Audio Mini-Systems
These days upgrading from your boombox to an audio minisytem doesn't cost much and you get improved sound quality. Take a look at the following choices for a guide to buying the stereo system that will save you space and money. These minisystems are lightweight, portable and deliver quality audio output.
For a couple hundred dollars or less you can have a sleek, versatile and compact minisystem that either: - Sits on a shelf (usually 8" to 12" tall and around 8" deep),
- Sits on a tabletop (that can be angled) or
- Hangs on a wall (a really snazzy space-saver).
They are meant to be simple, user-friendly and space-saving, especially the vertical kind. Featuring detachable speakers, they can be arranged any way to fit your space while still producing great sound. Depending on the model,they may include a single or dual-deck cassette player, CD player plus an AM/FM tuner. Many come with an LCD display screen with programability options for equalizer settings. - There are both single-tray and carousel versions, which hold up to five CDs.
- Most include an Integrated amplifier
which means you don't have to spend more for additional equipment.
- These enable you to record in the same way as a boombox does, between tapes and from CDs to tapes. CD-R and CD-RW systems are becoming more popular and available. MP3-compatible machines are also on the cutting edge.
- These systems produce better sound quality than boomboxes, but are average when compared to single component machines.
- For better than average sound quality, try out the cool vertical Phillips MCM240
and the Yamaha MCR-E150. 
- Pros: sound quality is decent in small apartments, dorm rooms and offices.
- Cons: raising the volume too high can lead to significant sound distortion.
Vertical Options (C-net):
Tabletop and/or Vertical Box Versions:
Latest Product Updates
(April 2006)
|
|
|
|
|
Panasonic SC-EN17  - Energy Star qualified.
- CD-R/RW playback.
- 32 Mmemory preset (stations).
- Remote control included.
- Player type single CD (front loading).
- MP3 playback.
- Programmable timer PLAY/REC/SLEEP.
- Preset EQ (bass, Ccear, soft, vocal.)
|
Teac SR-L35  - Wall mountable CD radio.
- Motorized CD door.
- Bass reflex type individual Speaker boxes.
- 20-selection random memory program.
- Repeat (one/all), shuffle, intro play.
- Supports CD and CD-R disc.
- Quartz PLL synthesized AM/FM tuner.
- Digital clock, sleep timer, timer-on.
- Multi-function LCD display.
- Headphone jack and remote control.
|
Sony Micro Hi-Fi System CMTEH10  - 20 watts total: 10 watts per channel x 2 (RMS 10% THD).
- Top-loading single CD player CD-R/RW with MP3 playback compatible.
- Synchronized CD/cassette dubbing.
- Bass reflex speaker design.
- PC/audio in for digital music players or PC input.
- LCD display.
- Remote commander remote control.
|
Brookstone Wafer-Thin CD player with MP3 - Includes two 15 watt wall-mountable speakers and a 33 watt subwoofer.
- Flat panel speakers mount to any wall.
- Plays CDs, CD-R, CD-RW, and MP3-CDs.
- NXT technology allows for a richer sound. Speakers emit sound from both the front and back.
|
Songcube Digital Music Center - 80GB digital music center.
- Copy music from your favorite CDs, MP3s, and even convert your old vinyl records into digital music files.
- USB connectivity enables you to copy music from your PC.
- Includes two satellite speakers for a full range sound and a 50-watt subwoofer.
|
Related Products
|