Heya,
That 'level of juice' is a power output of 60w, similar to the Bose Sounddock which has 50-55w. The Klipsch iGroove range is also similar to the Apple Hifi, a quick google comes up with it being 300w! [not sure if this is true]. My choice however if I couldn't get the Apple Hifi would be the Jamo i200. It mimics the design trend and there's an optional subwoofer in for it.
My brother has the Apple Hifi and its fantastic, although sometimes a little heavy on some bass and the higher trebles are occasionally lost in mix of things, however it has a warm, full sound. My uncle uses a Bose Sounddock which is also impressive although slightly 'tinnier' as if the case was made of aluminum. The lack of external audio input on the Bose Sounddock is also a tad disappointing. However, its still a craking little box and delivers a decent sound for a smaller room, anything over 5m x 5m is a bit of a struggle. I heard the Jamo i200 on a rowing trip and with its sub it filled a boathouse with good noise. The Jamo may not be as sturdy as the Apple Hifi but I felt that it had good range from the little duet.
Other options... I'd say pick up a Onkyo or Denon mini hifi for around £200 [$400] and connect up the ipod. Its underestimated how powerful and wholesome a pair of bookshelf speakers can be IMHO.
For a simple plug and play, the Harmon Kardon Soundsticks are incredible, as long as you can handle the faint purple glow it always gives off!
Good luck with finding...🙂
