Need some advice

[csmith15]

I am new to the whole a/v world, but I recently got a new HD tv, and am wanting to get a good HT system for it. The problem is I need to eliminate the rear speakers, so I am looking for a good 2 or 3 speaker system. I found the Bose 3-2-1 series 2 for $750, but I notice that alot of people don't reccomend Bose. I was wondering if that was a good deal or if there was something that would sound better for the same price or less. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[jcPanny]

HT system

If you do some reading on the forum, I think you will find several better performing options than the bose 3-2-1 system.

If you want something simple to setup, like the bose, and only need 2 channels, then check out the Denon S-101 system. Note, that unlike the Bose you get a subwoofer in addition to the two speakers.
http://smart.denon.com/s101.asp

If you have a small to medium size square room, then the Yamaha YSP-800 might be a good option. The YSP will simulate surround sound and can be directly connected to DVD and other audio inputs.

If you don't mind a little wiring and setup then you should consider a 5.1 speaker system with an entry level receiver and DVD player. In you budget, BIC or Athena bookshelf speakers and an entry level Yamaha or Onkyo receiver would be a good combination.

Post your budget, room size, # of speakers (2.1, 5.1, or 7.1), and the number of components you need (speakers, receiver, DVD, etc.) and you will get more specific recommendations.

 

[agarwalro]

The surround experience with less than 5.1 setup will be highly unsatisfactory. Why are you constrained from setting up rear speakers?

 

[csmith15]

The Room is roughly 300sq ft, give or take a little. Not sure right at this moment. I would like to keep my budget around $700 or less if possible. I am constrained to a 2.1 system for 2 reasons. My wife does not want any wires, and also I have cats that love to chew on them. I'm sure I could set it up where neither of those would be a problem, but I'm not sure it is worth the hassle. My ears aren't that finely tuned, so I'm not sure that would matter to me as much. Also, the 3-2-1 system does come with a sub. Thanks for your replies.

 

[jcPanny]

Bose 3-2-1

Ok, the Bose does include a "Acoustimass module". However, don't mistake this for a cute little subwoofer. In my opinion, you need at least an 8" driver and must be capable of producing frequencies below 60 Hz to be classified as a subwoofer.
Check the AH reviews of the Denon 2.1 system and the Yamaha YSP. Both should meet your asthetic and wiring requirements.

 

[5.1 DTS guy]

Have you considered some home theater in a box systems that have wireless rear speakers? There are alot of them from panasonic if you're on a budget and don't care too much about premium sound.