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Panasonic SC-PM71SD: Review

Posted to Lifestyle/ Mini Systems 2009-10-31

If you are ready to step into the world of digital technology, but don't want to lose those precious cassette recordings, then consider the Panasonic SC-PM71SD MP3 SD Micro System. This multi-purpose 5-CD audio system allows for CD-to-SD and cassette-to-SD recording, as well as standard audio playback. Although recordings are restricted to an annoying format, this system is still a great value and perfect for the home setting. It also includes a portable SD audio player and 1GB SD memory card to get you started.

This model measures 14.8 x 18.3 x 9.9 inches and weighs 28 lbs, which is significantly smaller than other stereo systems. It is especially lucrative to consumers because the 5-disc CD changer allows you to record that many onto a single SD card. Unfortunately, recordings are made in a special AAC format that is automatically DRM-encrypted, so everything you record onto the SD card will only play on the SD audio player. Despite this downside, the Panasonic SC-PM71SD makes a great addition to the home, allowing you to listen to your favorite music and archive any of your old cassettes.

Rating:

3.4 out of 5

Value

Although this model needs improving for the lack of several capabilities, it is still an excellent value for the capabilities it does provide. This stylish multi-function audio system allows both playback and recording of CDs and tape cassettes, plus via the built-in AM/FM tuner. Consumers may be disappointed by mediocre sound quality, but the Panasonic SC-PM71SD is one of the best bargains for the money. Device setup is a breeze, recording quality is superb, and the flexibility of functions is very satisfying.

Features

The Panasonic SC-PM71SD has micro-system features that are targeted specifically for the budget-restricted consumer. The most impressive feature is the ability to record from CD, cassette, or radio directly to a SD card. You can simultaneously transfer 5 CDs to a single SD card. The five-disc CD changer is useful for if you don't want to put in a new CD every hour, as well as for the mentioned simultaneous recording. This model features MASH 1-bit D/A Conversion System technology for better audio, and it supports playback from CD, CD-R/RW, MP3, and WMA. The remote is useful, as well as the sleep feature. Unfortunately, this model does not support ID3 tagging, so you will have to use the included remote to manually input tags. The display is so small, however, that you may decide to ignore tagging. The downside to direct recording is that all audio files are formatted to a DRM-protected AAC file, so transferring files to a PC is virtually useless. But overall, we are impressed by the features versus cost.

Summary

If audio quality is your top priority, then you may want to consider a different product. The Panasonic SC-PM71SD MP3 SD Micro System is a consumer-friendly audio system made especially for budget users who want the most flexible capabilities for the price. This product has the potential to become a truly great audio system, but it needs several improvements before it can reach that point. Overall, for the price, it is an excellent bargain. Again, audio quality is not too important if you plan to only use the portable audio player, but if you are picky about the specifics, then shop around before purchasing.

Pros

Capable of simultaneously recording from 5 CDs
Copies CDs, cassettes, and radio recordings to a SD card
Includes remote, portable audio player, and 1GB SD card

Cons

Does not support ID3 tags and saves files to annoying format
Offers high quality recording, but gives mediocre playback