Quote:
Originally Posted by TruSorrow
I'm looking to get surround sound but was wondering if the all in one systems are worth it or a waste of time? here is a example of what i was looking at http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage....=1218098557911 any help is greatly appreciated. I dont really know alot about sound systems i looked in the virgin thread this has the true hd but i always thought i needed a reciever. |
The all in one systems (HTIB) are simple and a good option for beginners. However, they can never compete with a good receiver and separate set of speakers. If you buy an HTIB now, you may regret it in a few months and decide that you may want to upgrade. If you don't have the money, you can be patient and buy them step by step.
The first step should be to buy a Blu-ray player. The new Sony PS3 for less than $300 is the best and most complete option for playing CD, DVD, Blu-ray, and playing games. There are several good BD players for under $200, but they are not as flexible as PS3. I assume you already have a TV with HDMI or component inputs.
Next on your agenda should be to buy a good 7.1 receiver that has HDMI input/output and supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD MA. Almost any low to mid level receiver from Onkyo, Pioneer Elite, Marantz, Denon, Sony ES, Yamaha, Sherwood, Harmon Kardon will be more than satisfactory for your needs.
After the receiver, you can buy 5 good speakers. Brands such as Polk, Energy, Klipsch, PSB, JBL, Infinity, Mirage, and lower priced Definitive Technology offer you good performance without sending you to the poor house.
The final step should be to buy a subwoofer. Acoustic Audio has many good options from $100 to $200. Premier Acoustics is a little higher around $250. If you stretch your budget over $300, you can buy a very good subwoofer from Elemental Designs. Once you go over $400, you can include SVS, AV123 or Hsu subwoofers.