Best "Home Theater in Box"?

[IJ Reilly]

I've started looking at "home theater in a box" systems. I'm having a difficult time sorting out the good from the bad from the mediocre. The stores don't seem to have any of these systems set up on working displays, so it's virtually impossible to test and compare quality (which is how I'd normally decide). My basic criteria:


I don't want to spend a lot of money (under $500, preferably)
I don't want a built-in DVD player
I need small speakers for wall-mounting (not freestanding)
I'd prefer a 5.1 system
Power output is not a major issue


Any thoughts on theater-in-a-box systems you've owned, used or heard? Thanks!

[4JNA]

Logitech Z-5500 is what i use and would recommend. i'm using optical out of the dvd player which leaves me coax and analog inputs for other devices. easy to setup and control, good sound, and more power than most homes can use. new is high $300's, but can be found refurbished for less than $200. HERE (http://justdeals.stores.yahoo.net/9701150403.html) is a decent place to buy from, but they seem to have zero stock right now.

[IJ Reilly]

I'll look that one up, thanks. In my research, I discovered what might be an ideal system, SLS Audio Q-Line. Good price, supposedly excellent sound. Unfortunately, nobody actually seems to sell it!

[stillwater]

I know you're looking for a HTIB, but I think you should consider a component system. There are many advantages to seperate components, not the least of which is the ability to upgrade incrementally, building a better system over time.

The main reason I don't think HTIB systems are a a good value is that their speakers are almost always the weakest link in the HT chain. There lots of good speaker packages out there that blow away the ones that come in most HTIB sets.

You can get lots of good advice over at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/ .

[QuarterSwede]

You absolutely cannot beat the Onkyo HT-S790 (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Onkyo-Home-Theater-System-HT-S790/sem/rpsm/oid/148967/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do) at present. The receiver has a ton of options, its well built and the speakers are quite nice (plus its 7.1). Plus its only $499 ($450 on sale).

I have it and it really does a nice job of delivering. I haven't heard it distort anything and it sounds brilliant delivering whatever you are playing through it, be it stereo music from an iPod or CD player or Dolby Digital EX from a DVD. It'll even turn stereo into 7.1 using Dolby Pro Logic IIx processing which actually does a nice job. The sub is nice and low but really kicks in when needed for movies and music.

Just read the reviews at Crutchfield (http://www.crutchfield.com/S-Pea3w1gwFXB/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=37600&tab=review&i=580hts790b#Tab)

"I honestly don't think you can beat the quality sound and features of this HTIB without jumping into the $1200.00, or higher, price range." - reviewer Jim

"I never expected such high power, clarity, and standard features from a HTIB. Kudos to Onkyo!" - reviewer Pete

http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/products/2006/580/h580HTS790B-f.jpeg

http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/products/2006/580/h580HTS790B-B.jpeg

Well, I hope this helps. I really do recommend this HTIB and certainly think its the best out there bar none. You will not be disappointed.

[IJ Reilly]

I've looked at the 5.1 version of the Onkyo. It was already near the top of my list, if I can't track down an SLS Q-Line. I assume the five-speaker version of the Onkyo is similar to the 7.1 version, but I haven't found any reviews. I was so hot on the SLS because of the speakers, which are supposed to be excellent for the price. Well, they might as well cost a million dollars now, as impossible as they are to find.

As for component vs. HTIB, I'm splitting the difference by avoiding a system with a built-in DVD player (which automatically eliminates about half of them).

[GnarleyMarley87]

Yes, I agree with QuarterSwede, Go with a nice Onkyo HTIB system.:cool:

[QuarterSwede]

I would go for the 7.1 version because the speakers are of higher quality. The 5.1's are smaller and cheaper.

ps. the only thing I would recommend is buying a better gauge speaker wire. Something like 18 and under instead of the 22 gauge they include. Forget the monster cable and go for some plane old lamp cord. Thats right, its the same exact thing only a heck of a lot cheaper. If the gauge is low enough you will have a nice clean signal even though its not monster cable. Speaker gauge vs length of cord is what really matters. The longer the cable run the lower the gauge you need to maintain a clean signal.

[Jschultz]

I really like the HTS790 over the 590. Sounds much better IMHO, and you get a semi-real receiver.

