Showing posts with label sound bar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sound bar. Show all posts

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Samsung HT-WS1R Soundbar Review

Samsung HT-WS1R Soundbar
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I have been looking at soundbar systems for over a year now. It all started when I decided to add an Xbox360 and a blu-ray player to my home setup. I had a specific setup and a specific list of issues I was trying to resolve and I ended up getting a full 5.1 surround system to go with my blu-ray. It was pretty good, but then we decided to move into a new place and the tv had to go in a cutout above the fireplace. This created a problem because I didn't want to run wires all over the place and there was no way to get wires run out of the fireplace cutout without putting a hole in the wall...so, these are the issues I finally ended up needed to address:
1. I needed something that would sit in front of my TV, but not be too big because it would block the view of the bottom of the screen (the TV is a little high up)
2. I needed something that would generate a better range of sound than my tv's built-in speakers (I often have trouble hearing what people are saying, especially when there's other sounds in the show or if there's background noise like my kids or my dishwasher running etc...)
3. I needed something that would generate more volume than my tv's built-in speakers (again, just want to be able to turn it out without the sound turning to crap).
4. I needed something that would put out some bass.
5. I needed something with a digital audio interface (so either optical audio or HDMI) because analog audio sounds like garbage and picks up a lot of noise from interference.
6. I didn't want to spend $500+.
So, I looked at several systems. Most of the soundbars are small enough to sit in front of my TV without blocking my view, but some of them were very big...so I eliminated them from my list. Almost all of the soundbars had better sound than my built-in TV, but I crossed the cheap-o brands off of my list. Again, volume wasn't an issue...in-store testing revealed that all of the soundbar systems available put out quite a bit more sound than my TV without any loss of quality. And again, any soundbar with an active subwoofer generate a lot more bass than my tv, but I did have an issue putting a sub up on the shelf behind my TV. A lot of these systems have an infrared receiver for use with a remote control, and several of them put it on the subwoofer. For me to use that I would have to put the subwoofer on the floor and run a cable up to the TV/Soundbar...which isn't an options for me. So I narrowed my search to system with a wireless subwoofer. The digital audio interface was a little trickier, several of the soundbars only have analog inputs (either the Red/White RCA connection or the miniplug headphone connection). This is fine if you just to hookup an ipod or something like that, but if you want it to process any digital audio (like PCM, Dolby Digital, or DTS) then you need either an optical connection or an HDMI connection. I crossed a few more off the list. The price was the biggest differentiator...there are a handful of decent soundbars under $300...and then there's a rather big jump to $600 & $900+...I don't see any reason to spend this much money on a soundbar unless you absolutely have to. That much money would be better spent installing a full surround system if you can.
So, taking all this into consideration, I ended up looking at the Samsung HT-WS1R. It is listed at $300 and comes in either Red or Grey. I went in to my local best-buy and they happened to have a Red model open box for $270. I had been waiting a long time to pull the trigger on this decision, and I decided to go for it.
A couple points:
1. The best-buy salesperson told me it was a 3.1 system...it is NOT. It is a 2.1 system, which mean it has two speakers and one subwoofer. A 3.1 system will tend to give you better stereo separation (sound moves from left to right when the car goes driving by on the tv) and the center channel will give better vocal range for voices...but in a small soundbar like this you'd hardly notice.
2. The best-buy salesperson also tried to sell me a $30 optical cable. My friend who was with me told me he had one so I didn't buy one, but when I got it home and opened the box I found that it came with a nice optical cable...so you don't need to buy anything for this to work.
The Results:
So I got this home and had it hooked up in under 30 minutes. Be careful connecting the optical cable...there are little rubber caps on the end of the cable that need to be removed, and on mine they were clear so i didn't see them...might have done some damage if I hadn't noticed.
This unit easily met all of my requirements. The volume is much greater than my TV. It is a LOT easier to understand voices. The sub puts out a lot of good, solid bass (really adds to the drama of movies etc...). It looks good, and it all fits the way I want. I put the sub on the floor next to the fireplace and it's creating great sound. I might move it behind the couch and see how that sounds.
Pros:
1. Good value for the money
2. Looks very nice
3. Easy hookup
4. Great sound (quality and volume)
Cons:
1. Can't adjust sub output. (not directly at least. The soundbar has 3 audio modes, News, Cinema, and Music. It also has Passthrough which just plays it how it gets it from the TV...so you can adjust the levels on your TV if you want)
2. Had some issues getting my logitech harmony remote to control this unit, but got that sorted by programming the remote directly using Raw commands.
3. Doesn't have HDMI pass-through which would be nice if I wanted to connect multiple devices directly to this system, but my TV has 3 so I just use the TV to pass the digital audio to the soundbar and it works great.
So, if you're in my position or something similar this is a great buy. I haven't had any issues with sound quality, volume, or subwoofer cut-out. The reviewers that claim that this puts out less volume than their TV must have set this up wrong because it puts out A LOT of volume...I can't turn it up all the way because it would be way too loud...I turn it up to about 4 out of 8.
If you don't have a universal remote and want to hook a bunch of HDMI devices to a TV that only has one or two HDMI inputs, you should look at the Sony HTCT-100 or HTCT-500. They both have multimple HDMI inputs and the subwoofer acts like an AV Receives, so you can control your inputs using it. But, it is not a wireless subwoofer so it will have to have a physical connection to the TV and the Soundbar.
10/6/2010 Update!!!
Two comments
1. I keep the unit on "News" mode all the time now. It's easiest for me to hear dialogue (I think I have a little trouble hearing in this range) and it keeps the bass at a nice level.
2. A lot of people have commented on the sub going in and out. I have discovered through usage that the sub turns off at lower volumes...specifically when the volume is two click below 4 bars (or lower). I haven't noticed any issues with sound but I hear the sub turn off and on when i toggle the volume at that level...i typically keep the volume right at 4 bars except when i'm watching dvds...the volume output of my blu-ray player is lower than the tv so i typically have to turn it up when i watch dvds.
Otherwise, i'm very happy with this purchase and won't even consider an upgrade until someone puts out a 3-channel soundbar with wireless sub + rear speakers!
End Update!!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Samsung HT-WS1R Soundbar

Samsung Soundbar

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Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Sony HTCT500 3.1 Speaker System with Complete Built-In A/V Receiver (Black) Review

