Sometimes you just need the facts — here is our cheatsheet listing all the top rated home theater equipment of 2011. This list is based on reviews we found on CNET, Amazon and Home Theater Review:

A/V Receivers

• The Top Rated A/V Receiver Under $350: Onkyo TX-NR509 or Yamaha RX-V667
• The Top Rated A/V Receiver $350-$400: Onkyo TX-NR609 or Pioneer VSX-1021-K
• The Top Rated A/V Receiver $400-$500:  Yamaha RX-V671BL
• The Top Rated A/V Receiver $500-$600: Denon AVR-1912
• The Top Rated A/V Receiver $600-$700: Marantz NR1601
• The Top Rated A/V Receiver $700-$1000: Sony STR-DA5300ES
• The Top Rated A/V Receiver Over $1000:  Anthem MRX-700
• The Top Rated Stereo Receiver Under $300: Harmon Kardon 3390
• The Top Rated Stereo Receiver $300-$400: Harmon Kardon 3490
• The Top Rated Stereo Receiver $400-$800: Harman Kardon AVR 2650

Blu-Ray & DVD Players

Televisions / Monitors

• The Top Rated TV Under $250: Samsung LN22D450 22-inch LCD
• The Top Rated TV  $250-$500:  Samsung LN32D550 32-inch LCD
• The Top Rated TV  $500-$1000: LG 47LW5600 47-inch LED
• The Top Rated TV $1000-$2000: Samsung UN55D8000 55 inch LED
• The Top Rated HDTV LED Monitor: Samsung LN40D550 40-inch LED Monitor
• The Top Rated 22″ Monitor: HP LP2275w
• The Top Rated 23″ Monitor: Samsung PX2370
• The Top Rated 24″ Monitor: Dell UltraSharp U2311
• The Top Rated 27″ Monitor: Dell UltraSharp U2711
• The Top Rated Digital Projector: BenQ Joybee GP1

Here is our list of the top rated portable electronics of 2011. The review sources we consulted were: CNET, PC Magazine, Trusted Reviews, Consumer Reports, Digital Photography Review and Amazon reviewers.

The Top Rated Portable Electronics Of 2011

Earbuds / Earphones

• The Top Rated Wireless Portable Earphone: Etymotic Research Ety8
• The Top Rated Wired Portable Earphone: Etymotic hf5 Earphones
• The Top Rated Portable Noise-Cancelling Earphone: Audio-Technica ATH-ANC3
• The Top Rated Earphone Under $100: Klipsch Image S4
• The Top Rated Earphone $100-$300: Logitech Ultimate Ears 700
• The Top Rated Earphone $300-$400: Shure SE425
• The Top Rated Earphone Over $400: Klipsch Image X10i or Shure SE535
• The Top Rated Bluetooth Headset: Aliph Jawbone Era

Headphones

• The Top Rated Wireless Portable Headphone Under $100: LG Tone HBS-700
•  The Top Rated Wireless Portable Headphone Over $100: Nokia BH-905
• The Top Rated Wired Portable Headphone Under $100 : Sennheiser HD218 Headphone
• The Top Rated Wired Portable Headphone Over $100: Bowers & Wilkins P5
• The Top Rated Portable Noise-Cancelling Headphone Under $300: Bose QuietComfort 15
• The Top Rated Portable Noise-Cancelling Headphone Over $300: Bose QuietComfort 3
• The Top Rated Headphone Under $100: Grado Prestige Series SR80 or Sennheiser HD-280
• The Top Rated Headphone $100-$300: Aiaiai TMA-1 DJ Headphone
• The Top Rated Headphone $300-$400: Denon AH-D2000
• The Top Rated Headphone $400 – $1000: Grado RS-2
• The Top Rated Headphone Over $1000: Grado PS1000
• The Top Rated Headphone For Bass: Beats By Dre or Soul by Ludacris
• The Top Rated Headphone For DJs Under $100: Harman K81DJ
• The Top Rated Headphone For DJs Over $100: Aiaiai TMA-1 DJ Headphone

