Good soundbar for 42" flat screen

pbrstreetgang · « **on:** 22 Aug 2008, 08:31 pm »

The fiance wants the "surround sound" for the TV. Im pretty 2 channel only and dont care much to spend money on HT. Could anyone help with a simple, easy, and cost effective solution to this? Im not particulary talking about those "5.1 effect" soundbars but a LCR all in one for the front stage. I saw one that I thought was from ERA. I guess not as the site doesnt have it. I saw a Polk and Yamaha surround "5.1 effect" bar as well as Difinitive Solo and Mardant Short LCR. Anyone have any suggestions? Ive got a spare Panny XR25 I will set up for her.

So, It cant sound like those horrid HTIB because I have to endure it at times.
2) It has to be cost effective- if Im going to spend money its going to 2 channel or NOS tubes

3) Easier the better, Im already looking at having to route wires through the walls and a few more is fine but Id like to still like her after her little present.

Thanks Guys and Gals

Red Dragon Audio · « **Reply #1 on:** 22 Aug 2008, 08:41 pm »

The Yamaha YSP models are a good value if you go with a previous version (say YSP 800 or YSP 1000).
Some are going for around $400 on eBay - then all you need is a good subwoofer and you're done.
I saw some wireless Boston Acoustic 8" subwoofers at Costco the other day for $199.
They'd make a great match and since they are wireless you can use multiple subs without having to run extra wires - they all run off the same wireless transmitter.

Ebay Auctions

Yamaha YSP website

Boston Acoustics 8" wireless subwoofer

pbrstreetgang · « **Reply #2 on:** 22 Aug 2008, 09:12 pm »

Thank you Ryan! I guess I could also not use the Panny reciever and just use this.

Any oter suggestions guys/

walkern · « **Reply #3 on:** 22 Aug 2008, 09:54 pm »

Paradigm makes an all-in-one LCR called the Millennia 20 Trio that is nice looking and good sounding, but it is a bit pricey (over a grand). I heard one once in a store and was pleasantly surprised by the sound quality. No digital trickery or phase shifting to attempt to create surround effects. Might be worth checking out.