Newbie: Needs advice for new Surround System

[Tom 17]

I want to turn my 32" tv into a surround system to watch movies (only; not for stereo). The catch is that this system will go into the bedroom when I move (at which time I will spend real $$ on an entirely new system for the family room). Therefore, I need something that a) uses only a little space, b) is easy to set up/move, c) is well less than $1,000. SO here is my question: The "$1,000 Ultimate System" can now be had for a 'mere' $900, but at the same time technology seems to be resulting in
better HTIB systems, too. Given both, what are your opinions (given my specific intended use and budget)? How would you compare the "Ultimate System" to the newest HTIBs: Onkyo LS-V955 ($850),Yamaha YHT-F1500 ($750)/DVX-S120P ($600) or even Denon's DHT-485DV ($650). Or, would you do something completely different for this price range? Thanks!

 

[Unregistered]

Well this depends on what else you have and can take into the bedroom. You mention that you are going to upgrade anyway sometime in the near future. Do you plan on upgrading a receiver (if you even currently have one)? How about a DVD player? Let me know what you have and what you plan to upgrade in the near future. Or is a TV all you have? Plus is that also something your looking to upgrade too?

 

[Tom 17]

I have a NAD/Klipsch stereo system and a Mitsubishi 32"TV (both about 13 years old). So this HTIB sytem is only to be used for movies at this point. My VCR died so I want to switch to a DVD/Surround System. However, after I move I will get a completely new system (tv/dvd/speakers/stereo, etc) for the family room, and move this HTIB to the bedroom for enhanved tv/movie watching there. Probably give the old stereo and tv to my niece.

 

[Leprkon]

this looks like a decent set-up to meet your needs. it's somewhere between component and HTIB and has a lot of flexibility.

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-TQ1MvXMlC62/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?*=135050&I=580HTS777C

 

[FallenAngel]

For what is to become a 2nd system and only for movies, I'd go for discontinued components. I have, end enjoy:

Marantz AR4300/AR4400 receiver
Pioneer DV-563A/DV-565A Player

IMHO a rule of thumb is to spend 50% on speakers. There are 5.1 packs that could fit in your budget (and with wooden furniture), for instance Wharfedale or Audiopro.

If you decide upon the components alternative, two thing to checks:

- Interconnections (optical, coaxial, analogue, 5.1)

- Receiver crossover frequency vs. surround speaker and subwoofer ranges.

Cheers
FA

 

[Unregistered]

Personally, I do not care for HTIB systems, I find I can easily get better components by shopping for each individual piece.

So if I understand this correctly we are dealing with just the TV (unless you spent THOUSANDS on your 13 year old receiver that plays modern forms of surroun sound).

DVD: I would recommend the SONY DVP-Ns575P. This unit supports your DTS and Dolby Digital formats and can be had for under $90.

Receiver: Since your funds are limited you need something on the cheap side. For this I would look for good deals on a clearance. Here is some suggestions:

-Pioneer VSX-D812K: 6.1 and plays most of todays surround formats (exception THX). You should be able to find this unit for around $250

- Onkyo TX-SR501 : 6.1 and also plays a wide variety of formats. Once again should be able to get for no more than $250

-Yamaha RX-V450: Once again 6.1 and most formats
**these are my personal top 3 choices I leave the decision which one you like best

So far we have spent around $350 so we have $650 left for your speakers.

1) you might have to shop around but you should be able to pick up the Infinity TSS-750. For the price of around $650 this unit is fantastic. This would keep you satisfied for a long time once in your bedroom. Also, it should perform in your living room admirably.

Just a note, I helped a buddy of mine with surround sound (Unlike me he is not willing to spend over 4k on a system. I cant see why!!) Anyway, we spent about 2 months researching, listening, and trying them at his house. We tried Sony, Polk, Boston Acoustics, JBL, Onkyo, Pioneer... and plenty more all w/in the same price range. The Infinity hands down were the winners. I was extremely impressed with package. It is ideal for movies. If you want something else you will have to choose your own!!

Anyway good luck and hope this helps. Just remember RCA cables work just as well as Monster and are far less. The less you spend on wires, the more you can spend on your components!!