Entry-level hi-fi mini-systems: a smart choice in some cases.

Mini hi-fi stereo systems can be found from anywhere between 100 to 300$ from such brands as Sony and Panasonic Though the price is attractive, these smaller systems only respond to certain particular needs. For example, if you happen to have a nice collection of cassette tapes, you’ll have no choice but to opt for this kind of system. But if you’re looking to find a cassette deck on a mid to high-end system, you can forget about it!

It’s funny, but some of these mini systems remind me of the “boombox” style stereos that were popular when I was younger. You can easily bring them wherever you go, but when it comes to audio quality, needless to say, it isn’t always there. Nevertheless, mini stereo systems from Sony and Panasonic are good for listening to the radio, and they are generally equipped with a CD player, auxiliary input for MP3 and sometimes even a bluetooth connection. However, these types of units don’t have iPod docks. You can connect your MP3 player, but you won’t have the same user-friendliness nor esthetic of an iPod dock. On a positive note, the option for bluetooth in some of the Sony models, allows for the usage of wireless headphones.

In order to make the right choice in this entry-level price point, ask yourself the question of durability. Often, these systems have a pretty short lifespan. Better to invest a little more and keep your equipment for longer. There are many choices out there. We’ll go into more soon.