MP3 Players and Video Players

• The Top Rated All-Round MP3 Player: Apple iPod Classic
• The Top Rated MP3 Player (For Sound Quality and Storage Size): Cowon X7
• The Top Rated Sports MP3 Player: Apple iPod Nano
• The Top Rated Portable Video Player: Apple iPod Touch

Speakers

• The Top Rated Portable Mini Speakers: Soundmatters foxLv2
• The Top Rated Portable Self-Powered Speakers: M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 Powered Speakers
• The Top Rated iPod-Ready Speakers: Audioengine 5
• The Top Rated iPad Dock With Speakers: Sound Platform by Soundfreaq
• The Top Rated Wireless Boombox: Logitech S715i

Digital Cameras and Video Cameras

• The Top Rated Point-And-Shoot Camera Under $200: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20
• The Top Rated Point-And-Shoot Camera Over $200: Canon PowerShot S95
• The Top Rated SLR Cameras Under $700: Nikon D3100 SLR Camera
• The Top Rated Slim-Line Camera: Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-WX9
• The Top Rated Digital Cameras For Travelers: Olympus E-P1 With 17mm Lens
• The Top Rated Waterproof Camera: Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS2
• The Top Rated Mini Camcorders: Kodak Playsport Mini Camcorder

Chargers and Batteries

• The Top Rated Battery Charger (AA & AAA Batteries): La Crosse Technology BC-700 Alpha
• The Top Rated AA-Sized Rechargeable Batteries: Eneloop Batteries
• The Top Rated D-Sized Rechargeable Batteries: Imedion D-Size 9500mAh Batteries

Flashlights

• The Top Rated Keychain Flashlight: Fenix LD01
• The Top Rated Flashlight Under $100: Fenix TK11R2
• The Top Rated Flashlight Over $100: Pelican 7060
• The Top Rated Headlamp Under $50: Princeton Tec EOS LED Headlamp
• The Top Rated Headlamp Over $50: Surefire Saint Minimus LED Headlamp
• The Top Rated Tripod Flashlight: Joby GorillaTorch

E-Readers and Tablet Computers

• The Top Rated E-Reader: Amazon Kindle Wi-Fi
• The Top Rated Tablet Computer: Apple iPad 2

Portable Computer Gear

• The Top Rated Portable Laptop Computer: Apple MacBook Air
• The Top Rated Portable Hard-Drive: Western Digital 1TB Elements SE

Bike Gear

• The Top Rated Bike Light: Cygolite Expilion 250 Bike Light
• The Top Rated Portable Speakers For A Bike: SoundShell Portable Travel Speakers

These RTi A1 speakers from Polk Audio are perhaps the best bookshelf speakers that can be purchased for under $300. They have an excellent sound that rivals speakers costing many times more. Robert J. Reina from Stereophile Magazine had this to say about the speakers:

I enjoyed every minute I spent with the RTi A1. The speaker’s greatest strengths — the natural and detailed midrange, the excellent bass extension — are unheard of at this size and price, and its minor deviations from neutrality have been so carefully thought out and balanced that I wanted to mine my entire record collection, playing more and more different types of music.

A total of 32 reviewers on Amazon rated them an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

The RTi A1 speakers from Polk Audio are available from Amazon for about $270.

Another excellent speaker brand is Bower and Wilkins. If your bookshelf speaker budget is around the $500 range, you might want to check out the Bower and Wilkins multimedia speakers.

Currently, the Sound Platform by Soundfreaq is the top rated iPad speaker dock. It features Bluetooth connectivity, meaning any mobile device that supports Bluetooth can be used with this dock.

The Sound Platform got good reviews from CNET, iLounge, Pocket Lint and MacLife. CNET gives it a overall rating of “Very Good”, saying:

You’ll have a hard time finding a more stylish and feature-packed speaker choice in this price range. The inclusion of Bluetooth support makes it an attractive buy for iPad and smartphone owners.

Amazon reviewers also liked the  Sound Platform, it received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, from over 100 reviewers.

Sound Platform by Soundfreaq is available on Amazon for $180.