Plus I've sold like 5 790's in the last months compared to 1 590.

[pknz]

Sorry to thread hi-jack...

Anyone know anything or have any thoughts on this HTIB

http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start?ProductSKU=DAVLF1H&Dept=tvvideo&CategoryName=hav_HomeTheater_DVDDreamSystems

[Jschultz]

Sorry to thread hi-jack...

Anyone know anything or have any thoughts on this HTIB

http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start?ProductSKU=DAVLF1H&Dept=tvvideo&CategoryName=hav_HomeTheater_DVDDreamSystems

Not worth the money, imho. We sell it at my work, and I still can't even sell it for $1050.

It looks pretty, and that's about it.

[ChrisBrightwell]

You absolutely cannot beat the Onkyo HT-S790 (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Onkyo-Home-Theater-System-HT-S790/sem/rpsm/oid/148967/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do) at present. [...]I bought an Oknyo HT-660 a few years ago from Circuit City, after extensive research (and a very similar budget) and must concur ... for the money, you won't find a better HTIB.

[tominated]

I've started looking at "home theater in a box" systems. I'm having a difficult time sorting out the good from the bad from the mediocre. The stores don't seem to have any of these systems set up on working displays, so it's virtually impossible to test and compare quality (which is how I'd normally decide). My basic criteria:


I don't want to spend a lot of money (under $500, preferably)
I don't want a built-in DVD player
I need small speakers for wall-mounting (not freestanding)
I'd prefer a 5.1 system
Power output is not a major issue


Any thoughts on theater-in-a-box systems you've owned, used or heard? Thanks!
you can get some good sony systems. beautiful sound
even though it was about $AU300

[IJ Reilly]

I would go for the 7.1 version because the speakers are of higher quality. The 5.1's are smaller and cheaper.

I was trying to avoid 7.1 if only because the installation would be significantly more complicated -- the side speakers would have to go in a very awkward location. Either way this is going to require a lot of time in the attic and in the crawlspace under the house -- so I don't want to do it again for a long time!

Onkyo really uses different speakers in the 5.1 system? This is verified?

[crees!]

You absolutely cannot beat the Onkyo HT-S790 (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Onkyo-Home-Theater-System-HT-S790/sem/rpsm/oid/148967/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do) at present. The receiver has a ton of options, its well built and the speakers are quite nice (plus its 7.1). Plus its only $499 ($450 on sale)

And it's iPod-Ready. \m/

[ChrisBrightwell]

I was trying to avoid 7.1 if only because the installation would be significantly more complicated -- the side speakers would have to go in a very awkward location.So leave out the 6th and 7th channel. :)

Most DTS and Dolby Digital signals are only good for 5.1, anyway. You won't really start to see 7.1 until you upgrade to Blu-Ray or HD-DVD.

[crees!]

BTW, the CircuitCity online price is $409 after instant and mail-in rebates.

[Jschultz]

I was trying to avoid 7.1 if only because the installation would be significantly more complicated -- the side speakers would have to go in a very awkward location. Either way this is going to require a lot of time in the attic and in the crawlspace under the house -- so I don't want to do it again for a long time!

Onkyo really uses different speakers in the 5.1 system? This is verified?

Well, you're looking at cabinet bookshelf center and front speakers in the 790,while you get much thinner curved 'bookshelfs' in the 590. Like said, just don't use the 2 rear centers, that's all.

[mrmarkus1215]

The Onkyo looks really nice, but would it be too powerful for a bedroom or dorm room? If so then I'm probably going to go for a cheaper alternative like the Samsung HT-Q45...consumer reports rated it a best buy (but they also loved the Onkyo, rated it best sound and features). And what does the "HDTV Capable" (on the circuit city site linked in the previous posts for the Onkyo) mean?

[IJ Reilly]

So leave out the 6th and 7th channel. :)

Doh! I guess I haven't thought this through yet... :o

[esaleris]

I'm one of those folks that would recommend that you skip the HTIB and go with component systems. It is pricier, and you might have to wait on the rear channels, but the end result might be worth it. A reasonable combination for you, might be:

Onkyo TX-SR504 $ 225
Polk M10 (pair) $ 80
Polk PSW-10 - $150
100' Speaker Cable - $20

At Circuit City, that adds up to $ 475 (before tax) and would give you everything but the rear and center channels. More importantly, the sound quality should be a ton better. It's up to you though. I personally went down this route, but didn't stop with the Polk, and ended up spending more than I ever imagined I would - so beware, for my fate might befall you!

