What sort of audio system should I get?

Question

I'm buying a 50" plasma (samsung's pn50a550), and have a ps3 for gaming and blu-ray....now i need something to make it sound good. First, what are the advantages of buying a HTIB (essentially, just getting a receiver also) vs. just buying a set of speakers? Secondly, could i get a better set of speakers for the same price as a HTIB or is the extra cost so slight it's worth just getting the whole shebang? Finally, what are some good models of each for $300 or less? I don't need killer super-massive or ultra-quality sound, i just want something that will sound good in a modest 260 sq foot living room. Thanks!

Answer 1

A cheap one...

Answer 2

If we are thinking of the same thing when you say HTIB, then I don't suggest getting one.  The speakers are small, and not very good.  If you have a 50" plasma and a PS3, you need good speakers and a good amp.  Don't hook it up to a crappy $199 HTIB.

My 770W 7.1 Pioneer AMP was $240 out the door (with the extended warranty from CC).  Not a bad sounding AMP.  Its no Denon, but I couldn't afford that.  After you get something like that, go get speakers.  (not bose, to expensive for what you get.)  I suggest going to BB/CC and listening in their rooms for what sounds best to YOU.  They'll have something, you just have to find it.

If you need the entire setup for $300, HTIB is the best you'll be able to do.  As I said, the amp alone would chew up most of the $300 budget, leaving nothing for speakers.  A cheap center channel will be at least $100, the Sub will be about another $250.  Front L/R speakers will be probably around $400ish, while the surrounds will be around $200ish.  You can expect to spend ~$1200 for the amp and all five of those speakers, which is why the HTIB option is so popular.

Just remember, you get what you pay for.  If you want sound, and something that matches your plasma and PS3, the option is pretty clear.

Answer 3

go for the htib in that small area.  panasonic is a great brand.  spent about 300 to 500 on it and you will be impressed with the sound quality.