Home Cinema Systems

Christmas gift guide

We've got round-ups of the best products in each category to help you make the right choice for every person on your list. Enjoy, and Happy Holidays from the CNET Australia team.

Samsung HT-BD8200

The Samsung HT-BD8200 not only offers a likeable and easy to set-up home cinema system, it also offers audio and video of a higher standard than the price lets on.

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Articles

  • Home cinema for under $1500

    You get what you pay for with HTIB systems, so if you're prepared to spend up to AU$1500 you'll achieve sound quality that will better match the picture.

  • Best DAB+ digital radios

    Digital radio is finally here, but what equipment do you need to receive it? We look at eight different receivers to find the best.

  • Panasonic tech support through Facebook, Twitter

    Customers can contact Panasonic support reps through Twitter, Facebook and YouTube to get help with fixes, further information and links to product how-to videos.

  • Sony 3D Blu-ray coming in 2010?

    Pending final format agreement, Sony is planning on introducing 3D Blu-ray discs and players by the end of next year.

  • 3D means new rules for directors

    The rise of 3D technology for movies and television will force a change in how directors tell stories.

  • Panasonic's 2009 TVs are leaner and greener

    Panasonic unveiled its newest television line-up which is thinner, "greener" and better performing at Cockatoo Island in Sydney yesterday.

  • Foxtel announces new features, upgrades website

    Foxtel has upgraded its website with full-screen video and better EPG search facilities, and will be followed by new Foxtel features over the next 12 months.

  • B&W soundbar goes Panorama ding dong

    English Hi-Fi manufacturer Bowers and Wilkins has announced its first soundbar product, which the company says will change the category in the same way the Zeppelin did iPod speakers.

  • CES 2009 preview: Home entertainment

    For the last few years, the format war between HD DVD and Blu-ray has monopolised home entertainment coverage at CES. Now that HD DVD is dead, we can finally get back to focussing on new technology, rather than which studios are backing which format. Blu-ray should have a big presence, along with its new competitors, internet-powered video-on-demand boxes.

  • LG reinvents itself as audio brand

    LG is taking on the big boys of hi-fi with a new range of "luxury audio" products designed by a respected audio engineer.

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Reviews

  • Q Acoustics Q-TV2

    The Q Acoustics Q-TV2 is a worthwhile upgrade for any avid television watcher, and it doesn't take up any extra room.

    Specs: 2.1 , Front Speakers, Subwoofer

  • Panasonic SC-BT207W

    This is a well-featured system that will produce great looking Blu-ray and DVD images. Sound quality's generally pretty good, just don’t push it too far.

    Specs: 5.1 , Yes

  • NAD C 717 Micro DVD Receiver

    if you're after a super compact system that'll primarily provide great music and movies second, the NAD C 717 does just that.

    Specs: 2 , DVD player/receiver

  • Samsung HT-BD1255

    Despite the rather plastic look and feel, this Samsung system offers plenty for the money and its audio and visual performance are both rather good for a HTIB system.

    Specs: 5.1

  • Sony Muteki HTDDW7500

    If you fancy an imposing home theatre system that can also deliver the goods, the Sony Muteki HTDDW7500 gives you a lot of sound for little money.

    Specs: 3

  • Yamaha Air Xtreme YAS-71

    The Yamaha Air Surround Xtreme sets a new standard for soundbars, it features convincing pseudo-surround and can also carry a tune.

    Specs: 2.1 , Subwoofer, Main unit , Yes

  • Bose 3-2-1 Series III

    If you're short on living space and don't need a Blu-ray player, the Bose 3-2-1 Series III home theatre system has plenty of "lifestyle" appeal.

    Specs: 2 , Bose Media Centre

  • Panasonic SC-PT870

    The Panasonic SC-PT870 is a good all-round home-cinema system. Offering excellent picture quality, its performance with movies is great. But, while sound quality via the iPod dock is impressive, it's abysmal via the USB socket. Overall, we'd suggest that, for students or people with limited space, this is a good choice. It's certainly loud enough to keep your neighbours awake at night.

    Specs: 5.1 , DVD player, DVD home cinema system, 5.1 Speaker Pack , 1 , Yes

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