This toy is a classic example of why we at Tech Talk for Families test toys using actual kids. When I first looked at what it actually does, I was frankly disappointed. But then, we hooked it up and turned it on, and all 3 of our kids, age 6-12, were mesmerized for 45 minutes straight until they were told to go to bed--which they protested because they wanted to stay up and watch the lights. They've been begging to watch it ever since.

The concept is very simple. Play music through your favorite audio source, such as an iPod, radio, or CD player via the retractable 1/8" mini-plug. The music plays over the device's stereo speakers, and a laser shoots out the back to show an oscilloscope pattern. That's it. If you've ever used the default iTunes visualizer, you get the basic idea. The circular line dances to the music. See why I was unimpressed?

But the simplicity of the pattern seems to be what appeals to kids. As they see the patterns jump around on the wall or ceiling (A slide and a swiveling base allow you to adjust the angle of the laser.), they get a visual show to match the audio dancing through their heads, like a rock concert minus the live performers.

The device does use an actual laser, so because of the eye damage risk, this toy is only for kids old enough to understand that looking directly into the laser is bad.

The front top of the ball-shaped device offers a cut-out space for an iPod or similarly shaped player. It does not dock or charge while being used--a tab simply holds the player in place and will work with most media players. From the same location comes the retractable audio cord, which wraps around an internal spring-loaded spool but locks at full length as needed. Because the cord is only 6" long, the device also includes a 12" extender for connecting to a computer's headphone jack or a CD player.

Because it simply uses audio, b2 emphasizes that it's compatible with the other miJam synthesizers, enabling you to chain multiple instruments between these speakers and your music player. We tried the miJam guitar with it and found that it works as advertised, although if you want to "rock out" with the guitar, you'll want to get a longer cord extender, which can be found cheap at any electronics store.

The Laser Light Show can run on 4 AA batteries, but thankfully, an AC adapter is included.

The stereo speakers produce a sound much like most simple computer speakers. You won't get much depth, but unless you or your child are an audiophile, it's probably good enough for a desktop speaker. The on/off switch has a middle setting to enable the speakers without the laser, which is useful when listening to music during the day or while doing homework.

So personally, even though I like blinking lights and lasers, I wouldn't buy this device for myself. I'd personally prefer one of the many docking iPod speaker systems or at least some options for different patterns--even my Christmas tree lights have options for different patterns, and so does the iTunes visualizer. But my kids recommend it wholeheartedly, and who am I to argue with them?