NuForce burst onto the scene a few years ago with their cool-running digital amps. In Vegas this year, NuForce showed a new complete mini system for the iPod and computer generations. At $399, the system features their digital amp technology, now in smurf power output running a pair of full-range single driver speakers.

SOUND
The NuForce mini system belongs in the "Refined" category, but had some issues when trying to handle my demo disc. NuForce's main man admitted the product is still in the prototype stage and will, he says, feature better bass and overall improved sound. The system is clearly geared towards (or designed for) audiophile type music -- it handled my female vocal tracks fine but started to die a quick death on my rock and hip-hop tracks.

TECH TALK
The system's issues weren't in the bass region, but when driven with serious dynamics, the mids to highs started breaking up and turning nasty and metallic. I've heard a handful of high-performance single driver full-range systems (in this price point and far more expensive) that can handle these kinds of dynamics, so it's not an issue with the size or type of the driver. If the wrinkles can be ironed out, the NuForce mini system could be a fantastic little product at $399. The speakers and amp can be purchased separately.

Big pics next page...