Unless your name is Robinson Crusoe and you’ve been living on a remote island, you know how popular the iPod is.

With consumers buying more iPods, people from all walks of life are now using their iTunes software for more than just file management.

More people are also using their iTunes-equipped computers as a source device to feed their larger audio systems or as independent sources in secondary rooms.

Consumers are accomplishing the task of computer-based listening in a number of ways:

• Digital-to-analog converters (DACs) that enable high-fidelity music listening from home theaters
• Compact audio systems like the Polk iSonic or Meridian A88
• Active speakers from a range of manufacturers

Click here to view 22 popular desktop audio products.

Robert Archer - Senior Editor, CE Pro

Bob is a dedicated audiophile who has been writing about A/V for Electronic House sister publication CE Pro since 2000.