Harman Kardon HKTS-18 High-Performance, 6-Piece Home Theater Speaker System (Black Gloss) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I'll just confirm and add a little bit to what everyone else has said about these truly great speakers. They sound great, first and foremost. They feel very solid, like they are made entirely of metal (a good thing!). In fact, while many systems sport satellite speakers weighing around 2 pounds (USA), these weigh closer to 3 pounds.
The image on the Amazon page for these speakers does not do them at all justice! The base speaker is very big, looks like a fine price of furniture, and could possible sub as a side-table (but don't do it...hehe)!
I have mine connected to a Denon AVR-1908 receiver. I mention this because it took me a few days to figure the best setup for these speakers, and I want to mention some pointers. My receiver allows choosing between 'small' and 'large' when it comes to the front, back, and center speakers. For these speakers, set them all to 'small'.
But, most importantly, be sure the sub-woofer is turned on on your receiver! I used the system for a couple of days before I realized the bass speaker was not on! That's because the front speakers were set to 'large', so they took up the task of filling in the missing bass (so it was hard to notice the bass wasn't on). I figured out how to turn the bass on in the receiver, and - WHOA! - the entire room shook!
Which brings me to a special pointer - you can tell if the bass speaker is getting a signal by the COLOR of the light on top! If it is off, there is no power. If it is yellow, it is on, but no signal (or too low a signal to register if low volume). Blue means on and there is a signal!
So, in conclusion, these speakers are awesome for the price! Speaking of which, the price of Amazon fluctuates for this item more than the stock market! I have seen it go up and down on the same day as much as fifty or even two hundred dollars! So monitor the price and strike when it is low (I got mine for LESS than four hundred dollars!).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Harman Kardon HKTS-18 High-Performance, 6-Piece Home Theater Speaker System (Black Gloss)

The Harman Kardon HKTS 18 is a beautiful black lacquer speaker system with a powerful 200 watt 10" subwoofer.It is a 5.1 speaker system which can be expanded to 7.1 with the optional HKS-9 satellite speakers. It has a 3/4" tweeter for excellent high frequency response.It is magnetically shielded so it can be put next to your TV. It comes with all the speaker cables and shelf stand and wall mount brackets for the satellites.

Click here for more information about Harman Kardon HKTS-18 High-Performance, 6-Piece Home Theater Speaker System (Black Gloss)

Read More...

Belkin AV20000-06 PureAV Digital Optical Cable (6 feet) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As an owner of five of these cables that are hooked up to my sound system, I thought I'd write a quick review for two simple reasons. First off, I initially decided to write my review because the only-other-review (at the time I'm writing this) is for 1-star?!? I'm hoping the law of averages washes-out the 1-star review simply because this is NOT a 1-star product...The only way to beef-up the number of stars this product deserves is to speak up, so I am! :-)
That said, my second reason for the review is so I can let other prospective buyers out there know that the quality of the cable is Excellent. In fact, I'd compare the craftsmanship to that of a Monster-branded cable at a much more reasonable price! Belkin has stayed in business all these years because they are a top-maker of A/V and Computer cables and it shows here.
If you're looking for a High Quality Optical Cable at an Affordable price, then Belkin's definitely a solution worth your consideration. Happy A/Ving!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Belkin AV20000-06 PureAV Digital Optical Cable (6 feet)

The Belkin PureAV Digital Optical Cable is ideal for DTS and Dolby Digital surround sound home theater setups. It uses polished optical terminations and optical fiber to transfer digital signals, which prevents electromagnetic and radio frequency noise, leaving you with greater sonic accuracy and a more detailed, natural sound. The precision-molded, corrosion-resistant connectors help produce a natural-sounding midrange, and the cable is manufactured to stand up to extended use.

Get 63% OFF

Click here for more information about Belkin AV20000-06 PureAV Digital Optical Cable (6 feet)

Read More...

Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I had been looking at several of the Yamaha models through the spring of 2009, as well as its competitor's (Sony, Onkyo, Denon), for an upgrade of my ancient Sony receiver (one of the first Pro-logic receivers). I just installed a set of Definitive Technology Mythos speakers ordered through Amazon.com, including a power-hungry Mythos Three center channel. I wanted this receiver to be the core of my Home Theater as it's primarily use for improving my Sony Blu-ray and TiVo Series3 HD DVR experience.
Sports, such a baseball is vivid with the upscale feature from 1080i to 1080p (although it has not yet improved the performance of my Seattle Mariners). 1080i broadcast shows such as Chuck, both sound and look great.
The optional YDS-11SL iPod dock works well with both a 4th generation Nano and an 80G iPod Classic, including the videos.
What is worth the wait is the clean layout on the back, the heft of the discrete amp, and the Blu-ray friendly support with both the scene button and the Decoders for HD audio formats: Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Yes they do make a difference in your home theater experience.
The audio calibration microphone works as advertised. Silent Cinema (headphone mode) is also a nice feature.
What could be improved - You need to keep the manual next to you for the first week to figure out some of the controls such as accessing all of the iPod controls with the dock. I was also sorry to see HD Radio(tm) missing from this "top of the mid-range" Yamaha's. The older RX-V863 has it, but this one doesn't. Also the four scene buttons are not programmable. I wanted to program the TV scene button for my TiVo (HDMI #2), no luck.
In the end, if you are looking for a quality receiver that performs well on both movies and music, and can drive your amp hungry speakers to their potential, look no farther that this RX-V765. It really was worth the wait.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver

Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver

Get 38% OFF

Click here for more information about Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver

Read More...

