I would like to set up a simple audio system which will include:

52in Sharp LCD
PS3
2 outdoor speakers on my deck which I just snaked 16 gauge wires to.

I would like something with a tuner, cd player (or I could just use the ps3), ability to hook up my laptop to it and/or ability to hook up my ipod to it.

I would also like to buy a few speakers for my living room.

I"M NOT LOOKING FOR A WHOLE HOUSE SYSTEM!

I can post pics if that will help

I can upload pictures if that will help.
I just want a few speakers in my living room to use with my TV, PS3, Tuner, etc.... and also be able to use the speakers on my deck when I'm outside.

Any help would be greatley appreciated.



WHERE DO I START? WHAT DO I NEED? I AM COMPLETELY LOST!

First you need to decide exactly what you want and then create a budget. You have given some info to start, but you need more.

To start off if you want speakers in the living room and on the deck you will want a receiver with at least 2 zones. Most have this so that will be easy.

Next you need to be more specific on what you expect in the living room. Do you just want a basic 2 channel system? You probably need to look for a pair of floorstanding speakers then. Do you want 2 channel and a subwoofer(2.1)? Then you can look at bookshelf or smaller speakers and a subwoofer. Do you want surround sound? You could start small with a 3.1 setup(front left, center, front right and subwoofer) and add the surrounds later or you could go full 5.1 from the start.

Here's a quick list of some of the items you will need. Start looking in the specific forums for each item and then you can start working on a budget.

Receiver - basic stereo receiver with A/B speaker switch or surround sound AVR depending on what setup you want in the living room(you can hook your computer and Ipod to either. Better systems have Ipod integration where you can control it by the remote)

Living room speakers - This will depend on what your needs are

Subwoofer - if needed

Outdoor speakers

For a cd player you can use the PS3 or yoru computer. or just buy a DVD player or cd player. Many options here.

Hope this helps some. Just try and work out what your expectations are, then work out your budget. Your money is best spent on better speakers and sub, so your living room speakers should get the most research attention and percentage of the budget.

You may want to check out some of the HTiBs on the market ( Home Theater in a Box ). These systems come complete with receiver, speakers, wires, etc., are are generally easy to set up. Depending on your budget and needs, you can probably find exactly what you are looking for. I purchased the Onkyo HT-S6100 about a year ago and am still extremely happy with it. :)