Power on system and put in a CD, the first few notes of the sound is pleasing for a system of this price range. The treble is coarse though. Probably the sound quality is better than those budget Korean home theater brands.
Of course, it can't be compared to a Yamaha or Denon, but for this price, there's really nothing much to complain about.
Feature-wise, there is a USB port for external inputs like iPod. There are also a standard FM receive and DVD player.
Unfortunately, RCA RTD217 Theater System has only one set of Audio Visual connection jacks in the back so if you plan to connect any kind of gaming system in to it, you may find yourself out of options if you wish to link up more auxiliary sources.
On the whole, RCA RTD217 Home Theater System is decent for about one hundred bucks.
If you are newly renovating your home, please take a serious planning for your television area. Even if you have no intention to install a home theater system, do get ready the PVC pipes strapped up in the wall or a false wall so that next time you can just hide the wire mess behind it to save on the eye sore.