14 out of 14 people found this review helpful.
Nothing compares
Date of Review: Jun 21, 2001
The Bottom Line: This ugly duckling offers beautiful sound. If you want tremendous quality, here it is.
The Bose Acoustic Wave System is a complete and compelling stereo unit that delivers sound quality that rivals almost any non-professional system on the market. It's design is simple and almost perfect. No need to play with an equalizer to get the best sound, there is none. There is no equalizer or other enhancement switches because there is no need to alter the sound quality. This Bose System, like most of the other Bose units, has made an art of delivering sound as it was meant to be heard.
The stereo itself is not a pretty sight. But even as a minor eyesore, this system produces enough high quality output that I often use it outdoors during B-B-Q's. And the sound is amazing at all levels of volume. Whether listening to classical music or heavy metal, this system will break down the sounds for you and enable the ear to pick up the complete sound. I am always amused to listen to a familiar piece and hear an element for the first time.
On the top section of the unit, a pop up door reveals the single CD player. The radio has 10 preset station availability. Both the radio and CD sound quality are superior to any compact system I've ever heard. The unit also has a remote control that is smaller than a credit card and virtually weightless. It is worth mentioning that the standard Bose Wave System, which is half the size of this one, offers high quality sound and excellent performance, but it is not as solid and rich as the Acoustic Wave.
The range of sound is so vast that I am amazed that this small, ugly radio can deliver it. But deliver it the Bose system does, and the craftmanship is obvious with every note. Another amazing feat for an amazing company. If you can live with its unattractive appearance, go buy one today. Don't wait for a sale; Bose never authorizes them.