Klipsch Synergy Quintet III Home Theater Speaker System (Set of Five, Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I recently upgraded my system with a new receiver and needed some new speakers to complement them. I wanted the Bose Acoustimass speakers forever but couldn't bear dropping a G on them. I also wanted to stay in the "bookshelf" size speaker as it suited my set up better. So I decided to try these for less than half the price of the Bose. I figured I could return them if they didn't thrill me. Short story....they did.
I was floored by the fullness of the sound. They hit the highs, mids, and lows like a champ. I like to use the action bits on Terminator 3 to test out new recievers and speakers and these really impressed me with a huge wall of sound. I knew they were good when I got excited while watching a movie I'd seen so many times before. It was almost like listening to it for the first time. I also popped in some cd's and I swear I heard things in some of my music that I've never heard before.
I'd heard those Bose speakers a dozen times at Comp USA and Best Buy and really do feel these are better for a full sound. The Bose do the highs an mids really well but not the lows. These are designed to be the total package with their horn/tweeter design and they certainly perform as such. They can actually be used without a subwoofer, which is good for people who don't like the booming and rumbling that subs provide. Klipsch suggest their own subs(of course) but I felt the price was a little rich for my blood, so I use a $100 Sony powered sub and it works just fine.
They look and feel like they're made from good quality materials. In fact, I accidently dropped one from 2 1/2 feet onto a wooden floor (oops) and it was completely intact without any marks and still works perfectly. The posts on the back of the speakers make speaker wire attachment a snap. You just unscrew the cap, the wire goes through the middle of the post, then you tighten the cap back down. No problemo. A great feature. They also make placement and mounting easy as you can sit them on a shelf, like in the picture, or flip the stand part back to mount on a wall. They also pivot to point in most any angle you'd want. The center speaker doesn't though.
There are only a couple of slight negatives here. The center speaker sounds a little boxey. It could use some more treble as it leans a little more towards the mid range. Since the majority of dialog comes from the center speaker, I wanted a little more sharpness. This is minor though and doesn't hinder the experience at all. The other is the balancing. Pairing them with my new reciever to find the best sound was a bit tricky. Again, these are very slight negatives and shouldn't deter you from looking into these fabulous speakers. I'm just trying to be as honest as I can here. I never once thought of returning them though.
Klipsch has a great reputation in the audio world and touts these as their best selling compact speaker system. These are a great deal for the price as they sound huge and like they should cost alot more. If you're starting to get serious about your audio for your home theater, there's nothing else out there that's gonna top these at their size and price. Believe me, I looked.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Klipsch Synergy Quintet III Home Theater Speaker System (Set of Five, Black)

Synergy Series Quintet III 5-Piece Home Theater Speaker System

Get 20% OFF

Click here for more information about Klipsch Synergy Quintet III Home Theater Speaker System (Set of Five, Black)

Read More...

High Gloss Piano Finish 5.1 Dolby Digital DTS True Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System For Your TV, DVD Player, Ipod, Xbox, Ps3 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a piece of Junk - nice photo though. It came used - broken - reboxed and not comatable with US spec A/V components. The manual is the worst case of "ENGRISH" I have ever seen. It is more of a joke than anything else. The Amazon ads are a fraud. I have spent 3 days now and have yet to ID the seller or the shipper. Amazon, themselves, can not tell me. If you are lucky enough to find a phone # to contact them. They do not screen the sellers they represent as advocates of a much better company. I am disheartened and out nearly [...]. If you do not buy directly from Amazon - beware. E-bay has much better safeguards.

Click Here to see more reviews about: High Gloss Piano Finish 5.1 Dolby Digital DTS True Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System For Your TV, DVD Player, Ipod, Xbox, Ps3

Click here for more information about High Gloss Piano Finish 5.1 Dolby Digital DTS True Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System For Your TV, DVD Player, Ipod, Xbox, Ps3

Read More...

Yamaha YHT-S400BL Front Surround Unique Home Theater Package (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Just received from Amazon today... My primary requirements were a low profile, black unobtrusive sound bar to go in the 3 inches of space I have under my wall mounted Panasonic TCP-65S1. Other options from Samsung and other manufacturers that fit my space requirement had fewer features, only 2.1 channels, and reviews indicating sound quality not quite up to snuff. It is replacing a Yamaha YSP-800 that works fine but simply takes up too much space.
I understand there is some doubt out there about the sub combined with the receiver but so far it sounds fine.
In fact the whole setup sounds better than good... very crisp clean surround 7.1ch emulation, louder and better quality/separation than the 5ch YSP-800 it is replacing.
Time (and a bunch of Blu Ray movies) will tell, and I will update this review with further observations as I further evaluate the unit.
Very easy to install and setup, the setup menus are easy to use. I am not a huge picky audiophile so the minimal setup options are plenty for me... and if I were an audiophile I probably wouldn't be getting a soundbar.
I was curious to see how the HDMI-CEC would work with my VieraLink panny, and this was the one area I was disappointed... First off it loses the VieraLink "HD Theater sound control" setting when the TV turns off and back on. Secondly while the input button works to change inputs on the receiver, it doesn't change it to the right HDMI input to match the panny onscreen display. Not sure how much these are the panny's fault and how much the receiver.
On the plus side for controls, since my DVR control can turn the TV power off and on, using the HDMI inputs on the receiver instead of the TV does the trick... I control inputs and volume with the receiver control and am able to eliminate one control (the TV remote) from my coffee table. I know, I know, I should just get a universal/programmable remote but I haven't had good experiences with them, and two remotes is fine for me.
Since the HDMI-CEC wasn't a requirement for me and the HDMI input handling solves my needs, and everything else is great, I'll tip over the edge from four stars and make it five... since this is a subjective review and I am not rating it against higher end solutions, just $500 or lower sound bars.
Anyways, I hope this account helps anyone with similar needs considering this product.
UPDATE 2.11.2010
Still love it, happy with the sound quality but I really like the little remote... just enough buttons not too many, HDMI passthrough works well and let me ditch my TV remote. So the HDMI-CEC complaint is less now, the only reason I cared about that was to ditch a remote... mission accomplished.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha YHT-S400BL Front Surround Unique Home Theater Package (Black)

Yamaha YHT-S400BL Front Surround Unique Home Theater Package In Black

Get 35% OFF

Click here for more information about Yamaha YHT-S400BL Front Surround Unique Home Theater Package (Black)

Read More...