Philips Fidelio DS8550 ($225)

Philips Fidelio DS8550

Top Review Sources:

• Cult of Mac: 4.5 out of 5 stars; “A fantastic sounding, performance-oriented dock”
• Tech Radar: Best of 5 docks reviewed
• Amazon: Average 3.7 out of 5 stars, based on 31 reviews

The Philips Fidelio DS8550 came out on top of Tech Radar’s test of five iPad speaker docks. The reviewers were impressed by its robust sound and Bluetooth capability.

The Philips Fidelio DS8550 is available on Amazon.

Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 8 ($999)

• Unmatched, superior sound quality- adapts sound depending on room size
• Aesthetically pleasing compact design
• Syncs, charges, and plays iPad as well as iPods and iPhones
• User friendly set-up and remote; Beosound app for clock and internet radio

Top Review Sources:

• CNET: 8.3 out of 10; “Crisp, clean sound”
• Trusted Reviews: Overall 8 out of 10: Highest marks on performance and design, a 7 for value
• Amazon: 4 out of 5 stars, based on 7 customer reviews

The BeoSound 8 is the first iPod dock entry for Bang & Olufsen, a name synonymous with stellar sound and creating works of art in speaker systems. Designed to be enjoyed in any room, the BeoSound 8 comes in black or white or you can get fabric speaker covers that come in blue, green, purple, and yellow. It can also be hung on the wall.

The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 8 is available on Amazon in black or white.

When shopping for an HTIB (home theater in a box), look for the same merits as you would if you were shopping for components individually: sufficient power for you room size, clean sound with tight bass, a good feature set, and a convenient user interface.

We’ve consulted reviews on websites such as Audioholics, Home Theater Magazine, Newegg.com, Amazon, CNET, Consumer Reports, and BigPictureBigSound to find the top rated home theater systems on the market today:

Onkyo HT-S9400THX

Onkyo HT-S9400THX ($796)

Pros:

• Superior HTIB sound
• Generous selection of connections

Cons:

• No Blu-ray player

Top Review Sources:

• Audioholics: “We always like to have a few recommendations for HTiBs in our back pocket…This one has definitely made the cut.”
• Home Theater Magazine: “This system isn’t just a repository for logos but a solid performer at a reasonable price” (HT-S9300THX)
• Newegg.com: 4.0/5.0 (5+ reviews)

The Onkyo HT-S9400THX is the latest system in Onkyo’s THX-certified HT-S series. Similar systems, such as the HT-S9100THX and HT-S9300THX, have collected glowing reviews across the internet, and the HT-S9400THX is continuing that trend. Onkyo’s top-of-the-line prepackaged system, the HT-S9400THX is a 7.1 home theater designed for small rooms. It includes a receiver with plenty of connection options: 4 HDMI inputs/1 output, 5 composite inputs/1 output, 2 component inputs/1 output, and a front-panel USB input. By connecting the HT-S9400THX to the internet via Ethernet cable or optional UWF-1 USB wireless adapter ($30), you’ll be able to stream audio from your PC as well as internet sources such as Rhapsody, Napster, SiriusXM, Pandora, Slacker, Mediafly, vTuner, and Last fm. The receiver also supports media from Windows 7, DLNA, iPod/iPhone, and USB memory stick devices. There is also a remote control app for iPad/iPhone/iPod. Included as well is the Audyssey 2EQ room correction wizard, which assists users in the initial placement and tuning of the speakers.

Aside from its flexibility and multitude of features, the HT-S9400THX simply sounds great. Reviewers of the HT-S9400THX and its predecessors rank them among the best HTIB solutions. The HT-S9400THX is intended for small rooms, but many reviewers find it is powerful enough to fill medium and large rooms with clear, authoritative sound.

You can buy the Onkyo HT-S9400THX on Amazon.