Sony HTCT500 3.1 Speaker System with Complete Built-In A/V Receiver (Black)
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This is one slick little soundbar/subwoofer combination. A significant improvement over the previous offering, the CT100. The sound bar is bigger than that model and feels like it is better constructed. The subwoofer is a solid piece of work as well.
Now for the important part, sound quality. The sound quality is much better than the old model and I would say it approaches the quality of the more expensive Yamaha YSP sound bars. You will probably have to do a little tweaking with it to get it set up properly but once you do this baby will shine. Sound is strong from both the soundbar and the subwoofer. The subwoofer is where your connections are located. You can run your dvd/blu ray player and your cable box (among others) to the sub and then the sub will run an HDMI cable to the tv. You can pretty much plug anything into the back of the sub as there are three HDMI inputs, two component inputs and a composite input along with the normal cable tv coax.
One thing to keep in mind. This will not surpass the surround quality of a good quality seperate sound system with multiple speakers. But then again most buyers should know that from the start. This is an option for people who don't want speakers all over the place or who have space issues which make a soundbar solution the best option. I rated this item 5 stars in comparison to other soundbar solutions, not compared to a surround system with multiple speakers. While there are some better sounding soundbars they are at least twice as much if not more expensive. For the quality and price this is an excellent soundbar option.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony HTCT500 3.1 Speaker System with Complete Built-In A/V Receiver (Black)

Experience surround sound with fewer speakers and wires. Add in the full functionality and connections of an A/V receiver and bring excitement to movies and video games. Featuring five HD inputs, three of those HDMI connections with Active Intelligence, S-AIR multi-room audio capability, on-screen user interface, set-up, control and connectivity of the home theater has never been easier. Its flat TV centric design allows the sound bar to blend in.

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Sunday, September 2, 2012

Sony HTCT100 Sound Bar with Subwoofer - Black Review

Sony HTCT100 Sound Bar with Subwoofer - Black
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I tried several 2.1 speaker systems to enhance the sound from our LCD HDTV. The 2.1 speaker systems used the RCA audio output from the TV but I was never satisfied with the quality of the sound, even from the Bose Companion system. I think part of the problem is with the low-level output of the TV's RCA audio connection and for this reason I decided to look for a speaker system that could take advantage of my HDTV's digital optical audio output connection. I also didn't want to have a five-speaker system all around the room and so I focused my search on soundbar-type systems. The Sony HT-CT100, just recently introduced, fit the bill perfectly and comes at a price much lower than the Yamaha and Philips soundbar systems with optical inputs.
The Sony HT-CT100 produces great sound. The speaker bar is very low profile and takes up very little space whether you sit it in front of the TV or hang it on the wall. The subwoofer is large (about the size of a desktop PC) and sits on the floor. The subwoofer has a nice display along the top edge of the box to tell you the various system settings. Best of all, the 200 watt amplifier (built-in to the subwoofer) has multiple HDMI and optical audio inputs and acts as the control center for a complete home theater/sound system. This was an unexpected bonus -no need for a separate home theater receiver. Just plug your satellite system, DVD player(s), game consoles, etc. right into the HT-CT100 and control everything from the remote. It's an elegant solution and I haven't seen anything else quite like it. Since the system takes in digital video/audio directly, you get to enjoy full Dolby Digital surround sound. The system can belt out remarkable volume levels and rich, deep bass. The speaker bar has left, right, and center channel speakers along with the remote control IR sensor. The Sony remote supplied with the system will control all your Sony components; however, if your HDTV, DVD player(s), etc. are not Sony brand (like mine), then be prepared to buy a universal learning remote in order to program the HT-CT100 commands. While I can decipher having several remote controls, I prefer to use a single remote control so that my family has an easier time turning on the TV or watching DVDs. The price of the Sony soundbar system is very reasonable considering its power output and multiple digital video/audio inputs to control your home theater. The quality is impressive (though I did have to return my first system due to a soundbar speaker buzz -my second system is flawless) and it looks and sounds like high-end gear. When I shop for items like this, I look at features, quality, and price without regard to the brand. In this case, Sony simply has a product that works great and provides an elegant solution for those wanting home theater sound in a low-profile package. It's a winner.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony HTCT100 Sound Bar with Subwoofer - Black

This amazing system brings simplicity and performance together by pairing a center speaker and subwoofer to create a surround sound experience in a compact package. Bring your movies to life with the HT-CT100. With three HDMI inputs on tap, this system is tailor made for anyone looking for an easy, quick, and great-sounding solution for their home theater. It can playback LPCM from the HDMI connection, plus you can listen to your favorite music from the DIGITAL MEDIA PORT that works with various accessories (sold separately). The HT-CT100 can also control a select number of BRAVIA televisions with BRAVIA Sync via the HDMI interface. With "One Touch Play," operations that normally take several steps have been reduced to one.

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Monday, July 16, 2012

ZVOX 550HSD Low-Profile Single-Cabinet Surround Sound System with Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs Review

ZVOX 550HSD Low-Profile Single-Cabinet Surround Sound System with Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs
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Before purchasing this speaker/amplifier system, I read every review I could find. However, no matter how well a speaker review is written, the proof is in the actual listening. After some careful measurements of the space where I intended to put this speaker, I decided to go ahead and spring (also known as "putting a dent" in the credit card) for the system. Quick background - I've been using a Yamaha 5.1 channel surround receiver with Bose AM-3 speakers and an OPPO BDP-83 Blu-Ray player. One of my biggest gripes about compact systems has been high levels of total harmonic distortion. But the simple convenience of fewer remotes and easy adjustments does have its charms.
I received the system about 3 days after placing the order and I set it up the day after I got it. Did I say setup? This marvelous audio soundbar/box sets up faster than an egg on hot asphalt. I ran a set of RCA cables from the TV's analog output to the ZVOX analog RCA inputs. Everything else, video and audio-wise, is plugged into the back of the TV. An optical digital cable from the Blu-Ray player to the optical input on the ZVOX takes care of the DVD audio. Even my PC's audio goes through the ZVOX unit.
The unit itself is wonderfully "invisible" in that it sits under the LCD TV base and does not call attention to itself. The sound? With a little noodling on the included remote (which is larger and easier to use than the chiclet size remote provided with the standard 550 model), I was quite impressed. I played my Blu-Ray copy of AVATAR and with the PHASE CUE setting near maximum, the BASS on maximum, treble on about three-quarters of the allowed adjustment range, I began my listening test. After several minutes, I was struck by the fact that the sound was so full and clear that I got lost in the movie. The speakers just "disappeared".
Several observations: The bass output doesn't have quite enough "oomph" for my taste, so I purchased an inexpensive Yamaha YST-50 subwoofer that worked out just nice. It's compact, provides a nice punch to the bass, and fits almost anywhere. As for the surround effect - the system broadens the soundfield more than adding weird surround effects. Truthfully, I like its overall balanced sound much better than some of the other soundbar manufacturers attempts at faux surround.
In summary, if the complexities of today's audio/video receivers and multi-channel rat's nest of connecting cables is driving you to distraction, try the ZVOX 550 HSD system for small spaces (I'm using it in a third bedroom space which is quite small), or the ZVOX 575 HSD system in larger living room spaces. Simple is best!