Polk Audio SurroundBar 50 Surround System (Single Speaker, Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I got the SurroundBar 50 last week after a few days of research. If you're researching for single speaker surround sound solutions that means you cannot run wires in your room thanks to the landlord or your wife (welcome to my world hehe).
You have couple of options when you're looking for a single speaker solution for your home theater project, and I was down to Yamaha and Polk Audio. Between the two I chose Polk Audio over Yamaha because (A) Yamaha requires a perfect 4 wall room so that sound can bounce back off the walls and create the surround sound effect, which I don't have (cathedral ceiling, staircase in the middle of the house so no back wall and side walls are far apart.) and (B) Yamaha costs way more. Don't get me wrong, Yamaha is awesome from what I read on Amazon and on other sites, but SurroundBar/SurroundBar 50 plus a decent subwoofer cost less than a Yamaha (which has an integrated subwoofer).
To pair with my SurroundBar 50, I bought a Velodyne Minivee 10 subwoofer. It was a bit of an overkill in my situation. But I wanted to spend a bit more and get a great sounding sub in case I wanted to build a better home theater one day. You can pair SurroundBar 50 with any Polk Audio sub out there. PSW111 is a good one for example. I have an Onkyo A/V Receiver and an Onkyo DVD player. The setup was fairly easy. SurroundBar 50 comes with the audio cables ready to be hooked up between the bar and your receiver. Everything is color coded so you can't really go wrong here. I hooked up an RCA audio cable between my receiver and my sub's line level inputs. Total setup = 1 hour or less.
After configuring my receiver to use the new bar and sub, I tested the surround sound with Matrix, Gladiator and Pitch Black DVDs. SurroundBar 50 produces the "enveloping sound" as promised. I still need some adjustments to do later but so far I'm pretty impressed with what I have. The SDA technology Polk Audio offers does a great job. This product will NOT give you a true 5.1 surround sound experience, so if you're an audiophile this is not for you. This product performs really well in creating the 5.1 effect. In Pitch Black you really hear those flying creatures moving around and in Matrix it's a pleasure hearing bullets flying by and ricocheting.
Overall I'm very impressed. I'm just happy I was able to setup a surround sound system under an hour and without running wires going through walls and furniture and carpet etc. Your experience may vary from mine so go to your local electronics store and give this a test. If your wife is like mine who is against speakers and wires around the room then SurroundBar might be the solution for you too. :)


Click Here to see more reviews about: Polk Audio SurroundBar 50 Surround System (Single Speaker, Black)

Get 28% OFF

Click here for more information about Polk Audio SurroundBar 50 Surround System (Single Speaker, Black)

Read More...

Onkyo SKS-HT870 Home Theater Speaker System Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am happy with this speaker set because, in my view, I got a lot of value for what I paid. I wouldn't call myself an Onkyo fan when it comes to entertainment devices - Sony receiver, Sony PS3, Sony BD player, Samsung TV - but I am aware of Onkyo's reputation for quality and this set of speakers doesn't disappoint.
All prospective buyers should be aware that these are 6 Ohm (SIX OHM) speakers. They will work well with 6 Ohm receivers, of course, and you SHOULD be able to use them with an 8 Ohm receiver if it's kept in a well-ventilated shelf and you don't keep it continuously at full blast. My own receiver is 8 Ohm and it seems to be Okay but both Onkyo and the receiver maker may not want to honor the warranty if they get word of this.CONTENTS
What you get is good quality, 130W speakers encased in well-built wood boxes, a 290W powered woofer and then, there are a couple of unexpected bonuses.
- 1 Center speaker, surprisingly large
- 2 Front speakers on 'tower' stands (tallboy) - will save you money on speaker stands but if you're thinking about hanging them, this is not your set.
- 4 Satellite speakers - do have hanging holes
- 1 Woofer - powered, connects through 'banana' jacks on both ends
- Color-coded wires for each speaker - kind of thin and I used my own, see below but... they're free
- Onkyo UP-A1 Dock for the iPod - this was totally unexpectedSETUP
A screwdriver will be needed to attach the heavy metal base to the front, floor-standing speakers.
If you go with the color-coded wires, connecting everything is easy. I decided that I wanted thicker, copper speaker wire so I went with ACOUSTIC RESEARCH AP-16100W 100' White 16 Gauge Oxygen-Free Speaker Wire and I'm happy I did that. The 100 ft. spool was about 25 ft. short of what I needed so, until I get another 25 ft., one of my satellite speakers will be using the Onkyo-supplied wire so I'm happy they included these.
The center and satellite speakers have mounting holes in the back but not on the base. I like my center speaker to sit on top of the TV and that was accomplished with about 1 ft. of Velcro 2"-wide tape. I used Velcro on the 4 stands as well as, in my view, it preserves the speaker's integrity and it even offers some cushioning.
I do not own an iPod or an Onkyo receiver so the iPod Dock I am trying to sell at Amazon. Hopefully, there will be a buyer and that should help reduce the overall cost of this set.THE EXPERIENCE
I only have good things to say about this set. For what I paid, it fully meets my expectation. The sound is full, crisp and if there are any distortions my ear is not trained or sensitive enough to detect them.
Physically, the boxes look professionally built and designed, uncompromising black matte with the sides of the center, the top of the front speakers and the woofer's front a perfect shiny polish - don't touch them or the fingerprints could be seen from a distance. The tall front pair is stable even on my carpeted floor.RATING
This set deserves its 5 stars well for delivering good quality, well-built speakers and the couple of extras - wires, iPod dock. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a 7.1 set of 6 Ohm speakers.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Onkyo SKS-HT870 Home Theater Speaker System


For maximum audio impact, your multichannel Onkyo receiver should be accompanied by a full-blooded surround-sound speaker set. Fitting the bill is the SKS-HT870, a 7.1-channel system that injects power and vitality into all your movies, games, and music. The highlight--both visually and aurally--is a pair of dual-drive, floor-standing tallboy front speakers rated conservatively at 130 W. In concert with the two-way center and full-range surround and surround-back speakers--each also rated 130 W--they deliver stunningly detailed high- and mid-range frequencies. Meanwhile, at the bottom end, a superbly calibrated 290 W subwoofer adds visceral heft to bass notes and low frequency effects.

