All of the comments here are relevant, with good observations. I've used the iPod, too, but here's my take on it-----if you improvise like I do, then I need to see chord changes---which means taking the laptop on the gig. Since I take requests, my memory is not good enough to solo on hundreds of tunes using an iPod. Yes, and you have to watch the computer during breaks. I've had a few close calls with folks hanging around the bandstand. I use the Bose model II, but wish it was stereo. So, I recently got the new Roland BA-330 keyboard amp, which is stereo (for the BIAB tracks). I was surprised how good is sounds, with a full bass sound. It weighs about 30 lbs. It's got all kinds of patch points and can even run on several AA batteries . I've only used it twice, but have been very impressed with the sound----running BIAB, vocals, and guitar through it.