Aiwa NSX-D20 CD Shelf System

Pros: Clarity of sound, simple controls, size, price
Cons: Could use more power, no audio output jacks nor digital input

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,...

Pros: Price, looks, performance
Cons: Extremely poor radio reception, power saving option difficult to

The sound here is great, considering the price. The appearance is also well done. It actually looks like a piece of audio equipment rather than something that has fallen off of a space ship. Only problems I had were that radio reception for both AM and FM is virtually non-existent no matter how the antenna are positioned. Also, the stereo has a power saving feature, which is what allows it to carry the EnergyStar seal. However, setting it to this mode is not at all intuitive and requires referring to the user's manual. Moreover, the system reverts back to the normal, non-energy saving mode, whenever the power supply is interrupted, e.g. unplugged or due to power outage.