Click Here to see more reviews about: ZVOX 550HSD Low-Profile Single-Cabinet Surround Sound System with Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs

The Z-Base 550HSD is the only surround sound system designed to act as a base platform for most 26" - 50" flat-panel TVs. Only three inches thick, the Z-Base virtually disappears when placed beneath a flat panel TV. But don’t let is low profile fool you -- the 550HSD sounds absolutely terrific-reproducing music and movie soundtracks with lifelike accuracy. The entire system-speakers, amplifier, virtual surround technology and powered subwoofer-fits into the super-slim cabinet. There are no external speakers, no external subwoofers and no speaker wires.The Z-Base 550HSD complements the design of modern TVs by incorporating beautiful hand-lacquered high-gloss black end panels. The top of the Z-Base 550HSD is finished in rugged, scratch-resistant black vinyl that is less likely to be marred by objects such as the TV placed on its surface. Set-up of the Z-Base 550HSD requires very few steps: Simply place the unit on a stable shelf, table or cabinet. Place your stand-mounted flat-panel TV on top of it.Plug in AC power, one connecting cord to the TV. Sit back and enjoy big, realistic sound including thunderous bass from the builtin powered subwoofer. The Z-Base 550HSD uses the ZVOX PhaseCue virtual surround system to create wide, three-dimensional sound, as if you are listening to speakers eight feet apart from each other, with movie sound effects that literally surround you. You get a room full of sound without a roomful of speakers and wires! TV base should not exceed 27" in width or 13" in depth. TV should not exceed 90 pounds in weight. Safety instructions in Z-Base 550HSD Operating Instructions and in TV's Operating Instructions should be closely examined and followed.

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Friday, April 27, 2012

VIZIO VSB210WS Universal HD Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer Review

VIZIO VSB210WS Universal HD Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer
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I've tested sound bars from Sony, Yamaha, Philips, Samsung and Polk Audio. Was not able to find the Marantz and Denon models. These products encompass a wide range of price points. The one I bought was the Vizio: great sound and convenience at a price near the bottom of the range.
The wireless subwoofer is an amazing convenience. Its range is at least 20 feet, and it sounds terrific in a variety of placements.
I connected the soundbar to my HDTV console with an optical cable, which works extremely well with one caveat--to activate the audio, the TV must be set on a digital channel. After that, analog audio (including from a DVD player) comes through as normal. If you use the included conventional cable, no issues.
You have limited control options to tailor the sound, but that's to be expected at the price. Vizio uses SRS Labs' surround virtualization chip and also throws in its volume stabilizer to knock down loud commercial breaks. This is a cost sacrifice, as the Dolby and DTS HD audio codecs are much more expensive. No problem; the others sound thin, while the Vizio washes you with clear, powerful sound.
It's not true surround sound, but unlike some rivals, the audio experience isn't overly directional (sounds good throughout the room) and is much better than basic stereo. If you can't run wire through your walls to deploy full surround, this is a fine compromise.

Click Here to see more reviews about: VIZIO VSB210WS Universal HD Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer

Product Overview Be the envy of all your friends! Continuing to raise the bar in home electronics, VIZIO brings you the NEW VSB210WS Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer. Designed for home theater enthusiasts, this Sound Bar is the complete audio solution giving you a Wireless Subwoofer that can be placed anywhere* and cutting edge sound technologies such as SRS TruSurroundHD SRS TruVolume delivering the High Definition experience you’ve always desired! Your friends will be so green with envy they may never go home. VIZIO - Where Vision Meets Value!Subwoofer can be placed up to 60ft with clear line of sight Additional Features of the Sound Bar with Subwoofer: SRSTruSurround HD - Experience rich bass and clear dialog SRSTruVolume - Monitors and balances sound levels so you no longer have to experience volume ups and downs Four 3-Inch High-Efficiency hand built mid/bass transducers Two 3/4-Inch High Performance aluminum dome neodymium tweeters Subwoofer Frequency Response: 35Hz up to 80Hz 6.5-Inch long throw (high excursion) driver Subwoofer placement anywhere within 60 ft of sound bar - clear line of sight High-Performance 32-Bit 150MHz DSP Audio Engine Impressive Sound Pressure Level measuring 90dB SPL (1W @ 1M)SPEAKER BAR DIMENSIONS 39.95-Inch (W) X 4.82-Inch (H) X 4.33-Inch (D) SUBWOOFER DIMENSIONS 11.18-Inch (W) X 12.77-Inch (H) X 11.84-Inch (D)

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Friday, April 20, 2012

Philips AmbiSound Home Theater Sound Bar with Integrated 1080p-Upscaling DVD/MP3 Player, HTS8100/37 Review

Philips AmbiSound Home Theater Sound Bar with Integrated 1080p-Upscaling DVD/MP3 Player, HTS8100/37
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Always a tricky one when reviewing something which sounds great, but doesnt really do what it says on the tin.
I read a few reviews on the Phillips sound bar and decide to go for it rather than the Yahama, due to its inclusion of an upscaling DVD player being built in.
My house just doesnt lend itself well to placing 5 speakers, particularly rears, so I thought what the heck I'll try this.
The audio quality is excellent, deep bass (not quite sharp enough with movies on normal settings but that can be fixed by tweaking the audion settings and cranking the treble)and a huge array of different pre set movie and audio settings to suit your ear.
But as far as virtual Surround Sound capability goes...there isnt any as far as I can tell. I've tried various DVD's with scenes I know bring in the rear speakers on full systems and there is no distinguishable surround effect.
Disappointing really, although I have to say I still love the overall sound when its cranked up, it really booms out.
So if you want a boost to your TV sound and have a beautiful looking sound bar with built in DVD (and it does look awesome), you cant go far wrong. But if you are thinking you can change the laws of physics and have surround sound without rear speakers, think again, cause this just doesnt work!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Philips AmbiSound Home Theater Sound Bar with Integrated 1080p-Upscaling DVD/MP3 Player, HTS8100/37

