Are there any "good" HTB systems out there? (1 Viewer)

[DanN]

OK, i know that most people here wouldn't be caught dead with one but in my current situation, a good HTB would suffice since it's going to be for a small room, connected to my 24" Tau
obviously, HTB's can't complete with dedicated receivers and quality speakers in a big room, but I was wondering if any of the systems offered by Sony, Pioneer, Panasonic, etc. are worth the money for a small room where space is limited?
my main concerns are that the system has both DD/DTS decoding and preferably component video for the dvd player (i would actually prefer just a receiver w/o the dvd, but it seems like all these systems include a dvd player integrated into the receiver)
so, any recommendations? or is this just a lost cause?

 

[Norm Strong]

You're in luck (I guess.) The Kenwood HTB-504 has everything you want, including no DVD player. I've seen it for $400, but it's usually closer to $450.

 

[Albert M]

I second the Kenwood HTB504.

 

[DanN]

thanks guys

after seeing your recommendations, I did a search and found out that the Kenwood appears to be a good choice among people here

the only other unit i'm considering is the Denon (don't know the model number) - but i do believe the Denon is more expensive - however, if i'm not mistaken, it can also read mp3's as well...any reviews on it?

 

[David X]

or ... make your own HT in several Bs:

JBL NSP1 + Kenwood VR-507 or Onkyo 494 + optional Sony Subwoofer

 

[Brian_H_I]

I bought the Kenwood HTB504, after reading reviews here. I'm adding my full review of it to the forum today. It sounds great.
You probably read this elsewhere, but a great way to purchase this unit is online, at a store like etronics.com or take a print out of an online retailer price into Sears, and they will match it. I got my system by matching http://www.mjshow.com for $379. My Sears sales person didn't add shipping to the price, though some do.
I took another tip from this site, and bought some 12 gauge speaker wire at Lowes to hook the system up, it was 0.27 a foot.