Want big sound but have little space? Check out some my favorite compact audio systems. No cheap boomboxes here, just great sound and flexibility. These units are perfect for the office, bedroom, apartment, or recreation room.
1. Sonoro Cubo Model AU-1300 Compact CD Player and Clock Radio
Photo (c) Robert Silva
Do you have a great home theater or audio system in your home, but listen to a cheap clock radio for your bedroom or kitchen? If you are looking for a compact CD player/Clock radio combination that actually delivers great sound, then you might consider the Sonoro Cubo Model AU-1300. The Cubo features a built-in slot load CD player that is CD/CD-R/RW, CD-MP3, and CD-WMA compatible. Also, this compact unit also has a rear mount audio input jack for connecting an iPod or other digital audio player. In addition, the Cubo also contains an FM tuner and Clock, and is available in ten different colors. To find out if the Cubo is right for you, or if you are looking for a great gift for a special occasion, check out my product review.
2. Klipsch CS-700 2.1 Channel Audio System
When you think of Klipsch, you think of large horn loudspeakers. However, Klipsch is also developing innovative concepts for compact home theater systems. The CS-700 is a 2.1 channel system that features two small satellite speakers and a wireless subwoofer, combined with a 75 Watt-per-Channel AV receiver/amplifer. To release the surround sound effect, the CS-700 employs Dolby Virtual Speaker technology. Another innovative feature is the incorporation of KlipschCast. This is a wireless audio techonology that allows you to access audio anywhere in the house using Klipsch's RoomGroove iPod speaker system. If you are looking for something little different in a home theater system, especially for a small room, check out the Klipsch CS-700.
3. Yamaha MCR-330 CD/iPOd Micro-System
The MCR-330 is a compact system that consists of a CD Receiver (20wpc) and Two compact two-way Bass Reflex speakers. In addition, the CD transport is compatible with CD/CR-R/RWs as well as WMA and MP3 discs, while its USB port can access audio files from connected flash drives. Other features include, a 30-channel preset AM/FM tuner, integrated iPod Dock, and remote control. This system also features a subwoofer line output for connecting an external powered subwoofer of your choice. On the other hand, the MCR-330 does not have additional analog audio inputs for connecting other analog audio devices, such as an audio cassette deck. Despite this oversight, the MCR-330 provides great music listening performance in a small package.4. Chestnut Hill Sound - GEORGE Compact Audio System
GEORGE is a unique combination product that blends a compact audio system with full iPod connectivity and control. In addition to providing great room-filling sound from your iPod, GEORGE also features a built-in AM/FM radio and an auxiliary input for the connection of a CD or Cassette player.Adding to its flexibility is the inclusion of the detachable front control panel, which also doubles as the GEORGE's wireless remote control. Some drawbacks, however, are the large external power supply, inconvenient subwoofer control, no incorporation of XM or Sirius Satellite Radio connectivity, and a high price tag.
5. Denon D-M37 CD/AM/FM Micro System
Here is a compact audio system that really packs a punch. The Denon D-M37 features a separate mini-size CD player and Receiver, combined with newly designed compact efficient 2-way loudspeakers. In addition, the D-M37 provides for an optional external subwoofer, via a dedicated subwoofer pre-out connection. The amplifier of the D-M37 delivers a surprisingly hefty 30wpc (at 6ohms) and the CD player is compatible with both CD-R/CD-RW/MP3 and WMA discs. Other practical features include an AM/FM tuner, and iPod connectivity via optional docking station. The D-M37 has extra audio inputs, plus a front panel mounted USB port for digital audio devices. This system is targeted for office use, but makes a great bedroom or dorm system as well.6. Onkyo CS-V720S DVD Microsystem
The Onkyo CS-V720S is a high performance compact system featuring a high current 30 WPC amplifier (@ 4 ohms), 2-Way bass reflex loudspeakers, headphone output, AM/FM/XM Radio Tuner, and a built-in DVD/CD/SACD/DVD-Audio Player. In addition, the CS-V720S is also iPOD compatible with optional dock. It's not the most powerful system in this range, but it is feature-packed. Onkyo makes great audio products, and this unit is no exception.7. Sony CMT-BX1 CD Micro-System
The Sony CMT-BX1 is a great basic micro-system. Included in its compact, stylish, black cabinet is a built-in CD player with CDR/RW/MP3 playback capability. Also included: a PC/Audio in for connecting your PC or Digital Audio Player, an AM/FM tuner features 30 presets, and a wireless remote control. How does is sound? Not bad for a small microsystem priced at about $100. The CMT-BX1 makes a great gift for any occasion, or an inexpensive gadget self-indulgence for yourself.8. Panasonic SC-EN38 CD Micro-System
Panasonic has always done well with their compact audio products and the SC-EN38 is no exception. For less than $199 you get a compact audio system with a single tray CD player (CDR/RW playback), AM/FM tuner with 30 FM and 15 AM presets, iPOD connectivity and wireless remote control. For complete specifics, you can download the User Manual.
