Gizmo

By Andy Walker, Cyberwalker Media Syndicate

Cottage dwellers and urbanites stuck with small spaces have good reason to like the Panasonic TV/VCR/FM radio (model PVC1321).

The three-in-one device features a 13-inch colour television with an integrated video cassette player. It also features an FM radio and alarm clock.

The technology in the system is competent, as one comes to expect from Panasonic products. The VCR is a two head system with mono sound and there is only one speaker onboard the system. But the player does feature a commercial skip and program end search feature. The system also comes with a remote control and an audio- and video-in jack, position usefully on the front of the console.

If you have a 15-inch square nook or cranny that begs for a TV and VCR, then this system will fit the bill.

Price: $385.99 Canadian, $199 US
More info: www.panasonic.ca, www.panasonic.com
Buy it: In Canada, at most Panasonic retailers including Future Shop, Sears, and The Brick. In the U.S., at Circuit City and Staples. More retailers listed on the Panasonic Web site.

On-line at Amazon.com