[gp-clipper]

Hi,


I've been trying to determine the best HTIB system for a 12' x 16' foot family room located in the basement. I have a Panny TH-PZ85u located on the long wall (16') just a few feet from the corner. I also have a Philips HD-DVR and a Wii. I did wire the room to handle 2 or 3 speakers behind the sofa.


I don't need much because we don't watch a lot of movies, but I've been seeing more 7.1 systems than 5.1 and wondered if 7.1 would be too much for the space. I've seen a refurbed Onkyo HT-4100 with iPod dock for $250. Is something like this worth it...I don't think it has HDMI capabilities. Both the tv and DVR have HDMI inputs and outputs.


Any thoughts?? My budget....between $200-500...like I said we don't watch much, but I would like some good sound when we do. I don't have an audio system down there currently.


Thanks,

Gary

 

[gp-clipper]

I do have a Sony 12" powered sub that is no longer used on my upstairs stereo. I could use that as the system sub if it would work with other components.

 

[ickysmits]

No, you'd probably would be better off with 5.1 instead for a small space. You could buy the 4100 and only use 5 of the speakers or you can get 5 better speakers off the bat.


How about:

2 Polk Monitor 30: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16882290094

1 CS1 center: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16882290022

and a Pioneer VSX-819H-K: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16882117302


That's just a bit over budget but I think it would be pretty good. The speakers are a lot better than the ones that come with the 4100 - and I think the receiver is too.

 

[davyo]

You should be more than fine with a 5.1 system.


In the price range you mentioned, my personal opinion, one of the best low priced HTiB out right now is the new Sony HTS-S360.


The Sony S360 is getting some very good reviews online and tonight I got to hear one live for the first time at my local RC Willy store,,,,, all I can say is WOW,,, I cant remember the last time a small cheap HTiB impressed me this much,,, if ever.


Its selling for about $285.00 on Amazon, has 3 HDMI inputs and it looks really really nice.


Anyhow, as far as HTiB, the brands I have owned in the last few years have been Onkyo, Yamaha, Samsung, Pioneer and a few other's I cant remember, and to honest none of those systems impressed me as much as the Sony S360 I listened to tonight for the first time.


Sorry for the rant,, Im just still totally knocked out by great this little HTiB sounded.


Cheers

Davyo