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LG has redefined what to expect from home theater. This isn’t speakers and a receiver in a box. With the LHB355 Network Blu-ray Home Theater System, you get unrivaled Blu-ray technology, out-of-this world sound and instant entertainment…all in one. More than making the most of your Full HD with Blu-ray, NetCast™ Entertainment Access lets you directly tap into instant streaming movies, music and videos direct from the Internet to your TV.
The end of “there’s nothing on.” NetCast™ Entertainment Access lets you stream instant, and virtually endless, entertainment from Netflix®, Vudu™, CinemaNow™, Pandora®, YouTube™, Picasa™, and AccuWeather®—direct to your TV from the Internet, no computer required.
Make the most of your Full HD television. This next-generation, optical-disc format brings you the highest Full HD 1080p experience. That means it allows you to get the best picture-quality available, anywhere.
Hear movies, sports, and video games the way they’re meant to be heard. Enjoy less distortion, clearer sound, and a better sound experience with LG’s Silk Dome Speaker Technology.
HDMI™ V.1.3 with Deep Color
Make the installation of any enabled device a snap. Get 10.2Gbps of bandwidth for deeper colors, and to take advantage of the best Full HD experience.
Pure HD Audio Performance
There’s more to HD than the picture. Dolby® Digital Plus, Dolby® True HD, and dts-HD Advanced Digital Audio Out technologies provide an uncompressed next-generation audio experience for your home theater.
Made for iPhone® and iPod®
Tap into the tunes you love most. This system works with iPod® and iPhone® products. That means you can connect, charge, control, and play—directly from your portable players, anytime.
LG LHB335 user review
I recently purchased a LG LHB335 BluRay all in one surround sound home theater system from Best Buy. The center and right rear speakers emit a whistling noise that sounds like a teapot when boiling. Not quite that loud, but enough to be a very undesirable noise in a new unit. I took the first one back, BB gave me another. Same thing. Then another. Same thing. I have connected it to another location with speaker wiring and a Monster Power supply and yes, it does the same thing! I called LG and they said they have no reports on this problem, but when a search is conducted, many people are complaining. Until this issue is resolved, I would suggest not buying this unit!
EDIT—More details:
The LHB335 has a horrible “Tea Pot” whistling noise emitted from the center speaker. It also comes from the right rear speaker at times. It is so annoying that I took it back to Best Buy. Exchanged for another and same thing! I relocated the unit on a different electrical circuit and that did not help. Bought an expensive Monster power supply due to Best Buys recommendation which did NOT help at all. They asked me to try unit #3 and it also had the same noise! To make sure that it was not just a building electrical problem, I installed it in a friends home. SAME ISSUE! I called LG to discuss the problem and they said they had no reports of such a problem. That is NOT true. The internet has many comments regarding this speaker noise issue. After talking with some friends, they too have returned units with the same problem. I really liked the features of the LHB335, but will not buy another one unless LG can assure me that it will be one that does not whistle!
LG LHB335 video review
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Sit back and experience quality sound from this versatile and powerful mini hi-fi music system. It features 100 watts of total power for playing music from your iPod and so much more. Turn up the volume on this MHC-EC69i mini hi-fi music system and keep the party going. With 100 total watts (50W x 2), it’s a complete, easy-to-use music system with power to spare. Crank up the two front bass reflex speakers and enjoy your favorite CDs or MP3s from your iPod® music player. There is also an AM/FM tuner with 30 station presets and six preset equalizer settings designed specifically for different types of music. Control it all with the included remote with a full iPod menu.
Made for iPod
The MHC-EC69i allows you to listen to your iPod by using the built-in dock for compatible iPods. Simply connect your iPod and press play. The included remote control replicates most iPod functions for easy control from across the room.
Top-Loading Single Disc CD Player
The top-loading CD player plays CD, CD-R/RW, and MP3 files burned to disc. This accommodates not only factory-pressed CD audio discs, but also consumer-recorded CD-R and CD-RW discs, so you can enjoy your favorite custom mixes in addition to your complete CD collection. And with MP3 playback capability, you can listen to even more music when burned to a disc, all with ID3 tag support.
AM/FM Tuner with 30 Station Presets
Enjoy easy, accurate, drift-free tuning of your favorite AM and FM radio stations. Choose from the wide range of free music, talk shows, sports, and other programming when you want to go beyond your own personal music collection. The 30-station memory presets let you store your favorites for quick access.
100 Watts (RMS) Total Power Output
Delivering 50 watts per channel (RMS 10% THD and 6ohms), the MHC-EC69i brings plenty of power for any room or office. Unlike many lower-powered, competing micro stereo systems, you’ll truly be able to fill your space with music–no need to compromise just to save space.
2-Way Bass Reflex Speaker System
Crank up the bass with the powerful Bass Reflex speaker system, and use the DSGX Bass Boost function to really add extra punch. A preset equalizer with seven settings helps you get the perfect sound for any room or listening preference.
DIGITAL MEDIA PORT
The demand for digital audio and video content continues to be strong. Sony’s DIGITAL MEDIA PORT (DMP) interface is a proprietary interface that adds networking and connectivity options to your home theater system. Just connect optional accessories (sold separately) which provide the ability to control and power devices while making set up easy and operation simple to use. The DMP will be compatible with various accessories which will include a PC Client ready device, Bluetooth adapter and Audio Docking stations compatible with select Network Walkman and iPod products. Regardless of where you store your music.
