[athom108]

in the back there is a small sound port for plugging some cable into. what's that used for and how is it used?
i want to get some speakers. i can plug soundsticks into the usb port but would like to see what my other options are.

[Powaqqatsi]

When you are in front of your TiBook: On the left side near the back you see an audio-OUT port. That's where you connect your speakers/amp if you are not using USB. On the backside also on the left (on the right when looking from behind) is an audio-IN port. But beware this port is not line-level, if you put something in there you'll need a preamp. If you don't have a preamp or if you're not willing to shell out for one you can buy a $49/€49 iMic from Griffin that acts as a preamp (the iMic is connected through USB).