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. JVC EX-D1 DVD Micro Audio System with Wood Cone Speakers
After twenty years of research and a bottle of Japanese Rice Wine, JVC has announced a revolutionary loudspeaker with a cone made of sheets of birchwood. This innovative speaker technology is featured in the JVC EX-D1 compact DVD micro audio system. This first-of-its-kind wood cone speaker is said to produce a more natural and even response over all audio frequencies. This is a compact micro-system, which features DVD/CD player, USB input, and an AM/FM tuner that is definitely worth a listen.4. Denon D-M33S Compact Audio System
Mostly known for its high-end big-box audio components, Denon also has a lot to offer in its smaller systems. The D-M33S is a prime example of excellence in a small package. Equipped with a CD player with CD-R/RW, WMA, MP3 compatibility, 22 WPC amplifier, high performance compact loudspeakers, subwoofer output, and AM/FM stereo tuner, this unit deserves a good listen.5. 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.
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. Denon DF101 Compact Audio System
Here is a compact audio system that really packs a punch. The Denon DF-101 features a separate mini-size CD player and Receiver, combined with two bass relex designed loudspeakers for more efficiency. In addition, the DF101 allows the connection for an external subwoofer, via a subwoofer pre-out connection. The amplifier of the DF-101 delivers a surprisingly hefty 35wpc (at 4ohms) and the CD player is compatible with both CD-R and CD-RW discs. Other practical features include an AM/FM tuner, and iPod connectivity via optional docking station. The DF101 has an abundance of extra audio inputs, including a dedicated phono turntable input. This system is targeted for office use, but makes a great bedroom system as well.8. Yamaha MCR-E600 DVD/CD Microsystem
The MCR-E600 is a compact system that offers a progressive scan DVD player and a high current stereo amplifier. This unit delivers 40WPC of high current power to its two-way bass reflex speakers. In addition, the DVD/CD transport is compatible with DVD/+R/+RW/CD/CR-R/RWs. Other features include, a 40-channel preset AM/FM tuner and remote control. This system also features a subwoofer line output for connecting an external powered subwoofer. Great performance in a small package.9. 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.10. Panasonic SC-EN38 CD Microsystem
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.11. JVC UX-EP25 Micro Audio System
iPOD connectivity and control, and USB connectivity to other digital audio players or to a PC directly, spotlight this compact audio system from JVC. In addition, you will also find all standard features you expect in a compact audio system, such as : CD, CD-R/RW/MP3/WMA playback, AM/FM tuner, and 7.5 WPC amplifier. Other bonuses: Front panel auxiliary audio input and a Clock timer. Add a stylish design and this versatile compact audio system may be perfect for home, dorm, or office.12. Denon S-81 Bookshelf Audio System
The Denon S-81 may be small and expensive, but it has some practical features. After all, you can't always listen to your main system. First off, the S-81 features a compact CD-receiver unit combined with two bass reflex two-way speakers. The amplifier section is very respectable, and tuner section not only features typical AM/FM reception, but also offers XM satellite radio connectivity via additional tuner/antenna and paid subscription. Another convenience is a built-in iPod docking port, as well as a front panel input for other portable digital audio player. To top it off, the CD player section is compatible with a number of formats, including MP3 and WMA encoded discs. This system also has a very easy-to-use remote control.
