home theater for xmas

[Dagger]

I can empathize on the budget. I recently just put together my system (like yesterday). My budget was a bit higher at $2k all in. Considering that there are speakers that sell at $2k for one speaker tells you how expensive it can get.

I ended up getting Paradigm Monitor 7's, a Velodyne Subwoofer DLS-4000R and an Onkyo 705. I got each at a discount and ended up spending $1600 all in (speaker wires/cables included).

If you are looking to build out over the long run, I would suggest getting quality mains and a subwoofer over getting a sub par surround - and mains over subwoofers.

At your price point, take a look at:

http://www.av123.com/products_catego...akers&brand=55

The system has gotten good reviews for best budget system. I've read they look tremendous, so at least they look expensive. For a pair of bookshelfs and a subwoofer it would be $420 + shipping. Plus, they have a 30 day money back guarantee that includes shipping - so basically no cost to you except the inconvenience. I spoke with a rep there and he mentioned they would likely have a sale after New Year's.

Also I would suggest Paradigm Atom/MiniMonitors.

http://www.paradigm.com/

These bookshelves have gotten great reviews.

I've heard great things about the BIC Acoustech H-100 Subwoofer at it's price. Another popular one for budget I hear is Dayton Subwoofers.

From what I can gather, for the audio portion of the A/V, the receiver isn't as important considering you can buy a separate amp for cheap and a good subwoofer will have an amp included. For the video portion, it appears you'll have to pay a bit more for the hdmi capabilities.

Hope this helps. I'm not an audiophile and I haven't heard any of the above speakers. Just telling you what I've found over the last month of research.