The Podwave, at first glance, looks like it would provide useful sound when connected to the iPod (or other portable audio devices, for that matter). The size is good, it weighs very little, and is easy to use. Unfortunately, the sound quality and volume is *very* lacking. I even tried ramping up the level of the signal feeding into the Podwave with a portable "Boosteroo" pre-amp, and that didn't much improve matters (using an iPod Nano as the signal source). I think that with better components (slightly larger speakers, better amp, and a short extension cable) the Podwave would be useful. As it stands, it's more of a "better than nothing" gadget. If you need high quality and portability, take a look at the JBL OnTour (larger, but much more capable) which is only $70-something if you shop frugally.