The Denon S-301 compact stereo system is not for casual music fans. However, if you are looking for a universal system to handle just about any playback duty, and handle it with a high level of performance and style, the S-301 is for you.

The S-301 has a single-disc player that is compatible with DVD-Video, DVD-Audio and SACD. Once you hear the clarity and dynamic range of DVD-Audio and SACD, you'll wonder how you ever got along without high-resolution audio. It should be noted that because this is a two-channel system, all multichannel audio is downmixed to stereo.

The S-301 also supports CD and CD-R/RW, including MP3 and WMA files burned to disc. A dedicated iPod interface lets you connect an iPod and operate it via the S-301's remote control. In addition, a USB port allows the connection of other portable audio devices, and if connected to a TV, the S-301 can even link with a digital camera (or video iPod, for that matter) and display pictures on the TV screen.

The built-in amplifier provides 70 watts to each channel. There is integrated decoding for Dolby Digital and DTS, and the system creates a stereo downmix from these five-channel formats. The S-301 uses Dolby Virtual Speaker to produce a surround feel from the stereo speakers, but while this feature is nice to have, it by no means replaces true surround sound.

The 216MHz/12-bit converter provides high-quality video performance. The S-301 has progressive scan output, and when connected to a digital television via the HDMI output, DVD movies can be up-converted to HD-equivalent resolutions of 720p and 1,080i.

You'll be able to fully appreciate the disc player's capabilities with the two-way stereo speakers, which are designed to complement a flat-panel television. Each speaker uses a pair of 3-1/5-inch woofers and a 1-inch tweeter, and S-301 package also includes a 140-watt, 8-inch subwoofer. The S-301 compact stereo system is a fabulous way to enjoy DVD-Audio and SACD in a small, simple-to-use package, and it can even serve as a compact home theater system.

Warranty
1 year