From a home-theater standpoint, the MX-J70 certainly is "mini." The system does use Dolby Pro Logic and digital signal processing to derive surround information from two-channel sources, such as VHS tapes and compact discs. However, it can't begin to approach the quality surround effects produced by true six-channel formats, such as Dolby Digital and DTS (Digital Theater Sound). The MX-J70 also doesn't come close to costing as much as a discrete surround system.

JVC has, however, packed a lot of features and a lot of quality into this system, not the least of which is some heavy-duty amplification (180 watts total) and the front-channel loudspeakers to use it. You've got six preset equalization curves to choose from (Dance Club, Hall, Stadium, Rock, Pop, and Classic) as well as three settings you can set and store on your own.

There's also JVC's bass-boost system, called S.A. Bass, that looks at the incoming bass levels and boosts them in accordance with preprogrammed parameters. And if that's not enough, the MX-J70 has a subwoofer output, too, so you can augment your system with even deeper bass from a dedicated low-end woofer.

Other features include an optical digital output for use with an outboard digital-to-analog converter or higher-end surround processor, full-logic cassette control, Compu Link/Compu Play (allowing the system to be powered up at the touch of a Play button), and a programmable timer (Daily/Record/Sleep).

Whether you're a video hound taking your first step toward home theater or a purist looking for great two-channel playback, the JVC MX-J70 will completely alter what you think is possible from a compact stereo system.

Pros:

• Dynamic, punchy sound
• Extensive EQ flexibility
• Convenient inputs and outputs

Cons:

• Ineffective surround speakers/processing