DVD Minisystems

DVD minisystems  are the next best thing when it comes to integrating home audio and video. Also known as a DVD microsystem,  these impressive machines are like an audio-shelf system  or CD minisystem  in shape, size and design, but they offer one significant difference. Instead of playing just CDs and tapes like the ordinary minisystem, they play DVDs! So you get a compact device that consists of two detachable speakers and a central media unit that enables you to play CDs, MP3 discs and DVDs. You can also use the AM/FM radio tuner. Some models come HD radio ready and with Satellite Radio. You can even hook up your MP3 player or iPod up to a DVD minisystem.

These units are ideal for a variety of situations.

• Stuck with a tiny space? In limited spaces, such as in a bedroom, kitchen, office, small apartment or dorm, a DVD minisystem would integrate seamlessly since it saves so much space. However, the speakers are pretty strong so the sound can fill a medium size living room as well as it does a small room.
• Technologically handicapped? There are no connections or wires to deal with.
• Move often, or going away to college? These all-in-one solutions are extremely portable.
• Own a TV but no CD or DVD player? No need to buy two systems with a DVD minisystem.
• Don't want to buy a whole set of speakers and other components to enjoy the benefits of a home theater system? DVD minisystems are complete and affordable.

The only drawback on these new innovations is that they haven't yet been combined with DVD recording capabilities. That means that you can watch and listen but you can't copy. If you like recording TV and movies, maybe you would prefer a DVD recorder. 

Top rated DVD Minisystems (CNET)
Panasonic SC-PM91D  So far, this is the best rated DVD minisystem available according to CNET. Despite the sophisticated looking center console, the buttons are not that well arranged. For the same amount of power and capability, but a nicer design, go for the SC-DP1. Now if you want Panasonic in home theater version, including 340 watts of power through a six speaker system, including a separate subwoofer, go for the über complete SC-DK20.	Sony DVD MicroSystem CMT-DV2D  Right up there with the Panasonic models. The 100 watt system comes with a tape player as well as the ability to play CD-R/RW and DVD-R/RW. It runs for about $230. The only drawback in comparison to the other models mentioned here is that it only has a single-disc media player, unlike the 5-disc changers. The high sound quality makes up for that one weakness though.	JVC FS-GD7  Not far behind the others. It doesn't have a tape player, but that isn't always a necessity and it cuts down the unit's size slightly. The only real drawback is its sound quality, which isn't the best. However, the upgraded and condensed FS-Y1  has a slightly nicer design and better sound for an extra $100 or so, but then you lose the 5-disc changer and only get a single-disc player. If you want to talk high end, go for the EX series  ($500-$650) that features wood cone speakers, an "executive" design, lots of format support and a USB port for PC connectivity.