The XL-1700's 8 watts per channel (from 100 to 20,000 Hz) makes CDs sound great in small to medium-size rooms. It's possible to listen straight through a disc, set the player to repeat, or set it to play random selections. The system's two-way speakers are magnetically shielded to allow distortion-free placement near TVs or computer monitors. Detachable grilles expose the speakers' 4-inch woofers, piezo-type tweeters, and bass-enhancing ports.

An optical digital-audio output connects the system to a CD recorder or portable minidisc player, while stereo RCA analog-audio inputs accommodate an external device, such as an MP3 player, voice recorder, or cassette deck. The 30-preset FM-AM digital tuner automatically scans available stations for easy programming. A .125-inch headphone jack and an ergonomically designed, full-function remote control are included. The system is Energy Star-compliant, meeting all guidelines for energy efficiency.

Customer Reviews Average rating - 3.5

Rating - 1 Date: 2003-09-15
Content: I LOVED this little CD player, but it broke after only 3 weeks. My CDs started to slip and skip as if there was a loose connection between the CD and player. After a few moments, the player would stop altogether. (It was a gift and couldn't be returned.)
Summary: Great little CD player, until ...

Rating - 5 Date: 2003-06-08
Content: Elegant-looking unit, with sound to match. The 2-way speakers deliver balanced and clean sound with surprising resolution for such a small system. If your taste in audio runs more toward the vulgar-sounding boomboxes currently cluttering the market, this product isn't for you. The sound here is as close to hi-fi as a unit this size will allow: silky highs, solid, not boomy bass that complements the sound but does not overwhelm it (as it should be). The addition of separate bass and treble controls (a somewhat rare commodity these days) is a very welcome plus, although the unit sounds excellent with most CDs when both controls are in the "flat" position. Just about every desirable feature is included, like aux inputs for connection of external equipment, optical output for an MD player, and a headphone jack. Every function and adjustment can be accessed from the well-designed remote control. The tuner has very good sensitivity and most stations come in clearly with the provided antenna. No unusual mechanical noises coming from the CD player have been noticed. Overall, a very impressive mini audio system, sure to please even finicky audiophiles like me. The unit's stylish, tasteful design is sure to please your eyes as well. Highly recommended.
Summary: Impressive

Rating - 4 Date: 2003-02-25
Content: I am by no means an electronic expert. In fact, I am reluctant to write a review because I have no technical knowledge to give you. What I CAN say is that this small stereo unit packs a pretty good punch for the money. We use it in our kitchen which isn't very big in size. The unit takes up very little space and the sound is great--crisp and clear. I must say that I do not have the problem of hearing the CD spinning. I would definately buy another of these if the need arises.
Summary: Nice addition to any room

Rating - 3 Date: 2002-12-31
Content: I just bought one of these and I haven't decided yet but I might be returning it because the cd player is noisy. When the cd spins up you hear it big time. I'm fairly close to the unit (3 feet) as it sits on my desk in my home office, so maybe if you put it much farther away it won't bother you.

For example, sitting in a chair 5 feet from the unit, with the volume set on 12 (not loud but not quiet either), I can hear the cd spinning over AC/DCs "Back in Black" song. Unreal. I've got a compact cd player that is quiet as a mouse.

Other than that it is really sweet so far - "Surround" sound is particularly impressive.

If you listen to cds with quiet passages this player might drive you nuts.

Radio is real good - I'm getting good reception in my house without attaching the FM antenna yet.

Speakers and unit use standard speaker wire attachment so you can put longer wire in than what is supplied.

I haven't tried the AUX input yet.

If it didn't have this noisy cd player it would be 5 stars.

HTH
Summary: Nice but noisy cd player

Rating - 5 Date: 2002-11-13
Content: I needed a stereo to go in a small bedroom and this one works well. The styling attracted my attention (it looks like it cost a lot more than it actually does) and I like that the speakers match the unit instead of using the fake woodgrain that comes on most systems in this price range. The cd door is motorized and quiet and there is an internal blue light which along with the lcd display looks really nice at night.

I am not an audiophile but the sound is very good (I have a more expensive component system) and there is an auxiliary input for a subwoofer if you need more bass.

Great sound and price and very nice styling makes this executive system a winner in my opinion.
Summary: Nicely styled and sounds good