Sometimes the quest for home surround sound is as ignominious as seeking the holy grail. Where do you place all those speakers? Do you have to reshape the room? Philips engineers have tackled that problem. They've managed to take the output from 5 distinct channel amplifiers and placed them in a single speaker called a Soundbar. Within the soundbar, speakers are angled to provide a realistic audio environment that literally emulates sound as if it's coming from all sides. It's 5.1 surround without the mess! In addition to the latest audio technology, the Ambisound system is only five inches thick and can be easily mounted onto a wall underneath an existing Flat-TV. The simple, yet elegant design enhances the décor of any home theater space, regardless of the room layout or design. The center console is designed to be mounted on a wall or resting on a stand. For maximum audio quality and clarity, the Ambisound system features a 3-band equalizer and DoubleBASS deep bass performance, creating a smooth cross over between sounds. The speakers feature soft dome tweeters for increased clarity and clear voice performance and are designed for maximum efficiency for full midrange performance. Additionally, users will enjoy the Smart Surround feature, which automatically ensures correct surround sound settings whether a movie or music is playing. Though not exactly 5.1 channel sound, The HTS8100 uses a host of technologies including array processing, precise driver positioning and psycho-acoustic innovation to achieve the full surround sound performance that is 5.1 channel compatible. Auxiliary input ports Subwoofer Only five-inches thick, the Ambisound SoundBar provides a stylish system with amplifier and a DVD player all in a single sophisticated design Philips advanced Sonowave surround SonoWave surround sound technology is compatible with all 5.1 channel surround-sound sources, such as DVDs, SACDs

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Saturday, March 17, 2012

JVC TH-BA1 Soundbar System with Wireless Subwoofer Review

JVC TH-BA1 Soundbar System with Wireless Subwoofer
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You should know that a soundbar is not replacement for a home theater system. You are not going to the full impact bass and big room filling sound with a soundbar. What are you going to get? Convenience, simplicity and, if you set your expectations right, pleasing sound.
The JVC TH-BA1 delivers high value performance. It's an attractive, well built unit which provides sound that will probably put your TV audio to shame (it did mine - a Panasonic Viera plasma). The wireless subwoofer is a little muddy and undefined but does not overpower or boom. The unit has no variable crossover control but the factory setting sounds very balanced. You just plug it into a wall power outlet and follow the extremely simple pairing instructions and you are up in less than a minute.
The 2 surround settings are very subtle and natural sounding, avoiding that fake effect of many units. There are 2 optical inputs, so if you are not using HDMI this could come in handy for game consoles, disc players or DVRs. The small remote has the basic controls, plus the ability to control the relative loundness of the the center and surround channels, and the subwoofer. For you Tivo owners, the JVC codes work and you can control volume with your Tivo remote.
I choose this JVC unit over the Polk and Boston Acoustic offerings. I'd be curious to hear those units, but am very satisfied with the JVC. I recommend the TH-BA1 to anyone who wants to upgrade their TV sound without the expense and hassle of a full blown home theater system.

Click Here to see more reviews about: JVC TH-BA1 Soundbar System with Wireless Subwoofer


Featuring a low-profile 4.1-channel front surround speaker, the JVC TH-BA1 Soundbar System is matched to a wireless subwoofer for a fully immersive sound for your movies and favorite music. The soundbar is configured to fit neatly under a TV or can be wall-mounted and its front surround technology eliminates the need for rear speakers and the placement problems, clutter, and extra wiring that comes with them. A single cable connects the soundbar to a source (DVD or Blu-ray player) or TV.


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Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Polk Audio SurroundBar360° DVD Home Theater System (Black) Review

Polk Audio SurroundBar360° DVD Home Theater System (Black)
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Observations
Pros: Built like a tank
Simple setup
Cool factor of 10
Cons:
Should have blue ray at this price point.
Frankly I think it needs a subwoofer, Tried it for a few days with a Polk subwoofer and without. Yes it sounds decent without a sub, but only decent, not great. I have yet to hear anything even close to 5.1 or any type of surround. Upon contacting Polk, I was advised that this bar was NOT (unlike the soundbar series) designed to be used above the tv only below with the optimal placement directly in the front of the tv. Frankly the soundbar sitting in front of a 56 inch tv looks horrible, under it it looks built in. Polk indicating that could affect the sound field. Well thats just cute, the whole POINT of this system was it was supposed to give you the 5.1 effect regardless of placement or your position in the room!
It is a nice system, could use a tad more volume, not amazing with the surround, even though the wide open setup I heard at best buy was nothing short of amazing, but in my 12 X 12 living room, far less than spectacular.
Finally save your money, at this price point the 360 is not ready for prime time. If you are looking for solid tight sound in a high end soundbar this is it. If you are expecting the results Polk claims you will be badly disappointed.My old 5.1 theater in a box $300.00 system sounded a tad better frankly.UPDATE:
After owning this a few months I must say it is a complete waste of money.
There simply is no separation in the soundfield regardless of the input signal.
I have tweaked this system to no end with lackluster results.
For a grand there is a endless amount of equipment that you could purchase that would put this system to shame.
Polk missed on this one, if your heart is set on one, wait a while as the price is certain to go down due to the LARGE amount of people disappointed in this system.
This is nothing more than a fancy expensive 2.1 system. Save your money.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Polk Audio SurroundBar360° DVD Home Theater System (Black)

Polk Audio SurroundBar 360-degree DVD Theater is a complete home entertainment system. It incorporates the enveloping sonic benefits of our SurroundBar SDA technology and our patented PowerPort bass venting technology with the convenience of a control console that is a DVD/CD player, amplifier, and an AM/FM radio. The SurroundBar 360-degree has sleek, contemporary design and simple, single-cable speaker hookup which makes it ideal for anyone who wants big, rich surround sound home entertainment without any of the hookup hassles of multiple speakers and wires. The SurroundBar 360-degree DVD Theater employs 8 drivers. A patented combination of signal processing and acoustical geometry produces the vivid three dimensional surround field that exists on the original recording. What you hear is essentially the same as if sounds were actually coming from all around and behind you.

