New Products

RCA

CDs holding MP3 music files will feel right at home in the RCA RS2538 minisystem's five-disc changer, which can even display CD/MP3 Text on its illuminated LCD readout. The speakers get juice from the system's 200-watt amp, with 75 watts going to each ported subwoofer. The 28-pound changer/receiver measures 12 x 10 x 14 inches and also houses an AM/FM tuner with 32 presets. Price: $399. 800-336-1900, www.rca.com

Alpine

Companies like XM Satellite Radio have taken digital broadcasting into orbit, but to follow you'll need an XM-compatible car stereo head unit like Alpine's CDA-7977. The CD tuner can also control a compatible CD changer. Four preamp outputs facilitate connection to your car's sound system, and a wireless remote is included. You'll need an outboard XM tuner module to pick up digital satellite broadcasts. The AM and FM bands are still accessible any time you want to return to the 20th century. Prices: $550; XM tuner price to be determined after XM service launch. 800-257-4631, www.alpine1.com

Sony

Look up on your wall! It's a painting! It's a window! No, it's -- SuperTheater! More powerful than any analog TV, Sony's 42-inch PFM-42B1 SuperTheater plasma HDTV monitor has a resolution of 1,024 x 1,024 pixels and is only 3 1/4 inches deep. High-definition signals enter in a single bound through either of its two VGA inputs, and it also has composite- and S-video inputs as well as an RS-232 port. The 65-pound monitor is framed in brushed silver or charcoal gray. Flat, tilt, and rotating brackets are optional, and a remote control is supplied. Price: $7,999. 800-686-7669, www.sony.com/displaysystems