Portable speaker systems are ten-a-penny at the moment as manufacturers attempt to cash in on the ever-expanding community of iPod and MP3 enthusiasts, and with the arrival of Powertraveller’s K8000B, the vast choice of mini-speakers has just got a little more confusing. In a good way.

Despite fierce competition, this speaker stands out as an attractive buy. First appearances are certainly favourable: the smooth curves and brushed aluminium casing immediately catch the eye, putting many of its plastic Mac-white competitors in the shade. Setting up couldn’t be much easier either. Simply plug into the mains, connect your input source via the mini-jack and you’re off.

Eschewing a dual speaker system, Powertraveller has instead opted for a single, sleek speaker with an integrated bass subwoofer. The quality of the 8-watt output puts it in a different class from many of its similarly priced competitors. With the bass and treble intensified, the tinny quality usually associated with portable music is well and truly banished. Even at its highest volumes, the speaker emits a clean, crisp sound with no discernible distortion.

The inclusion of the subwoofer does slightly increase the weight of the unit, but this is compensated for in part by its light transformer. The mini-jack also allows the use of different models of MP3 player, laptops, PSPs, and portable CD and DVD players without any extra fittings.

Perhaps the only serious criticism that can be made of the model is that it is not able to run off batteries for those occasions where wireless music would liven things up. Given the quality of its output, however, this is hardly surprising, and most of its competitors are also mains-powered.

With its excellent sound and sophisticated design, the speaker is excellent value for its retail price of about £85. While it is neither the very best quality speaker available, nor the cheapest, it is an ideal compromise choice for those who value sound quality as highly as portability.

Pros: A stylish look combined with good performance, all at an attractive price

Cons: A little weighty for those who like to travel light

Verdict: This is an impressive piece of kit which should appeal to iPod champions and MP3 lovers alike.

Website: www.powertraveller.co.uk

RRP: £85

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