Can a home theater bought from the USA be used in Australia?

Question

I was told that there might be problems with a voltage difference but I really like the onkyo HT-S990 THX which is not available in australia. I was thinking of buying it from the US but then someone wold me it might not work..I would be grateful if someone can advice me on this..thanx for your time.

Answer 1

There are two versions of the unit, a North American (120v, 60Hz) and a European (230 V, 50HZ). You could use a voltage/frequency converting power supply to power the unit but I've read (but can't confirm) that can lead to long term problems. You really need the European version for Australia.

That said, several issues to consider: a) you won't get any warranty coverage, and b) your house insurance could be invalidated if there were a fire using non-certified electrical equipment and c) the FM and AM frequency ranges are a  little different so you may have problems getting stations near the extremes of the dial depending on which version you buy.

PAL/NTSC compatibility should be a non-issue for a home theatre since it handles standard composite, S-video and component video signals not broadcast video.

See the link for the manual.

Answer 2

Stay in Australa and buy only in Australia there are too many problems you will create for you self like warrenty and compatibility

all so stay with a known retailer who can give you good warranty , service

Answer 3

probably not as usa tvs are set to ntsc setting and aussie tv runs on pal but if you ask an expert they could give you a hand

Answer 4

You can you will just have to buy adaptors to make it work.  If you plan to live there I would just get one when you are there.  That way you don't have to worry about getting it damaged in shipment.  Of course I don't think you will have time to watch tv with all the drinking you can do over there.  I loved Australia