Technical Specifications
* Antenna System: Simple Type
* Band: FM/AM
* CD Play Mode(s): Normal, Shuffle, Program, Repeat
* Digital-to-Analog Converter: 44.1kHz/24bit
* Equalizer: Preset EQ: 7
* Format(s) Supported: CD,CD-R,CD-RW,MP3
* Impedance: 6 ohms
* Speaker Type: 2 way
* Dimensions (Approx.): Main Unit:200 x 306 x 415 (WxHxD); Front Speaker: 220 x 306 x 195 (WxHxD); Front Speaker: 220 x 306 x 195 (WxHxD)
* Weight (Approx.): Main Unit: 5.3 kg; Front Speaker: 2.3 kg; Front Speaker: 2.3 kg
Sony MHC-EC69i user review
The unit is just OK. Not really worth your time though unless you got one for free. Here the the positives:
1) Seperate speakers allow this mediocre device to push the sound around the room a little better, if you separate the speakers and have the room…
2) The iPod/iPhone/iTouch doc works, the remote works with the i(insert apple device here). That is very good.
3) The CD player will play MP3s… that’s nice.
Now for the bads:
1) They say in the specs that this has a 3.5mm Input device. It doesn’t. That’s a pretty big misprint. If you have another MP3 Player – forget it…
2) The BASE is just silly. The don’t have any tuning for base or treble. They only have an EQ setting that changes the pre-configured settings from one bad setting to another… So if your buying this unit for sound and you don’t want a supper heavy (not even close to the original recorded levels) base, and you’re a bit tone deaf, then this might be a good unit. If you have even a moderately sense for your music and want a full rich sound then stay way from this unit.
Sony MHC-EC69i video review
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Don’t be fooled by its small size. This powerful micro hi-fi shelf system lets you share the music from your iPod music player, burned CDs or your favorite radio stations. Unleash your favorite tunes from your iPod music player with the CMT-BX20i micro hi-fi shelf system. Just plug your iPod into the dock and enjoy rich sound—perfect for adding music for parties are just relaxing around the house. A remote control with full iPod functions is included to manage your music from the comfort of your sofa.
Sony CMT BX20i Made for iPod
The CMT-BX20i allows you to listen to your iPod by using the built-in dock for compatible iPods. Simply connect your iPod and press play. The included remote control replicates most iPod functions for easy control from across the room.
Sony CMT BX20i Front Loading Single Disc CD Player
The tray-type CD player plays CD, CD-R/RW, and MP3 files burned to disc. This accommodates not only factory-pressed CD audio discs, but also consumer-recorded CD-R and CD-RW discs, so you can enjoy your favorite custom mixes in addition to your complete CD collection. And with MP3 playback capability, you can listen to even more music when burned to a disc, all with ID3 tag support.
Sony CMT BX20i AM/FM Tuner with 30 Station Presets
Enjoy easy, accurate, drift-free tuning of your favorite AM and FM radio stations. Choose from the wide range of free music, talk shows, sports, and other programming when you want to go beyond your own personal music collection. The 30-station memory presets let you store your favorites for quick access.
Sony CMTBX20i – 50 Watts (RMS) Total Power Output
Delivering 25 watts per channel (RMS 10% THD and 6 ohms), the CMT-BX20i brings plenty of power for any room or office. Unlike many lower-powered, competing micro stereo systems, you’ll truly be able to fill your space with music–no need to compromise just to save space.
Sony CMTBX20i Audio-In for More Options
Experience simple plug-and-play integration with digital music players, PCs and more via a 3.5mm jack. It’s simple to add other sources to this micro hi-fi system.
Sony CMTBX20i Technical Specifications
* Speaker Dimensions: 1.6″ (4cm) Tweeter
* Speaker System: Full Range
* Woofer Size(s): 5.9″ (15cm)
* Antenna System: AM: Loop Antenna, FM: Lead Antenna
* CD Play Mode(s): Program, Shuffle, Repeat
* Digital-to-Analog Converter: 1 Bit
* Format(s) Supported: CD-DA, CD-R/RW, CDs with MP3
* Frequency Range: AM: 530-1710kHz; FM: 87.5-108.0MHz
* Station Preset(s): 30 (10 AM, 20 FM)
* Display Type: LCD
* Tuner Type: FM/AM Superheterodyne Tuner
* Analog Audio Input(s) (Total): 1 (Rear, Stereo Mini)
* Antenna Terminal(s): 2 (Rear)
* Headphone Input(s): 1 (Front, Stereo Mini)
* Dimensions (Approx.): Speaker: 5.51″ x 9.64″ x 8.26″ (140 x 245 x 210mm); Main Unit: 7.87″ x 5.19″ x 11.73″ (200 x 132 x 298mm)
* Weight (Approx.): Speaker: 4 lbs 2 oz (1.9kg) (each x 2); Main Unit: 7 lbs 7 oz (3.5 kg)
Sony CMTBX20i Micro Hi-Fi Shelf System user review
I have had this system since early January ‘09, and paid $129+ tax. I am, overall, very satisfied with the purchase. There were no surprises. It looks and performs as represented on the Amazon page. I rate it a B+, or an 8.5/10 overall compared to similar priced bookshelf systems.
PRO:
*Great looking in basic black, fits (style-wise and otherwise, it’s also quite small) into anyone’s living/bed room or office. Nice bright, clear, easy to read display.
*Solid Sony construction and quality. Materials and assembly are first rate.
*Operation is straightforward and relatively simple. I learned basic functions in 5 minutes, and seldom needed to consult the fold-out style minimalistic manual.
*Sound is clear and accurate, and volume is ample enough to fill a typical room. Very little distortion or clipping even near top volume.