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Saturday, February 25, 2012

Philips HSB3280/F7 Micro Hi-Fi Soundbar System Review

Philips HSB3280/F7 Micro Hi-Fi Soundbar System
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This Philips soundbar is a little gem. Small enough to set up easily, a wireless subwoofer that actually works and can be heard, without the silly DVD player to break that everyone already has, great loud gaming sound -- we use it with our Xbox for more realistic gaming sounds. We purchased it for our living room and with our old TV and old satellite box, we were very very pleased. We upgraded and realized there were no HMDI connections and we were out of luck. Our new Samsung TV did not recognize this unit in it's Anynet+ system. Couldn't make it work properly with the system that we acquired, and so it went with the old TV and became the gaming soundbar. We are using it, we do like it, we do recommend it. We just recommend checking the connections you need before you buy.
We think Philips makes a great product. We like the sound. It was a good price. It even comes with the wall mounting bracket in the box. Everything you could want. Our problem is that we didn't check to get the right connectivity for our system.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Philips HSB3280/F7 Micro Hi-Fi Soundbar System

The Philips HSB3280 Micro Hi-Fi Soundbar System gives you powerful audio effects that your flat TV cannot deliver. The 1-piece integrated system with a wireless subwoofer requires no additional speakers or unruly wires for a truly immersive gaming experience. Smartpower system syncs power status of TV and AV devices. Enrich your AV entertainment experience with Philips HSB3280.

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Sunday, February 5, 2012

Panasonic SC-HTB10 120W 2.1-Channel Slim Sound Bar System with 3D Pass Through (Black) Review

Panasonic SC-HTB10 120W 2.1-Channel Slim Sound Bar System with 3D Pass Through (Black)
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I bought this unit to pair with my Panasonic TC-P42S2 42-Inch 1080p Plasma HDTV, and am generally pleased. I live in an apartment, so a unit with a booming external subwoofer or a complete home theater setup would not be very neighborly of me. The sound is a great improvement over the TV's stock speakers--there is more than enough bass for me, especially when playing films like The Dark Knight on Blu-Ray--the sound was surprisingly good. The sound from the TV's stock speakers seemed to go down and a bit behind the TV; the sound bar sends sound forward (which allows me to lower the volume). The sound is not surround. I also found that playing with the settings helps a lot. For example, the Dolby virtual effect sounds great when watching Blu-Ray movies, but sometimes doesn't sound so good when watching sports--depending on the quality of the audio feed, announcers may sound a little tinny. You will therefore want to keep the sound bar remote handy, in order to make adjustments as needed.
As my TV has an ARC connection (the sound bar is connected to the TV via a single HDMI cable), I am able to adjust sound volume from my TV, DirecTV, and Panny Blu-Ray remotes--the sound bar also turns on and off when I activate or shut off the TV. So integration is pretty seamless, once you get all the settings correctly entered. Speaking of settings, the directions for changing the TV's settings are awful--they are general to all TVs and not specific for Panasonic products, so you will have to mess around with the menu settings by trial and error in both Audio and Viera Link to synch everything up. In spite of this, set up is actually pretty easy.
If you plan on placing the sound bar in front of your TV on a level surface, I recommend that you place the TV on a 2" or 3" platform, as the height of the sound bar blocks the TV's infrared sensor. I made a simple platform with a channel for the sound bar's cords, so it looks uncluttered.
Also, there are no separate bass and treble controls at all--one can only adjust the internal subwoofer. I have my subwoofer set one or two notches below maximum for films like The Dark Knight (which has extremely high audio quality and a ton of bass), and maximum for the sports I watch, which have lower quality sound.
Finally, it is worth noting that the sound bar matches Panasonic TV's aesthetic form, so they look really good together.
EDIT: The curves and glossy plastic match, but the accent styling does not match--the TV has a bluish line below the Panasonic label, and the sound bar has a silver line below the label. In this respect, they look a bit different. Perhaps other Panny TVs have the silver accent.
This sound bar is not a home theater system--it's not even close. However, if you are on a budget, do not need or want surround effects blasted at high volumes, or live in an apartment where you have to minimize sound levels, this is a great way to improve upon your TV's stock speakers.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Panasonic SC-HTB10 120W 2.1-Channel Slim Sound Bar System with 3D Pass Through (Black)

Clear-mode Dialog. Clear TV Sound Reproduction. With clear-mode dialog, the voice will sound more from the center of the TV display. With more precise inking between the picture and the sound, the dialog voices and vocals in movies and music can be enjoyed with clearer sound. Advanced Bamboo Cone SpeakerClear, Beautiful Vocals. With the new bamboo cone speakers the sound becomes more responsive. Vocals are purer and clearer, and the dialog is crisper and easier to understand than ever before.

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Thursday, February 2, 2012

Philips HSB2351/F7 Home SoundBar with 1080p HDMI Review

Philips HSB2351/F7 Home SoundBar with 1080p HDMI
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I was looking for something that would fit in my entertainment center and this is perfect. The sound is great to enhance the TV sound and play my ipod.
Pros:
>Easy to set up and connect everything.
>Sound is perfect for my small living room. The FM radio picks up stations great...better then anything I have in the house?
>I ordered it on Monday and received it on Wednesday afternoon. I paid regular shipping...little over $10
>USB port access it great...pops down on a hinge in the front of the unit for easy access.
Cons:
>One of the speaker components had a loose screw rolling around inside???? Doesn't seem to be affecting it.
>The MP3 port is on the very top of the unit...I can't plug into it because it's in a shelf in my entertainment center. It would be great if it was on the face of the unit like the USB port.
The MP3 thing is a real bummer...that was a important part for me...I will have to try and find a low profile connector or a dock that will work.

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The Philips HSB2381 SoundBar with 1080p HDMI brings audio and video to life with integrated speakers, amplifiers, built-in FM tuner and DVD player. This sound bar fits with any 32 inches and above Philips TV. It has HDMI 1080p for true high definition video upscaling and a Dolby virtual speaker for theater audio experience. The HSB2351 fits your space and your lifestlye with sophisticated design that matches your flat TV and flexible placemnet on the wll, tabletop or stand.

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Friday, January 20, 2012

High Gloss Piano Finish 5.1 Dolby Digital DTS True Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System For Your TV, DVD Player, Ipod, Xbox, Ps3 Review

High Gloss Piano Finish 5.1 Dolby Digital DTS True Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System For Your TV, DVD Player, Ipod, Xbox, Ps3
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This is a piece of Junk - nice photo though. It came used - broken - reboxed and not comatable with US spec A/V components. The manual is the worst case of "ENGRISH" I have ever seen. It is more of a joke than anything else. The Amazon ads are a fraud. I have spent 3 days now and have yet to ID the seller or the shipper. Amazon, themselves, can not tell me. If you are lucky enough to find a phone # to contact them. They do not screen the sellers they represent as advocates of a much better company. I am disheartened and out nearly [...]. If you do not buy directly from Amazon - beware. E-bay has much better safeguards.

