The QDOS Genesis promises to bring something new to the iPod speaker party. Instead of just stereo sound, it has four speakers that, supposedly, give all-round listening.

The main unit is cylinder shaped, and looks good. There is a dock connector on the top, and adapters are provided for all dock-compatible iPods. Pressing the button on the bottom causes the top section to pop up, revealing the speakers. It's a good way to cut down on space, enhancing the Genesis's travel credentials (it only weighs 800g, and comes with a carry case).

Although those are good points, the sound quality lets it down. Badly. The speakers aren't up to much, sounding very tinny. While volume levels can go quite high, it has a tendency to distort and there's very little bass response.

While the surrounding sound is a good idea, the Genesis hasn't made it work, and for £70 there are far better iPod speakers available.

Also consider
Bose Sounddock
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Saitek i-Phonic A-100
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Intempo iDS-02
Shaped like a bowling ball, this iPod speaker system strikes a chord with us

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