IPod docking stations are a great way to share your music with the world. It allows you to plug your iPod into a speaker system and broadcast the music outside of the headphones you would normally use. But there are so many docking stations to choose from...colors, gadgets, and of course the prices. Which one? Follow these 5 tips on how to choose the right iPod Docks.

1. Know the specifics about your iPod.

While many of the docking stations work for any iPod, there are other manufacturer's that may make them different. Know your iPod's model number and music capacity.

2. Decide which features you want.

Look at sites, magazines, and shops. There are docking stations that come with alarm clocks and are huge, or there are tiny ones which only allow you to plug in you i-pod. Prices vary. Some cost two hundred dollars, some cost five hundred dollors or more. Make sure the docking stations you are considering are compatible with your iPod, specifically, as there are many MP3 players out there, and some docking stations will be for other manufacturers' MP3 players, not the iPod. There are even docking stations for specific styles of iPod that don't fit all of them.

3. Get the money you need.

Don't get so excited about buying a docking station that you rush out and buy the first one you see. Save up if you should. It's better to wait to save up and get the one you want, rather than digging out and borrowing cash for something that isn't really what you want.

4. Look around.

Check out e-bay, and all the shops that sell iPod Docks. Don't just go to one shop-they could be selling at rip off prices, and you won't know until you look around.

5. Narrow it down until you have 2 or 3 docks that you're eyeing.

Compare them. Which one is most conveniently sized? Which one is the best colour and price? Which one wins most of these questions? Buy the one that is most like all of these questions. However, if you find yourself reluctantly picking it up, you most probably don't want it. Make sure you actually WANT the docking station you buy.

Choosing a proper iPod docking station may be a tough thing, but follow the above tips will make your shopping experience much easier.