Amazon.co.uk Review
The Philips FWC399 is a powerful mini system, with three-CD changer, tuner, twin cassette deck and timer/clock. Design-wise, this is a curious beast. The system has predominantly a rather dull gun-metal coloured finish, accented by a silver band across the centre--where most of the controls are--and a yellow bass reflex port on each speaker. However, switch the FWC399 on and an array of multicoloured flashing lights reveal that this is aimed at those who are looking for something bold and brash from their hi-fi.
With 120 Watts per channel RMS the system has plenty of punch. There are a variety of different settings for the audio balance, including variable levels of dynamic bass boost; a Virtual Environment Control for simulating concert hall or cinema style sound; Digital Sound Control, with settings for jazz, techno, rock and optimal; plus an Incredible Surround button, which attempts to simulate a surround sound setup from just two speakers. This range of settings has variable success, but generally the sound quality is reasonable. It delivers power, but at times lacks control and definition. A further control is the Max Sound button, which provides a shot of adrenaline to the whole system. This produces a much richer, fuller sound, though the previous caveats about the sound quality still apply, especially at higher volumes.
The three-CD changer uses the carousel system, which works speedily and quietly, even enabling you to change two CDs while the third is still playing. Other features include 40-track programmability, repeat and shuffle. The tuner receives FM/MW/LW signals and can hold 40 presets. It also supports RDS, which can display radio station name, radio text and programme type. The NEWS function also enables the system to automatically scan and pick up news bulletins, returning to the previous source, such as a CD playing, when the bulletin has finished. The twin cassette decks support one touch and CD synchro recording and tape-to-tape dubbing. The system also includes a clock and timer. --Jason Weston
Product Description
With more power than most mini systems, the Philips FWC399 can blast out a searing performance with maximum bass and volume at the touch of a button. This powerful system with three CD changer and three level Dynamic Bass Boost, can bathe you in sound and give you the illusion of being at the centre of the action with Incredible Surround technology. When activated, this produces a dramatic increase in stereo performance. While the Digital Sound Control (DSC) offers different sound settings optimised for specific musical styles. Examples are JAZZ, POP, and ROCK settings, each specifically tailored to produce optimum listening pleasure from its corresponding style of music.
