As PlayStation 3 owners are no doubt aware, for all the convenience of the SIXAXIS' built-in rechargeable battery, keeping a controller juiced can be a hassle if you're using the USB connection to the PlayStation 3, as the console must remain on to send electricity to the controller. Fortunately, third party manufacturers are on the scene to offer a convenient alternative.

Nyko's Charge Base 2 is a plug-in-the-wall solution that takes the PS3 out of the controller charging equation. To charge controllers, users attach small adapter dongles to SIXAXIS controllers via their mini-USB ports. The adapters stay in place, and allow users to drop the controllers into either of the two vertically-oriented docking bays on the Charge Base 2. A pair of large indicator lights on the Charge Base indicate status, red for charging and green for charged.

The system looks pretty convenient and should be a competitive option for PS3 owners that need controllers ready for action at all times. Nyko's Charge Base 2 will be hitting retail shelves next week, priced at $29.99.

Chris Arbogast, Nyko's Marketing Manager, offered a statement with the announcement. "The original ChargeBase for PS3 was well received thanks to its quick charging and storage abilities. Being committed to constantly improving our products has enabled us to design a smaller solution that is easier to use and available at a lower price."