Pioneer SP-PK52FS
They may not be easy to wrap, but the Pioneer SP-PK52FS is the best-sounding home theater speaker system you'll find at this price. They're jumbo speakers, but they deliver a huge sound that you just can't get from a sound bar. Just make sure to pair them up with a solid AV receiver, as they require an amplifier.
The good: The Pioneer SP-PK52FS breaks new ground for quality sound at a budget price. The 5.1 speaker system is highlighted by two tower speakers in the front, plus a 100-watt, 8-inch powered subwoofer completes the system. And although it's not stylish, the curved wooden cabinets look better than a cheap boxy speaker.
The bad: The speakers are bulkier than many alternatives and the large center channel can be difficult to place. Black wood-grain vinyl is the sole finish option and might not be a good fit for every living room.
The bottom line: If you've got the space for it, the Pioneer SP-PK52FS is simply the best-sounding, budget-price home theater speaker package you can buy.
October 31, 2012 9:12 PM PDT
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