Click Here to see more reviews about: High Gloss Piano Finish 5.1 Dolby Digital DTS True Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System For Your TV, DVD Player, Ipod, Xbox, Ps3

4000 Watt PMPO LCD TV 5.1 Surround Sound SpeakersWith one of kind, Frisby FS-4000 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound LCD TV Stand Speakers, your home music options have never been better. The Frisby FS-4000 is a one key controller audio solution for all your home audio needs to achieve the best quality in-home audio experience possible. The system includes 42 speakers and a amplified woofer center channel and 2 side stamd provides flexibility to use the system as in three pieces or in one piece for your LCD TV Stand. The system is Dolby Digital DTS AC-3 5.1 ready with HQ BASS technology produces rich bass, powerful midrange and crystal clear highs. Powerful 4000 Watt PMPO amplified subwoofer with ported wood enclosure consists of high gloss front panel piano finish and full magnetic shielding. Frisby FS-4000 is a one of a kind very high end surround sound system combines both speaker system and TV Standing feature with all audio inputs you would ever need and worth every penny and has convenience to delivery to your home, you won't be disappointedExceptional Surround SoundProfessional sound performance and powerful sound quality powered with 4000 Watt PMPO subwoofer and 42 amplified speakersMagnetically Shielded The four satellite and center speakers are magnetically shielded to prevent picture interference when placed near your TV or display.The FS-4000 has The New LX technologies to help create the most suitable listening environment for your home.The FS-4000 uses this technology to counter distortion created by walls, furniture, and other objects. This technology detects speaker distance, and then sets levels, delays, and crossovers, while also measuring room acoustics.DimensionFront 27.5 x 9 x 7 Rear9.5 x 9 x 7 Center 27.5 x 9 x 7 Subwoofer 27.5 x 9 x 7

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Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Sony HT-CT150 Virtual 5.1 Channel Sound Bar and Subwoofer Set + Accessory Kit Review

Sony HT-CT150 Virtual 5.1 Channel Sound Bar and Subwoofer Set + Accessory Kit
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The Sony HT-CT150 Virtual 5.1 Channel Sound Bar and Subwoofer set exceeded my expectations. I've had full surround sound in the past and was a little worried that this wouldn't cut for me, but I must say that I'm very impressed with this product. It was easy to set up, and the sound is very good. I would highly recommend this product to someone that wants surround sound, but wants to save on space.

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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.KIT INCLUDES:* HDMI-HDMI CABLE.* SURGE PROTECTOR.

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Sunday, January 15, 2012

Sharp HTSB200 2.1 Sound Bar Audio System Review

Sharp HTSB200 2.1 Sound Bar Audio System
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Bought the wife a new 40" Samsung LCD and while I was very pleased with the picture, I was severely disappointed in the sound quality. No matter how much I played with the adjustments, it just sounded very flat with absolutely zero bass. After reading up, it appeared that a sound bar was exactly what I was looking for. This was for the living room which is primarily where my wife watches TV. She doesn't care about having the sound of a big 7.1 system like I have in the den. Her primary requirements were something that didn't add clutter like speaker stands, wall mounts, etc. but still improved the sound quality a bit.
I bought two sound bars to compare and just planned on taking one back. The first was a Vizio VSB200 and the other was the Sharp HTSB200. Since they are probably two of the closest that people will be comparing when looking for a budget sound bar, they are the two I will compare. Of the two, I chose the Sharp for the following reasons:
1. It is much smaller in size but sounds as good. The Vizio was large enough to stick up above the bottom of the TV on it's stand.
2. The Sharp remote is an actual remote unlike the Vizio which comes with a very cheap looking remote with the bubble buttons on it - in my experience, remotes like the Vizio's don't last very long.
3. The Bass and Treble are adjustable on the Sharp, on the Vizio they are not.
4. You can adjust the "subwoofer" on the Sharp, I don't even know if the Vizio has anything resembling a subwoofer. I use subwoofer loosely because while the sound bar does have some bass, don't expect anything like a stand alone subwoofer.
5. The Sharp has an actual display on the front, the Vizio just has a series of lights behind the cloth cover.
A few things I liked abut the Vizio over the Sharp:
1. Has an optical input, the Sharp does not (the next model up in the Sharp line, the HTSB300 DOES have an optical input).
2. Is controllable by my Dish Network universal remote. The Sharp may be as well but I haven't found a code that will work yet.
Make no mistake, neither provides a true surround sound experience. At no time did I feel as if sounds were coming from anywhere other than in front of me. I think it's stupid for the companies to even promote them as a surround sound experience. What they both do and do well is expand the sound stage of crappy flat screen speakers but the Sharp does it in a smaller package and with more features and adjust-ability.
Edit:
May have spoke too soon with such a positive review for this unit. After having it hooked up all day, I am frequently experiencing an annoying, random half second drop out of the audio. I have contacted Sharp CS but haven't heard back yet. Saw on a few A/V forums where there are others with the same problem. I'll update here as the situation progresses.
Edit 2: Contacted Sharp by phone regarding the audio drop out. I was impressed with their customer service. Very short wait, rep acted genuinely interested in helping. The problem relates to a power saving feature that turns the speaker off automatically when a signal isn't detected. I had my TVs internal speakers turned off (I bought the sound bar due to my TVs crappy speakers in the first place, of course I'm going to turn them off). This apparently tricks the circuitry in the sound bar into periodically thinking there is no sound so it clicks on and off, thus the audio drop out. The rep had me turn my TVs speakers back on and put them at a low setting of 5. I can just barely hear them with the sound bar off and not at all when the sound bar is on. I was skeptical but it apparently worked because I watched a few hours of DVDs and the issue didn't reappear. Poor engineering on their part if you ask me but I can live with it. They should have given an option to turn the power saving feature on and off. Next issue is tracking down a code that allows the sound bar to be controlled by a universal remote.
Edit 3: Problem still occurs occasionally but as I turn the volume up on the TV itself, it happens less frequently. At this point though I can't turn the TV up any louder without hearing it in conjunction with the sound bar, which actually degrades the sound quality. Contacted seller and they agreed to send me a replacement unit to rule out the first one as a defective unit. I'm not willing to give up on this product yet but it still baffles me that it could be engineered so that you have to leave your TV volume up a bit to get past the power saving feature. Makes no sense.
4th and hopefully final edit: Got a replacement unit and knock on wood, this one seems to be working properly. I have my TV volume set at zero and have experienced no drop outs with the new unit. I guess it can be chalked up to a defective unit. At this point I am completely satisfied with the product and would recommend it. Still no luck with a remote code though.
If any other owners of the product are experiencing the same drop out, please post a reply.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sharp HTSB200 2.1 Sound Bar Audio System