Specifications
Front Speakers
Type: Dual-drive, 2-way
Woofer: 3-1/4-inch cone woofer x 2
Tweeter: 1-inch Balanced-Dome
Frequency response: 55 Hz-50 kHz
Maximum power: 130 watts
Dimensions: 10-5/16 x 41-5/16 x 10-5/16 inches

Surround Speakers
Type: Full-range
Woofer: 3-1/4-inch cone
Tweeter: 3/4-inch Balanced-Dome
Frequency response: 80 Hz-20 kHz
Maximum power: 130 watts
Dimensions: 4-1/2 x 9-1/16 x 3-3/4 inches

Center Speaker
Type: Dual-drive, 2-way
Woofer: 3-1/4-inch cone woofer x 2
Tweeter: 1-inch Balanced-Dome
Frequency response: 55 Hz-50 kHz
Maximum power: 130 watts
Dimensions: 16-15/16 x 4-1/2 x 4-3/4 inches
Onkyo SKS-HT870 7.1-channel surround sound speaker package (see larger image).

Click here for more information about Onkyo SKS-HT870 Home Theater Speaker System

Read More...

Sony HTD-DW790 Component Home Theater System Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've always had cheap surround sound systems. Usually i'll get one as a gift for xmas or something, over the coarse of a year it'll break just in time for someone to get me another cheapie the following xmas. Well, I finally invested a healthy sum of money into a 61 inch DLP televesion, so I figured... what better to go with my new TV then another cheapie surround sound system! (but this time I would buy it). My previous system had a couple busted speakers, so it wasn't worth much. I had limited funds because I spent so much cash on the TV, so I ended up buying this.
I believe people are being too critical about this system. People seem to expect a flagship quality system when they buy a system that costs less then 1/2 as much as a decent receiver alone.
I saw this system at Best Buy for a mere $150.00. Perfect. They had a model on the floor so I gave it a listen, was impressed and decided to buy it. I was happy that it came with an actual receiver rather then a crappy DVD combo type of deal (experience shows me that these always go faulty).
Setup was a snap, much easier then i'm used to thanks to the handy mic that comes with the system that helps your receiver automatically calibrate your speaker settings. I was happy with what I heard at the store, but I was blown away when I heard this in my own home (no sound pollution, like at the store). For a $150.00 system this sounds great! The audio is mostly clean, bass is pulse-pounding, mids and highs are good. So how does it compare to the $6,000.00 high end system my buddy has? Well, obviously not even close.
Here's what you can expect with this system:
The sound is mostly clean. The mids and highs are good, but someone seeking perfection may be a bit disappointed. Don't expect eye-blinking highs and super-rich mids. The bass is surprisingly powerful, but at higher volumes you will get "bass belching". The bass does thump pretty well but this bass module is passive so you wont get those strong soul-shaking bass thumps that you hear in high end systems. Worth mentioning is the form-factor of this system, well the speakers anyways. The speakers are nice and small, making this system discrete. The speakers have a nice feel to them, they don't feel like super cheap speakers. The receiver isn't as attractive because it's quite large and lacks substance because the buttons are very tiny - there's a lot of empty space.
So there are some issues with this system, why did I give it 5 stars? Well, first off, these issues are to be expected. One reviewer said that sony cut corners, I say - duh! Of course if you're going to build a complete 5.1 surround system including a receiver and price it around $150.00 then you're going to cut corners. Anyways, it deserves 5 stars because this is the best cheapie 5.1 system i've ever owned. I went in expecting crud and ended up with something that actually sounds pretty darn good! My movies are very immersive and my music sounds pretty good. That's all I need right now.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony HTD-DW790 Component Home Theater System

Click here for more information about Sony HTD-DW790 Component Home Theater System

Read More...

