LG FA163DAB review

How much? Yes, LG has delivered a feature-packed micro hi-fi system for just £200. CD player, amplifier and 2.1 speakers? Check. DAB/FM/MW tuner? Check. Integrated iPod dock? Check.

Direct recording to a USB memory stick? Check. And all this is packaged in to a smart and luxurious piece of kit thanks to a sleek, gloss black finish.

The speakers are a good size – 24cm high and a slim 13cm wide – and claims an output 80W per channel. A sub driver in each cabinet means plenty of boom for your buck, too.

It's all operated via a flash touchscreen control system, which unfortunately isn't as slick in operation as it looks – stick to the remote control for a more responsive experience.

The iPod dock is integrated into the top of the main unit and again gives full control of your tunes via the remote control. There's also a 3.5mm line input allowing you to connect any portable player straight to the unit.

This system's unique feature is the direct recording to USB mode. Slot in a USB stick, press a button and your CD tracks will be recorded to your stick in real time or double speed, at anything from 96kps to 256kps MP3 quality.

Slight trade-off with sound
Now the standard issue with such a feature-packed, wallet-friendly machine is to expect a trade-off when it comes to sound quality. And, while this LG is far from disgraced, it's not quite in the same sonic league as the machines from the traditional players in the market.

We're not best pleased with the LG's bass delivery. Playing 2562's bass-heavy album Aerial, this system can be a little boomy, with that twin set of subs combining to make a slightly over-bearing bottom end – even after EQ adjustments.

The sound has a rich, refined feel, and in isolation has an even balance that makes it an easy listen, but it can't match the detail and dynamics of the best here. Still, if you want a versatile micro system on a budget, this fits the bill nicely.