Are the speaker systems that come packaged w/ TVs at stores like Best Buy good?

Question

I'm going to buy a 42 inch flat panel from Best Buy and am thinking of getting a package deal where the TV comes with a full speaker system.

These speaker systems are usually $500-$1,000 and look really cool with long big side speakers etc. displayed with the TV. They are usually also combined with DVD players (i.e. the receiver, if it can be called that, is the DVD player).

But there are also separate speaker things in a separate department of Best Buy where you get a big receiver and then buy speakers and stands seprate and these usually don't have the long big side speakers that you see displayed with the TVs.

These are my questions:

1) Are these systems that come bundled with TVs practical for plugging in multiple devices (e.g. my TV, PS3 and like another DVD player) with the ability to just switch between the devices with the press of a button? Or are these speaker systems limited to only having the built-in DVD player play through the speakers?

2) Is what I am looking

Answer 1

it may be just my way of thinking,but i always think that deals like that last only so long so that they want you to go back and buy more.but your warranty should last for a while anyway.and you know what? believe it or not,xmas b4 last,when i bought a t.v. for my daughter,a good one to,i was actually advised by the guy there at the store not to buy a warranty because they say the appliances last just as long anyway and the warranties are just a way for the companies to make an extra buck.for reals to,i was shocked,nobody ever told me that before.

Answer 2

Best Buy is usually overpriced for electronics. To save money in the long run go to a specialty place.

Most are in place to attach to the sale of an already sold TV. Inputs outputs and performance are severely lacking.

The "package" deal is to take away from the fact that you end up paying just the same for both items, you just think they are on sale.

NOTE to JUST Me: I  highly doubt that you were told that, since all sales people are held to a quota of sales in that category. If that is what you feel then say so. But you are correct in its profit margin, couple that with the terrible time you have to fulfill a claim its usually better to bet on taking care of the item and using a good quality surge protector, in that case I would get one with a connect equipment warranty. I would also make sure anything financed is covered under homeowners or renters insurance just to be safe.

Answer 3

Generally, the 'el-cheepo' DVDplayer+receiver+tech looking speaker systems cost about $300 and DO play DVD's, but are not expandable. Dont plan on hooking up a CATV box for 5.1 sound or a BluRay/Sat to them.

You are correct - the speakers usually only work with the built-in dvd player.

They DO sell box systems from Yamana, Dennon that have a big-black receiver, separate DVD player, self-powered sub and 5 monitor-style speakers.  While budget ($500-$800) these systems are a lot more flexible and expandable.