Starting from scratch and don't know what to do...

[Cobra]

I am going to purchase a new TV, DVD, VCR, Receiver, etc. system and I am hoping for some advice on how to proceed. I receive my TV input from Dish Network. My budget is somewhat limited. I figure the most expensive item I want to buy is a large-screen LCD TV (37 or 40-inch screen). I figure that will run about $3,000. Then I need a receiver, DVD recorder-VCR combo, and speakers. I think I can get those items for about $600. I probably will use only two or three speakers. One big concern I have is whether mixing brands creates a compatibility problem. Can I run a Sharp TV with a Pioneer receiver and a Sony DVD recorder/VCR? Or would I be better off with all the same brand. Also, do I need to be concerned about wattage ratings? Should I get a receiver that is 7.1 channel vs. one that is 5.1?

 

[Methost]

Ill leave the audio advice to someone that can better help, but I do know that mixing brands is not usually a problem unless you are talking speakers. You want to get all your speakers from the same manufacturer. The subwoofer doesn't have to match your speakers either.

You mention that you will only use 2 or 3 speakers, then why buy a 5.1 receiver? If you want great home theater sound, I would go 6.1 or 7.1 anyway.

You should consider a subwoofer as well. They really add to the music experience.

 

[jaxvon]

I think that unless you're a HUGE TV nut, it would be smart to readjust your budget to allow more for the audio portion. So you sacrifice a few inches on the TV. In the budget class you're talking about for sound, that will make a very noticable improvement.

 

[mulester7]

I think that unless you're a HUGE TV nut, it would be smart to readjust your budget to allow more for the audio portion. So you sacrifice a few inches on the TV. In the budget class you're talking about for sound, that will make a very noticable improvement.

.....absolutely.....

 

[Buckeyefan 1]

Good advice Jaxvon/Methost.

Try to rearrange your budget if you can. Check out www.tigerdirect.com for the best LCD prices. I've seen 37" LCD's going for $1399, and 42" plasma's for $1599 (these are HD, not ED). Check out their top sellers - those usually have the better ratings and best bang for the buck.

That alone will allow you to more than double your budget for a nice audio system (not having to go for a home theater in a box - HTIB). Ask Jaxvon about his system. He's got one of the best bang for the buck setups period IMO. Then you can add your dvd/vcr etc...

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/category/category_tlc.asp?CatId=37

 

[nova]

expensive item I want to buy is a large-screen LCD TV (37 or 40-inch screen). I figure that will run about $3,000. Then I need a receiver, DVD recorder-VCR combo, and speakers. I think I can get those items for about $600. I probably will use only two or three speakers. One big concern I have is whether mixing brands creates a compatibility problem. /QUOTE]

I sure hope that is NOT $600 for a reciever, a DVD/VCR combo, 5 speakers and a sub woofer? If so you WILL be sorely disappointed with your Home Theater !

I do think you are headed in the right direction by asking for some help/advise before you shell out the cash. From what I've seen so far I agree with the others.
Personally, if I had $3600 for a whole HT system I'd break it down something like
$1200 Speakers
$1000 Monitor
$600 Receiver
$150 DVD/VCR
$400- $600 Sub
and whats left for cables/speaker wire. I think a lot of the others around here would do something similar give or take a few $100 here or there.

Now thats just an opinion,.... don't let us spend your money. You are the only one that knows what you want from your system