Editors' rating: 7.8, very good

The good: Fast write speeds; includes backup and restore utilities; generous warranty.

The bad: The backup utility is a bit limited; restore utility doesn't work for Mac users.

The bottom line: The Maxtor OneTouch 4 Plus is a good choice for the average home user who wants a fast and simple-to-use external hard drive for backup and storage. Mac users will want to find a different restore utility to use with it.

Check prices: http://reviews.cnet.com/Maxtor_OneTouch_4_Plus_750GB/4014-3186_732624497.html

Full review: http://reviews.cnet.com/Maxtor_OneTouch_4_Plus_750GB/4505-3186_732624497.html

Zeppelin iPod speaker

Bowers & Wilkins' curvaceous Zeppelin iPod speaker is as every bit as sophisticated as Apple's iconic player.

Editors' rating: 7.7, very good

The good: Seriously sleek, high-end iPod stereo speaker; three-way stereo system with two 1-inch tweeters, two 3.5-inch midrange drivers and one 5-inch woofer; 150 watts of power; mirror-polished stainless steel cabinet with black cloth grille; matching remote control; video output for hookup to a TV.

The bad: Very expensive; sounds better on acoustic music than bass-heavy genres such as rock and hip-hop; rubberized mounting stand seems better-suited to a cheaper product; light on features; until a pending firmware update hits, some incompatibilities with newest iPods remain.

The bottom line: The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin effectively combines substantial build quality and detailed sound - but you're still paying a hefty premium for the iPod speaker's stunning good looks.

Check prices: http://reviews.cnet.com/Bowers_Wilkins_Zeppelin_iPod_speaker/4014-6519_732650954.html