Sony BDV-E780W

Sony BDV-E780W ($486)

Pros:

• Excellent audio and video quality
• Plenty of streaming media options

Cons:

• Average user interface design

Top Review Sources:

• CNET: 4.0/5.0 “One of the best Blu-ray home theater systems we’ve tested” (BDV-E770W)
• Amazon: 4.0/5.0 (65+ reviews) (BDV-E770W)

The Sony BDV-E780W builds upon the success of its predecessor, the BDV-E770W. The BDV-E780W is a 5.1 system that includes a 3D Blu-ray player. Audio reproduction is first-rate; treble is natural and sharp, and bass is deep and clear. Image quality from the Blu-ray player is very good and the player itself has faster than average response times when loading content. The rear speakers are wireless, which decreases setup time and adds flexibility. The largest criticism of this system’s predecessor was the lack of HDMI inputs; on the BDV-E780W, this problem has been addressed. There are now inputs for 2 HDMI, 1 IR, 1 optical, 1 analog PIN, 2 USB, and 1 coaxial. Outputs are 1 HDMI, 1 component, and 1 composite. The BDV-E780W has integrated Wi-Fi as well. You can stream content from services such as Netflix, YouTube, Hulu Plus, Amazon VOD, and Pandora, plus you can wirelessly stream music from a PC. With a free app, you can turn your iPhone, iPad, or compatible Android device into a remote control.

Additionally, the Sony BDV-E780W includes an iPod/iPhone dock for direct access to the music, photos, and videos stored on your device. The BDV-E780W is Sony’s flagship HTIB; it will have no problem complementing a high-end television and providing sound powerful enough to fill a medium or large room.

The Sony BDV-E780W is currently available on Amazon.

Samsung HT-D6500W

Samsung HT-D6500W ($479)

Pros:

• Outstanding sound quality
• Great video quality

Cons:

• Not for large rooms

Top Review Sources:

• Amazon: 4.5/5.0 (5+ reviews)
• Consumer Reports: “Best Buy” (HT-C6500W)
• BigPictureBigSound: 3.5/4.0 “An impressive package and an incredible value” (HT-C6500W)

Another HTIB carrying the positive momentum generated by its predecessor, the Samsung HT-D6500W delivers leading performance at a great price. The HT-D6500W succeeds the HT-C6500W, which was universally praised for its outstanding sound quality—much more like a separates system than a typical HTIB. The blend between the five satellites and subwoofer is seamless in the HT-D6500W. Video quality from the included 3D Blu-ray player/receiver is similarly excellent, whether the source is 1080p or standard definition. You’ll be able connect your iPod through the included dock cradle. Other inputs include 2 HDMI, 1 audio, and 1 USB; there is an HDMI output as well. Wi-Fi is built-in, and you’ll be able to take advantage of services from Netflix, Blockbuster, Pandora, YouTube, Hulu Plus, Facebook, and Twitter. Additionally, you can stream DLNA content from a computer. The HT-D6500W has wireless rear speakers and is appropriate for a medium-size room.

The Samsung HT-D6500W is for sale on Amazon.

Soundcast OutCast ($849)

Top Review Sources:

• TestFreaks: 9/10 “The OutCast is just simply an amazing product that you’ve got to see and hear to believe”
• Gear Patrol: “The Outcast was the best outdoor wireless speaker solution we’ve ever encountered”
• Home Entertainment Magazine: “Its price tag accurately reflects its performance”

You’ll have a good idea of what you are getting yourself into upon receiving the large and heavy Soundcast OutCast box. Inside you’ll find the OutCast speaker itself—an 11-inch cylinder standing over two feet high and weighing close to 26 pounds—and the iCast transmitter, which wirelessly broadcasts music from an iPod or other device. The OutCast has a row of buttons on its top for volume, play, pause, seek, and its blue external mood light. While all these buttons are enabled when an iPod is hooked up, if you want to use another MP3 player, computer, or television, only the volume and light functions will work.

The OutCast is powered either by the included AC adapter or 10-hour rechargeable battery pack. The iCast transmitter accepts an iPod via its top-loading dock, and it also accepts any audio device with a 3.5mm output. The iCast broadcasts in 2.4 GHz, has a stated range of up to 350 feet, and runs on AC power. You can also plug a 3.5mm source directly into the OutCast itself. The high price tag is backed up by sound quality and quantity that blows away most reviewers. The OutCast consistently delivers strong bass and sharp treble. It is built to withstand any bad weather that may suddenly descend upon your outdoor gathering.

