I have always had this complaint against iPod accessory manufacturers-about why most accessories cost more than the iPod itself. The Bose SoundDock II is no different; priced at Rs 18k, it is an update to the previous version with a swiveling dock. The performance is top-notch, but the high asking price isn't justified-at least not for me.

The forté of the SoundDock II is big sound from a small package and it excels in that department. Bass levels are way better than any small iPod docks you may come across and so is the clarity. Audio doesn't break down even at full volume; no crackling, no jarring whatsoever. The dock generates loud-enough volume to fill the room with music, good enough for a small gathering or party. It accepts an audio input from other sources too, via standard RCA input. The remote control only offers basic volume and track change options. Additional controls for repeating a track, shuffling, changing the album, and setting the sleep timer would have been welcome. Weirdly, when you switch off the dock (with the iPod still in the cradle) from the power plug on the wall, you have to manually turn the iPod off.

For the price, you can also get yourself a THX-certified set of 5.1 speakers from Logitech (Z5500).

Bose SoundDock Series II Rs 17,888	Performance Coolness
Pros Great sound quality Cons Basic remote control, expensive Sold by Bose India, www.boseindia.com	Specs iPhone and iPod speaker system, compatible with iPhone, iPod Classic, Nano and Touch, cradle charger, infrared remote. Verdict