*Has controls or all basic functions on top of unit as well as remote, so you can still use it during times when you can’t find your remote. Remote operation is intuitive AND logical. No stupid gimmick functions no one ever uses to get in the way, but does what it needs to do from across the room
*iPod mounts atop unit (unit charges iPod whenever connected). Slides in easily. Easy to view iPod display. Position is practical; iPod does NOT tend to get in way or fall out as they do on a number of other like systems/docks. There is another jack for additional input (like connect to an Apple Airport Express/Extreme to run Airtunes and listen to Pandora/streaming or tracks in non-iPod formats).
*Plays custom MP3 CDs, including displaying ID3 tags. This means (if you burn the disc correctly) that playing an MP3 CD, you will see artist/album, and then track name. I find this a nice feature, though I guess its becoming pretty common.
CONS:
*Limited bass response, with no provision for connection to external subwoofer. Most of the time not really noticeable, but for heavily bass driven music, you miss feeling the beat. Bass is there though, and is accurate and proportional. EQ is simple +/- separate treble and bass controls. Use of standard iPod EQ profiles has little effect on sound, though custom settings imported from iTunes DO work better.
*Speaker grilles not removable. Wiring passes through part board enclosures, and no strain relief mechanism, so it would be both a pain to replace speaker wires and over time more likely to need it. Wires are long enough for now at about 8 feet, and you could always splice more length in if needs be. Thats not ideal, as would be if you had easy access inside enclosures. I haven’t tried the unit with other speakers, since the system impedance is 6 ohms and the various speakers I have access to are all 8 ohms (which is, or was, the standard, isn’t it?).
*CD player recognizes only MP3 or CDDA/AIFF format discs/tracks. It really wouldn’t have raised the production cost noticeably to include AAC, WAV, WMA, and most of all FLAC/ALAC.
I recommend this system to anyone looking for good sound (quality and quantity) on a budget, with the reservations mentioned about bass response. Likewise, its a solidly made unit that will last for years of use. I think it may be the best overall of its kind for use with iPod, at least until you get up to the Bose, Harman-Kardon, Denon, Bang/Olufsen class models (all of which retail at $350 and [way] up).
Sony CMT BX20i Micro Hi-Fi Shelf System video review
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Dedication to research and excellence. It’s been the Bose approach to better sound since Dr. Amar G. Bose founded the company in 1964. But the commitment actually began years earlier.
In the late 1950s, Dr. Bose, then a graduate student, purchased a stereo system based on its impressive technical specifications. The avid music enthusiast was disappointed to discover the speakers didn’t reproduce the sound of a live performance–and he became determined to recreate that lifelike audio experience for listeners.
After extensive research, Dr. Bose and colleagues introduced the groundbreaking 901 Direct/Reflecting speakers in 1968. Their lifelike sound won immediate and widespread acclaim.
Since those early days of 901 speakers, Bose engineers have kept their focus on creating better technology. You’ll find that focus exemplified in the CineMate GS Series II home theater speaker system, with advances that ensure premium performance and convenience.
Powerful Audio Performance, Low Visual Impact
The Simplest Way to Add Bose Home Theater Performance to Your HDTV
The Bose CineMate GS Series II speaker system lets you enjoy Bose 2.1-channel home theater performance and bring out the full audio potential of your HDTV. Proprietary TrueSpace technology enables premium Gemstone speakers and an Acoustimass module to deliver improved digital acoustic performance for movies, games, sports and more. The system easily connects directly to your TV, avoiding the need to disconnect other sources. And with no rear speakers, there’s no wiring to the back of your room. In the Series II system, a simple, four-button remote control lets you easily control the system.
If you’re looking for a home theater upgrade to complement your HDTV, the CineMate GS Series II system delivers–with sound and style. Two powerful Gemstone speakers flank your TV and put you in the middle of dramatic home theater sound. You’ll experience a level of realism that simply cannot be matched by TV speakers alone. A hideaway Acoustimass module provides the low frequency effects that make movies and games so compelling. It even includes dedicated bass control. Place the module in a corner or out of view–all the sound seems to come from the compact speakers. Together, the speakers and Acoustimass module provide full depth and clarity for your music, too.
Digital 5.1 decoding provides improved realism from 5.1-encoded DVDs, DBS or HDTV. Combine that with proprietary Videostage 5 decoding and post-processing circuitry, and you’ll enjoy a high quality, multichannel surround sound experience from practically any source–such as DVDs, videocassettes and stereo CDs.
Setting up a CineMate GS Series II system is a quick exercise, with only a few wires to connect. With just four simple connections, the system hooks up directly to your TV, and there’s minimal–if any–disruption to existing component connections. Intuitive one-way connectors eliminate the guesswork often associated with more complex systems. A small interface module houses your audio input from the TV and displays on/off status for your system. In the Series II system, a simple, four-button remote control lets you easily control the system.
An ideal enhancement to your existing video components, the CineMate GS Series II system is a perfect setup for small- to medium-sized rooms.
Gemstone Speakers
The smallest, most powerful 2.1-channel speakers from Bose. Proprietary Bose technology gives these small speakers the strength to produce the exciting depth and resonance of home theater sound. Patented Gemstone speaker array design works in concert with TrueSpace digital surround processing circuitry to deliver a spacious multichannel presentation from just two visible speakers and a hideaway Acoustimass module.
Acoustimass Module
The Acoustimass module for the CineMate Series II speaker system works in concert with the small speakers to deliver the full range of sound. The patented Bose design produces low frequencies for all channels with no audible distortion. When the module is tucked behind a curtain or chair, all of the sound seems to come directly from the two arrays.
Proprietary TrueSpace Digital Processing Circuitry
TrueSpace delivers a spacious, multichannel sound experience with strong center imaging from just two visible speakers and a hideaway Acoustimass module.
The interface module (front and back views) receives infrared commands for your system
Interface Module
This module houses two LED indicators and connectors for your audio input. It receives IR commands for the speaker system. And it connects directly to your TV while providing status information (on/off) for your speaker system.
