Most HTIBs combine a 5.1-speaker package with an AV receiver that has an integrated DVD player, which these days is usually capable of upscaling DVDs via an HDMI output. The only missing piece is a TV. HTIB prices range from less than $300 to in excess of $3,000.
HTIB types:
Cheap thrills |
High on style |
Component packages |
Exotica: wireless and virtual surround
Cheap thrills
Upside: Affordable; compact; comparatively easy to set up.
Downside: Won't rock the house; spotty build quality; limited connectivity options.
Budget-priced HTIBs almost always feature small speakers and subwoofers. Sound quality is usually far from stellar, but some low-end HTIBs sound pretty decent.
Samsung HT-X70
Power ratings fall within the 25-to-50-watt-per-channel range. That's enough to fill a small room with sound; just don't expect massive loudness capability from a wee HTIB.
Surround formats are limited to basic Dolby Digital/Pro Logic II and DTS/DTS Neo:6, while connectivity options are typically restricted to just two or three AV inputs.
Most HTIBs, even in the budget range, include an HDMI output with upscaling, so look for that if you have an HDMI-equipped HDTV.
High on style
Upside: Elegant appearance; features galore; comparatively easy to set up.
Downside: Still won't rock the house; limited bass output; sleek-looking electronics usually have limited connectivity options.
A number of manufacturers offer sleek HTIBs with petite satellites (5 inches tall or even smaller). At the other extreme, you can buy HTIBs with tall yet incredibly slender floor-standing speakers. Some HTIBs tuck their amplifiers inside the subwoofer, which allows the manufacturer to trim down the receiver/DVD player component to truly svelte sizes.
Single-play and DVD-changer models are available. Single-play models are the most compact and smoothes
