Yamaha adds DVD to its A/V
system
Yamaha MCR-E600
The product: Yamaha has previously released two so-called stereo microcomponents systems in its PianoCraft series, so named because the company claims it designs them with the same attention to detail with which it creates its pianos. Like the MCR-E300 and MCR-E500 systems, the MCR-E600 features a small, stylish receiver and CD player, along with a pair of speakers that can handle up to 110 watts. But it also adds progressive-scan DVD playback to the mix, at a price point lower than the MCR-E500's.

• 40-watts-per-channel receiver
• Progressive-scan DVD/CD player with S-Video, component video, and coaxial and optical digital audio outputs
• Subwoofer out

The price: Yamaha says the MCR-E600 will carry a list price of $549.95 when it's released in February 2005.

The prospects: This should appeal to those who want to set up a compact and stylish music/movie system in a smaller room, such as bedroom or a den, and don't want to hook up surround speakers. Not everyone has a mammoth living room in need of a muscular surround-sound home theater in a box. The MCR-E600 is designed for smaller spaces, and the addition of DVD capability makes it suitable for hooking up to a secondary TV set around the house.

By Sean Portnoy, senior associate editor, CNET Reviews