Designed to simulate a surround sound effect without the bulk and added cost of a full home theater audio system, the Sharp HTSB200 Sound Bar provides a 2.1-channel surround sound environment. The compact Sound Bar encases left and right speakers, as well as a subwoofer, in one clean unit for 32 watts of total power output (5W x 2, plus 22W subwoofer). It can be placed on a TV stand (32-inch class LCD and up) with included mounting plates and adjustable feet to straddle the base of an LCD TV.
The Sharp Sound Bar simulates a surround sound effect without the bulk of adding a full speaker set.

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Saturday, December 17, 2011

Samsung HT-X810 2.1 Channel Sound Bar Home Theater System Review

Samsung HT-X810 2.1 Channel Sound Bar Home Theater System
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I'm not an audiophile and found the HT-X810 quite by accident after doing a google search for 'wall mount stereo'. I'd lived in Denmark and had seen Bang & Olufsen stuff so knew that it was possible to put a stereo in a discrete shell but was hoping that some company made something that didn't require an additional mortgage. I've got cable but no set top box or TV furniture to hold components so my main objective was to find something that complimented my wall-mounted flat screen, didn't require turning my dry wall into swiss cheese to hide miles of wire, and provided some semblance of 'theater-like' sound. After trolling the web I found a number of 2.1 systems. Below is a discussion of these and the reasoning why I went with the Samsung:
Yamaha YAS-70/1BL: The Good: 1) Has an SPDIF (digital optical audio) input for directing broadcast TV audio through the receiver in digital format rather than simple RCA 2-channel stereo. 2) Relatively slim soundbar/display looks nice and fits inconspicuously below the TV. 3) Includes wall-mount hardware. 4) The sub has a clean look. The Bad: 1) Requires not one but two 13-foot cables (control & speaker) between the sub and the soundbar/display, which requires hiding wires and, more importantly, limits placement of the sub. 2) The digital AV connections are on the sub so, depending on sub placement, the cables to the TV may have to be relatively long (i.e. 13 feet) and, like the control and speaker cables, also require hiding. 3) You must use a separate dvd player, which 'ruins' the clean wall-mount look unless you have a TV with an integrated dvd player or a piece of furniture. 4) The number of digital AV connection ports is very limited so you'll have to connect components (dvd player, game consul, etc...) through the TV and then onto the receiver via the SPDIF, which means more wires. 5) As far as I could find, there is no iPOD/Mp3/USB connection dock.
Sony HT-CT100: The Good: 1) Can make the SPDIF connection to the TV for good sound on broadcast TV. 2) The sub/receiver has plenty of HDMI connection ports for connecting the TV and additional components. 3) Has a nice slim speaker for mounting under the TV. 4) Includes wall-mount hardware. The Bad: 1) Requires a 10-foot cable between the sub/receiver and the soundbar, which raises the problems of hiding the cable and even more limited sub placement than the Yamaha. The cable is a 9-pin serial cable, which is a standard PC cable and so can be swapped out for something longer for better sub placement but it still needs hiding. 2) The digital AV connections are on the sub so there are more wires to hide and the farther away the sub is from the TV, the longer these must be. 3) You must use a separate dvd player. 4) The remote sensor is on the sub/receiver so unless its placed on the same wall as the TV, using the remote can be a bit counter-intuitive. 4) The porthole is on the front of the sub and looks a bit odd. 5) The iPOD/Mp3/USB connection dock is only available separately.
Philips HTS8100: The Good: 1) Has an integrated 1080 resolution dvd player. 2) Has an HDMI connection port to send digital video signal to the TV for dvd playback. 3) The soundbar/display is reminiscent of the Yamaha, just a bit bigger but still not obtrusive. 4) Includes wall-mount hardware. 5) The sub is smallish and looks good. 6) Has iPOD/Mp3/USB docking capability. The Bad: 1) Requires a clunky 15-foot cable between the sub/receiver and the soundbar, which raises the problems of hiding wires and limited sub placement. 2) Has no SPDIF connection for digital audio from the TV and instead offers a pair of RCA stereo inputs on the soundbar plus another pair of RCAs and a single coaxial digital audio input on the sub/receiver. This likely means buying an SPDIF-to-coaxial adapter and using the input on the sub to get digital audio for either broadcast TV or game console play. Even with this `fix' you'll have to choose which gets stuck with simple 2-channel RCA sound and again, you're adding more wire between the sub and the TV/soundbar that will need hiding. 5) The iPOD/Mp3/USB dock is a clumsy external unit.
At this point in my research, it seemed that the problem with all 2.1 systems was their flat sound reproduction in comparison to true 5.1 systems. Convenience does come with a price but the inherent sound limitation of 2.1 systems can be minimized through placement of the sub. The most obvious weakness of 2.1 systems is the lack of genuine rear stage sound and the best way to overcome this is to place the sub opposite the TV and near the listeners. In terms of sound, convenience and aesthetics then, the most significant problem with the Yamaha, Sony and Philips systems is the wired connection that must be made between their soundbars and their subs. The length of these cables limits the distance that the sub can be place away from the soundbar, which hurts sound quality. Additionally, and with varying degrees of severity due to where digital AV connections are made and whether or not a dvd player must be connected, the running of AV cables takes away from the convenience and clean lines that drew me to a 2.1 system in the first place. My conclusion then, was to get a 2.1 system with a wireless sub and an integrated dvd player so that I could best mimic rear stage sound and not have to worry about using a separate dvd player, extending the sub-soundbar cable of a wired 2.1 systems for better sub placement, hiding wires throughout the living room. As there are only two companies offering 2.1 systems with wireless subs and only one company offering a 2.1 system with both a wireless sub and an integrated dvd player, my choice was easy.
Boston Acoustics TVee Model 2: The Good: 1) Has the wireless sub needed for most easily diminishing the weaknesses of 2.1 sound. The Bad: Requires connecting a separate dvd player.
Samsung HT-X810: The Good: 1) Has the wireless sub needed for most easily diminishing the weaknesses of 2.1 sound. 2) Has an integrated dvd player that upscales to 1080 resolution. 3) Has an SPDIF input for directing broadcast TV audio through the receiver in digital format rather than 2-channel RCA stereo. 4) Has an HDMI connection for good digital picture reproduction during dvd playback. 5) Includes wall-mount hardware. 6) The sub looks good and is very simple to hook-up. The Bad: 1) Base-heavy sound and limited adjustability of the sub volume. 2) At 39" wide and 7" tall, its bigger than the other systems and so probably best suited for a 42" or larger TV. 3) Has USB port but iPOD/Mp3 dock requires and aftermarket wire. 4) It doesn't have BluRay but neither does the Philips. 5) It costs more than the units that don't include a dvd player but it's on par with the Philips, which does.
Happy Shopping.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Samsung HT-X810 2.1 Channel Sound Bar Home Theater System

