The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin (which Doug reviewed last October) was easily one of the best looking speaker docks made for the iPod, but with a $599 tag it was a bit intimidating for the average consumer. This October B&W is introducing the Zeppelin Mini, which they claim offers the same great sound in a smaller (and less expensive) package. At $399.95, the Zeppelin Mini order page says that “you get everything you love about Zeppelin – advanced acoustic technology, intelligent design, elegant connectivity – in a streamlined, compact sound dock package that’s perfect for desktops and bedside tables.”

I wouldn’t complain if I found one under the Christmas tree.

More info directly from the press release:

B&W’s unrivaled expertise in loudspeaker design is exemplified by the Mini’s use of two newly developed, full-range, 3-inch fiber-glass drivers whose uniquely slotted cone and very long-throw “motor” deliver unprecedented range and dynamics for so compact a transducer. B&W’s extensive experience in digital signal processing (DSP) proved just as important, supplying advanced processing including proprietary dynamic equalization that maximizes the drivers’ abilities to produce jaw-dropping loudness and fullness. The Zeppelin Mini’s two leading-edge Class D (“digital”) amplifiers ensure plenty of power (18 watts each) from ultra-compact, nearly cold-running circuitry.