[margotspop]

http://fluance.com/

Everything I've ever read about their speakers and especially their HTIB is very positive. And they're surprisingly cheap.

EDIT: I've just realized this aren't true HTIB since they only sell speakers and not receivers. But still worth having a look.

[QuarterSwede]

Most DTS and Dolby Digital signals are only good for 5.1, anyway. You won't really start to see 7.1 until you upgrade to Blu-Ray or HD-DVD.
This is true, but from what I've found, a few DVD's I have say they are only Dolby Digital 5.1 but my receiver picks them up as Dolby Digital EX (6.1).

[ready2switch]

You absolutely cannot beat the Onkyo HT-S790 (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Onkyo-Home-Theater-System-HT-S790/sem/rpsm/oid/148967/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do) at present.

I've been looking at this system also and have a few noob questions about installation. Basically what I would like to do is have the wires run through the walls/attic with a 7.1 banana plug wall jack (ala this (http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&Partnumber=300-618).) When hooking the wires into the receiver, is it just bare speaker wire on the receiving end? How about on the speaker end? I know I'll have to put banana plugs on the ends going to the wall, I was just curious about the other hook ups. Thanks

[yellow]

Well, I hope this helps. I really do recommend this HTIB and certainly think its the best out there bar none. You will not be disappointed.

Wow.. NICE! Thanks for the recommendation!

[jiggie2g]

I am on my 3rd Onkyo system (1 in each room I have) I recently purchased the HT-S590 for $249 at J&R. let me say. You will not find a better HTIB for a bed room. especially under for $300. The HT-S790 is great but better suited for a living room and is over kill for a bedroom. Go with the HT-S590 you won't be sorry.

[IJ Reilly]

My listening area is 14 by 10 feet. I think probably most any of these systems would be overkill for a space that size, considering that they run 80-100 watts per channel, or more. Maybe I'm just an old-timer, but I remember when 100 watts x two channels was considered to be more output than most people would ever need. Not sure what anyone is doing with over 1,000 watts. Making their ears bleed?

[yg17]

I got a Yamaha one at Best Buy. I don't know the model number but I think it was about $400. It's awesome. My only complaint is that it only has 2 optical inputs, so I'm stuck with my PS2 on regular RCA since my Xbox and G5 take up the opticals

[jiggie2g]

My listening area is 14 by 10 feet. I think probably most any of these systems would be overkill for a space that size, considering that they run 80-100 watts per channel, or more. Maybe I'm just an old-timer, but I remember when 100 watts x two channels was considered to be more output than most people would ever need. Not sure what anyone is doing with over 1,000 watts. Making their ears bleed?

Well the guest room that I have my HT-S590 in is about 13 x 9.5 ft and it sounds incredible. The 590's Subwoofer is not powered so you don't have to worry about it rattling your walls. Also do not let anyone compare some crappy Samsung/Panasonic/or even worse SONY HTIB to these systems. Onkyo is in a totally different league. The amplifier's built into their recievers are of a much higher standard of quality. you will notice the difference right away and you won't get that tiny HTIB sound most people get with these stylish yet crappy systems. Go with a true Audio company for a HTIB and save Panny , Sammy and Sony for your next HDTV.

[IJ Reilly]

I'm reviving my old "HTIB" thread. Two more years have gone by, and I still have not bought one. I continue to listen to audio on my TV speakers (but better TV speakers on an HD set). Now of course all of the products have changed, and some HTIBs come with an integrated Blu-ray player. This may change my mind about not wanting an HTIB with an integrated disc player.

So, HTIBs -- any current recommendations? I still don't want to spend a lot of money, the room is not very large, and I need speakers which are all wall/ceiling-mounted.

