Big sound in a small body would be the best way to describe the JBL On Stage Micro. Those looking for a small, tight iPod speaker system will want to seek this model out for its great audio and good mix of features.

The JBL On Stage Micro takes the form of a flying saucer, with a wider lower portion housing the speakers in a circular design supporting an iPod dock at the top. The grill surrounding the speakers is grey with white trim. Volume buttons are found on the front of the unit, with power button on the backside along with ports for AC power, mini stereo-jack input for playback of other portable audio devices, USB for iTunes synching with a host computer and audio out in case you want to connect headphones.

Included with the JBL On Stage Micro is a ten-button micro remote which, pleasantly, allows you to control advanced iPod menu functions so you can better navigate your on-screen selections. A variety of IPod dock adapters are also included, ensuring your specific iPod model has a snug fit in the dock, as well as a small cloth carrying case for the speaker system.

Sound tests on the JBL On Stage Micro really impressed us. This iPod speaker dock kicked out a great sound for such a small, portable unit. It was fairly easy to pick out all ranges of the audio spectrum from highs to lows. We were particularly impressed by the bass which, while not having as much thump as we'd like, was still noticeable. High volume was not a problem for On Stage Micro as we heard virtually no distortion.

Though we would liked to have seen video output from the On Stage Micro so you can view digital images and videos on a monitor, the addition of a USB pass through and iPod charging made us quite happy. The portability factor, available via four AAA batteries, was also a big plus in our book.

All of the above factors, including little touches like the carrying case and lightweight design, left quite a mark in our reviewing the JBL On Stage Micro. We're happy to award this iPod speaker system with a Budget Buy.

Pros: Great sound, advanced iPod menu controls, portability
Cons: Lack of iPod video output