This Boynq Blox desktop computer speaker array's unusual design is as functional as it is eye-catching. The two cubes, trimmed in Colorado Red, are cantilevered on their inverted T-shaped stand as if they were some architectural marvel designed by Santiago Calatrava.

The playful design lets you move the speakers up and down to control the tone, where the right cube increases the treble as you move it up, and moving the left cube controls the bass. Each speaker is powered by its own 5-watt amplifier, giving you enough power to listen to your iPod, computer, or MP3 player by simply plugging in their ubiquitous 3.5mm jacks.

Keeping the convenience at a maximum is the system's ability to draw power from your USB port, so you don't have to worry about some cumbersome wall wart cluttering up your power strip. Each one of these speakers fires slightly to the one side for a stereo effect that may not be optimal, but the $35 Boynq Blox make up for that possible deficiency with an overdose of style and grace. — Charlie White

Stylehive, via Technabob