Universal Infrared Remote
Delivers seamless system operation and controls most video components attached to your TV.
Easy System Setup
Setup consists of only four simple connections. This eliminates the guesswork often associated with more complex systems.
Digital 5.1 Decoding
Provides improved realism from 5.1-encoded DVDs, DBS or HDTV.
Videostage 5 Decoding and Post-Processing Circuitry
This proprietary technology, combined with digital 5.1 decoding, delivers a high quality, multichannel surround sound experience from practically any source–such as DVDs, videocassettes and stereo CDs.
What’s in the Box
* Acoustimass module
* four-button remote control
* Power cord
* Stereo cable
* Speaker cable
* Optical cable
* Rubber feet for Acoustimass module and speakers
* Setup DVD
Bose® CineMate® Series II user review
Pros:
Very clean sound overall. F/X in movies sound outstanding.
TV shows sound great.
Easy to set up.
Deep bass (for movies).
Cons:
As with many systems you have to crank it way up to hear the vocals in most movies. It’s then way too loud when F/X or music kicks in. This is why I returned this system. Yes, the F/X sound awesome but you can’t understand the spoken dialog. There’s no adjustment other than the bass level on the sub.
The sound cuts out anytime you change volume levels. It’s a gated and delayed “drop out.” It cuts out any extreme input regardless of source. This feature is very annoying and unacceptable. It sounds like a good idea to avoid pops and noise but it’s done too drastically.
For live music dvd’s/blu ray’s you can forget it! Acoustic guitars sound good and that’s about it. It’s the low end that is lost. Only the extreme lows seem to come though regardless of how loud you set the bass on the sub woofer.
In closing:
I really wanted this system to work for me. I watched many dvds/blu rays, moved the speakers all over the room, changed rooms and after three long days… I gave up. The final straw was not being able to understand the dialog in “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Price”. I watched that movie twice. Once on blu ray with the Bose 2.1 and once on dvd with the Harmon/Kardon HS 100. The dialog was crystal clear on the Harmon/Kardon system. The Bose Cinemate 2 would be be perfect (for movies) if they could get the dialog issue worked out.
Bose® CineMate® Series II video review
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Add room-filling sound to your TV viewing experience. This 3D sound bar delivers immersive audio without running wires across the room or setting up extra speakers, so you can complete your 3D home entertainment experience with simple, yet powerful surround sound. The HT-CT150 32″ 3D sound bar home theater system features 3D compatibility and can also be turned into your entertainment hub by connecting multiple HD or 3D devices using a single HDMI cable per device (sold separately). In addition to the latest audio decoding technology, this beautifully sleek sound bar can be easily mounted directly to select BRAVIA® TVs, hung on your wall, or placed separately on a shelf.
Sony HT-CT150 S-Force Surround for Immersive Audio
By using a powerful 100% digital Sony S-Master amplifier and DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology, realistic surround sound can be generated from just two front speakers. Unlike other “virtual surround” technologies, rear sound is generated from the front two speakers using sophisticated digital sound processing and does not need to be bounced off of side walls. No matter what the size or shape of the room or what’s on the wall, it’s possible to hear sounds from behind you without needing to place speakers behind you.
Sony HT-CT150 HDMI Repeater with Pass-Through and Audio Return Channel
Connect multiple devices via HDMI to your surround sound system, easily switch between them, and then connect everything to your HDTV with just one HDMI cable. Standby pass-through of audio and video conveniently access all your HDMI connected devices without having to power on the receiver.
Audio Return Channel eliminates the need for extra cables connected to your TV. This feature allows audio to be sent from your compatible TV to your receiver through the same HDMI cable already being used to send audio and video to your TV.
Sony HT-CT150 LPCM Playback
LPCM is a method of encoding audio information digitally which can have up to 8 channels of uncompressed audio. This wider bandwidth allows for high resolution audio which is closer to the original.
Sony HT-CT150 DIGITAL MEDIA PORT
The demand for digital audio and video content continues to be strong. Sony’s DIGITAL MEDIA PORT (DMP) interface is a proprietary interface that adds networking and connectivity options to your home theater system. Just connect optional accessories (sold separately) which provide the ability to control and power devices while making set up easy and operation simple to use. The DMP will be compatible with various accessories which will include a PC Client ready device, Bluetooth adapter and Audio Docking stations compatible with select Network Walkman and iPod products. Regardless of where you store your music.
Sony HT-CT150 BRAVIA Sync Compatible
Conveniently operate and control other BRAVIA Sync compatible devices–including BRAVIA HDTVs, Blu-ray Disc Players, surround sound systems, Handycam camcorders and Cyber-shot digital still cameras, all with one remote control.
