CNET editors' review
- Reviewed on: 07/08/2002
- Updated on: 11/07/2009
Editor's note: We have changed the rating in this review to reflect recent changes in our rating scale. Click here to find out more.
Onkyo's Envision Theater LS-V950 is pretty special, but we're used to that, as the company somehow consistently manages to crank out a line of exceptional products. This midpriced package offers upscale sound quality along with a host of top-tier features, including progressive-scan video outputs, connectivity options as complete as most budget component receivers, spunky satellite speakers, and a full-sized, powered subwoofer.
Overachieving Onkyo
The V950's low-slung DVD player/receiver has a gently curved, metal front panel, which adds a touch of class. We found the 40-watt-per-channel DVD/receiver quite handsome, though it does grab 16.8 inches of shelf-space depth. The front panel's blue LED keeps tabs on the built-in Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic II, and DTS-surround decoders. The player is compatible with all standard formats including DVDs, CDs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, and MP3 CDs.
Connectivity options are as good as they get for home-theater kits. Beyond the aforementioned progressive-scan component-video outputs, the V950 lets you hook up a second set of main stereo speakers in another room. In addition, you get a pair of digital outputs, one digital input, and a generous selection of analog inputs and outputs.
The V950's six-speaker surround package includes four identical satellites for front-left and -right and surround duties, a dedicated center channel, and a powered subwoofer. The V950's 5.5-inch-tall, all-metal speakers aren't too shabby--they're finished in a lovely matte-aluminum and employ 3-inch woofers and ceramic tweeters. At 19.50 by 19.25 by 9.25 inches, the 31.5-pound subwoofer might be a tight squeeze in small rooms, but it does deliver full-sized deep-bass performance.
The comfortably large preprogrammed learning remote is partially backlit, and we found its oversized buttons and controls easy to use in the dark. Continue reading
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