I would have to say that i am a huge fan of this product from HK. The sound is phenomanal especially when you compare it to the price tag. If you are used to listening to cd players like Pioneer, Sony, or Kenwood then i suggest you listen to this cd player and then go out and buy it. The only thing that i do not like about it though is that it is very sensible to skipping, but only when the music volume is VERY, VERY, HIGH. But then again it could have something to do with my speakers.( i own a pair of klipsch klf 30's and a 18" velodyne sub) But overall a great buy!!!

I love this CD-player, very smooth, warm sound. Highly recommended!

I paid $329 in Dec'95 for this CD player. Big rip off. Secondit has a big problem with the tray release. When you open
the tray/close the tray after changing the CDs you will hear
a spike in the speakers. Mine had this problem come up just
after 1 year (manufactures warrantly expired). Their recommended
technicians Sound Techniques took 14 days just to give an estimate.

Apparently the laser has a major problem and it skips. IT erupts
when you open the CD tray. Try playing a CD and as it is playing
open the CD try to add more CDs. At the time the CD tray opens
/closes you will hear a spike in your speakers. Also there
were problems in the timing gears that control the tray release
that need adjustment. You might hear this in a irregular pattern.

Customer service is very bad. The authorized technicians Sound
Techniques don't even call you back. it is the most frustrating
thing that can happen, never go to these guys. Call 1-800-422-8027
harmon kardon and log in your complaints with the customer service.

Overall: CD player tray release makes lot of noise, it does'nt
work properly, shakes a lot, and is faulty. Too costly. Bad
customer service when you need help.

good overall player

mechanics seems loud and on verge of breaking

My player has worked excellent up until now.It finally gave way to my ears suspicions of it breaking down.This should'nt happen to this type of player but,hey maybe I just got a bad egg.

Similar Products Used:

pioneer25 disc(garbage)sony 5 disc.

HK FL8450 is one of the best CD player for its price range. Its sound clarity is astounding, and very smooth. Though it cannot withstand even the slightest impact, the sound quality is definitely worthed getting it.

About a year ago I was a typical "chain store" cd player owner.I was just satisfied to listen to my magazine type Pioneer player while reading my stereo magazines.Then I got the urge to get rid of that pain in the you know what ,six disc changer. First of all I knew I wanted a carosel changer,and I had read a lot of good things aout HK products.So I proceeded to check out HK changers,ignoring what the (hi-fi) snobs from Home Theater Magazine said about the fl8450 and got one!I am truly glad I did.Besides from being a very classy looking piece of gear,the HK player is a Dream!It operates quitely,easily,and reproduces all of the nuances of any music I have fed it.

It's nice to see that other people appreciate this great cd changer also. I am so very impressed with the performance of this cd player compared to others in this same price category. It truly stands out. It looks great and sounds great.I also purchased mine for $259. I tried out the h/k fl8300 but the fl8450 sounded cleaner to me, anyway, probably because of its more sophisticated interior.

I think we have shown know that the first post for this product struck quite a nerve among us proud owners. This is a great cd player!

superb sound...clean, dynamic, and pairs well especially with other h/k products. no problems at all. i don't care for cd changers with the tray above most of the controls but this doesn't take away from the sound and that's what means the most to me. looks great too! can't be beat for $259!
piggy97

overall, i'm very pleased with this unit. haven't had any problems using any features or with tray noise. it skips less than my previous sony. the controls have a high quality feel and the unit looks well built. sound is nicely detailed and smooth. it seemed more musical than other midpriced cd players. paid $289, dealer list is $262. happy negotiating!

I have had the Harmon Kardon for over a year now. I have not had any problems with my unit. I am extremely happy with it's unique sound and sturdy build. I have a Harmon Kardon receiver and the two make a great pair. I am a avid music listener and enjoy the pleaseure these two units give me. Well worth the price. if anyone has questions send me an e-mail. enjoy!!!