Sony HT-CT150 Technical Specifications
* Audio Power Output: RMS: 75W x3 +75W Subwoofer (180-20kHz, 4 Ohm, 1% THD)
* Digital Amplifier: Yes
* S-Master Amplifier: 24bit
* Coaxial Audio Digital Input(s): 1
* DIGITAL MEDIA PORT: 1
* HDMI Video Input(s): 3
* HDMI Video Output(s): 1
* Optical Audio Input(s): 2
* RCA Audio Input(s): 2
* Bass/Treble control: Bass/Treble
* Night mode: Yes
* Preset EQ: Standard/ Movie/ Drama/ News/ Sports/ Game/ Music/ 2ch Stereo/ Portable Audio
* Power Consumption (in Operation): 75W
* Power Consumption (in Standby): 0.3 Watts
* Power Requirements: 120V, 60Hz
* Dimensions (Approx.): Subwoofer: 7-3/4″ x 17-3/4″ x 16-1/4″ (196 x 450 x 410 mm); Sound Bar: 31-1/2″ x 2-9/16″ x 2-5/16″ (800 x 66 x 60 mm)
* Weight (Approx.): Subwoofer: 23 lb 3 oz (10.5 kg); Sound Bar: 2 Lb 13 oz (1.3 kg)
Sony HT-CT150 3D Sound Bar System user review
I was really skeptical about going with a sound bar at first, but all of those thoughts were out the window as soon as the system got broken in (about 1 or 2 day period to fully break in the system). coming from the traditional 5.1 systems (have had systems ranging from home theater in a box-type of setups to bose lifestyle 5.1’s to martin logan set ups), i was really surprised at how well this 1 speaker set up simulated “surround sound”. i found myself looking over my shoulder every now and then, while watching movies, because i was hearing things from alot of different places, other than just in front of me. the CT150 was supposed to be a temporary set up for me, but after about a month of use, i’m really considering sticking to soundbars. the simplicity and ergonomics just cannot be compared to by big, traditional 5.1 systems.
As for sound quality, the vocals are nice and crisp. i know the CT100 had a vocal problem, but i can hear everything crystal clear on my CT150 (center channel set at +5). i have my CT150 in a very open living room (about 20×35), so i have my subwoofer level set at +5 (settings go from -6 to +6). the bass levels would be comparable to my bose lifestyle 25 system, with the CT150 having a slight bass advantage. all in all, a great little package. i really couldn’t think of a better, more ergonomic set up for a smaller living room or bedroom. i might just stick with soundbars from now on and just upgrade to bigger/better soundbar set ups.
Sony HT-CT150 3D Sound Bar System video review
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You’ll be impressed by the Samsung HT-X710 home cinema system’s slick design, excellent feature set and incredible sound. The HT-X710 is made up of two speakers and a subwoofer, delivering the sort of top-notch sound quality you’d expect from one of the best home cinema systems on the market. Its shape and shape has been specially designed so that the HT-X710 blends into your living room instead of taking it over, and its total sound output of 400 W ensures sound is just as good with music as it is with films. The HT-X710 is compatible with a number of different DVD and CD discs and also supports DivX, MP3 and JPEG formats. It even comes with an extensive connections system, including an HDMI socket, an auxiliary input and a USB port, allowing you to hook up your external devices.
Received this Cinema system as a bonus with a television purchase. It arrived ahead of schedule and in good order.
Opening the package revealed the main control/player console, a subwoofer and two speaker towers. These units are in Samsung’s gloss piano-black finish with A Touch of Color (red) accents. Everything was packaged very securely in the box, and wrapped to prevent scuffing.
The box also contained a multi-function remote which could be programmed for your tv, an iPod/portable media player dock with many cradle adapters, speaker wire, and wall mounting brackets for the console (and the other bracket may have been for the subwoofer).
A brief glance through the setup and owner’s manuals told me that my current system, at least in terms of audio, blew this system away. So rather than connecting it, I gave it to a college-bound friend for his dorm room.
Without evaluating sound quality, I’ll share some of my discoveries.
The speakers, at around two feet tall and with a touch of red, were incredibly sexy, and I considered keeping them for back-channel speakers on my current system (replacing the bland little gray boxes), but I didn’t want to break up the Samsung system. The console and subwoofer also feature an attracive, rounded-corner, fluid aesthetic — very non-traditional.
The console has only 2.1 speaker outs, and did not have an optical/digital out which might allow the system to share multi-channel audio with other components (ie: into my HT receiver). It wasn’t clear if the HDMI connection would pass 5.1 or 2.1 audio to the TV.
The speaker-out connectors look similar to a large Firewire connector – not an RCA, spring-clip, or screw-down post. The included speaker wires have this connector on one end, the other ends are bare.
It does have component-out and HDMI out for video, but no composite out – meaning it must be connected to a newer/better tv. The console has a composite video and left/rt audio in to receive from a VCR for example. It also had an iPod port and a USB port…altogether I was pleased with the amount of inputs. It also has an antenna-in for the stereo receiver (and included antenna).
For existing HT owners this system will probably be a step backwards. However, it would be an excellent starter system for someone who had a rag-tag assortment of devices and wanted to simplify, or who was otherwise starting from scratch. The 2.1 sound is only a limitation for users wanting an immersive HT experience. The beautiful styling make this a system to show off.
Samsung HT-X710 user review
This is a good simple all-in-one stereo system, as mentioned by others. The sound is fine and I think the nontraditional look is cool. The unit does not switch from one input mode to the next very quickly, but that is a minor issue to me.
The main problem I have is that the box and advertising would seem to indicate that the central unit can be placed ‘upright’, as shown in this image, or laying flat like a more normal system. Lies! The system is useless when laying flay; the DVD player makes a complete racket and you can’t read the display on the unit. Therefore, if you need a home theater to lay flat in a standard AV cabinet then you must look for something else. If you want it to sit under your TV looking like it does in the image (as I do) then you should be fine.
Samsung HT-X710 video review
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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.
- Built in Wifi
- Streaming software… which means you can stream from your computer.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Youtube which is cool.
- Picas pictures which is neat but almost useless in some cases.
- 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.
- Blue ray, DVD, burned DVD’s etc.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Panasonic SC-BT330 video review
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I purchased the Humax 9200T PVR (Personal Video Recorder) about two years ago. For me it has revolutionised TV watching. I don’t know how I ever got by without being able to record programmes and watch them when I fancy, and to rapidly fast forward through adverts, or pause when the phone or doorbell goes.
