We’re big fans of the NXT speaker technology at the heart of Kensington’s SX 2000: This little system puts out big sound and satisfying bass without a subwoofer. But we expect just a little more for 160 clams.

The SX 2000 has no sync capability and no capacity for displaying digital photos or video on a TV monitor; heck, it doesn’t even come with a remote control. It will recharge your iPod while it’s docked, but that’s about it. Without a remote, you must use the iPod to change tracks; and without any bracing mechanism to support the player while it’s docked, we’re concerned about the stress placed on the iPod’s Dock connector.

The all-in-one formfactor is marvelous for a bookshelf or tabletop, but the 18-inch-wide package makes an awkward PC partner, because the only way to get a proper stereo image is to plop it right in front of your monitor.

Month Reviewed: August 2006

+ PANCAKE BREAKFAST: NXT's flat-panel speakers sound fabulous.

- PANCAKE MAKEUP: No remote control; won't sync your iPod; overpriced.

VERDICT: 6

URL: www.kensington.com