Once you have a budget set,compile a list of speakers that fit into that budget. Go out and listen to as many of them as you can, let your ears be the guide....
I have an Acoustimass 5.1 setup, I never thought it sounded all that good, but, it didn't sound horrible either. When I decided to upgrade my system I wanted to start from scratch. I had a budget in mind, and began research.... So, figure out your budget first. Spend 2/3 ~ 3/4 of it on speakers...
If the TV has more than 1 HDMI input...
I would connect the Uverse box to HDMI 1, the LG HTiB to HDMI 2.
Connect the Uverse Optical out to the LG HTiB Optical in.
This way to watch TV with no surround sound, turn on Uverse, turn on tv, set to HDMI 1.
To watch TV with surround, turn on Uverse...
As schan1269 stated it depends on your hookup options.
I have all my sources running thru my AVR, via HDMI and the TV hooked up to the sound bar via optical link.
Doing it this way allows me to use the soundbar or the AVR no matter what input device I use...
I had a similar issue with a Sharp TV, folders were visible but no content. After reading the manuals for both devices several times and going over all the settings several times, I could find nothing wrong in the setup. After many calls to Sharp's customer service it turned out the issue was...
Whatever cables are required to hook-up your components should be available HERE
Inexpensive cables work just as well as the way overpriced ones.....Don't waste money on snake oil....