remote control: No Tuner: No Alarm clock: No Audioengine A5 The A5 system from new company Audioengine isn't, strictly speaking, a fully self-contained iPod dock, it's a pair of oversized, active speakers with compatible connectivity. The left-hand speaker has a pair of 3.5mm audio inputs and a USB port that means you can charge your iPod while you're listening to music. The right speaker is wired to the left using binding posts and there's also a pair of subwoofer pre-outs if you care to use them. All you have to do is connect your iPod, (or any alternative MP3 player), and you're away. Each standmount speaker offers an impressive 45 watts of amplification and the subsequent sound is more impressive than some of its typically restricted, compact rivals. The sound is solidly defined by taught and agile low frequencies that give tracks a sense of weight and power that isn't always present at this level. There's plenty of subtle detail and expression in the midrange while rhythmic timing is equally impressive, which creates fine stereo imaging. We did find that the A5 system sounded better when the speakers are afforded their own stands - as placing them on a flat surface or desktop led to some distortion and inconsistencies with clarity at the high end. But, if given the right support and space (they have rear-firing ports), these speakers are capable of a superb audiophile quality sound that isn't always associate with digital music listening. Verdict Plus points Usability; competitively priced; hi-fi quality sound Minus points Uninspired design; speakers require stands; no remote

Overview Price: £250 More info: Audio Pro Size: 120x305x140mm Weight: 2.1kg Amplifier power: 26W Connections: 2x line-in, S-Video out, sub preout Remote control: No Tuner: FM Alarm clock: No Portable: Yes Audio Pro Porto Audio Pro's Porto also doesn't look anything like what you might expect an iPod dock to resemble - and it's also one of only two systems here than can be easily transported around. Instead of the compact, heavily lacquered systems that you would usually associate with an iPod dock, the Porto features a strange, upright design that comes encased in leather - available in black, white and attention-seeking red. The universal docking cradle sits above a single speaker system with dual tweeters and there are several basic controls - but no remote. Despite a large rechargeable battery pack, which claims around 4-6 hours of playback, it's reasonably lightweight and easier to carry around than, say, Bose's SoundDock Portable system. The price is a bit of a sticking point but the Porto is packed with several features such as an integrated FM radio and numerous connections including two 3.5mm line-ins for alternative devices, a subwoofer preout and an S-Video output that allows you to view video files and photos on a separate display. In terms of convenience and (depending on your tastes) style, the Porto is a success but sound quality is slightly disappointing for the price. The single speaker system struggles to deliver decent stereo imaging and produces a constricted soundstage. Nonetheless, the sound is cohesive and well put together with weighty low frequencies and an evenly balanced treble - although midrange vocals can sometimes get lost in the mix. Images from the S-Video output are more impressive and offer a great way to view your clips or photos on a larger screen. If you want an iPod dock with a fistful of features that you can use anywhere then Audio Pro's Porto carries several incentives - but for this money you can get much better sound performance.

Verdict Plus points Portable; unique style; features; decent video performance Minus points Expensive; single speaker struggles with stereo imaging

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