They're big, they're bad, they're portable, and they're popular with youngsters and teens. They're known as blasters, or boom boxes or, as JVC likes to call one its systems, Kaboom. Regardless of how you like to refer to them, these personal stereos deliver big power, can be carried wherever you go and, in some cases, can even be used as a portable amplifier for your electric guitar.

Shopping for a blaster is as easy as, well, carrying one around. Just keep your hand on that computer mouse and start clicking your way through the Internet. Great sites to visit include Bay Bloor Radio, Future Shop, Hifi, Sound Stage, and Audio Cafe. And while you're in a surfing mood, don't forget to check out manufacturers' web sites - http://www.panasonic.com/ and http://www.sony.com/, just to name a few. Ready? Get set. Click.

Various models, with all kinds of features

Most portable stereos feature AM/FM radio, one or two cassette decks, CD players, built-in speakers, equalizers and remote controls. The better ones include a digital FM tuner with as many as 30 presets, providing instant access to your favourite radio stations. Some blasters also offer a digital interface that will allow you to plug in an MD, or mini-disc, player as well.

Fiddle around with the controls on the tape decks to make sure they can stand the test of constant use. Because, if your boom box breaks, fixing it can get expensive. Also see if the tape player has auto reverse, so you can play both sides of the tape without having to turn it over.

Extra toys

In the extra toys department, you can get a graphic equalizer to control the highs and lows of the sounds coming from your system, although many units now have pre-set EQ settings that allow you to adjust the sound at the push of a button. More and more units offer a remote control, so you can change the station or the CD from the other side of the beach.

Most manufacturers also offer machines to pump up the bass, like Panasonic's XBS bass system, or Sony's Mega Bass sound system. Of course, the more features you want, the more money you'll have to part with. Depending on what you want, expect to pay between $100 and $400.

Carry that weight

Size is a definite factor when it comes to buying a boom box. You can have a small unit that weighs as little as a pound. Or, if you want to, say, host your own beach party, you can spring for a larger unit. Just remember that you'll be carrying this baby around, so weigh your choices very carefully. If you have the muscle and inclination to lug around a 13-pound stereo system, then by all means go for it. The great part, of course, is that you'll only have one piece of equipment to carry.

Blaster power

If a boom box claims to have 60 or 70 watts of power, ask if that is RMS or "real" power, or just plain old "music" power. The answer you'll want to hear is that, yes, it is RMS. Also ask how much battery power you'll need and whether the batteries are rechargeable. Make sure the blaster has an AC power cord so you can plug it in when you're listening indoors. You don't want to waste battery power if you don't have to.

Glossary

Noise reduction (Dolby B, C or S) eliminates tape hiss on a cassette deck.

A CD magazine gives you "extended play" by allowing you to load as many as five CDs at once. So you won't have to keep getting up to change the discs.

Quirks

You've got the latest in personal stereo equipment. Now you just have to make sure you can keep up with the fast-moving entertainment scene. Visit http://www.hautecouture.info/musicstyle/index.htm for the latest music industry news and album reviews. You'll impress your friends with your cutting-edge knowledge of what's hot, what's not.