The OutCast is available from Amazon.

Brookstone Wireless Outdoor Speaker ($150)

Top Review Sources:

• Amazon: 4.0/5.0 (50+ reviews)
• Epinions: 4.0/5.0 (4 reviews)
• ExpertReviews.co.uk: 3.0/5.0 “The bass is incredibly strong”

Consider the Brookstone Wireless Outdoor Speaker if you need a compact, well-built speaker than is easy to move and can connect to a variety of devices. The Brookstone Wireless Outdoor Speaker receives positive reviews for its sound reproduction, though there are some complaints that the treble can’t keep up with the bass at high volumes. The unit is weather-resistant and can receive signals from its wireless dock up to 150 feet away. The wireless dock will connect to any MP3 player or stereo system. The dock can be powered either by the included AC adapter or by six AA batteries. The speaker runs from either AC power or eight D batteries. On-speaker controls include volume, bass boost, and blue ambient light switch. The Brookstone Wireless Outdoor Speaker operates on the 900MHz band.

Purchase the Brookstone Wireless Outdoor Speaker from Amazon.

Jawbone JAMBOX ($180)

Top Review Sources:

• Pocket Lint: 4 out of 5 stars
• Amazon: 4 out of 5 stars (120+ user reviews)
• Trusted Reviews: 7 out of 10

Audiovox Acoustic Research AW825 ($90)

Top Review Sources:

• Zimbio: “a great product for extending the party outside”
• Amazon: 4 out of 5 stars (100+ user reviews)
• Green Home Best Buy: 4 out of 5 stars

The Audiovox Acoustic’s main attraction is that it doesn’t look like a speaker. With its design, it is a more natural choice for one’s garden than other speakers, and does not stand out of place. While the sound quality is reportedly adequate, it is not going to match that of a $600 or $700 speaker system. The Audiovox’s range, at approximately 100 to 150ft, is impressive and suggests a product with a quality build. This is reiterated by its durability; both waterproof and solid, this speaker is more than able to survive the weather of the outdoors. While there are few expert reviews of this speaker, the numerous user reviews are all incredibly enthusiastic, and almost entirely positive.

The Audiovox Acoustic is available from Amazon.

Top Review Sources:

• CNET: 4.5/5.0 “Editors’ Choice”
• Amazon: 5.0/5.0 (125+ reviews)
• G4TV: 5.0/5.0 “This is one of the best home theatres we’ve ever reviewed, and the low price is just a bonus”

Energy Speaker Systems’ Take Classic 5.1 manages to distinguish itself in the crowded field of affordable 5.1 speaker systems. It’s difficult to find any serious consumer or expert criticism of the Take Classic, which is repeatedly praised for its unexpectedly great sound. Specifically, the system generates expansive audio that belies its size. The output is balanced right out of the box, and music comes across as rich and detailed. For movies and television, the sound is clear and the speakers reveal details that more expensive systems miss.

The Take Classic also pleases the crowd with its compact and handsome looks. The four satellites measure a mere 6 7/8 x 4 1/8 x 4 1/8 inches (H x W x D) and weigh less than three pounds. Wall mounting is effortless, but keep in mind the satellites’ bass reflex ports are in the rear, so wall mounting will result in slightly diminished bass output. The center speaker’s front ports eliminate this minor concern; it weighs just over three pounds and has dimensions of 4 1/8 x 10 1/4 x 4 1/8 inches. The cube-shaped (12 5/8 inches), 20-pound subwoofer also has a front port. All speakers sport a piano black finish and sharp lines.

The Energy Speaker Systems’ Take Classic 5.1 can be purchased on Amazon.

