Where to buy basic but not mini stereo system

[Gregjam]

I have a surround sound system for the TV, DVD player etc with a remote for each and despite my best attempts the wife struggles with them and so just uses the TV on its own.

When out today I was looking for a basic stereo system that has radio, cd player and is easy to use but not one of the small mini systems with small speakers that do not really have enough noise to overcome the passing cars/vendors/neighbours music without distorting the music.

Big Kiang, Power, Tesco did not have anything that really appealed to her as it must be very simple to operate without too many confusing buttons. She is not a simpleton but just wants something with in on button, easy to insert cd drawer and volume control. Nothing fancy or with too many flashing lights.

Have not yet tried Pure Plaza but any suggestions will be helpful.

[barrys]

Makro Pranburi have a fairly good inexpensive selection

[Ginjaninja]

Hi Greg,
I posted a similar question before and didn't get any replies:
viewtopic.php?f=15&t=24048&hilit=+system

Would you consider an iPod/Phone docking station or Bluetooth device? Some of the decent ones perform pretty well. I also shopped around H.H. and found nothing of interest. My previous iPod docking-station speaker system was the JBL 'On-stage' (http://www.yankodesign.com/images/desig ... 00p_01.jpg) and it gave up shortly after the warranty expired .
We have recently purchased (U.K. duty-free) the Bose 'Soundlink' mobile speaker (http://www.bose.co.uk/GB/en/home-and-pe ... e-package/) and finding it very good so far. The sound competes with larger stereo systems and the Bluetooth function is fantastic for playing through the iPhone or listening to YouTube music videos through the iPad. Of course it has an audio jack for connecting auxiliary devices.
Recently we visited the Paragon mall in BKK and had a look through the Bose, Pioneer, Denon and Bang and Olufsen stores..... I.M.O. the Bose systems sounded the best but I wasn't impressed with the salesman and therefore left empty-handed (further research required). The quality versus price of the B&O systems ruled that shop out combined with a salesman that had zero interest with us. The other brands are not even worth a mention I'm afraid.
A friend of mine has recently highly recommended the Bowers & Wilkins 'Zeppelin Air' iPod/Phone docking station (http://www.bowers-wilkins.co.uk/Wireles ... plore.html) with Airplay (Apple) wireless streaming technology. Not a cheap system though, retailing at £500 in the U.K. and probably significantly more in Thailand. I don't think it's available in Banana I.T. ( ) in Hua Hin but they may be able to order it in for you.

Sorry if I've focused too much on the docking station/Bluetooth systems and this is maybe not for you but thought I'd post the information anyway.


GN.

[Gregjam]

Thanks Ginjaninja, I am beginning to think one of the Bose wave type systems is the way to go as I know the sound from such a small piece of kit is very good. I travel a bit and am due to spend a few days abroad late April so will consider looking for something like that duty free. The Zeppelin also gets good reviews but I am looking for something that will play cd's and tune into radio stations extremely simply. As a stop gap I have got a little Soken unit from Makro that chucks out a reasonable sound and is very simple to operate. Am sure I will get a few gold stars and brownie points if I come back with a Bose unit next time. My wife is typically Thai and recognises good name brands plus can spot a copy a mile away.

Thank you too barrys, I will check Makro out next time I am down there. Good excuse to visit after a round of golf at Thanarat.