Blu-Ray & 1080P - Surround Sound question?

Question

I have a new Sharp 1080P & Blu-Ray player. I would like to get a surround sound to fit this combination. Do I want 5.1? Do I want a receiver with it? I saw Sony Bravia Surround sound system?

I see some come with a DVD player, but I already have one. I also see some systems where HD cable/DVD player/Video system all plug into the receiver using HDMI. Not sure where to go and which system would be best for me.

Answer 1

If you have gone to the trouble and expense of Blu-ray and a 1080p TV you should consider a proper A/V receiver and surround speakers. That's the only way to take advantage of the high quality sound potential of Blu-ray.

I'd suggest looking at the Onyyo TX-SR605 (~$600, it has the decoders for advanced audio, plus it is a highly recommended receiver) and a set of surround speakers that fit your budget / taste. I'm not going to recommend a specific speaker brand/model ... but have a look at the reviews at the 2nd link as a starting point. You really need to listen to speakers to choose, but read reviews first then find a shop where you can audition.

Unless you have a very large room a 5.1 system should be fine (and you can always add extra speakers later if you feel the need, and more 6.1 and 7.1 surround programming becomes available).

You would wire things as Blu-ray >> receiver >> HDTV. The speakers connect to the Reciever, and you select what you watch via the receiver input.

Hope this helps.