Panasonic SC-BT330 5.1 Channel Cinema Surround Home Entertainment System Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have been in the market to get streaming content on my TV for a while now. I compared this unit against the LG-LHB535. The LG has some added features.
1. Built in Wifi
2. Streaming software... which means you can stream from your computer.
3. HDMI inputs.
Otherwise the Panasonic works awesome. It's fast and responsive, easy to setup, small and sleek, and it's cheaper than the comparable LG unit.
It includes the following features.
1. Amazon video rentals... Awesome.. However it's $3 for most regular rentals and then more for HD. I'm still a bigger fan of RedBox $1 for anything... Amazon I might be holding out on your steep prices.
2. Netflix the same as everything else... other than the interface is really simple and ugly like the PS3 interface. It's not as easy to navigate and search like the X Box 360 or on your computer.
3. Youtube which is cool.
4. Picas pictures which is neat but almost useless in some cases.
5. iPhone/iPod doc that allows audio and video playback. Very cool, it charges and doesn't display the "this accessory is not made to work with your device" message.
6. Blue ray, DVD, burned DVD's etc.
7. Two fiber optic inputs that allow you to plug in your infamous HD DVD player or some other audio sources. Would have liked to see HDMI here... LG has it.
8. Viera Link which is cool if you have a Panasonic TV like I do. It turns the stuff on off etc by communicating over the HDMI cable.
9. The sound is AMAZING for as cheap as this unit is. The speakers are crisp and clear. Very nice surround sound. I had a Sony STR-K750P, and this Panasonic system is way better.Overall the packaging was slick with everything well packaged for shipment. I couldn't find the electronic version of the manual online anywhere. The specs say it's wireless ready, which means it has a USB port on the back that you have to pay $100 to get the $5 Panasonic WIFI dongle. Total rip off. I just hard wired.
The menus are not quite as elegant as the Apple TV, it also has this hard switch thing.. Basically if you need to adjust any settings, it unloads the web content dashboard thing, then takes you back to the DVD menu. So there is a bit of a lag making adjustments. I don't understand why they just didn't layer the menus and then reload if your settings require it. It also has some sort of quick on feature. Basically if you start it up from scratch, AKA no power supplied, it takes about 30 seconds to boot.. So they added this quick boot thing which makes the unit run in some kind of a standby. It tells you it will consume slightly more power while in this mode. I did have a couple times where the web interface streaming thing had garbled text, I tried powering on off, but it doesn't fully reboot if you use the quick boot. In order to get it to fully reboot, you have to turn it off, then unplug the power and re-connect.
The manual isn't very descriptive and there is a lot of technical jargon as you wade deeper into the settings. Lots of color control, bit level, sound stuff, display stuff etc.
It does have the capability to adjust the surround and EQ levels while playing. It's not entirely intuitive, and the manual is wrong, but it works. When you use the buttons on the bottom of the remote to adjust the surround, it displays on little screen on the unit, the levels. In the manual it tells you to use up and down to adjust these. I must have wasted 20 minutes on this part before I tried left and right and then it worked. Looks like Panasonic needs an updated manual. The firmware on the unit is 1.0 which hopefully means there will be some software updates sooner than later. It would be nice to see layered settings menus, and they have some room on the dash board for new content.
The unit is so new that if you use a Logitec Harmony remote, it won't detect your unit yet. I had to use the older model Bt-300 or something to get my Logitec remote to work.
anyhow.. thats my review... Enjoy!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Panasonic SC-BT330 5.1 Channel Cinema Surround Home Entertainment System


Get your home theater going right out of the box with the Panasonic SC-BT330 home entertainment system, which includes a Blu-ray Disc player/amplifier plus a complete 5.1-channel surround sound speaker system. The Kelton subwoofer adds impact to your movies and music with dramatic deep bass, while the two tallboy front speakers add dramatic visual impact to your home theater.

Get 18% OFF

Click here for more information about Panasonic SC-BT330 5.1 Channel Cinema Surround Home Entertainment System

Read More...

Sony DAV-C900 DVD Dream System Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've had this machine for a little over six months. The sound is excellent, looks great. Great feature set for the money.
Lately, however, most dvds stop playing part way into the movie (CDs work fine). Only brand new discs play. I cleaned the player using a special dvd cleaner disc and this did not help.
Now I'm back to a $99 combination dvd/vhs player I bought last year which seems to play any dvd no matter how scratched or beat up.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony DAV-C900 DVD Dream System

Sony's DAV-C900 DVD Dream System consists of six speakers and a 5-disc DVD/CD/SACD changer with 10-bit video digital-to-analog converter for a host of entertainment at your fingertips. It comes with a 2-way center speaker with dual 2-3/8-inch woofers, 3-way surround speakers with dual 2-3/8-inch woofers, and a subwoofer with an 8-inch driver. Listen to the difference our Digital Cinema Sound System makes as you immerse yourself in the magic of Sony DVD.
The DAV-C900 has 450 watts total system power, and offers built-in Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby Pro Logic decoding. The Digital Cinema Sound system recreates the acoustics of Hollywood dubbing stages, and you'll be amazed by the Headphone Theater mode. The DAV-C900 also offers an AM/FM receiver with 30 presets (20 FM, 10 AM).
Tech Talk
Dolby Digital: This sound format for movie theaters is more advanced than Dolby Pro Logic Surround. In this format, the rear speakers output stereo sound with an expanded frequency range, and a subwoofer channel for deep bass is independently provided. This format is also called "5.1" because the subwoofer channel is counted as 0.1 channel (since it functions only when a deep bass effect is needed). All six channels in this format are recorded separately to realize superior channel separation. Furthermore, since all the signals are processed digitally, less signal degradation occurs.
Dolby Pro Logic Surround: As one method of decoding Dolby Surround, Dolby Pro Logic Surround produces four channels from two-channel sound. Compared with the former Dolby Surround system, Dolby Pro Logic Surround reproduces left-to-right panning more naturally and localizes sounds more precisely. To take full advantage of Dolby Pro Logic, you should have one pair of rear speakers and a center speaker. The rear speakers' put out monaural sound.
DTS: Digital audio compression technology that Digital Theater Systems developed. This technology conforms to 5.1-channel surround. The rear channel is stereo and there is discrete subwoofer channel in this format. DTS provides the same 5.1 discrete channels on high quality digital audio. The good channel separation is realized because the all-channel data is recorded discrete and processed in digital.
SACD: Super Audio CD (SACD) is a high-resolution digital audio format that promises vast sonic improvements over the current audio CD format. Super Audio CD discs can be played back on dedicated Super Audio CD players or combination SACD/DVD-Video players. Certain SACD discs feature a conventional audio CD layer (hybrid SACDs) which can be played back by any CD player or computer with a CD-ROM drive.
What's in the Box DAV-C900 home theater receiver/DVD player, 5 speakers (2 front, 2 rear, and 1 center), 1 subwoofer, AM loop antenna, FM wire antenna, speaker cords, video cord, remote control (RM-SS900), 2 AA batteries, and printed installation instructions.

