Bose's $479 SoundLink Air Digital Music System , an AirPlay version of the company's venerable SoundDock speaker docks, is a somewhat portable speaker system. I say "somewhat" because though it can be powered by a battery, the SoundLink Air doesn't include one-Bose's rechargeable lithium-ion battery...

Easy setup; good audio quality

Rechargeable battery not included; bass distortion at top volume

Bose's $350 SoundLink Air Digital Music System , an AirPlay version of the company's venerable SoundDock speaker docks, is a somewhat portable speaker system. I say "somewhat" because though it can be powered by a battery, the SoundLink Air doesn't include one-Bose's rechargeable lithium-ion battery...

Easy setup; Good audio quality

Rechargeable battery not included; Bass distortion at top volume

When it comes to portable speakers for use on the go, there are a ton of products out there. The options available are relatively cheap, affordable and also offer a reasonably high quality of audio and performance. However, fewer options out there really push the boundary.

The Bose SoundLink Air music system is the logic successor for the Bose SoundLink Wireless Mobile Speaker that hit stores last year. Compared to that, this one does have the crowning feature of AirPlay added to it.

Very good listening experience; AirPlay is a bonus feature; Remote layout is simple; Built very well; Easy to use; post initial setup

Limited feature set; beyond AirPlay; LFEs may be too sculpted for some users; Basic wireless router isn't the best gateway device; Battery becomes an optional accessory

Love or hate Bose, the manufacturer has built quite a little empire around its Wave Music System. Maybe it's the convenience of good sound in a small package. Maybe it's the little kiosks at the airport.

Good sound quality; flexible design

Insane price; USB sticks out; only provides volume control for PC sources

The Bose SoundLink Wireless Mobile speaker offers big, rich sound in a small, sleek package. Starting at $299 ($349 for the leather version), this 2.9-pound device has a clever cover that not only doubles as a stand but turns the device off when closed.

Sleek stylish design; Loud and balanced audio; Cover doubles as a stand; Automatically powers down when you close cover

No speakerphone capability; Expensive

It's been a big month for one-box music streamers, with the Sonos S5 reviewed on page 76, but Bose's SoundLink offering is content to keep things simple.

Good bass; Works with some internet music streaming like Spotify; Rechargeable battery

iTunes reliance restricts file compatibility; No LCD screen

This is something of a departure for Bose . It has previously produced speaker docks – and indeed incorporated Bluetooth technology into some of its products – but strictly speaker this isn't a 'dock' at all.

Samsung Galaxy S

Samsung Galaxy S

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Attractive Design; Crisp Sound; Easy To Connect; Great Sound Quality

The Bose Soundlink is most definatly one of the most highest end speakers. Costing £249/£299 depending which cover you get. It weighs in at a hefty 1.5kg and the dimenions are: 130 x 245 x 50 mm wich makes it pretty big.

Sound

Weight