Great sound in a small size and price
Written: Jan 27 '03
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Clarity of sound, simple controls, size, price
Cons: Could use more power, no audio output jacks nor digital input
The Bottom Line: Great sound quality at an inexpensive price with easy to use controls on the unit and the remote.
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| vicm's Full Review: Aiwa NSX-D20 CD Shelf System |
We purchased this unit to replace an Optimus (Radio Shack top of the line unit with list price of about $600, when I bought it ten years ago), stereo system with 40 Watts per channel and similar features, and size. Due to the layout of our living room, and the 52" TV, we do not have room for a full size stereo/home theater unit; or a surround sound system. So we are limited to a unit in the size range of this unit.
I researched several brands, and was drawn to some others that had several features, like simulated surround, digital input and/or output jacks, etc. When I checked the technical specifications though, the Aiwa units in this series (DSX) were best. Also, I have known a couple of people with Aiwa Mini Systems, and they were satisfied with them.
I installed the Aiwa main unit at the same location as the previous unit, and initially connected it to the previous speakers. My wife and I could both discern an improvement in the clarity of the sound. I then replaced those speakers with those of this unit. Another improvement was noted. We made the comparison with three CDs that we had played in the Optimus just prior to the change, and also the same music channel on DishNetwork. The tuner also seemed better on FM. I have a full size component system in my office that cost many times more. Although the Aiwa is no match, it does compare favorably.
The comparisons were made with the Classical & Light classical satellite channels, and the Meditation series CDs. We have a Great room type setup with an area of about 599 sq. ft. At what I would call a normal sound level, volume was at 26 (range of 0 to 32), and Max volume did not produce an uncomfortable sound level. This will be adequate for us, but I wish we had purchased the DSX-30 which has twice the power with the same speakers. The Optimus unit was also 40 watts per channel, but had the same sound level at less than half the volume control setting.
Specifications shown on the Details page are correct except there is a set of RCA type Video/Aux input jacks on the rear; the tape decks are not Auto Reverse (there is continuous play from Deck 1 to 2); and No TV or Weather band. Also there is a Treble control.
Additional specifications are:
Total Harmonic Distortion 0.08%
Frequency Range 40 HZ - 20 kHz at less than 1% THD
Speakers: 3 way, bass reflex; 4 3/4" cone woofer, dimensions 8 3/8"w X 12 7/8"h X 8 1/2"d.
I think this product is well worth the price, even at list of $149.95. For a large area, or very loud music volume, I would try the DSX-30 which lists for about $20 more.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
vicm
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Location: Two Harbors, MN USA
Reviews written: 2
Trusted by: 1 member
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