Features:
- 2-way shielded speakers
- AM/FM radio
- Optical digital output
- Full-function remote
- Preset equalization
Description:
With so many compact and mini stereos to choose from, you might find the buying process more than a little confusing. We're happy to recommend the Aiwa XR-M75 as a good starter for a small-scale system. A four-box rig, the XR-M75 comprises a tuner/amplifier, a top-loading single-CD player, and pair of two-way speakers.The unit is finished in gunmetal gray and has stylish, rounded front edges. You can stack these hefty, durable units on top of one another or place them side by side, depending on your needs. The speakers' high-gloss faux burled-walnut finish imparts a semiluxurious look. Overall setup is a breeze, as is committing radio stations to memory and setting the timer. One functional feature we especially like is the control-panel drawer that slides from the bottom of the tuner/amplifier. The drawer contains the unit's main controls (you can also access these controls from the remote), leaving the faceplate delightfully free of clutter. The XR-M75 sounds best reproducing vocals and small-ensemble or acoustic music at moderate levels. Its overall sound is well balanced but a little on the light side--it doesn't produce a lot of bass, especially by today's standards. When you push the XR-M75 to loud levels on rock music, it audibly distorts, so be sure this mini stereo's abilities match your listening tastes. We've looked at a lot of mini systems, and with its clean design, thoughtful array of features, and ease of setup and operation, the Aiwa XR-M75 is one of the most appealing of the bunch. Pros:
- Easy to set up and use
- Auxiliary inputs accept VCR or PC sources
- Can record to auxiliary cassette, minidisc, or CD recorder
Cons:
- Doesn't play well at really loud levels
- Remote is a tabletop unit, awkward to use with one hand
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