We review Logitech's sweet new iPod companion.

For quite some time now, Apple's iPod has been the leading digital audio player. Therefore it makes sense that there would be numerous iPod-centric speaker systems on the market. From small to big, affordable to not-so-affordable, there is no shortage of choices for an iPod enthusiast looking for a little audio stimulation.

Knowing this, Logitech has taken the opportunity to introduce their AudioStation, a high-performance, full-function stereo, into the mix.

Appearance

Since the Logitech AudioStation is intended to be used in the open, whether it is on a shelf or tabletop, it would lose a lot of its overall appeal if it were hard on the eyes. Luckily, this is not the case. The AudioStation is a classy, understated and ultimately aesthetically pleasing unit.

The minimalist design of the system ensures that it is at home in virtually any room in virtually any house. The glossy rectangular face, with an inset dock for the iPod, is flanked by removable matte black speaker grilles that pull off easily to reveal 1" high-def soft dome tweeters sitting above 4" high power, long throw woofers. 

Surrounding each speaker is a metallic silver ring that stands out beautifully against the black of the speakers themselves. The center LCD display is equally attractive with easily readable, illuminated white text on a black background. Since the entire speaker unit is black, white or colored iPods look just fine sitting in their central cradle which comes with adapters for every possible iPod in existence.

The design of the AudioStation is decidedly high-end; however the GIGANTIC power supply can be a bit of an eyesore if you do not have anywhere to hide it away.