The introduction of portable speaker systems for the Apple iPod are a recent development in freeing your music from the confines of its computer.

These folding, transportable speaker systems are the answer to the question of small-space, big-sound needs, with allure and features as standard. Two of the offerings from the iPod accessory industry are the Altec Lansing inMotion Portable Audio System and the Logic3 i-Station.

The first thing that strikes you about both of these sound systems is the volume that they can put out. The Logic 3 i-Station boasts 2 x 3 watts per channel speakers with neodymium aluminium speaker cones, while the Altec Lansing inMotion houses a Class D amplifier that powers four full-range micro drivers to deliver a full spectrum of pure, distinct sound.

For speaker purists, the Logic 3 i-Station has a separate 2.5 inch 6 watt sub woofer, but comparatively the Altec Lansing inMotion harnesses the technology of MaxxBass®, an innovation designed to give deep bass without the need for an external sub. Although the sound quality and clarity of the inMotion speakers are better than the i-Station when played at a moderate volume, and the MaxxBass® system quashes the myth that a sub is needed for good bass tones, distortion is worse at higher volume levels. The 3D internal surround sound system of the iStation genuinely improves depth, which is a useful feature seeing as the speaker levels cannot be manually adjusted.

With regards to appearance, both sets conform to the iPod’s clean, white style, but the Logic 3 i-Station has a more moulded look, giving it a slight advantage in the aesthetics department. Also, a well-placed blue LED never goes unnoticed in the visual stakes, à la i-Station.

From a practicality point of view, both speaker systems have different features that lend themselves to usability. Both stations allow for charging and synchronisation (when connected to a computer) of the iPod, but the Logic 3 i-Station provides the cables for you to do this. Both models can accommodate for older models of iPod, albeit through an auxiliary input jack that can also connect to other music devices (mp3 players, CD players, Walkmans etc). Both the iStation and the inMotion provide for the mini iPod with a dock adaptor. Having the volume and power controls on a flat base (like in the Altec Lansing inMotion) is much more practical than positioning them on an upright stand, such as on the front of the iStation.

As these speaker systems are meant to be portable, a good protection method should be part of the package. The i-Station comes with a piece of clear plastic that slides over the front panel to protect the speakers, but nothing to protect the rest. If the speakers are dropped or banged around, a piece of plastic will not provide that much padding. The inMotion however folds up neatly into it’s base and then goes into a nifty padded bag, which provides a barrier to scratches and also a means of carrying it.

Speaking statistics, the Logic 3 i Station has a 25g less weight advantage on the Altec Lansing inMotion, and also a considerably lighter price tag. The i-Station weighs in at 400g and approximately £60, while the inMotion costs £100. The dimensions are very similar, only the iStation is 10mm thicker when folded up. So, for the extra £40 for the inMotion all you are really gaining is a bag…

But that said, there is always going to be a tradeoff. The sound quality is better with the Altec Lansing inMotion, but the Logic3 iStation wins in the looks department. Its up to you to make the choice.