Thanks Hobo, I thought the soundsticks looked good but they're not very portable.
I was in love with the Bose until I read some reviews, the remote sounds a bit dodgy and a lot of people said that the sound was disappointing Also, it doesn't fit all iPods without buying some adaptor thing.

I'll check out the warranty & service arrangements when I can actually find a shop that sells the Altec Lansing. I'm sure we have an Apple shop here somewhere! As for the price, here it's only $100 cheaper than the Bose...guess I'll have to start selling feathers

Thanks for the input!