Looks can be deceiving. The X-mini Max stereo speakers may be small in size, but plug them into an iPod and you'll be surprised that it packs quite a punch with its pretty impressive sound.

Tipping the scales at a mere 100g, each speaker is no larger than a small roll of sticky tape. Compared to most plug and play speakers, there are a couple more steps you have to take before you can get them running, but I don't find them overly troublesome. You twist open the top half of the speaker to extend it, much like an accordion. Plug it into the iPod or any sound device, turn on the speakers and you're ready to go. For the first few times I tried this out, it actually feels like fun.

The speakers deliver good, clear sound with a pretty impressive bass. Despite its size, the X-mini Max is also able to handle a considerably high volume without compromising too much on quality. Sound distortion at higher volume levels is noticeable when you play songs with a low quality encoding. But play high quality files (think iTunes music store AAC files, or direct from the CD) and there is a marked increase in the maximum volume you can crank the speakers up to. In general, the X-mini Max stereo speakers are able to project sound loud enough for someone to hear clearly what is being played from the other side of a large meeting room. The speakers can also be used on their own as a mono speaker, though I would not recommend it as the sound would be very much compromised.

The X-mini Max runs on in-built batteries, which will require charging after every ten hours of play or so. I found charging the speakers to be rather quick and very convenient - just plug it into any laptop or USB charger and it will be ready to go in about two hours. Keeping the speakers out of the way is easy - the magnetic bases on both speakers means that they can be connected together and put away in the carry case provided when not in use. The connecting wires are also retractable; to put the entire setup away takes less than a minute.

My only gripes are that the UBS and audio port wires look too fragile, and that the switches are made such that you have to double-check the power indicator light to make sure that the speakers are really turned off.

Verdict: The X-mini Max stereo speakers balance portability and sound quality quite well, and are excellent for those who need their music on the go. I would recommend using both speakers as a stereo setup whenever possible. Since they can be carried around easily in a pair anyway, only go for the mono speaker option when you really cannot afford the space.