Looking for rugged portable speakers for the Apple iPod? Then you’ll be interested in two new ION Audio products introduced at CES 2009 – the compact TAILGATER and a new black version of the BLOCK ROCKER.

The BLOCK ROCKER is essentially an all-in-one speaker system – combining speakers, an amp, audio inputs, and an iPod dock into a single box. The system comes with recessed wheels, a telescoping handle, a microphone, and a cable – everything you need to turn a gathering into one rockin party.

If the BLOCK ROCKER is a tad bit too large for your taste, then you’ll want to check out the TAILGATOR. This system is essentially a smaller version of the BLOCK ROCKER with the exception that the wheels and telescoping handle are replaced with a more conventional guitar amplifier-style grip.

The BLOCK ROCKER will be available in white or block for a price of $299.99 while the TAILGATOR will be priced at $199.99. Expect the two portable systems to come out in the second quarter.

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