KEF KHT 3005 ($1,700)

Top Review Sources:

• Home Theater Magazine: 95/100 “A sub/sat set for the gods”
• CNET: 4.0/5.0 “Editors’ Choice”
• Amazon: 5.0/5.0 (20+ reviews)

The KHT 3005 by KEF grabs your attention with its egg-shaped design and keeps your attention with its phenomenal sound. It’s impossible to discuss the KHT 3005 without mentioning its cutting-edge style. The cast aluminum, egg-shaped speakers and round subwoofer don’t blend into the background, yet they aren’t over the top. Choose between painted finishes of gloss silver or black. The satellites are small (H x W x D: 9.6 x 4.9 x 5.9 inches) yet solid (4.5 pounds). They can be set on a table, wall mounted, or elevated with optional floor posts. The center speaker has dimensions of 5.1 x 11.8 x 7.3 inches, and the subwoofer measures 15.4 x 17.3 x 7.7 inches when standing. The shape of the speakers isn’t arbitrary; KEF had ultimate audio quality in mind. The sound profile of the KHT 3005 can be summed up in one word: clear. The speakers work together to produce a harmonious, layered soundstage that is punctuated by the 250-watt subwoofer’s tight, powerful bass. The price suggests high-end, and the performance confirms that impression.

Purchase the KHT 3005 on Amazon.

Definitive Technology ProCinema 800 ($1,200)

Top Review Sources:

• Crutchfield: “Staff Pick”
• CNET: 4.0/5.0 “Redefined our expectations of what a small surround speaker system can do”
• SOUND+VISION: “If you’ve simply got to have really small and (by serious home theater standards) really inexpensive speakers, I don’t think you can do very much better.”

The Definitive Technology ProCinema 800 is compact and potent, delivering room-rocking sound with precision. Reviewers describe the audio output as detail-rich; when a soundtrack is filled with simultaneous effects, the ProCinema 800 preserves the fidelity of them all. Part of the reason that sounds are kept distinct is that the ProCinema 800’s 300-watt subwoofer produces deep, taut bass even at high volumes. The ProCinema 800 is a combination of speakers that Definitive Technology once sold only separately. In the box are four ProMonitor 800 satellites (W x D x H: 4 3/4 x 5 x 8 3/8 inches, 4 pounds), one ProCenter 1000 center speaker (W x D x H: 14 3/4 x 5 x 5 inches, 6 pounds), and one ProSub 800 subwoofer (10 5/16 x 15 3/4 x 12 7/8 inches, 26 pounds). All speakers are black and unassuming in design. Each speaker is highly regarded in its own right, and together they represent a great value in high-performance audio. To complement the system, Definitive Technology offers pairs of wall mounts and floor-standing speaker pedestals.

You’ll find the Definitive Technology ProCinema 800 on Amazon.

Mirage MX 5.1 ($675)

Top Review Sources:

• Home Theater Magazine: “Expect big things of the Mirage MX”
• CNET: 4.0/5.0 “You’ve never heard a 5.1 system this small sound so good”
• Amazon: 4.5/5.0 (15+ reviews)

The five speakers of the Mirage MX 5.1 measure 3.2 x 4.04 x 3.54 inches (W x H x D) and weigh less than a pound and a half each. The system’s 200-watt subwoofer is an eight-inch cube that tips the scale at just over ten pounds. Room-filling dimensions they are not, but room-filling sound they do produce. Each of the small speakers projects 360-degree sound by aiming audio waves at deflectors. The speakers should be aimed at the listener (where 30% of the sound will go), but most of the sound reflects in all other directions. Mirage employs this unique setup in order to generate expansive sound from small drivers. Given its similarly diminutive size, the subwoofer also delivers remarkable punch. While its output won’t rattle pictures off the walls, the small sub’s deep and balanced range impressively fills in the low end. Though additional satellites and subwoofers can be purchased to expand the soundstage, keep in mind that the MX 5.1 is designed for small- to medium-sized spaces.

The Mirage MX 5.1 is for sale on Amazon.