Click here for more information about Sony DAV-C900 DVD Dream System

Read More...

Sony SA-VS150H 5.1/7.1-Channel Speaker Package (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you're buying these speakers and you're expecting very good sound, please go buy from klipsch or some other American brand... These speakers do alright for their price, but it's not the best speakers ever... They sound descent if you've never had a home theater system before. It is a good pair of speakers if you're just starting out and want to enjoy the surround sound system. The sub-woofer, however, is extremely weak. You will not get the movie theater "boom" when you hear explosions and such. It is so weak that you might as well just not have it. Maybe if you pair up a different sub-woofer with this setup, it might be better. Otherwise, the product is quite a disappointment.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony SA-VS150H 5.1/7.1-Channel Speaker Package (Black)

Get 82% OFF

Click here for more information about Sony SA-VS150H 5.1/7.1-Channel Speaker Package (Black)

Read More...

Sony DAV-FX900W 5-Disc DVD Dream System (5.1 Channel) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I had just purchased the Samsung HL-S4666W 46" DLP HDTV and I felt I needed a surround sound system to go with it. However, I didn' have thousands to spend, and I needed to get a progressive scan DVD player too. This system answered all my problems at once.
The set-up took about 1-2 hours (mostly just putting the speaker stands together, which are made of metal not cheap plastic). It was probably just as long to actually figure out how everything works. The manual has everything in it; however, it isn't in any logical order.
PROS:
-over 1000W of power
-"wireless" rear speakers w/separate amp (If you step in the way the connection is broken, but it goes back on within a second of walking out of the way)
-HDMI output & optical audio input (plus component, RCA, etc, etc)
-Auto-Calibration mic (I thought it worked pretty accurately, it tells you the distances that it thinks the speakers are from the mic, and they were dead-on in my case)
CONS:
-DVD turntable EXTREMELY slow (I was aware of this before I bought it, and I think most people can deal with it)
-DVD insertion is sort of sketchy (It doesn't tell you when to push the DVD into the slot, you just have to hold it there and hope it sucks it in. I find the easiest way is to "eject" the empty slot and then push the disc in right after the word "eject" comes off the lcd, I've looked all over the manual and haven't found a clear explanation of what I'm doing wrong)
-DVD FF/RW only has 2 speeds (really stupid)
Overall I love this system. I hooked up my PS2 with RCA audio to the receiver and started playing "Guitar Hero", and the sound was great. I've also thoroughly enjoyed watching concerts I have on DVD (Audioslave, Offspring, The Police, Depeche Mode, etc.). They all sound excellent. I have a DirecTV receiver, with the optical connection. It's great watching sporting events and such with this system.
I'm not a professional speaker guy by any means, but for what I use this system for, it sounds great. The DVD player is excellent barring its minor setbacks. On my TV the movies look great through the HDMI cable.
All in all, great starter system with everything included.
EDIT: Now that I've had this thing for a few months, I have a bit more to add. I think there should have been more inputs included with this item. I have a DirecTV box, a PS2, and a record player, and I can't hook up all 3 at the same time. There are a plethora of input types on the back, which is really nice so you can practically hook anything up, but only two things at the same time. Other than that its a great system. It has plenty of power, and I love cranking it up and listening whether it is NFL football or music CDs.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony DAV-FX900W 5-Disc DVD Dream System (5.1 Channel)

Click here for more information about Sony DAV-FX900W 5-Disc DVD Dream System (5.1 Channel)

Read More...

Yamaha NS-SP1800BL 5.1-Channel Home Theater Speaker Package Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Using this with a Sony BD player and Onkyo 5.1 amp linked via coax audio; TV via HDMI. After all settings were completed, the action and big explosions sounded great. If you listen to movies using TV speakers, you don't know what you're missing.
BUT I couldn't hear dialog. Checked all settings, and searched online forums. I tried to boost the dB for the center but still couldn't hear. Speakers are connected via Monster Cable instead of the flimsy speaker cable provided (so small the connectors won't even hold it). Then I used the test tone from the amp to find out the center channel speaker doesn't work. I'm using an existing bookshelf speaker for center for now.
Otherwise, the bases sound fine and rest of the speakers seem more than powerful enough for my tiny home theater room. Watched Journey to the Center of the Earth in 3-D with 6-year old, and the combination 3-D video and 3-D audio were a winner with him.
For a small room, with a decent amp and proper cables (do yourself a favor, and get at least 16-gauge) this set should work just fine for most movie lovers. Audiophiles should look elsewhere. And test all speakers before you throw out the packaging (as I did).
UPDATE: after mentioning to Amazon the center channel was not working but I didn't want to pack everything up, they promptly shipped me a new set FOC - with pre-paid return as well. Next day. New center channel works great, and sound has greatly improved. Nicely done!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha NS-SP1800BL 5.1-Channel Home Theater Speaker Package

Get 37% OFF

Click here for more information about Yamaha NS-SP1800BL 5.1-Channel Home Theater Speaker Package

Read More...

