The Radial isn't as full featured as the On Time (see our review of that system [url=http://www.macsimumnews.com/index.php/archive/jbl_on_time_offers_a_true_ipod_halo_effect]here[/url]), but it does provide full, rich sound for small to medium sized rooms. It boasts 60 watts of total power and includes four aluminum-domed Odyssey full-range drivers, which are driven by neodymium magnets. The low-frequency driver is capable of peak-to-peak travel of nearly one inch.

You can connect the JBL Radial to a computer or TV to enjoy photos or videos stored on a docked iPod. The included RF smart remote provides iPod control, allowing you to change tracks, browse through libraries, adjust settings, scroll through extras and more.

As you'd expect, the JBL Radial charges the iPod even if it’s not connected to a computer, or if the system is in "off" mode. Additional features include touch volume controls (though, alas, they're not touch sensitive as with the On Time), additional cables for connecting it to other devices, and an extra connector on the rear that allows syncing a docked iPod with iTunes on the computer.

The JBL Radial is compatible with all docking iPods, including the 5G (video enabled) iPod and iPod nano, and comes equipped with a mini stereo jack connection for use with devices such as digital music players, personal CD/DVD players, and laptop and desktop computers. However, the dock area for the iPod is one-size-fits-all and doesn't include any adaptors like most other docking stations do. I think that's a mistake. Certain models of iPods (such as the nano or mini) don't fit snugly, so audio may occasionally cut out, especially when you go to manually change tracks or settings on the iPod while it’s docked.

The Radial remote itself is well designed, with six buttons laid out in two columns. It's easy to use, but lacks a power button (the Radial's power button is located on the back of the unit). Unfortunately, there's no user customization of bass or treble levels.

When it comes to high-end iPod speaker systems, the Radial doesn't measure up to my personal favorites: the On Time and the [url= The dock area for the iPod is one-size-fits-all but does not include any adaptors like many other JBL docking stations do. Unfortunately, the lack of a snug-fitting dock sometimes allows audio to cut out when using the iPod. This occurs usually when you go to manually change tracks or settings on the iPod while it’s docked.]Altec Lansing AudioStation[/url]. However, it looks great, sounds good and is only slightly overpriced.

Macsimum rating: 7 out of 10.