 | in a home theater in a box |
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Power ratings | |
Home-theater-in-a-box (HTIB) power ratings are less stringent than component FTC ratings. Most use the more liberal Total Power rating, but high power is important only if you're interested in playing music or movies loudly. Then again, if loudness capability is a major concern, we recommend moving up to a separate component system. |
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| Surround sounds | |
Dolby Digital and Dolby Pro-Logic are the most common HTIB surround decoders, and some models also offer DTS decoding. DTS is an alternative and, some believe, better-sounding 5.1-channel surround format than Dolby. The catch is DTS-encoded DVDs and CDs are scarce commodities. Dolby Pro-Logic II and Logic 7 produce a more natural surround effect from older Pro-Logic-encoded DVDs, videotapes, and stereo CDs than conventional DSP (digital signal processing) modes. So-called virtual surround can offer surround sound from the front speakers. | |
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| Other features | |
Onscreen displays (OSDs) ease setup and navigation chores. Programmable remote controls can control TVs and other A/V components. AM/FM tuners are standard on just about every HTIB. | |
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| Audio connectivity | |
More connectivity options are desirable; one or two audio/video connections are fine but limit HTIBs to standalone systems. HTIBs with 5.1 analog inputs allow hookup of a separate Super Audio CD (SACD) or DVD-Audio player. If you have additional sources--VCRs, a satellite, games, or video cameras--make sure that the HTIB has enough inputs. Phono inputs are important if you'd like to hook up your turntable to your HTIB--don't assume they're there. Digital audio inputs and outputs are required if you use a digital cable/satellite box or CD/digital recorder. There are two types of digital connectors: coaxial, which looks like a standard RCA connector, and optical, a square-shaped optical jack. Speaker wire connectors range from the less desirable spring-clip/clamping types to the more secure binding posts. | |
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| 5.1-speaker system | |
HTIBs always include a minimum of five speakers and a subwoofer, but the quality and sizes of those speakers run the gamut. The smallest satellite speakers are 4 inches tall, and the largest models run to 10 to 12 inches; the larger models tend to be the better-sounding designs, but some microsatellites can sound quite nice. Low-end satellites are one-way, single-driver units, whereas mid- to high-priced HTIBs feature two-way woofer and tweeter designs. Most satellites are magnetically shielded and can be placed in close proximity to a TV screen. Most satellite speakers are equipped with wall brackets or provisions for wall-mounting.
Most HTIB subwoofers are powered by the receiver's amplifier, although some systems feature "powered" subwoofers with their own internal amps. The latter approach usually sounds better and produces a deeper, more defined bass response. Some HTIB subwoofers also incorporate amplifier channels for the satellite channels, as well. |
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DVD player | |
HTIBs with integral DVD players are the norm. All HTIB DVD players play DVDs and CDs, but CD-R/CD-RW compatibility is variable. Some of the latest models also handle MP3-encoded CDs, SACD, and DVD-Audio formats. Both single- and multidisc changer models are available. The changers, typically holding five discs, employ elevator- or carousel-style mechanisms. Elevator-equipped HTIBs tend to be smaller and more compact; the carousel models are larger and can be 17 inches wide and 15 to 18 inches deep. Higher-end HTIBs typically offer separate component-style receivers and DVD players. Some budget HTIBs omit the DVD player entirely and may be useful to buyers who use only cable, satellite, or a VCR as video sources. |
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| Video connectivity | |
Your HTIB video output connectivity needs are dictated by the connections on your TV. Possibilities include composite, the most basic video connectivity option; all TVs and HTIBs have at least one set of composite connections. S-Video connections are also common and offer better resolution and fewer artifacts. Component outputs, in the form of three RCA jacks (Y, Pb, Pr or Y, Cb, Cr), produce even sharper images and more accurate color reproduction, but only newer TVs are likely to have component inputs. | |
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| Service and support | |||
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Warranty | |
One year on parts and labor is standard, but some manufacturers offer only 90 days. HTIBs are complicated devices, so extended warranties, if offered at reasonable cost, are worth considering. |
