JVC THL1 5.1 Channel Home Theater Surround Media System

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The good: Tiny bookshelf-size home theater in a box; numerous connectivity options including two HDMI inputs that support up to 1080p; USB port for digital media; iPod audio and video playback; attractive price point.

The bad: No built-in DVD player; small speakers and relatively low wattage limit power and sound quality; supports only three concurrent AV sources; no HDMI up-conversion for analog video sources; USB mode requires you to select the type of media before you play it; new iPods will only be able to play audio through the unit.

The bottom line: While the sound isn't overpowering, the wealth of connectivity options and features bundled into the JVC TH-L1 home theater in a box makes it well worth the inexpensive price tag.




 

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Klipsch iGroove HG All-in-One iPod Shelf System

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The good: Stylish iPod speaker system; stereo, two-way speakers; cute remote; charges connected iPod; line-in support lets you use non-iPod music players as well.

The bad: Not in the same league as Klipsch's mighty iPod speaker set, the iFi.

The bottom line: Klipsch's new iGroove iPod speaker trumps the competition's tweeterless models.



 

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Sharp SD-SP10

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Sharp SD-SP10The good: The Sharp SD-SP10 is the most affordable single-speaker surround/subwoofer system, but it's sonically competitive with more expensive competitors. It employs Dolby Virtual Speaker Technology and Audistry surround processing, offers excellent connectivity and supereasy setup, and it delivers a space-saving design.

The bad: The surround-sound effects disappear for listeners seated off to the sides.

The bottom line: Sharp's SD-SP10 budget-priced virtual-surround speaker/subwoofer combo is sonically competitive with far more expensive single-speaker systems.


for Sharp SD-SP10 from online stores: This product is currently not in stock at any of our online merchants. Find Sharp SD-SP10 from our auction partner, eBay


 

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Onkyo HTS790 7.1 Channel 1000 Watt Component Home Theater Audio System

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The good: The Onkyo HT-S790 is a home-theater-in-a-box system (HTIB) that combines seven large two-way, multidriver speakers; a 10-inch, 230-watt powered subwoofer; and a full-size A/V receiver that offers generous connectivity and ample power. It's also XM Satellite radio-ready with the latest XM HD Surround.

The bad: The speakers and subwoofer might be too big for some buyers, and you'll need to supply the DVD player. The receiver lacks component video conversion and an onscreen menu. The optional XM antenna caused some background noise when connected.

The bottom line: If you put a higher value on sound quality than on trim dimensions, Onkyo's HT-S790 home-theater system is a slam-dunk choice.

4 used & new available from $308.71 at AMAZON.COM

 

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Panasonic SC-HT40

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The good: The Panasonic SC-HT40 is a name-brand home-theater-in-a-box system that you can get for a rock-bottom price of $200 or less. It offers sweet-sounding satellite speakers, a powerful compact subwoofer, and easy connections for portable music players and optional wireless speaker attachments.

The bad: As expected at this price, the features list is bare-bones: You'll need to supply the DVD player (it's not included), its connectivity options are sparse, and there's no onscreen display during setup.

The bottom line: Considering its bargain-basement price, Panasonic's SC-HT40 home theater in a box is an outstanding value.





 

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Pioneer VSX-1016TXV

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The good: This affordable THX Select 2-certified 7.1-channel A/V receiver offers switching for two HDMI sources, XM Satellite Radio capability with XM HD Surround, an accurate autosetup system, and an optional iPod dock. Also, you can configure the receiver to biamplify compatible front speakers.

The bad: HDMI switching is for video only, which means you'll have to hook up audio cables as well. Additionally, the receiver won't convert composite, S-Video or component-video sources to HDMI output, and the onscreen menu display doesn't work via HDMI.

The bottom line: The Pioneer VSX-1016TXV offers formidable home-theater sound and a solid feature set for a midrange A/V receiver, with only its minimalist HDMI features falling short.

4 used & new available from $325.00 AT AMAZON.COM

 

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