The RCA RS1285 is a fairly large square stereo system with two medium-sized speakers. It features a five-disc CD changer/player, two-deck cassette recorder, and an AM/FM radio with digital tuning.

This stereo comes with two model RS1285 speakers; it would be nice if their cords were a bit longer. There are jacks on the rear of the stereo for connecting them. They use wires with bare ends, not the more convenient 1/8" or RCA type audio cords. There's also a built-in AC power cord (2-prong, polarized), an FM wire antenna, and a jack for attaching an AM antenna. The AM loop antenna included with the RS1285 doesn't improve reception much. There is no audio input.

All of the controls are digital (tuning, volume, etc). An included RCA remote control can also be used; it requires two "AAA" batteries. The stereo has a digital clock, a Bass Boost button, and a stereo/mono control for FM radio. The RCA RS1285 produces very good sound and has reliably played CDs and cassettes for approximately eight years of occasional use. All of its components continue to function and no repairs or part replacements have been necessary.

Overall, it is a good stereo, although it would have been improved by the addition of audio input jacks (to amplify sound from other devices or record to cassettes) and a round or sliding analog volume control.

POWER CONSUMPTION: Maximum 20 watts. 10-11W "off" but plugged in. 11W with radio on. 14W when opening/closing tray or starting up. Less than most televisions, more than portable radios or small televisions (under 6"). It is best to unplug this unit or turn it off with a power strip when it is not in use, as it consumes more power than most TVs, radios, or computers do when they are "off".