Panasonic CX-DP880

Given the low price, this Panasonic CX-DP880 is an excellent unit. Mine is connected to Panasonic's superb CQ-MR555 Minidisc head unit, and in this capacity it offers excellent sound and rapid disc access. It's also small enough to fit in the glovebox, which makes it easily accessible and not prone to damage (as it would be in the boot) - it also suits my liking for subtle mods. The 8-disc magazine is enough for the longest journeys, and more importantly it doesn't scratch the discs unlike some others. Until recently, it was the lower of two models in Panasonic's changer range, the pricier one only offering CD text extra, something which you can live without.

Downsides? Well, the wiring loom is substantial, requiring seperate connections to power and ground, as well as three seperate connections to the head unit. Not a problem, but anyone used to the single-cable arrangement of Kenwood and JVC units might find it an irritation. A tendency to "jump" if faced with more than a couple of bumps in succession is apparent, although I'm pretty sure our potholed roads and my tired old suspension really doesn't help matters.

So, it's a good unit. And it would have to be - if you've got a Panasonic head unit there's no alternative anyway! ;)