Some will fit in your pocket and have batteries that last all day. Once you complete a simple pairing process, any of our recommended Bluetooth speakers is ready to go. By consulting sites such as Macworld, CNET, The New York Times, iLounge, and Phone Arena, we’ve come up with this list of the top rated bluetooth speakers of 2011:

Soundfreaq Sound Platform ($180)

Currently, the Sound Platform by Soundfreaq is the top rated Bluetooth speaker dock, getting good reviews from CNET, iLounge, Pocket Lint and MacLife. CNET gives it a overall rating of “Very Good”, saying:

You’ll have a hard time finding a more stylish and feature-packed speaker choice in this price range. The inclusion of Bluetooth support makes it an attractive buy for iPad and smartphone owners.

Amazon reviewers also liked the  Sound Platform, it received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, from over 100 reviewers.

Sound Platform by Soundfreaq is available on Amazon for $180.

Soundmatters FoxL v2 Bluetooth ($200)

Top Review Sources:

• Macworld: 4.0/5.0 “The FoxL’s sound is jaw-droppingly big, in dramatic inverse proportion to its size”
• CNET: 4.0/5.0 “The fidelity and build quality make it a worthwhile purchase for serious audiophiles on the run”
• New York Times: “This fascinating, coat-pocketable metal speaker oozes quality”

The Soundmatters FoxL v2 Bluetooth shocks reviewers by generating robust sound despite its small size. This candy bar-shaped wireless speaker includes technology to improve its wireless range and signal quality (two issues that particularly affect Bluetooth speakers), plus a built-in speakerphone for teleconferencing. The FoxL v2’s bass can be forceful enough to overpower its small frame, resulting in the device vibrating its way across a table if you don’t use the included rubber mat. Also available to stabilize the unit are a kickstand and rubber feet. The physical buttons are limited: an on/off switch and volume control. You’ll rely on your music player to switch tracks or pause playback. The FoxL v2 includes a rechargeable battery, AC adapter, mini-USB port (for slower, computer-based charging), and a 3.5mm line-in port. Battery life is estimated at five hours.

The Soundmatters FoxL v2 Bluetooth is available on Amazon.

Altec Lansing InMotion SoundBlade ($190)

Altec Lansing InMotion SoundBlade

Top Review Sources:

• Macworld: 4.0/5.0 “There’s none of the tinniness found in many speakers of this size”
• Amazon: 4.0/5.0 (90+ reviews)
• LAPTOP Magazine: 3.5/5.0 “The SoundBlade’s strongest asset is its sound separation”

The tablet-like Altec Lansing InMotion SoundBlade is on the larger side of Bluetooth speakers, but it makes the most of its size with expansive sound. Bass response is excellent for a Bluetooth speaker. Aside from its top-notch sound quality, the SoundBlade impresses with great ergonomics: the black buttons on the top edge are clearly labeled and include all the necessary functions (volume, play, pause, seek, and accept call). When not plugged in, the SoundBlade can operate for 24 continuous hours on six AA batteries. There is also a 3.5mm jack for wired sources, plus a pop-out stand in the back.

The Altec Lansing InMotion SoundBlade is available on Amazon.

Creative D100 ($65)

Creative D100

Top Review Sources:

• CNET: 4.0/5.0 “Impressive low-end range…[makes] it a worthwhile addition to your next outdoor get-together”
• iLounge: B+ (Recommended) “Sonically, the D100 is surprisingly robust for its price”
• Amazon: 4.0/5.0 (70+ reviews)

The Creative D100 is a compelling value. It is capable of filling a room with undistorted music at high volume, delivering sound quality that is a few notches above what reviewers expect at this price point. The D100 operates on AC power or on four AA batteries for up to 25 hours. The D100 matches the wireless range of much more expensive models, and its pairing procedure is among the easiest out there. There is a 3.5mm auxiliary port for wired connections. While more expensive models offer smaller and sturdier housings, the D100 is tough enough to move around frequently and comes in your choice of four color schemes: black/black, green/white, blue/white, and pink/white.

You can purchase Creative’s D100 on Amazon.