Humax PVR9200T Price and availability
I chose Humax because of all the good reviews online and especially because of its ease of use, it’s definitely simpler than a lot of other models and brands I’ve tried to use over the years. I purchased it online for what was then the bargain price of £160. Having a check around now I have seen it being sold (new) from £15!! That’s even cheaper than the replacement remote control, can you believe! It’s available at Amazon and from a handful of other independent electrical stores online. There are two colour options for the box; silver and black.
Humax PVR9200T Looks
It’s a super stylish looking set, smaller than the average top-box/recorder, in a nice shiny silver. It’s very minimalist with just a few discrete buttons on the front of it and a barely there screen displaying what you are watching/recording.
The remote control is nice and simple, with all the obvious buttons on the top half and hidden away under a sliding flap there are about 20 small shortcut buttons. I have to admit even two years on I still haven’t ever bothered to find out what many of the shortcuts do!
Humax PVR9200T Set-up
The initial set-up was a bit complicated, after plugging it in you have to go through a lot of steps before it will even begin to pick up channels. The manual is pretty helpful for this however. One annoying problem is the fact that it is pre-programmed for conventional 4:3 TVs (who has those anymore??!) and so the quality is terrible until you figure out how to set it up as widescreen. However, once all set up if you leave it for 30 minutes it will pick up 90+ TV Freeview channels and many more radio stations, and then you’re ready to get watching. The quality is fantastic, audio and visual.
Humax PVR9200T Features
The guide is easy to access at the click of a button and displays five channels per page, for two hours of their schedule. This is one more channel than the previous Humax model (which I owned before upgrading to this one), and it makes all the difference to not having to endlessly scroll up and down to see what’s on. Simply clicking on the programme you fancy with the OK button will record it. You also then get the option of recording the one programme or the whole series. Series link is a really useful feature and although it occasionally gets it a bit wrong (recording every single repeat of an episode throughout the week can get a bit tedious) it’s really handy if you’re absent minded like I am.
Clicking on a programme and pressing the ‘I’ button will give you detailed info about the TV programme whether in the guide, live or recorded modes. Simply pressing the record button will quickly record a programme you are watching. The pause and rewind buttons do the same, as up to 2 hours of the current channel you are watching are recorded automatically.
My favourite feature of the Humax 9200T is the find facility. Clicking on find in the guide mode will allow you to search for a particular programme by typing in its title (or part of its title) and all matches in the next week will appear. Alternatively you can search by genre. I particularly like to search the genre ‘movies’ at the beginning of each week and then I can easily record the ones I’m interested in.
Humax PVR9200T Memory
The PVR has 160GB of memory, which is more than ample for all normal viewing. I’ve only ever filled it up about 70% when I’ve been away for a while and lots of films have taken up the space. Flicking through the menu options to find the programmes you have recorded takes about three or four steps, but alternatively can be done with one of the shortcut buttons. Programmes are then displayed in descending date order and simply scrolling to the one you want to find and pressing OK will allow you to watch it. Programmes are easily deleted with the red button.
Humax PVR9200T Overall
My Humax PVR 9200 has never gone wrong, and it updates its software automatically through a wireless connection. Overall it’s a great PVR for it’s time and stands up well enough to the modern PVR’s available. For such a ridiculously low price these days I’d happily recommend this to anyone looking to get their first PVR, who wants to keep things simple.
Humax PVR9200T video review
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There’s only one way to get closer to an artist’s true intent–and that’s to get as close as possible to exactly what the artist created. With this in mind, Pioneer ushers in an entirely new era of high definition stereophonic performance. From enjoying the very best 1080p high definition picture available to hearing every last nuance with award-winning audio capabilities, Pioneer’s range of receivers offers nothing less than a miraculous performance at every level. And with an ever-increasing list of connectivity and integration options as well, these receivers will also guarantee to get you closer to the original experience than ever before.
The Pioneer VSX-1020-K delivers amazing home theater performance in an elegant package.
With connectivity options for all your latest high-definition home theater components and digital 1080p upscaling from any source, the VSX-1020-K takes performance a step further with multi-zone support: choose either a 7.1-channel configuration, or create a second zone with 5.1 + 2 channels. And the VSX-1020-K brings extensive connectivity for your digital media via Ethernet and a front USB input, and compatibility with Bluetooth sources (using the optional AS-BT100 adapter, sold separately). Plus, it’s “Works with iPhone”-certified, so you can incorporate your favorite Apple products into your home theater easily. iControlAVR, a free iPhone app (downloaded separately), turns your iPhone or iPod Touch into the ultimate control center.
The Ultimate iPhone Experience–Now In Your Home Theater
“Works with iPhone” Certification Provides iPhone Users the Ultimate Plug-and-Play Integration
Get a truly plug-and-play iPhone experience with your home theater. Thanks to the VSX-1020-K’s “Works with iPhone” certification, you can enjoy music with iTunes? album art, movies, downloaded TV shows from iTunes, photos, web content such as YouTube? and more. An included USB/composite video cable makes connecting your iPhone to share your favorite media easy–and your iPhone charges automatically when connected. Unlike other receiver lines, there’s no need to buy a separate dock to enjoy your iPhone with your home theater. This included cable also works with most generations of iPod Classic, Nano, and iPod Touch.
Share your videos, and enjoy music with full album information and album art on your TV. Your iPhone’s wireless and network features remain fully functional and music and movies will mute when you receive an incoming call. And you’ve got lots of control options–use the iPhone directly, or push a single button on the VSX-1020-K’s front panel to switch control to the included preset remote and an intuitive, full-color GUI.
Plus, your iPhone’s music will always sound its best thanks to Pioneer’s exclusive Advanced Sound Retriever technology, which restores lost data in compressed music files. So even in a big room, you’ll get much closer to the artist’s original intent from you iPhone, iPod or other MP3 player. And Auto Level Control means a smooth, consistent listening experience with no jarring volume changes between your favorite songs and albums.
