ONKYO CBX-500

CBX-500 - 10 W/Ch, 6 Ω, 1 kHz, CD, CD-R, CD-RW, 3.5 mm, FM/AM RDS If you’re looking for a versatile and compact music solution for smaller spaces, the stylish CBX-500 is a compelling choice. Despite its modest size, this all-in-one audio system delivers a thoroughly vibrant performance. The key is the iPod dock’s digital connection, which gives far greater fidelity than analog. Located not on top but front and center, the retractable dock also helps to give the system a streamlined profile. Naturally, the CBX-500 also handles the most popular CD formats, as well as MP3 and WMA files saved to disc or stored on USB flash drives. The speakers incorporate proven Onkyo technologies such as OMF diaphragms and Aero Acoustic Drives, while the remote adds iPod browsing to the usual convenient control functions.

Slim Body with Top-Loading CD Slot

With its compact profile, the CBX-500 is easy to place on a shelf, dresser, or desk—anywhere you want to add superb sound without taking up too much space. The front-side retractable iPod tray keeps the unit looking streamlined, as you don’t need to sit your device on top. Meanwhile, to protect the high-precision hardware inside, the top-loading CD drive features a dust-proof slot cover. A solid aluminum finish on top gives the unit a stylish and robust feel.

Built-in Dock for Direct Digital Connection of iPod

In addition to playing CDs, you can slot your iPod directly into the CBX-500’s retractable sliding tray to access podcasts and music in AAC and MP3 formats. As the audio signals are transported in digital form, rather than analog, there is much less chance for signal degradation. The accompanying remote control gives you greater functionality, letting you select playlists, skip tracks, or switch to shuffle mode.

Side-Panel USB Port for Flash Drives

Using the CBX-500’s side-panel USB port, you can access MP3 and WMA files from USB flash drives that support the USB Mass Storage Class standard. Once your device is connected, you can use the CBX-500’s remote control to play back your music.

Tone-Enhancing Construction with Isolated Speaker Enclosures

The construction of the CBX-500 is crafted to get the best possible sound from a system with obvious size limitations. Firstly, the inside of the CBX-500’s main housing is braced to prevent unwanted vibrations from adversely impacting sound quality. Secondly, the speakers are separated from the main processing section to further reduce interference.

Speaker Technologies and Duct Tuning to Further Improve Sound Quality

While one-box systems cannot be compared to large, high-end, separate components, there are opportunities to achieve higher sound quality by focusing on specific details of the construction. One example is the CBX-500’s ultra-fine cotton-weave OMF speaker diaphragms, which absorb vibrations and enable a fast, accurate response. Another example is the Aero Acoustic Drive speaker ducts, which reduce harmful vibrations from within the speaker enclosures. Careful research into the shape and size of these ducts led to a design with enhanced reproduction of bass frequencies.