Sony STR-DH800 7.1-Channel Audio Video Receiver (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I know just enough about Audio to be dangerous but I'm not a true audiophile (or whatever they're called). So I don't know how an average person would figure this out when it took me an hour and a half on the phone with Sony support before THEY figured it out.
Now this is my second Sony receiver and I purchased this one specifically to go along with my brand new Sony BDP-S360 Blu Ray player. I used brand new HDMI category 2 cables into the receiver and then out to my Sony HDTV. This is suppossed to be the BEST way to get true no-loss sound decoding and picture. Well I was shocked when my receiver was NOT decoding DTS audio. All Dolby Digital tracks were playing in perfect 5.1 surround sound...the DTS tracks played back in Linear PCM stereo. So after I read the manuals, updated the firmware and set everything right then trying a few DVDs and Blu Ray discs I contacted Sony Support via email. Several exchanges later they asked me to call in to better troubleshoot my issue. First I talked to the blu ray guy (since I wasn't sure which device was causing the issue) and after resetting the player and checking all the setting I was transfered to the Audio department. Once again we reset the machine to factory setting, checked all the set ups and still nothing changed (Did I mention that I had to unhook and reconnect several cables and I even had an optical cable running to my old Sony Reciever?). Then 1 1/2 hours into the phone call he asked if I was getting audio through the TV speakers which I was and he said "oh its set to TV + Amp". So we changed that setting to just "Amp" and bingo...DTS surround sound!! I said "but that's the factory default setting". He told me where the info was in the manual but I checked an NOWHERE in the manual does it say that when using the receiver as a passthrough via HDMI inorder to decode a DTS signal the receiver must be set to "Amp" only and not the default setting of "TV + Amp". What the...??
So now the receiver works great even decoding the new DTS-HD Master Audio off my "Watchmen" Blu Ray disc. But be warned that if you use the HDMI inputs to decode your surround sound be sure to change the system to "Amp" instead of the default "TV + Amp" unless you enjoy stereo sound from your suround sound system. This may be the case for other Sony receivers so be aware when buying that factory default setting may not allow for optimum performance and the Sony guys might not be aware of this little fact if you call them.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony STR-DH800 7.1-Channel Audio Video Receiver (Black)

Get 47% OFF

Click here for more information about Sony STR-DH800 7.1-Channel Audio Video Receiver (Black)

Read More...

Tritton AX Pro Dolby Digital Precision Gaming Headset Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)After finding a disheartening lack of comparative reviews online I decided that I would write about my own experiences with the above headphones. This review is targeted only at headphones for gaming based on sound from a PS3 slim connected via Monster Ultra Fiber Optic and set to Dolby Digital. I understand there are significantly more options than those I have tested. However, my wish is to give a first-person detailed and reliable account regarding the phones I currently or have previously owned. For a summary of what I found just scroll to the bottom of the review.
As a sidenote I have watched just about every youtube video, read every gaming website review, and scanned through every forum in my search for audio bliss. This is the cumulation of my knowledge and experiences.
Originally I had wanted an all in one processor for DTS and Dolby Digital with a simulated surround sound. I watch most movies and play most games at night, and was trying to "kill a few birds with one stone" on this one. After round 1 of extensive research I settled on the Sennheiser RS130s. I bought two sets. The sound was pretty good. I could not detect ANY simulated surround, but for watching movies the dialogue was VERY bright and enjoyable. In addition there was no interference with my Wii or PS3 due to the RF and the charging system was a good setup. Unfortunately, the wireless was also the problem. I tried switching through every single channel and resetting the base unit. I consistently got a weird "modem" buzzing and clicking sound in the background. Some people might be able to overlook it, but I definitely could not. Back they went and back I went to burning my eyes reading everything online.
Round 2 I decided to bite the bullet, and ordered the Sony MDR-DS7000 headphones from Japan, complete with a second set of phones. They cost me a pretty penny. Once they arrived I tested the voltage coming through the adapter from Japan and found it was much higher than the 9V required for the processor and phones when plugged into a US 120V outlet. After shelling out another $120 for 3 adapters from the Sony MDR-DS6000 series available in the US (courtesy of Sony Style) I was finally able to make sure I hadn't been ripped off from overseas. (The headphones each use 1 adapter to charge the lithium ion batteries. The 3rd is for the Processor.) I was quite satisfied to learn that my bluray, ps3 and wii could all be connected to the same unit. Also, the sound was absolutely crystal clear without a single beep or incoming fax noise. Lord of the Rings sounded great and the VPT surround sound cinema mode made the movie sound like it was being played in a large theatre room. Pretty cool, but not really the "surround sound" I had hoped for. Still....it was an improvement from the Sennheisers. And so I proceeded for a few months before deciding that I'd like to get a system more suitable for the PS3. The large hall effect didn't really seem like it was cutting it anymore. So I considered: Should I try ordering the newly improved MDR-DS7100? Hmm...probably not since they just increased the battery life by 3 hours, and increased the drivers from 40mm to 50mm. The surround effect would be the same. I also considered the Pioneer SE-Dir800c once again, but decided against it based on a few factors. The headphones break in nearly 60% of consumer reviews at a swivel point, the batteries (AA) must be charged separately from the unit, the system only has 1 fiber optic input, and additional headphones are only sold in Japan (unless you want to buy a 2nd transmitter as well). It seemed like a lot of trouble, even though I've read almost 2 million times by now that Dolby Headphone technology is vastly superior to Sony's Virtual Phone Technology. And so we come to Round 3: The Tritton Ax Pros.
A long time ago, before my head was filled with all sorts of useless information on headphones, I owned the Tritton AxPros. This was back when people cared less about how they sounded and more about getting sent the wrong set from Amazon or having to look for places to plug in 2 adapters. OMG! 2 adapters! Yeah...I have a surge protector...not a big deal. Back in those times I was very impressed with the quality of the Trittons for 3d mapping in games. Resistance: Fall of Man and other games from way back in the long long ago sounded significantly better when played through the headphones. The only problem was that finding the proper EQ was a pain and my neck felt like I was wearing Rampage Jackson's chains around my neck after playing. After contacting customer service and adjusting the delay to +10, and decreasing the rear speaker and sub (which felt like it would blow out my eardrum on normal) I was satisfied. Looking back I can safely say that my complete satisfaction was, in part, due to my lack of anything to compare sound quality towards. Fast forward to now. After not quite getting the full experience from the Sony headphones, I decided to repurchase the "newly improved" Tritton Axpros I had been so fond of. When I got my new set I looked over it for a long time. The AC adapter is definitely "cheaper" than both of the older ones (lighter less durable plastic), even though there is now only 1. The break-away cable is a good feature, although you still have to roll it up the same as if you just disconnected it from the decoder box. The microphone has gotten a MUCH needed improvement and is now rubberized/bendable and works a lot better. The headphones still shine a halloween orange glow through the Tritton logo. They also still induce serious headaches from squishing your head like a vice. Funny enough, they actually do not weigh much more than my Sonys. The difference is that Sony has a second band to turn the headphones on that takes most of the pressure off from the top and sides of your head. Tritton has no such feature, but feels much sturdier (like it was carved from a plastic tree). The Tritton also has the individual speaker adjustment, as before, with different colors for different sound levels. This works fine, but a digital +1, +2, +8 numerical readout would be much better. Each color level has 3 or 4 levels before bumping to the next color. Between white and red (medium and max) is "cyan" which is the high volume level. This would be fine if you could ACTUALLY TELL a difference from the white. I believe the Cyan simply leaves the white light on while simultaneously turning on the blue. The problem is that the white light completely overpowers everything else. It looks like the volume goes straight from white to red after about 8 clicks. Pretty dumb. Use purple or yellow or a black light. Don't try to combine colors to cut costs Tritton! The newer model also has the feature of being able to turn off the inline controller by holding the "mute and front speaker" buttons for a few seconds. Here's the problem with that: 1.)when turning the system back on you're usually holding the mute button so it mutes everything. The way the mute/volume is set up you usually end up also raising the volume as you unmute it. You probably shouldnt have the headphone on when turning the inline controller on anyway since it makes a HUGEEE POP noise when powering on that almost makes your ears bleed. This doesn't even power the unit itself on though. It just powers up the phones. The Dolby decoder box has a completely separate power on button. So.....they took away one AC adapter, but actually made it just as much of a pain in the A*$ to turn on and off. Here's the rub though - when you turn off the main decoder box, it resets your settings. That's right. All of the DRC, Sound Delay (Center and Surround) and master volume settings you pulled out the decoder box to program have all been reset. At first I kept thinking to myself, dang...the game sounds different everytime I turn it back on again...I must have not put the time delay on the right setting. After testing it though...I found the cause. Maybe mine's defective because I don't remember my old unit ever doing this. Must be an "improvement" eh? Now for the sound quality.
Discrete sounds and directions. This is where the Tritton Axpros start to do something right. I switched the fiber optic input from my Sony MDR-DS7000 into the Pros back and forth about 50 times. I tried it with Uncharted 1 + 2, God of War 3, God of War Trilogy, Infamous, Killzone 2, Modern Warfare 1 and 2, Battlefield: BC2 and Bioshock 2. Results were surprising. The AxPros actually blew the Sony's out of the water. In Battlefield, when I swung the knife I could hear it echo in the winter mountains and the fires flickered on different sides as I walked. Riding the vehicles sounded like I was right there. Modern Warfare 1 and Uncharted 1 were actually the most remarkable. In Modern Warfare 1 I could hear the helicopters flying overhead and DIRECTLY pinpoint where they were. I tried about 10 times to close my eyes and see if I could locate a circling helicopter. I was right 9/10 times. The Sony headphones (playing on the dedicated PS3 "game" mode) were extremely muffled. Gunshots sounded tiny and shallow. The Trittons just made it seem like I was right there in the environment. In Uncharted I kept restarting the 2nd scene in the jungle and testing the sounds while running through the creeks, in and out of the waterfall, and through the group of birds. With the Trittons it sounded like I was right there. With the Sony's it sounded like I was listening through a set of headphones. Then---slowly---as I listened to Sully talk about finding his "bride in a brothel" for the 20th time, I realized I was missing a vital part of the puzzle. Dialogue. Take this into perspective. The Sony's have 2 dedicated 40mm drivers. The Trittons have 8- 30mm drivers. Usually dialogue is only going through 1 set...Read more›