Pioneer’s Free iPhone App Turns Your iPhone or iPod Touch into a Powerful Control Center
Pioneer’s iControlAVR (downloaded separately via Apple’s App Store) gives you total control over your home theater sound. With controls for master and per-zone volume, room calibration, and more, you’ve got a simple but powerful way to adjust your home theater sound any way you like.
The iPhone and iPod Touch’s accelerometer controls are used to control balance and emphasis–no confusing sequence of remote buttons to remember, just tilt and maneuver your Apple portable device until the sound is right where you want it.
Connectivity That Puts You Closer To Your Movies, Music, and Photos
Bluetooth capability (with AS-BT100 adapter, sold separately) lets you play music wirelessly from your Bluetooth-enabled portable devices Access Your Portable Devices, Internet Radio, Satellite Radio and More.
In addition to connections for all your home theater components, a front HDMI input lets you conveniently connect high-definition devices like an HD camcorder to view your videos in all their glory in your home theater. A front USB port lets you connect your digital camera or portable media player to display a slideshow of JPEG photos on your HDTV, or play MP3, WAV, or WMA music files with full ID3 tag and album art support. And your options don’t stop with your portable devices. The Pioneer VSX-1020-K is your portal for SIRIUS? satellite radio (subscription required) and thousands of free Internet radio stations –all just a few clicks of the remote away.
Pioneer VSX-1020-K Full-Color On-Screen GUI
There are more ways to control your Pioneer VSX-1020-K than just your iPhone. There’s a full-color on-screen GUI for use with the included preset remote, so you can make guided adjustments to your home theater sound.
Release Your Smartphone’s Music with the AS-BT100 Bluetooth Adapter (sold separately)
For wireless connectivity, add a Pioneer AS-BT100 Bluetooth adapter (sold separately) to release your music from your iPhone, Blackberry®, or Android® smartphone as well as other Bluetooth-enabled sources like laptops. And the VSX-1020-K’s Advanced Sound Retriever AIR technology makes sure that even your compressed MP3s are brought back to near cd-quality sound.
The Latest HDMI Technology Gets You Ready for 3-D
All of Pioneer’s latest receivers support the latest HDMI specification, meaning that you’re not just getting the most out of your existing movies and music, you’re preparing for the next generation of 3-D video content with the VSX-1020-K. And with 6 HDMI inputs, including 1 on the front panel, you’ve got more than enough connectivity options for the growing number of high-definition sources available today.
Pioneer VSX-1020-K 1080p Upscaling from Any Source
Anchor Bay® and PureCinema video processing lets you upscale your picture to digital 1080p from virtually any source, including analog. PureCinema’s extra processing of 3D noise reduction and Y/C color separation ensures you’ll get the best picture possible from anything you’ve got.
True-to-Life, High-Definition Audio and New Dolby Pro Logic IIz
Of course all the latest Pioneer receivers support high-definition audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Audio to give your Blu-ray Disc® movies a soundtrack that’s true-to-life. But Pioneer adds an extra dimension with support for Dolby Pro Logic IIz across its entire 2010 line of receivers, which adds a “height” channel for an even more immersive experience.
Total Control with Custom Pioneer Technologies: Acoustic Calibration, Advanced Sound Retriever, and Auto Level Control
Pioneer’s exclusive Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration system (MCACC) provides a near studio-quality, multi-channel listening experience customized specifically to your listening environment. An included microphone measures every speaker’s connection, and notes its size, distance from the listening point, sound levels and timbre to calibrate and maximize performance. The VSX-1020-K has an advanced version of MCACC that will calibrate with a 9-band equalizer, auto-crossover settings, and can even send charts of its measurements to your PC via USB.
Even compressed audio such as WMA, MP3 and AAC is enhanced with another Pioneer exclusive, Advanced Sound Retriever, by filling in areas where minute details were left out during the compression process. This technology also enhances the audio quality of SIRIUS Satellite Radio and can realize an upper limit frequency of 20kHz with compressed audio playback for surprising audio richness and clarity even from “lossy” digital audio sources. The VSX-1020-K’s advanced ASR can restore even multi-channel audio.
Additionally, the Auto Level Control feature can equalize volume level differences between tracks playing from an iPhone or iPod or during television programming so the volume can be enjoyed at a consistent level–no more jarring “blare” when switching audio sources.
All of these technologies come together in the VSX-1020-K to deliver an advanced level of control and sophistication for the discerning home entertainment enthusiast.
Premium in-wall speakers create a complete home theater
Looking to complete your ultimate Pioneer home theater? Consider adding these suggested premium Pioneer in-wall and in-ceiling speakers for a rich, immersive home theater experience without taking up a lot of room. Or keep things personal with a pair of Pioneer advanced audiophile over-ear headphones for intense critical listening.
7.1 Speaker Packages for the VSX-1020
* The Pioneer S-IC651-LR 6.5″ In-ceiling CST Speaker for Front Left and Right
* The Pioneer S-IW551L LCR In-wall CST Speaker for Front Center Channel
* The Pioneer S-IW651-LR In-wall CST Speakers Rear Surrounds and Surround Backs
* The Pioneer S-W601 12″ Powered Subwoofer
Headphones
* The Pioneer SE-A1000 Flagship Audiophile/Home Theater Headphones
Technical Specifications
# Channels: 7.1 surround sound
# Power: 110×7 watts
# HDMI Specification: v. 1.4, 3D, Deep Color and X.V. Color
# HDMI Ports: 6 in (including 1 front in), 1 out
# Component Ports: 2 in, 1 out
# Audio Codecs Supported: DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Pro Logic IIz with pre-out
# Video Modes Supported: 1080p and below
# Audio Modes Supported: Multi-zone (7.1, 5.1 + 2)
# Digital Formats Supported: JPEG, MP3, WAV, WMA
# “Works with iPhone”-certified
Pioneer VSX-1020-K Receiver user review
I tend to do a lot of research before making large purchasing decisions and so far this receiver is receiving a pretty rosy reception! Its successor, the 1019, was CNET’s and Gizmodo’s top mid-range receiver. Both reviewers had just as high hopes for the 1020, and Gizmodo already called it the best receiver $550 can buy, saying the 1020 “hit the sweet spot” that gave the most bang for buyer’s buck.
