Others say...

"Works with any iPod . . . not so much "
So I have a 20G iPod of the 3rd generation variety . . . Now imagine my surprise--after being assured that the iK500 works with any iPod--when I couldn't get my iPod to work on the thing. I knew it couldn't be a problem with my iPod because I have a 'Peripheral' adapter in my car that allows me to run directly into my stereo--it even allows me to change songs, fast forward, and reverse . . . not to mention charge the thing. So there's definitely no problem with my iPod. So why wouldn't it work? After an hour or so of tampering without success I began to think that there must be a problem with the plug on my particular iK500; that I should send it back and exchange it for another . . . That's when I found the answer--it was in the part of the directions that tell you how to use the remote control. It says, "Note: 3rd generation iPods are compatible with the iK500 but will not charge while docked or respond to remote control functions." (WHAT!?!) But this statement is a bit of a lie since plugging the iPod into the iK500 disables its (the iPod's) buttons, making it impossible to actually start, stop, or change a song--or interact with the iPod in any way. Gosh, that would make it seem like it isn't really compatible at all, wouldn't it? It turns out that the only way I can get my iPod to play through the iK500 is to start a song with the iPod unplugged and then connecting it to the iK500 while it's playing. But then it won't play more than one song by this method, meaning that I'd have to unplug it after every song, start the next tune manually, and then plug it back into the socket again. No thank you.
Like I said, I listen to my iPod through my car stereo every day using the exact same plug to do all of those things that the iKick says it can't do with the 3G iPod. So there really is no real reason for this incompatibility other than an attempt at forced obsolescence. But what really torques me is that there is no mention of the fact that the functionality of the system is limited if you use it with a 3G iPod, and even when they DO mention it, it's wrapped up in another lie. (Note: 3rd generation iPods ARE compatible . . . what a load)
I guess I could keep my iK500; I could just plug my trusty old iPod into the iK500 using the 1/8th inch jack . . . but then I could have done that with the stereo I already have and saved myself a load of grief and hassle in the process. It's really too bad that you can't give less than 1 star.

"A Nice Unit"
I purchased the Kicker after returning the Altec Lansing IM7 which was freezing my iPod after every few songs. For a small unit the sound is very good. The remote works very well and is easy to use. I find it light weight and easy to transfer in and out of the house. The space area for doing this could be improved as I am only able to grab it with fingers and thumb. The Kicker has separate bass/treble controls although too much bass quickly starts muffling the sound. I have not listened to the other products similar to this, but recommend that Kicker be a serious consideration when choosing a sound dock. I did read that some other units do not have options for treble/bass adjustments.

"Fantastic"
Ordered a JBL soundstage ll and returned it after 10 minutes. Wanted it for poolside but the volume outside was pathetic. Might be ok for a small room. The remote, which was supposed to be RF, hence powerful, had to be within 5 ft. of the speaker.

I ordered the Kicker to replace it and was just blown away.

Volume goes to 40 on the dial, but I doubt you'd ever push it past 20. I've got a $1500 stereo system in the living room and this summer the Kicker will make me feel like I brought it outside. The bass is unbelievable! Goes to 50 hz, tight and super defined. Clarity throughtout the audio range. This speaker could serve as a main speaker in your living room for all your music. The remote worked at 20 ft. with instant response. Actually, I didn't try it further, might go 30 ft. Pretty damn good for an infrared. Built in carrying handle, nice wide stable base with rubber ft.
If you want your ipod to fill a huge room or take it outside to blast away at poolside, this is the one for you. I know $300 is a lot of money, but then quality always costs. Truthfully I've only had this a short time so longevity isn't something I can speak to, but Kicker has a great rep in the auto speaker business.