iBlast speakers for your iPod

Radian iBlast iPod speaker system

For iPod users who don't want to spend more on speakers than they did on their iPods, Radian Technologies iBlast (www.eradian.com) may be the ticket.

The iBlast can be found for under $50 (CompUSA had the best price when I checked) and has most of the features of more expensive players — dock connector charges the iPod while you listen, USB port for computer syncing, aux-in for use with other sources.

There is no remote control, and it is a two-handed job to change songs while the iPod is docked. Sound quality was average, with some static audible when playing back an audio book.

Pros: Inexpensive, small and light.

Cons: Audible interference during quiet passages.

Bottom line: You get what you pay for.

Kensington Digital FM Transmitter/Auto Charger

Kensington Kensington FM Transmitter/Auto Charger

The Kensington Digital FM Transmitter/Auto Charger is an early favorite among iPod users.

The $80 FM transmitter is simple and works well.

Powered by your car's 12-volt power outlet, the transmitter connects to your iPod through a dock connector.

You tune to an empty frequency on your car's FM radio and use the transmitter's up and down buttons to tune to the same station.

There are three preset buttons to store frequently used stations. You'll need more than one because finding an unused frequency that is quiet everywhere in the area is difficult. One frequency may work well in Dallas but not in Arlington or Fort Worth.

The Kensington Digital FM Transmitter/Auto Charger (www.kensington.com) also keeps your iPod's battery charged.

Pros: Simple to use, works well.

Cons: Dock connector cable may not fit in some iPod holders.

Bottom line: Does a good job.

Timbuk2 Commute XL laptop bag

Timbuk2 Timbuk2 Commute XL laptop bag

My new favorite laptop bag is the Timbuk2 Commute XL.

It's a messenger bag — designed to be worn over one shoulder — that straps across the user's chest.

Timbuk2 (www.timbuk2.com) has added extra features, such as a padded sleeve and carrying handle.

The $120 Commute XL is large enough for a 17-inch laptop and has enough room inside for all the necessary accessories. My letter-size notepads and files also have plenty of room. There is a $100 Commute for 15-inch laptops.

There are pockets for my iPod and cellphone and several zippered compartments and a key ring tether.

The back of the bag is nicely padded with D-rings for an included waist strap to keep the bag close to your body in transit.

The exterior is ballistic nylon and the bottom is double-padded and rubberized. The bag is held closed with ample hook-and-loop material and plastic side-release buckles.

My only gripe is that the shoulder strap is not padded. A removable pad is optional.

Pros: Easy to carry, holds everything.

Cons: Shoulder strap is not padded.

Bottom line: Great mix of functionality and good looks.