Features:
- CD/tuner/dual-cassette compact stereo
- 3-CD programmable carousel changer
- 40 watts per channel
- 1-bit dual digital-to-analog converter
- CD synchro-start cassette recording
Description:
A stout system that packs a mighty wallop, the JVC MX-J100 compact stereo offers a three-disc carousel changer, dual cassette decks, and an AM/FM tuner. And while the quality of the speakers isn't up to JVC's normally high standards, the MX-J100's affordability and feature set nevertheless make it suitable for general use in an office, kitchen, or dormitory. The system's greatest asset is its amplifier, which pumps a clean 40 watts per channel with nary a trace of distortion, even at uncomfortably loud levels. (While the system's distortion rating at 40 watts is very high--"no more than 10 percent"--the sound is nevertheless very clean; nothing says you have to use all 40 watts, and even 20 watts is a lot of power for such a small system.) JVC's Active Bass Extension pounds home the low end, while three equalization presets (Rock, Pop, and Classic) grant an additional modicum of control over the sonic character. One feature we wholeheartedly applaud is fade muting, which lowers the sound rather than cutting it out altogether--perfect for taking phone calls or answering the door without losing track of your music. This is a great stereo for creating mixed tapes, too. Thanks to CD synchro-start recording and the play-exchange feature, you can start your recording and the CD simultaneously, and ready the next disc while the first is still playing. (Be sure, however, to wind past the leader tape at the beginning of each cassette side, as synchro-start recording will otherwise clip the start of the first song.) The tuner works well, and both FM and AM antennas are included. Committing stations to the tuner's memory is a snap, and with 30 FM and 15 AM presets at your fingertips, commercials and bad songs need never put you off (the CD player's track-forward and -reverse buttons double for preset skipping). Included in the package is a full-function remote control; recording and playback timer (including wake and sleep); an auxiliary input for a minidisc, DVD, or additional CD player; and JVC's Compu Play feature, which kicks the system to life at the touch of any command button (start, play, etc.). As for timbre, the character of the MX-J100's sound is average but listenable--below par for JVC and hindered by dull- and thin-sounding tweeters (responsible for reproducing the high frequencies). At this price, however, and with this feature set, the MX-J100 is destined to find happy use in many a music-starved room. --Michael Mikesell Pros:
- Good amplifier
- Affordable
- Decent cassette performance
- Convenient features
Cons:
- Slightly boxy sound
- Diminished high frequencies
- Nonintuitive button layout
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