There's no shortage of speakers and accessories for iPod users, with a range of companies appearing to adopt a strategy of catering for every possible audio environment. Logitech has a fair selection of iPod solutions itself, the newest of which is the Audiostation Express.

Hitting the middle ground between dedicated solution and travel companion, the unit is supplied in an attractive black carry case, with access points for the iPod dock and audio/video ports. Whether used in or out of the case it's an appealing enough if rather basic design: an extendable twist volume knob at the front adds some dynamism to what is otherwise a pretty minimalist product.

Many of the features are oriented towards iPod users, and you'll only get the most from the speakers if you utilise the iPod dock and supplied adapter. In doing so you'll be able to charge your player on the go, view podcasts through a TV using the composite video output connector, or control things from afar using the remote control.

If you don't have an iPod you can still make use of the speakers thanks to the 3.5mm jack input, and to improve portability you can use six AA batteries instead of the mains cable to listen on the move.

We've seen a fair few solutions in this field that offer similarly useful features but fail to perform on the audio front. Thankfully the Audiostation Express is no letdown here. The twin speakers combined with a tuned bass port offer a good audio range, which remains crisp and clear even at maximum volume. There's certainly enough power here for the unit to succeed as a travel solution and it should be good enough for most as a semi-permanent placement in the home or as part of an audio/video setup.

Achieving this well-rounded sound does carry its drawbacks though: it's a relatively large unit and, although light, it may prove a little too bulky if a powerful travel speaker solution is your aim. This couldn't really have been avoided without making sacrifices on performance, though, and ultimately the Express succeeds admirably in this middle-of-the-road bracket. It retails for £79.99, but shop around online and you can pick one up for about £50, which is excellent value for money.

With an effective combination of useful features for iPod users - in particular the video-out port and remote control access - and well-rounded audio, we're big fans of Logitech's portable offering. What it lacks in style and innovative design it makes up for in performance and features, and it's well priced to boot.

The Audiostation Express is a great audio solution for the modern iPod user. Even if you don't own an Apple player we'd be tempted to recommend it anyway, particularly when you consider the big savings you can make if you shop around.