[wizzracer]

You can try some of these models From YAMAHA, I had the older version HTB 980 before I built one from Components. The sound was great and well made.


http://www.yamaha.com/yec/products/productdetail.html?CNTID=567700&CTID=5000800

[gothamm]

you'll probably do lots of research before purchasing, and i wouldnt be surprised if you end up chosing the harman kardon hkts 18. awesome sounding system and gorgeous looks. and the subwoofer is just out of this world.

check out avsforums

[Batt]

I'm reviving my old "HTIB" thread. Two more years have gone by, and I still have not bought one. I continue to listen to audio on my TV speakers (but better TV speakers on an HD set). Now of course all of the products have changed, and some HTIBs come with an integrated Blu-ray player. This may change my mind about not wanting an HTIB with an integrated disc player.

So, HTIBs -- any current recommendations? I still don't want to spend a lot of money, the room is not very large, and I need speakers which are all wall/ceiling-mounted.

Blu-ray HTiBs are god-awful expensive and the discs are, too. Look for a 5-disc DVD changer that will upconvert. I saw a Samsung at Sam's for $328 that does all that and has wireless rear speakers.

[IJ Reilly]

Thanks for the replies. I'm starting to see HTIBs with integrated Blu-ray disc players for around $600. I would still prefer to buy the player as a separate component, but mainly because I don't want to be stuck with old technology built in. (No DVD changers for me -- I can watch only one DVD at a time.)

I've also done quite a bit of reading in the avsforum, but it's difficult to find serious reviews there.

[ChrisBrightwell]

So, HTIBs -- any current recommendations?

I know you're looking for a cheaper solution, but the Bose 3-2-1 system sounds pretty good for its size. It's way over-priced, but it has a high Wife Acceptance Factor.

PS3 is the best Blu-Ray player on the market.

[himansk]

I am personally looking at Onkyo HT-S6100:
http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Onkyo-HT-S6100-7-1-DTS-HD-Master-Audio-and-Dolby-HD-Receiver-Speaker-System-HTS6100/sem/rpsm/oid/218783/catOid/-12866/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

The main attraction has been the HDMI inputs for me, apart from the great reviews it has received. The upconverter is not as good, but I am using my PS3 for DVD upconversion so its not an issue for me.

[IJ Reilly]

I know you're looking for a cheaper solution, but the Bose 3-2-1 system sounds pretty good for its size. It's way over-priced, but it has a high Wife Acceptance Factor.

Integrated DVD player, no HDMI. :(

http://reviews.cnet.com/home-theater-systems/bose-3-2-1/4505-6740_7-31248338.html

[stainlessliquid]

Look here frequently: http://www.shoponkyo.com/products.cfm?group_id=1&subcat=Systems

I got a silver S5100 for around $300 during the thanksgiving sale. Their refurbs are much cheaper than normal and they drop the silver refurbs WAY below normal price every few weeks.

The speakers are pretty big though, the 2 big ones standing up are about the same size as a regular set of stereo speakers (but skinnier), and the sub is HUGE, its a 10" woofer and about as tall as my 37" tv so its not something you can tuck away easily.

Works good as a stereo as well because of the ipod connectivity, which is surprisingly good.

[DavyC412]

Look here frequently: http://www.shoponkyo.com/products.cfm?group_id=1&subcat=Systems

I got a silver S5100 for around $300 during the thanksgiving sale. Their refurbs are much cheaper than normal and they drop the silver refurbs WAY below normal price every few weeks.

The speakers are pretty big though, the 2 big ones standing up are about the same size as a regular set of stereo speakers (but skinnier), and the sub is HUGE, its a 10" woofer and about as tall as my 37" tv so its not something you can tuck away easily.

Works good as a stereo as well because of the ipod connectivity, which is surprisingly good.

yes, onkyo makes badass speakers. i have http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=SKS-HT540&class=Speaker&p=i at home hooked up to a HK reciever, and it sounds great, (although i think the reciever is a little of a letdown)

i would also recommend looking into yamaha, theyre less powerful and much cheaper but never disappoint. it also may be more worthwhile for you to find a nice yamaha speaker package, then pick your receiver separatley.

dont touch panasonic or sony with a 10 foot pole, they suck... most panasonic subs arent even powered!

[IJ Reilly]

Thanks for the additional suggestions. I've given Onkyo a close look in the past. I should have mentioned, I also have some serious space limitations. If the receiver is more than about 5" tall or 16" wide, it may not fit where it needs to go.

