A New iPad Speaker Dock from JBL

Audio-component maker JBL announced this week its OnBeat iPad speaker dock. Costing $150, the OnBeat can increase the iPad's audio output while also charging the tablet. A USB port can connect the dock to a computer, so it can charge, amplify and sync an iPad at the same time.

If you are someplace where all your music is on your iPad and you want to fill a room with its sound, then a dock like this makes sense. But for home use, there are probably better and less expensive options. If you have a Wi-Fi network at home, you can connect your home stereo (and all of its speakers) to your iTunes library by buying an Airport Express from Apple for $99. You can then control the music from your computer, iPod Touch, iPhone or iPad using Apple's free Remote app.

And then there is AirPlay, a new wireless standard that will allow devices like the iPad to stream audio and video to displays and speakers. The current selection of AirPlay devices is limited (and expensive), but more devices are expected this year and will allow the iPad to share its audio content from afar.