Marantz PM5004

The Marantz PM5004 heralds an amplifier break through.

Marantz have always enjoyed excellent reaction to their budget amps and, with the PM5004 that seems more deserved than ever before. The reason for this is that the PM5004 is the first amp in its class to feature Current Feedback Architecture. Previously only available on much more expensive models, this technology gives a fast, dynamic sound quality with a precision and depth of sound stage usually only found on more exclusive amps. Added to this is Marantz's Linear Drive Power Supply. This provides a clean, consistent power supply for sustained bass and clear detail. 40 watts per channel isn't going to bring the house down but it's ample for most rooms at modest volumes. Showing Marantz's audiophile heritage, the PM5004 uses customized components and a Source Direct control for the purest, most accurate sound quality. Let there be no doubt, if it's a lively, dynamic sound with great detail you're after, the PM5004 is one of the best in its class.

In addition to sounding great, the PM5004 is also one of the best equipped amplifiers in its class. Added to the 3 line level inputs and twin recording loops you'll find an MM phono input - perfect for connecting up to the burgeoning record deck market. Also standard are two sets of speaker outputs, a headphone socket and remote control.

With classic Marantz styling, the PM5004 fits in well with a wide range of hi-fi separates and should look good for years to come. For a budget amplifier with added bite, check out the Marantz PM5004.

Marantz CD5004

Marantz CD players have been leading the field since the format began and, with the Marantz CD5004, it's not hard to see why.

When it comes to component quality and design, the CD5004 is amongst the very best in its class. With a CS4392 DAC and Marantz HDAM-SA2 op-amp, this budget machine matches the spec of many more expensive machines. Furthermore, a new EX mode lets you switch off functions such as the digital output and pitch control for a purer signal. Taken as a whole, the Marantz CD5004 has a typically ebullient sound quality with pacey dynamics and crisp detail.

Being a budget Marantz CD player also means a decent range of features are included and the CD5004 is no different. The pitch control is an unusual feature but ideal for dance students or music scholars. Both optical and coaxial digital outputs are provided, ensuring you can connect to a wide range of digital recorders or, should you wish to do so in the future, a better quality DAC. Rounding off this impressive CD player is a headphone with volume control and remote control.

With classic Marantz styling, the CD5004 fits in well with a wide range of hi-fi separates and should look good for years to come. For a budget CD player with added bite, check out the Marantz CD5004.

Acoustic Energy Compact One

Compact by name and nature, the Acoustic Energy Compact One speakers are ideal for hi-fi and home cinema alike.

These speakers are about as small as you'd want to go for full-range hi-fi sound but such is the quality of design and construction that the scale of sound might surprise you. First off, the cabinet uses thick MDF, making it extremely rigid and therefore precise sounding. The bass reflex port at the rear improves efficiency and enhances the bass response. If you have to position the speakers close to a rear wall, then foam bungs are included to damp the bass and prevent it from sounding too 'boomy'.

Within the high quality cabinet are similarly fine quality drive units. The soft dome tweeter gives an excellent blend of detail and refinement while the bass cone uses tried and tested technology for a natural sound. Because the woofer cone is on the smaller side, mid-range clarity is exceptional and beats many larger and more expensive speakers.

They might not have window-rattling bass, but for mid-range clarity and refinement, the Compact One speakers take some beating at this price. Just as impressive as the sound quality, is the finish. With a seamless, gloss black cabinet, the Compact Ones could pass for a speaker costing two or three times the price - an impression heightened by details such as the gold-plated speaker terminals and metal-pinned grill fixings.

Use in a small room for an impressive hi-fi experience or use in any room as satellites (with subwoofer) for an immersive surround sound system. Either way, the Acoustic Energy Compact One impress well beyond their size.