Compact HTIB - 2.1

Not sure if you'll be able to find a decent system in the $200-$300 price range but that Sony system (DAV-X1) can be had at Amazon for $200 less than the link you provided ($600 plus tax)

Denon also makes a 2.1 system that's very comparable to the Sony one called the S101 which sells for $500 on the net, and Bose makes a 2.1 system, that doesn't require ANY sort of "box" it plugs directly into your TV (or DVD, Cable box, etc) AV output's and then simulates (supposedly) 5.1 called the Bose Cinemate.

It also sells for $500.
Most folks that I've seen review it say that the subwoofer, which Bose calls their "Acoustimate" module doesn't provide very good bass, but it's a simple clean installation with very few wires and the demo systems that I've seen at big-box retailers like Best buy and Fry's Electronics sound GREAT!

Hope that helps
Let us know what you end up buying

PS: Yes you can buy an AV Reciever and a set of 2.1 speakers, so that later on you can add rear ones

Depending on how many sources you need to connect, computer speaker packages from Logitech or Klipsch may also feed your needs within your budget -- you will need to purchase a separate DVD player though should you go that route.

Check the second link in my sig. Has a list of products in this area.

If you think you'll expand your setup (in # of speakers or quality) I'd look at a refurb Harmon (harman?) (Harmonaudio.com or their e-bay store) with dolby virtual speaker, and roll your own speakers and sub. Check out **********'s X series sub and speakers or SV Sound's offerings. Might inch your budget up a bit though.

I think one person in that thread bought the samsung. I don't remember if the person kept it, I seem to remember they wanted an upconvert dvd player. Ultimately that's a question of whether the dvd player or the tv has a better scaler.

Haven't seen much on the philips. If you can find them from a retailler with a good return policy.

Bitpoh is right, I hadn't thought about that, but tested it out last night with a pair of 2.1 computer speakers I have.

I had to use a "converter" to go from the mini-jack plug that is on the PC speakers to a pair of L/R RCA style plugs, and I had to turn the volume down on my TV to zero or I'd hear a bit of an echo, but it worked great!

If your TV has an audio out, then you may be able to run your other componets (DVD, etc) into your TV, then pass them through to the PC speakers.

You can get a great pair of 2.1 PC speakers for under $150.
Check out the Logitech Z-2300 which CNET reviewed and gave a 9 out of 10 stars!!!

I've seen these at Circut City's website for $120 (before tax), and I'm sure you'd get a dramatic improvement in sound quality out of your TV/DVD, etc.

Happy hunting

The Phillips HTS6500 is on sale at Circuit City right now for $279.99 ..I just got an email from CC saying it's a web only deal..

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Phili...oductDetail.do