SuperTooth Disco ($122)

SuperTooth Disco

Top Review Sources:

• CNET: 4.0/5.0 “A solid alternative to the classic three-piece computer speaker set”
• Amazon: 4.5/5.0 (20+ reviews)
• Phone Arena: “We’re actually surprised to hear such rich tones being pumped out…but even more [surprised] when it’s able to powerfully echo throughout a room”

Reviewers like the SuperTooth Disco because its sound quality, battery life, and design make it seem like a bargain for its relatively low price. At a foot long and about 2.5 pounds, the Disco is less portable than many other Bluetooth speakers, yet its responsive bass and room-filling volume make listeners forget about its form factor. Reviewers also appreciate the rechargeable battery, which allows the Disco anywhere between three and ten hours of continuous playback (depending on volume). Like all the speakers reviewed here, the Disco includes a 3.5mm jack for wired inputs, plus a selection of physical buttons you can use to control playback directly from the speaker. Pairing is straightforward, though keep in mind that you can’t use the Disco as a speakerphone.

The SuperTooth Disco is available on Amazon.

The Logitech S715i is a portable speaker system that incorporates a rechargeable lithium-ion battery into its design. It’s approved by Apple, and will run for about eight hours on a charge.

CNET rates the Logitech S715i as “Excellent” and awards this product their Editor’s Choice, saying “The Logitech S715i portable speaker for iPhone and iPod uses eight drivers to deliver audio performance that is far beyond its price range.” Reviewers on Amazon agree, rating the product an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 635 reviews.

The Logitech S715i Rechargeable Speaker for iPod and iPhone is available from Amazon for about $100.

JBL On Stage Micro Speakers

The JBL On Stage Micro provides solid sound quality with a tiny footprint. It features an iPod dock in the center as well as a 3.5mm plug for connecting other inputs, plus a clever touch button system and a remote control that make track selection and volume adjustments easy. Aluminum transducers driven by neodymium magnets are paired with digital amplifiers to provide rich sound while extending battery life. Four AAA batteries provide 24 hours of play. The On Stage Micro is compatible with rechargeable NiMH and lithium cells, and it features a low battery indicator LED. Plus, the On Stage Micro speaker system comes in a range of color options to match your iPod: white, black, blue, green, and red.

The JBL On Stage Micro is available at Amazon. Prices start at $72.50, depending on color.

iHome iHM77 Portable Multimedia Speakers

These rubberized mini speakers from iHome each measure just 2” x 2” x 2” when collapsed for transport, then pop open when in use with a clever accordion design. Vacuum bass design enhances low frequency tones, and the iHome speakers magnetically attach to one another to form a super-portable capsule. Power comes from internal lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged using the included USB cord, and a carry case and cord wrap are included with the speakers.

The iHome iHM77 Portable Multimedia Speakers are available in black, silver, and red from Amazon, starting at $46.80.

 

Harmon/Kardon Go + Play

The Go + Play from Harmon/Kardon may not be the smallest or cheapest option for a portable speaker system, but it delivers serious sound quality thanks to its 30-watt tweeters and 30-watt Atlas woofers. Its 9” x 9.5” x 20” dimensions are substantial, but a stainless steel carry handle and battery power keep it portable. It features the universal iPod dock system that is compatible with most dockable iPods (see note below) plus a 3.5mm jack for other connections. The Go + Play comes with an AC power adapter for indoor use, and a full-featured RF remote with a 20-foot range. And although eight D batteries add bulk to the system, they provide approximately 20 hours of power.

You can find the Harmon/Kardon Go + Play at Amazon for $216.90.

 

Bose SoundDock Portable

Bose SoundDock Portable

Would you be willing to sacrifice compact size to literally bring your home stereo system with you wherever you go? If so, check out the Bose SoundDock Portable. This mobile variation of their popular SoundDock system features a carry handle, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and a retractable iPod connection/charging dock (in addition to a 3.5mm plug for other devices). The SoundDock is over 12” wide and weighs over five pounds, so it’s not as compact or portable as some of its competitors, and it doesn’t come cheap – but it offers legendary Bose sound quality and an iPod-specific design. Battery life is roughly three hours at maximum volume (longer at lower levels); an AC adapter is included for battery charging and using the SoundDock at home, and a remote control gives added convenience.

You can find the Bose SoundDock Portable in black or white for $399 at Amazon, as well as a SoundDock travel bag for $40.19.