HTIB kind of

[Grimis]

I want the receiver/amp but I do not need the dvd player. I'm on a very small budget ($200). Is it even worth buying? don't have to have 5.1, but it would be nice if obtainable. want to hook up to TV and laptop. What are my options? should i look to buy used gear on this site? Thanks for the help

 

[Kai]

In my opinion I suggest you save your money. $200 will buy you some very very low quality gear that will quickly dissatisfy you.
Even used gear will be difficult in that price range unless a friend or family member is giving you a great deal.

If you must have a system head to your local big box and give them a listen...buy whatever sounds decent to you and make sure to check on their return policy...I feel you will soon return it.

 

[Hi Ho]

If you can spend just a bit more, I'd say a multimedia system such as the Logitech Z-5500 would be the best choice. The sound quality would be better than just about any HTiB in the price range. The control box acts as a receiver with multiple connections and the ability to decode Dolby Digital and DTS.

 

[Grimis]

What about the z-5450, the rears are wireless (nice for install) wireless remote also. sub is a 6.5 in a bandpass, where as the 5500 is a 10. what do you guys think?

 

[ian1386]

If it's for a dorm room or something similar to that, then I also suggest just going for the logitech set...small, loud, sound good, etc...sounds more suited to what you need.

 

[Hi Ho]

The decision is yours. You need to weigh the differences. I have the older Logitech Z-640's on my PC and that little 6.5" sub can really pump out the bass, for it's size.

The 10" sub on the Z-5500's would certainly go lower and lowder but if the rear speaker wires would really be a problem I would go for the 5540's.

 

[ejreiss]

I have some equipment you may be interested in. I have a mirage center channel speaker a sony integrated receiver I think it is 1090 model but I have to check and some rear channel speakers. The equipment is kind of old. lets say about 10 years old however I haven't even used it in about 7 years. the receiver is a real power house. the mirage is a good center channel and I also have to check the rear channels but I recall they are advents. Of course you could not hook this up to get true 5.1 surround. I don't even think the receiver has digital inputs. Willing to sell it all for $100 plus shipping. Just bought outlaw 990 pre-pro and 7125 amp plus paradigm studio reference speakers and the surround sound for movies is phenominal however as far as I can recall the old sony kicked but and sounded better for music. I use to play my music on a pair of cerwin vega loudspeakers that also kicked but but I don't have them anymore.