[ChrisBrightwell]

Thanks for the additional suggestions. I've given Onkyo a close look in the past. I should have mentioned, I also have some serious space limitations. If the receiver is more than about 5" tall or 16" wide, it may not fit where it needs to go.

My older Onkyo receiver is about 7"x17". :(

[stainlessliquid]

Mine is 6x17 and needs space at the top to breathe since recievers get really hot (theyre pretty much amplifiers after all). Its pretty normal size, my friends Yamaha is even taller.

[Galley]

Thanks for the replies. I'm starting to see HTIBs with integrated Blu-ray disc players for around $600. I would still prefer to buy the player as a separate component, but mainly because I don't want to be stuck with old technology built in. (No DVD changers for me -- I can watch only one DVD at a time.)

I've also done quite a bit of reading in the avsforum, but it's difficult to find serious reviews there.

Check out the Sony HT-SS2300 or HT-SF2300. They visually match the current Sony Blu-ray Disc players. The SF has floor standing speakers. You can find either of them for well under $400.

[IJ Reilly]

Check out the Sony HT-SS2300 or HT-SF2300. They visually match the current Sony Blu-ray Disc players. The SF has floor standing speakers. You can find either of them for well under $400.

Thanks. The low-profile receiver is certainly a plus.

[IJ Reilly]

Does anyone have any experience with this HTIB from Samsung?

http://shopper.cnet.com/home-theater-systems/samsung-ht-bd2e/4014-6740_9-33189492.html#info-5

I'm not a big Samsung fan but this one does include a Blu-ray player for a reasonable price, and the low-profile receiver I need.

[tonster]

onkyo is the only logical choice. typically the best SQ compared to other HiTBs and when you decide to step up to some real speakers chances are your onkyo a/v receiver will be more than capable of driving them.

[Batt]

Does anyone have any experience with this HTIB from Samsung?

http://shopper.cnet.com/home-theater-systems/samsung-ht-bd2e/4014-6740_9-33189492.html#info-5

I'm not a big Samsung fan but this one does include a Blu-ray player for a reasonable price, and the low-profile receiver I need.

I just bought its bigger brother at Amazon for $487. The HT-BD2ST. The main difference is the ST is 7.1 channel. And cheaper. With free shipping. I got it on Wednesday, and it is spectacular.

[Batt]

And now it's down to $463:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0017V9LUQ
This is REALLY a good buy.

[IJ Reilly]

So why is the 7.1 HT-BD2ST cheaper than the 5.1 HT-BD2E? That's strange, and there must be a reason. If I had to guess, it's in the speaker quality.

[Consultant]

Try to get

Something from real audio companies known for their better price / quality ratio, such as
- Onkyo
- Harman Kardon

NOT
- logitech or anything made for computers

OTHER NOTES
Anything that integrate too many features are typically lower quality overall.
Bose are over priced.
Samsung is not known to make audio equipment. Sony is not known for high end speakers.

[IJ Reilly]

I'm aware of all that -- but I have some very serious space limitations. I don't have room for a true component system, unfortunately. This system will be mainly for watching TV, so it doesn't need to be audiophile quality.

[Consultant]

Perhaps NAD receiver? Most expensive on top. Less expensive (and smaller) on the bottom.
http://nadelectronics.com/products/av-receivers

[IJ Reilly]

Perhaps NAD receiver? Most expensive on top. Less expensive (and smaller) on the bottom.
http://nadelectronics.com/products/av-receivers

Interesting. They make one compact component but it includes a DVD player. If it was a Blu-ray player...

[apersianboyCOM]

I recommend the Panasonic SC-PT860 Home Cinema System (http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/871210/index.html).

I got it here in the UK for £500 a couple of years ago so I'm sure it should be around $300 by now! It's awesome, the bass is brilliant and it looks great.

[Batt]

So why is the 7.1 HT-BD2ST cheaper than the 5.1 HT-BD2E? That's strange, and there must be a reason. If I had to guess, it's in the speaker quality.

My guess is it has been or will be discontinued. And the speaker quality is very good. The subwoofer literally vibrates the walls in my smallish den. It sounds to me as if you've got the same approximate size room and the same budget and A/V requirements as me. I can't imagine this unit would disappoint you. If it does, feel free to call me names on this forum.