Onkyo, whose distribution is under threat in Australia, has unveiled a low-cost Hi Fi mini system. The CS-255 CD Hi-Fi Mini System has a lightning charging dock.
This new CD receiver includes certified charging connections for new and legacy iPhone and iPod models, as well as audio playback from compatible smartphones and tablets by way of a USB port, with an integral FM/AM radio featuring 60 memory presets.
The cabinets include a large cone driver, balanced-dome tweeter and non-parallel construction with rolled edges to prevent internal standing waves. Even at higher volumes, these compact speakers maintain excellent composure, with an airy, pleasant mid-range and punchy bass response-perfect for listeners with eclectic musical tastes.
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Connectivity begins with a Lightning charging dock for iPhone 5, iPod touch (5G), and iPod nano (7G) in the receiver’s top panel, which enables simple navigation to albums and playlists using the system remote controller. Owners of legacy iPhone/iPod devices can connect, charge and play online and offline content via the front-panel USB port.
Playback of MP3 files from other compatible smartphones, tablets and flash memory drives is also enabled via USB. A 3.5 mm stereo analog input is included to connect devices that don’t feature the appropriate USB connection.
Whether enjoying music through the system via iPhone audio app, or playing local MP3/AAC files, track selection is simplified by the playlist jump function and album/track repeat buttons on the remote controller. A selectable two-mode Super Bass function, meanwhile, helps get a firmer grip on kick drums and bass guitar without the muffled boominess sometimes associated with affordable mini systems.
Radio listeners are catered to with an FM/AM tuner with 30 memory presets for each band (60 in total).
The system delivers 15W of power in each channel, with 0.5% total harmonic distortion. Frequency response is between 50Hz and 20kHz. The signal to noise ratio on the device is 84 dB, with a speaker impedance of between 6 and 16 ohms.
The Onkyo CS-255 will be available this year in the last quarter in Australia. Qnkyo is currently distributed by Amber Technology.
