Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere (black)

Photo gallery:
Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere

Editors' Note: The product reviewed here has been replaced by the Logitech Pure-Fi Anywhere 2. Except for the addition of GSM shielding (which allows you to use an iPhone without swtiching it into airplane mode), the new model is otherwise identical to the previous one.

In a market brimming with iPod speaker systems, it can be hard to compete. However, combine a well-known company with a well-designed, good-sounding, relatively inexpensive product and you've got the Logitech mm50, a wildly popular portable iPod speaker unit. In the spirit of improving on a good thing, Logitech has finally come out with a follow-up nearly two years later. The new unit, called the Pure-Fi Anywhere, offers improved sound and a more advanced remote for the same affordable ($150) price.

At 13 by 3.6 by 1.6 inches and 1.6 pounds, the Pure-Fi Anywhere is on the hefty side for a travel speaker, but the flip-out metal legs, the built-in rechargeable battery, and the included travel case redeem its portability. In addition to the clamshell carrying case, Logitech includes nine iPod dock adapters, which will ensure a secure fit for any previous generation iPod (besides the Shuffle). For newer iPods--such as the Classic and 3G Nano--you'll need to use the adapters that come with the player. As for those with Shuffles or even non-iPod MP3 players, the Pure-Fi Anywhere accommodates with a line-in port found on the back of the unit. (You'll need to provide your own cable, though.) Of course, the unit can only charge iPods using the 30-pin connector, and then only if the speakers are plugged into wall power using the included AC adapter. Actually, this seemingly boring extra is pretty nifty: it has an appendage for wrapping up the power cable for easy storage.