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(Sep 12, 2008)
John P. Falcone
Senior Editor
Not everybody wants to go through the arduous task of putting together a home theater system from separate components. Luckily, there's another way--with these home-theater-in-a-box systems, you can get a whole package at once and be confident that it works. Some are small and sexy, others are just full-size components--an A/V receiver, subwoofer, and speakers conveniently packaged in one box. The bottom line is all you have to do is provide your own TV--and you're good to go. And if you're looking for smaller systems with less speakers, be sure to check out the virtual surround systems as well.
Onkyo HT-S990THX
The sound quality of the Onkyo HT-S990THX is among the best you'll get from a home-theater-in-a-box system, but the lack of HDMI video is a disappointment.
Price: $999.00 (check prices)
Review date: Jul 19, 2006
Very good
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JVC Sophisti DD-3
If you can look past its high price--and some annoying shortcomings--the JVC DD-3 Sophisti offers elegant styling and pretty good sound for its size.
Price: $349.99 - $782.83 (check prices)
Review date: May 9, 2007
Very good
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Sony Bravia Theater DAV-HDX500
The DAV-HDX500 delivers the best combination of features and value in Sony's Bravia home theater system line.
Price: $299.99 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 5, 2007
Very good
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Panasonic SC-PT760
With a five-disc changer, wireless rear speakers, and an integrated iPod dock, the Panasonic SC-PT760 offers a solid value for anyone looking for an affordable all-in-one home theater solution.
Price: $266.95 - $413.72 (check prices)
Review date: Mar 18, 2008
Very good
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Philips HTS6500
The unremarkable sound quality of the Philips HTS6500 is outweighed by its winning combination of slick aesthetics, impressive features, and affordable pricing.
Price: $219.99 - $300.55 (check prices)
Review date: Jul 20, 2006
Very good
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Samsung HT X70
The Samsung HT-X70 is stylish and has a great feature set for the price, but it sounds better on movies than with music.
Price: $195.95 (check prices)
Review date: Jul 5, 2007
Very good
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Panasonic SC-PT660
With its five-disc changer, HDMI output, and integrated iPod dock, the Panasonic SC-PT660 delivers an impressive home theater value for less than $300.
Price: $199.95 - $317.84 (check prices)
Review date: Mar 26, 2008
Very good
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JVC TH-L1
While the sound isn't overpowering, the wealth of connectivity options and features bundled into the JVC TH-L1 home theater in a box makes it well worth the inexpensive price tag.
Price: $254.99 - $299.95 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 5, 2007
Very good
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Harman/kardon HS 300
If you can look past the quirky interface and high price, the sexy Harman Kardon HS 300 delivers sophisticated styling, solid performance, and better connectivity and speakers than last year's model.
Price: $678.99 - $905.94 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 22, 2007
Very good
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