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JVC EA-X1 Mini-System
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Top 10 Best Stereo Systems Under

by Anthony Armstrong
Today, we focus on the Best Stereo Systems Under $600. There are many options available for the buyer looking for the best stereo systems under $600. Features like multi-disc changers, equalizers, and the ability to play a multitude of digital formats make these devices very formidable. Sound quality is now not only credible, but in many cases, very good, rivaling that of some full-size units.

1) JVC EA-X1 Mini-System

Outstanding! The features offered in this mini-system are too numerous to mention, but one of the coolest is the material used to make the speaker's driver cone: Wood. Used in many musical instruments, wood is has superior acoustic characteristics not found in most other materials. The EA-X1 offers 30 watts per channel, the ability to play CDs, DVD-Audio, DVD-Video, and MP3 among others. Oh, and it sounds great too.
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2) Nakamichi SS-1 Mini System

The SS-1 system is composed of a CD player and a pair of speakers, each approximate 7" square and about 3" deep. Capable of wall mounting, using the built-in keyhole slots, or proudly display it on a desk or tabletop with the included stand. Either way, you'll enjoy superb sound. The SS-1 features an audiophile-grade digital-to-analog conversion circuitry more typical of component CD players than micro systems. The built-in amplifier is carefully matched to the speakers for optimum sound.
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3) Panasonic SC-PM39D

This is a great stereo system. Panasonic's SC-PM39D delivers a full range of music playback options. It has a 5-disc changer, cassette deck, AM/FM tuner, plus it plays DVDs. It offers an advanced surround mode that does a good job creating a 3-dimensional surround-like effect from just two speakers. Surprisingly good sound from a mini-system with more functions than a Swiss Army knife. It also offers four EQ-presets so you can tailor the sound to your environment, or mood.
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4) Denon D-107 Personal Component System

A wonderful system, in such tough company that it comes in FOURTH! Absolutely amazing sound with legendary Denon quality. This is great audio gear and looks like a work of art. Offering a slot-loading CD-player system with two 20-watt speakers and a subwoofer that looks too beautiful to hide. The system can be mounted on a wall, and comes with a stand to mount on a table. The D-107 handles any kind of CD, and when playing home-recorded MP3s, it displays artist, title and album info. Very nice!
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5) JVC FS-S77 Mini System

This unit offers all your home entertainment from one compact system. The dorm rooms and other places where space is tight, the 5-disc FS-S77 from JVC offers a wide range of playback options. Great sound for the stereo buff, plus the ability to connect the system up to your television and enjoy DVD movies in vivid detail. It also offers a simulated surround sound. Primarily a home theater box, this is a great home stereo unit as well.
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6) Sony MHC-GX250 Mini Hi-Fi

The Sony MHCGX250 offers a 3-disc changer that plays CDs, CD-Rs and CD-RWs, and it includes disc exchange, so you can change out two CDs while the third plays on. It offers 25-track programming, repeat and random play keep your music sounding fresh. The dual cassette deck allows tape-to-tape dubbing, or you can record from CD, the radio, or external sources. 8 EQ presets let you adjust the sound to suit your tastes, and you can pump up the low frequencies with Groove Bass Enhancement.

7) Teac GF600 3-CD Nostalgia Compact

This is one of the coolest mini-systems on the market today. Constucted of wood, it is totally retro. It features a turntable, CD, tape and radio combination. Sound output is very good. Not a crisp as the others in this list but certainly one worth considering, due to the inclusion of a decent turntable. This unit features 15 watts per channel, 20 AM and 20 FM presets, an equalizer with three presets and a three disc changer.
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8) Bose Wave Radio

Popular Science called the original Bose Wave radio "a sonic marvel." It does sound good, but for the money, there are better performers available now. The Wave music system still does a great job, building on its acclaimed predecessor. It is certainly a great audio performer, with simplicity and elegant design. The Wave radio does offer lush, room-filling sound from a small system. It is simple to use, and it fits almost anywhere. Worth a look.
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9) Cambridge SoundWorks SoundWorks 740

If you're looking for big sound from a small radio, this one stands alone: the new Cambridge SoundWorks Radio CD. Its sound is very deep and rich, better than some mini-component systems, and not even in the same market as other tabletop units. It is very good, especially at the price. You'll compare it to the quality of more expensive home stereo systems. The sound is that remarkable.
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10) Philips MCM7 Micro Hi-Fi System

The Phillips MCM7/37 MP3 Micro Hi-Fi System is specifically designed for one who appreciates the ultimate expression of useful technology and style, but with a fairly tight budget. The MCM7 has sound with a good deal of finesse and quality. While not quite "audiophile," it is very credible, especially in its price range. Trust me, you will enjoy the sound from the built-in AM/FM receiver, tape deck, and MP3-CD player.
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