This is a MADE IN JAPAN product from SONY. It can be used as a desk speaker. Place it on either side of your TV and it's also convenient as a personal speaker. Both speakers have amplifier functions. Also, both have 100-volt power outlets. The switch on one side is always in the ON position and cannot be switched off. However, please understand that normal use is possible by plugging it in. I opened the speaker to repair the switch, and it's a well-designed speaker, typical of SONY products. In addition to the volume control, there is a DES knob, but I don't feel a significant change in sound quality.