If you’re on a budget or just want to kick out in a different direction from ordinary docks and speakers, you might wanna take a look at the Orbit. To me it looks like a mashup of a tuna can, an old-timey microphone element and an ashtray, but your experience may vary. I better just let Altec Lansing describe it for you. Press release after the jump.

New Orbit MP3 Ultra Portable Music Speaker: A Mighty Little Speaker
The new Orbit MP3 ultra-portable mini-speaker follows the success of Altec Lansing’s wildly popular Orbit MP3-207 (introduced in Fall 2007). With a rugged new design, the Orbit MP3 offers instant connectivity and 24-hours of continuous play from any digital audio device including iPhones, iPods or laptops. Weighing in at less than seven ounces, the diminutive, single-driver Orbit MP3 delivers a surprisingly clear, rich 360-degree field of full-spectrum sound without distortion.

Altec Lansing’s new Orbit MP3 speaker features a redesigned on/off button and battery indicator light. A wrap-around cord fits the connector cable neatly into the underbelly of the speaker for protection and convenience. And a neoprene case with carabineer hook safely stores the speaker when not in use.

The Altec Lansing Orbit MP3 will be available October 2008 for $39.95 (U.S. MSRP).