NEW DELHI, INDIA: US-based audio specialist Bose has launched one of its most compact sound systems ever.

The handheld SoundLink Wireless Speaker lets you stream wirelessly from an iPod Touch, as well as from a phone, tablet or computer, over Bluetooth. You can also wire up an iPod or any other sound source with a standard 3.5 mm stereo jack.

The Wireless Speaker is a breeze to set up: lift the flap and place it upright, and press the Bluetooth button for a first-time connection. Switch on Bluetooth on your phone, and the two link up. It worked smoothly with my basic BlackBerry, iPod Touch, and iPad.

The sound is vintage Bose: full-range audio from a single, handheld device that sounds like a much bigger system, with clarity, depth, and, if you place it correctly, crisp and distinct stereo. Overall, superb sound.

The built-in lithium battery is rated to last 3 to 8 hours, depending on the sound level. I didn't test that rigorously, but it played just fine for over five hours, without running out of steam.

This is the first Bose device I've seen with a Bluetooth connection; previous SoundLink devices, such as the one I use with my Wave Music System, used a proprietary link requiring a USB dongle in the computer.

Bose has simultaneously launched this product globally, with availability in India from October. A preview unit was provided to CyberMedia Labs.

The Wireless Speaker costs Rs.. 19,013 with a nylon cover, and Rs.. 23,513 in 'leather trim'. As with the iPad's smart covers, I'd stay away from the overpriced leather; but the base system (which is otherwise identical to the leather version) is good value for this performance and convenience.

This isn't the first portable wireless speaker on the market, but it's among the best there is.