Minidiscs are not only smaller and more convenient to record on than cassettes, they also sound much better--nearly as good as CDs. Minidiscs' recording and editing functions, in fact, are more convenient than those allowed by CD recorders, granting not only rewritability but also the ability to erase tracks as you choose (whereas with rewritable CDs it's all or nothing). Furthermore, you can rearrange your track order on minidiscs and erase stray unwanted sounds that find their way to disc (such as the drop of a phonograph cartridge before a song starts).

Features of the JVC XU-301BK include one-bit digital-to-audio and audio-to-digital converters, minidisc smart random and repeat play, a sampling-rate converter (32 kHz and 48 kHz to the standard 44.1 kHz), title memory (disc title/performer name), genre memory (27 patterns), and smart random play or continuous play across all three CDs.

The minidisc recorder lets you divide, combine, erase, move, or name tracks when creating your own custom discs. It also offers JVC's enhanced COMPU LINK control system for quick, seamless integration with other audio-video components. The unit's full-function remote control includes a keyboard for track and disc title entry.

The XU-301BK's warranty covers the unit for a year on parts and 90 days on labor.