We've found few iPod speaker systems that make just the right compromise between portability and sound quality. With the inMotion iM9, Logitech's mm50 finally has some competition. Although the iM9 is a bit bigger and heavier than the mm50, it's still portable while offering richer, fuller sound than any truly portable system we've tested. Although it can't match the treble detail and stereo separation of the mm50, it's clearly superior in bass, volume, and overall presence. The iM9's cradle keeps your iPod safer than the open dock used by most iPod speaker systems, and its rugged design means the system should hold up to frequent use; the included backpack is a nice bonus that makes the iM9 easy to take along. If you don't need a wireless remote control -- an unfortunate omission given the $200 price tag -- and your audio tastes tilt towards bass and away from treble, the iM9 is an excellent speaker system for the iPod. It easily earns our Playlist Pick designation.

--Dan Frakes

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