This sleek 2-piece unit simplifies your home theater experience and lets you enjoy the same powerful surround sound without the hassle of setting up speakers and running wires. It has all the features you want like 5.1 virtual surround sound and a 5.8GHz wireless subwoofer that delivers rich, high-quality audio. Plus, the built-in 1080p upconverting DVD player will transform your standard DVDs to beautiful high definition. The wall-mountable SAMSUNG HT-X810T is the ideal home theater system for your wall-mounted HDTV.

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Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Samsung HW-C450 Soundbar Speaker Review

Samsung HW-C450 Soundbar Speaker
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Ok let's start by telling you, that I am not just some guy doing a review. I have purchased and tested 3 other Soundbars and tested all the rest in the stores... First was the Vizio Bar - Ok sound, but did not produce a real surround sound effect. And I was able to max... out the volume at 3am in the morning with out waking anyone up... Needless to say it ain't all that loud... Although it had easy one wire hookup with a fiber optic cable... Second was the Sony HTC100 with HDMI hookups. This one was loved for it"s ease to hookup HMDI components straight to it and it acted as a switch. The big thing is, this unit was horrible on sound. I turned it up to it's max of 50 and could still hear my dishwasher in the background... As a matter of fact when me and best buy guy Dave tried it, we could talk over it on max vol... Now for the Samsung HW-C450: Amazing - amazing- amazing... This unit out did all the others on volume of only 26 with a max of I don't know (I think 60), because I'm afraid to turn it up because it may bust the speakers it's so loud... This Sound bar is great for the person who knows nothing about 5.1 and 7.2 channel theater systems. You will be very happy. Now I am a owner of a old Sherwood Receiver and 5.1 Dolby Surround System, with Cerwin Vega speakers... And it doesn"t give the back noise as great, but it definitely stands it's ground for a one pc speaker... Now for someone who knows about theater systems, don't get scare, this is the best low cost unit you can get and you will be amazed, but all I'm saying is, don't expect a 5.1 Dolby Sound from this. It is amazing sound, but doesn't hit every corner like your seperate speakers will. Now for design, A+++... Samsung gets thumbs up from me. It's not a big as the others @38" I think... But this thing hits harder then the rest. But the look is classy with revealed speakers with the crome tone tips... Just nice... Oh and I almost forgot it's touch operated, which is a nice added feature... Now for room size, mine covers a petty good sized family room. And still rattles the walls upstairs. And clearly heard outside the house. This one has 2 options for sound hook up, Analog RCA (Provided) and Fiber Optic (Provided). I opted for Fiber Optic, because my TV automatically sends the sound from the TV to the Soundbar. Which is the easiest thing for me, because it saves you from having to hook up and waste money on a receiver. All you would have to do if you had all HDMI hookup (Seeing if your TV didn't already have enough of them) is buy a HDMI switch from online or Best Buy. I use my Cable box HDMI, Blu Ray Player HDMI, DVD/VCR HMDI. But if you havee more things like Wii, Xbox360, etc. The switch will help you send the signal to the TV. I have not found any negatives with the unit as of yet. It has played both, burned DVDs well and regular ones with great sound... So there has not been any problems... Great sound, Great look, and Great price... And the Wireless Sub is fantastic. Use Cinema for Music, not Music... Under the equalizer. Has about 5 options...

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2.1 Channel,Wireless Active Subwoofer,Optical Input,Smart Volume,Virtual Surround

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Friday, October 21, 2011

Panasonic SC-HTB500 2.1-Channel SoundBar Speaker System with Wireless Kelton Subwoofer (Black) Review

Panasonic SC-HTB500 2.1-Channel SoundBar Speaker System with Wireless Kelton Subwoofer (Black)
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I recently took advantage of the Amazon Gold Box Deal and bought the Panasonic TCP42G25 and got this sound bar for free. This was exactly what I needed to replace a poor quality Olevia LCD TV in my bedroom. I have a fully decked out audio/video room already so all I wanted was something decent for the bedroom. After some tweaking and rewiring, I was able to integrate this with the new Panasonic Plasma, an old Panasonic Blu-Ray DMP-BD35, and a low end Dish Network VIP211. The big puzzle was a bug in the Dish receiver that caused it to fail to deliver Dolby 5.1 over the HDMI cable. I took advantage of the second HDMI input on the soundbar with an optical input to solve this problem. Bottom line, no new wires, no new A/V receiver and fantastic sound from a very simple setup. It is very easy to do a "side-by-side" comparison because Panasonic's VieraLink will return the sound back to the TV if you turn the soundbar off. What a difference! I am only giving the unit 4 stars because of the lack of some, in my opinion, basic functions being absent. Why would Panasonic not put simple bass and treble controls on a unit that retails for $349? Other than that, I am really enjoying the new setup.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Panasonic SC-HTB500 2.1-Channel SoundBar Speaker System with Wireless Kelton Subwoofer (Black)

Wireless Kelton Subwoofer. The included Wireless Kelton Subwoofer provides flexible and easy installation with no wires to connect. Clear-mode DialogClear TV Sound Reproduction With clear-mode dialog, the voice will sound more from the center of the TV display. With more precise linking between the picture and the sound, the dialog voices and vocals in movies and music can be enjoyed with clearer sound. Advanced Bamboo Cone SpeakerClear, Beautiful Vocals. With the new bamboo cone speakers the sound becomes more responsive. Vocals are purer and clearer, and the dialog is crisper and easier to understand than ever before.

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