Onkyo CS1045

Full-size component performance, flexibility and build quality… but in an ultra-compact package.

Onkyo, one of the world’s leading hi-fi and home cinema brands, is pleased to announce the launch of an upmarket Hi-Fi Mini Component system that aims to deliver all the plus points of a full-size quality hi-fi system but in a slimline, easily accomodated package.

Comprising a tuner/amplifier, CD player and 2-way speakers, the remote-controlled Onkyo CS-1045 system  incorporates state of the art audio technologies to deliver an uncompromisingly musical sound quality

The tuner/amplifier, for instance, uses basically the same VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuit) technology and that's employed in our flagship A-5VL stereo amplifier as well as an excellent 24-bit/192kHz Burr-Brown stereo digital-to-analogue converter (PCM1796). And with a generous total output of 2 x 70w (IEC) there's no shortage of power here either.

Construction quality is to Onkyo's traditionally high standards so both the front panels are of solid aluminium, underpinned by a sturdy 1.6mm-thick metal chassis for rigidity.

Flexibility is a key requirement in a quality hifi system and the CS-1045 system delivers here by offering SPDIF optical/coaxial audio inputs. With SPDIF outputs becoming ever more common on PCs, Macs and networked devices the CS-1045's digital inputs allow it to interface with a wider range of audio sources.

In addition, there are also three analogue audio inputs and a subwoofer output. On the front panel there's a minijack headphone output for personal listening along with tone controls and a Source Direct facility, for the purest quality audio playback.

The CD player, which has a high precision digital clock, continues the theme by happily playing back MP3 tracks from CD-R/RW discs as well as WMA files. Internally, it employs a high performance 24-bit/192kHz Wolfson DAC (WM8718) for maximum audio fidelity.

To ensure that users get maximum access to the vast quantity of free entertainment flying through our airwaves the receiver sports an DAB/FM tuner. Usefully, there's also a multi-mode timer/clock that can wake you up to your favourite music at the press of a button.

Given the resurgence of interest in vinyl records Onkyo has also equipped the system with a great-sounding MM (Moving Magnet) phono stage.

And then, of course, there's the built-in iPhone/iPod direct compatibility. Now officially the world's most popular portable playback devices, iPhone/iPods can be hooked up via a single cable to the front panel USB port (Works With iPhone –certified) which, incidentally, also plays back files from other USB-equipped portable music players.

Last but not least are the excellent D-145 speakers. Finished in high-gloss black this classic 2-way design sports a 2.5cm soft dome tweeter and 12cm OMF (Onkyo Micro Fibre) bass driver with centre plug, fitted with a V-line edge surround.

Nowhere near as bulky as a traditional separates-based system but offering comparable sound quality, the CS-1045 system is sure to find favour with customers looking for a compact, premium hi-fi package.