Click Here to see more reviews about: Tritton AX Pro Dolby Digital Precision Gaming Headset

Introducing the AX Pro - the most versatile gaming headset in the world. Finally, a true Surround Sound headset with a microphone that will work with your PS3, Xbox 360, and PC/Mac. For the audio or movie enthusiast, the AX Pro is also compatible with any device that features a digital optical or 3.5mm analog 5.1 outputs. Built on the successful AX360 Platform, the AX Pro features hardware Dolby Digital decoding and eight independent speakers to deliver true 5.1 surround sound audio. Upgraded speakers have been repositioned to provide crisper sound and more accurate 3D positioning. The vibration feature of the AX360 has been replaced by a new subwoofer that delivers improved low end punch and skull rattling bass. Other advancements include an easy to use illuminated inline controller with a microphone mute switch, independent volume control for game chat, and the ability to custom tailor volume levels. With the ability to connect the microphone via the Xbox 360 controller port, USB, and analog 3.5mm inputs, the AX Pro is the most versatile headset on the market and the only headset you'll ever need.

Get 4% OFF

Click here for more information about Tritton AX Pro Dolby Digital Precision Gaming Headset

Read More...

Samsung HT-Z510T 5.1-Channel 5 Disc Home Theater Surround Sound System (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Amazing sound at a great price! I really like the wireless rear speakers.
I connect my mp3 player directly to the receiver and BAMM! great sound all through the house. I also have connected my Samsung BD-P1500, which makes the Blu-ray experience incredible.
It is extremely easy to set up, and its upconverting feature makes any movie look good at 1080p resolution.
I recommend this product, if you want a great surround sound system at a good price.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Samsung HT-Z510T 5.1-Channel 5 Disc Home Theater Surround Sound System (Black)

Click here for more information about Samsung HT-Z510T 5.1-Channel 5 Disc Home Theater Surround Sound System (Black)

Read More...