onkyo/oppo Vs Panasonic HTIB

[audio_fx]

Hi guys,

I was trying to buy an entry-level HTIB and was finding it tough to decide between -
a. Panasonic SC-PT750
b. Onkyo HT-SR800 + iPod dock + OPPO DV-980H dvd player

So far here are the main +'s and -'s of Panasonic -
1. Inexpensive ($350 or so)
2. Wireless rear speakers
3. Compact speakers
4. One single remote controls all
5. 5-cd tray
6. Decent sound quality

7. Wireless interferes LAN
8. One receiver/player means upgrading almost imposs
9. Even speaker wires can't be upgraded (unless you open up the speaker)

For Onkyo+Oppo -
1. Great reviews (for both Onkyo and Oppo)
2. 7.1 channel
3. Extremely upgradeable
4. Sound quality (should be?) better than Panasonic
5. Price-wise still manageable (~$680)
6. Onkyo-Oppo combo can play any damn thing you throw at it (except Blu-ray/HD-DVD)

7. Wires wires wires, that too for 7 speakers
8. Remotes Remotes Remotes - two extra remotes [DVD player, iPod dock]
9. Huge, huge, huge - speakers, sub, receiver everything is big!

i think one big factor will be the sound quality. So far I have extensively heard Panasonic, and it was decent enough. Just based on reviews Onkyo will at least match if not more.

The question to the members is - which one would they prefer and why? Please do not suggest any newer (read better) system. world is already pretty chaotic with just these two entry level options

Thanks!

audio_fx

 

[stratman]

In your case listen to both systems and whatever rocks your boat go for. I would favor the Onkyo/Oppo combination at this price range. But carefully audition both systems and see what sounds better to you.

 

[stratman]

My reason is flexibility and an edge in quality of playback.

 

[j_garcia]

No question in my mind, go with the Onkyo/Oppo. The speakers are likely to be the weak point in both systems however.

 

[audio_fx]

yup, speakers might not be up to expectation. But here is the comparison of all Onkyo HTIB and to untrained eyes (ears) it looked speakers are comparable to their higher-end HTIB. maxupload.com/img/FD099835.gif