GearCulture

Unlike most standard iPod/iPhone dock, the Roth Audio Music Cocoon MC4 ($500) offers exceptional sound combined with dashing good looks. This ultra-compact, universal iPod dock includes two 13-watt tube amplifier that offers smooth high and mid-range frequencies, while a solid-state MOSFET amplifier delivers punchy bass. Other features include S-Video output for viewing video or photo content on your TV, 3.5mm mini auxiliary source input to accommodate virtually all MP3 players and laptops, and even traditional RCA input to connect to a CD player.

Missing your old CDs, cassette tapes and vinyl records collecting dust stashed in the basement? Those old tunes need some love too. Teac's LP-R550 All-in-One ($750) combines a number of audio devices so you can enjoy and even convert your old collection to digital. The LP-R550 comes with a turntable, cassette player/recorder, CD player/recorder, PLL synthesized AM/FM stereo tuner, a built-in 3.5Wx2ch speakers and remote control.

Fender strikes the right chord with the '57 Champ ($1,000). This hand-wired recreation of a classic pumps five watts of tube powered tone through an 8-inch Weber Special Design speaker with alnico magnet for vintage audio output. The '57 Champ features a solid pine cabinet casing with lacquered tweed covering and a leather strap handle.

Enjoy your music anywhere in your home with Bose's new computer-based speaker system. The Bose SoundLink ($550) uses a RF USB dongle to stream music wirelessly from your computer to a portable speaker. This speaker system transmits through walls and comes with a rechargeable battery that holds a three-hour charge and a remote control.

The Lexon Foam Radio ($48) makes an excellent portable AM/FM radio for all-around use. Its bare bone design is surrounded by a technical foam case that resists hits and scratches. The Lexon features a classic AM/FM design with streamlined controls with an on/off/volume knob, telescopic antenna, built-in amplifier and speaker.

Do your eardrums a favor and dock your iPod on an iHome iP1 Audio System ($300). This compact speaker system sports a massive smoke faceplate equipped with Jamo R907 speakers. The iP1 is capable of delivering stunning sound, restored harmonics, increased clarity and deep bass with two 4-inch honeycomb subwoofers and two 1-inch silk dome tweeters, powered by 100W class D amplifier.

Upgrade your turn table setup and trade your plastic crates for a custom DJ Desks by MetroFarm ($TBD). The Berlin-based company has produced a number of unique and stunning DJ decks including ones crafted with folded stainless steel, concrete stand and black and neon painted wood. Each DJ Desks are specifically designed and constructed to fit a client's style and technical needs.

Don't let its size fool you. The One-Box Cubic Stereo Speaker from Yamaha ($60) measures less than 3.5-inch on each side and delivers crisp and clear. This compact and portable speaker features Swing Radiator bass technology that significantly boost deep bass, and a single button power, mute and volume control. [source]

Relive the days of track suits, battles and ghetto blasters while earning some street creds with the Lasonic i931 ($135). This iPod-ready, old-school music system combines retro boom box style with hi-fi tech capable of blasting out 15 watts per channel through separate woofers and tweeters. It features an AM/FM radio, bass and treble EQ controls, LCD display, mic input as well as video output. The i931 also support USB flash drive and SD/MMC card and comes bundled with a remote.

The Livio Internet Radio ($150) with a built-in WiFi allows you to easily access more than 11,000 standard radio stations in over 150 countries. The Livio design includes Pandora controls, including the Thumbs UP/Down song rating system accessible on both unit and remote control. Additional features include a simple menu/volume knob, three-line lCD screen, auxiliary input, speaker and headphone jack.