Price Paid:  $149.00 from Best Buy

Summary:
Impressively sounding micro system from Philips for under $200. For only 50 watts the MC50 by Philips is an exemplary model by which other less name brands and even the more esoteric high end ones should take note ! The remarkably physically flat (well not completely flat) 5 1/4" aluminum woofers crank out some decent bass. The highs from the tweeters could use a little more tweeting. However, they still sound way above average for a system this size ! Both the speaker cabinet design and central component jam packed with features rival other name brands costing hundreds more and featuring less features. The MC50 even includes a soft-control logic auto reverse tape deck with phenomenol playback quality. This is a welcomed feature or plus that is disappearing more and more from the micro system world as time goes by and people are playing less and less cassettes. The remote is adequately suitable for all functions and fits comfortably in the hand. The easily 3 way dimmable front fascia is ultra-cool to look at with its electro-bright blue glow and big easy- to- read digital display. One added bonus is the IS(Incredible Surround) sound enhancing function which broadens and opens up the normal stereo field. However, not all types of music or sources sound good with this function. Also, bass is somewhat diminished when used. Still, the system allows for a powered sub to be hooked up and an additional component source audio hook up. Overall, this is a very satisfying high quality product by Philips who is on the right path to cornering the micro system segment of the audio/electronics market !!!

Strengths:
-Exceptional sound from Philips flat woofer technology -Attractive and classy looking design that competes with more pricier brands -3 cd tray elevator, with soft logi controlled cassette deck -Eye catching 3 way dimmable blue-lit fascia -Comfortable and easy to use remote -Plug and play system allows for easy programmming of pre set radio stations -Easy set up out of the box

Weaknesses:
-Tweeters could be a tad-bit brighter (just a smidgeon) -cassette door does not allow to see tape functioning

Similar Products Used:
Emerson Research ES2 Micro Audio system (the Philips outdoes this one in so many ways, yet the Emerson uses a macro-soft touch computerized state of the art function pad on the main piece).