After a few attempts with mini-shelf units that delivered weak sound, this Pioneer is a pleasant surprise. Nice balanced tones are rich & clear. I bought it mostly for the USB input - I can have all my music plugged in and ready when I want it. Within 10 minutes my wife asked me to order another EM21 for our kitchen!

Good lighting would be a good idea when setting up this stereo. At first the cd drawer wouldn't open. Looking closer, with more light, I noticed a piece of tinted tape was holding it shut. I suggest getting comfotable and taking your time reading the owners manual to set up your stereo. My favorite parts of this stereo are the USB and the iPod connector. I have 10,000 mp3's on a single 32GB USB 2 flash drive. I only charge my iPod on this stereo. The CD player is just an extra choice of media that, along with the FM tuner, to be used if the flash drive is removed for use on the PC or car stereo. The remote control is much nicer than the small credit card remotes found on other stereos. For what it cost, this is a good stereo. I purchased a 3 year extended warranty for $**. So $*** + tax you are guaranteed a working stereo for at least the next 36 months.