Memorex PurePlay Portable Speaker for iPhone & iPod Has a Robust Sound

I was pleased with the quality of the sound that comes out of this easy-to-carry Memorex PurePlay portable speaker. The bonus is knowing my iPhone is charging, while I'm listening to the music. The portable speaker, which comes in a slim, clutch-style case, doesn't take much room. It can take a reasonable beating stuffed in a suitcase or a back pack. You can use the speaker plugged in to an electrical outlet, or with batteries.

Unlike my other portable speakers (older ones I admit), you can hear the music on the far side of the room. The sound is good from the stereo speakers when the volume is moderate, although it can get a bit tinny if you turn the volume all the way up.

It's easy to use. Just park your iPhone or iPod in the base and turn it on. Controls include play, pause, forward, backward and skip, so you don't have to touch the iPhone or iPod, once docked. If I had to give this portable speaker a negative, I'd say that the volume control dial is lacking. It's touch-sensitive and you move it around with a finger, but there aren't any markings. You can't tell how much louder or softer you're making the volume, until you listen to it or watch the volume control on your iPhone or iPod.

The Memorex PurePlay Portable Speaker comes in a hard-sided case that's 8.7 X 3.3 x 1.8 inches. Just flip the case open and the speaker is in the top half, while the docking station is on the base. The portable speaker will power your iPhone or iPod while music is playing.

It comes with an power cord, so you can plug it into a wall socket. There's a compartment to hold four AAA batteries, so the speaker can be used anywhere. The portable speaker also has a line-in jack, so you can connect other digital audio devices.

The Memorex PurePlay comes in pink, black and white. Double-check your model of iPhone or iPod can be used with this portable speaker.

If you're looking for a rugged and theft-proof back pack in which to keep your portable speakers, cameras, computer and other gear you want kept safe, check out the Pacsafe VentureSafe 25L Adventure Daypack.

The Xtreme Sports ID Wristband helps keep you connected if there's a problem, even when you're in the back country or a remote location.

If you're looking for some useful travel apps for the iPhone - or for an Android phone, visit Top Adventure Travel Apps for the IPhone, iPad, iTouch and Android Phones.

Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.