The TSX-70's all-black front is a real pain to use in the dark. To Yamaha's credit, the button for switching off your morning alarm is located on the top and lights up to take the guesswork out of things.

The TSX-70 boasts an impressive list of features, including AM radio, FM radio, remote control, alarm clock, sleep timer, 5 station presets, aux input, and a dock compatible with both iPod and iPhone. Many of the comparable bedside speaker dock solutions in the sub-$200 price range rely on the iPod for alarm clock functionality, and few offer AM radio.

For better or worse, the back of the TSX-70 takes a page from home receiver design, concealing the power input, FM antenna input, AM antenna input, aux input, a tone adjustment knob, and controls for setting the alarm clock.

Measuring 4.25 inches high, 8 inches wide, and 5-inches deep, the TSX-70's metal-clad enclosure looks more than a little like a tipped-over lunch pail. It's a handy size, seemingly perfect for a kitchen counter or a nightstand.

The TSX-70 isn't shy about including all the cables, antennas, and accessories you could ask for. Unfortunately, all these cables can be hard to conceal on a counter top or nightstand.