Soulra solar-powered sound system

WHAT The Soulra

HOW MUCH $200

WHAT IT IS A compact sound system that also recharges iPods and iPhones using solar energy or an A/C adapter. The Soulra is meant to appeal to someone vacationing on a beach, fishing, boating or gardening -- anywhere there aren't electrical outlets.

WHAT'S GOOD It feels solid, with some heft reinforcing its nice industrial look. The rubberized surface helps in getting a grip on the Soulra, even with wet hands. It's also splash- and dust-resistant.

WHAT'S NOT It takes 10 hours for the sun (four hours with the charger) to recharge and it may not work with older iPod models. The sound quality is most acceptable for its intended use -- at the pool or in the yard.

AVAILABLE Apple Store, amazon.com, Hammacher Schlemmer. More information at etonsoulra.com.--McClatchy-Tribune