The critics I read all raved about the excellent sound quality, but the 1020 brings some new offerings to the table for a mid-range receiver.
In short, the most valuable features you get with this model that you don’t get with the next step down are:
1. A fifth HDMI port in back, an extra sixth in front (for digital cameras, computers, etc.).
2. Analog video upscaling (which I don’t care too much about since most of my content is HD already or played through an upscaling player).
3. The iContolAV iPhone app. Very cool for controlling volume and switching inputs. Works simply by having your receiver connected to ethernet and your iPhone connected to the network via WiFi. A few times the app has had trouble properly connecting, but it usually works well.
4. Internet radio with programmable stations, which is cool, though you can’t currently control the station selections from the iPhone App, unfortunately.
5. A color configuration interface output to your TV via the HDMI output. I can’t imagine trying to configure all my speakers without seeing a graphical representation of their location on screen.
That last feature feature, the HDMI 1.4 ports that support 3D, the 7.1 surround capabilities, excellent sound quality and the iPhone App are what made the VSX-1020 the clear choice for me. I also appreciated the automatic calibration with the included microphone and the included iPod cable/compatibility, but those weren’t as strong of selling points.
The only negatives of note for me is that the little front port cover is a little cheap. It’s not even a door, simply a little plastic piece that pops out if you push one side. I, like others, have also experienced the issue where the receiver switches to TV/Sat when first turned on, but I’ve yet to determine whether that’s a problem with the receiver itself or my Harmony universal remote (I’ll update the review as I get more information).
One last tip to buyers, however. If you’re considering listening to your phone’s music over Bluetooth by buying the $99 AS-BT100 adapter, I’d consider buying a $99 Apple Airport Express instead (assuming your music is managed through iTunes). It lets you stream music from your computer to the receiver over WiFi and control what’s playing via iTunes or Apple’s robust “Remote” iPhone app, but more importantly the Airport Express acts as a USB print server and a one port wireless bridge (something that lets you connect wired devices to a wireless network).
That wireless bridge capability is especially valuable, since you’ll need it or something similar for internet radio and iControlAV iPhone app support if your VSX-1020 receiver isn’t close to your wireless router (mine isn’t). Buying the Airport Express kills two birds with one stone.
UPDATE:
A few ideas have been thrown out by other Amazon posters to help alleviate the issue with the receiver switching to TV/Sat when it first turns on. The first idea is to change the receiver’s settings thusly:
“1 Press Receiver , then press Home Menu.
2 Select `System Setup’, then press ENTER.
3 Select `Other Setup’, then press ENTER.
4 Select `HDMI Setup’, then press ENTER.
5. Set Control to ‘Off’.”
The second idea is to adjust your TV settings like so.
“Go into Menu under HDMI-CEC and turn it Off. If the set is a Samsung look for AnyNet+ (default is normally On) and turn it Off.”
I’m still having issues going directly to a given HDMI input when the unit first power on (going to “HDMI Input 1″ simply toggles the current HDMI input instead of going directly to the one you want), but I’ve made the quirk tolerable by programming one of the buttons on my universal remote to toggle inputs, so it’s easy to fix.
Help other cust
Pioneer VSX-1020-K Receiver video review
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An excellent, low-profile antidote to low-calibre flatscreen TV sound quality.
Onkyo has launched the world’s first true one-box, high definition (HD) surround system, designed specifically to add a new dimension to the typically ‘so-so’ sound quality typical of the latest flatscreen TVs.
The innovative HTX-22HD 2.1-channel digital home cinema system is based around a “one-box” A/V amplifier with built-in subwoofer and comes with two front satellite speakers.
The system has built-in Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoders that allow it reproduce bit-for-bit high definition surround sound, making the HTX-22HD a superb partner for the latest generation Blu-ray and DVD players, gaming consoles and digital television receivers.
Onkyo is also proud to announce that the HTX-22HD is also the world’s first system to incorporate DTS Surround Sensation. Unveiled at CES 2008 this long-awaited new software algorithm delivers a virtual 5.1 surround sound experience from just two speakers. For dedicated home cinema fans, purchasing an optional, add-on package of centre-speaker and two rear surround speakers can transform the HTX-22HD into a fully-fledged 5.1 system – all the necessary speaker terminals are already located at the rear of the main unit. Excellent sound quality and ease of ease were the top priorities for Onkyo during the development of the HTX-22HD.
For that reason, the system includes Audyssey 2EQ room calibration to precisely match surround sound to your home. It also includes the new Audyssey Dynamic EQ loudness correction technology – found in Onkyo’s new generation standalone AV receivers – for dynamic, detailed surround sound even at low volumes. Thanks to the inclusion of RIHD (Remote Interactive via HDMI) the user can also integrate and seamlessly operate the system with selected HDMI-equipped playback sources and TVs from other manufacturers.
In my opinion this was a really good buy and for anyone wanting to set-up their home cinema, it comes at a reasonable price and does everything you need it to.
Onkyo HTX-22HDX video review
