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Today's Show:
We've talked, possibly too much, in the past about the Yamaha Sound Projector.  It's a box that looks like one center channel speaker, but really it simulates a full surround sound experience.  In demos we've had, it actually works really well, better than we would have guessed, but it needs some help from the environment.  It's really at its best when the room it's in is fairly rectangular and doesn't have too much sound dampeneing material, like drapes, on the walls.  But there seems to be some competition encroaching on the YSPs virtual surround world.  Since we did a feature on 2.1 home theater systems a few episodes ago, we decided to put together a "1.1 that really sounds like 5.1" home theater system roundup for today.

 

Virtual Home Theater Systems

Philips HTS-8100 SoundBar (Buy Now $633)

Features

• Philips proprietary AmbiSound technology
  
• Integrated DVD Player can also play audio CD including CDR and CDRW with MP3 files
• FM Radio Tuner
• Has iPod / Philips GoGear docking capability
• Component Video ports for progressive-scan capabilities
• Features HDMI connectivity with 1080p video upscaling

Notes: AmbiSound technology doesn't use the walls, but uses psycho-acoustics to "bend" the sound, making it ideal for oddly shaped rooms.  It has a very stylish design that should complement any decor.

Niro 800 ($1195)

Features

• Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic II
• Five 3-inch, full range speakers in an in-line array
• Excellent, accurate audio reproduction
• 4 digital audio inputs (3 optical, 1 coaxial), 2 analog audio inputs
• Compatible with Niro MovieMouse
  

Notes: The Niro 800 isn't as flexible as some of its competitors, but it is a very solid product.  It does a great job with virtual surround, and unlike many of the other system, does a great job with music as well.  It's also compatible with the MovieMouse, making it convenient when you want surround sound without disturbing anyone else in the house or neighborhood.

Soundmatters MainstageHD (Buy Now $399)
(with a subwoofer, price goes up to $699)

Features

• all-in-one set-top speaker
• two 2" x 2-3/4" full-range speakers
• 4" woofer
• 2 x 20 watts for main speakers; 40 watts for woofer
• provides three-dimensional theater sound with mono, stereo, or Dolby Digital sources

Notes:  It works really well as a virtual surround solution, but it's also upgradeable to a more complete surround system with the addition of a second MainstageHD, placed behind you in the back of the room.  You just connect a single cable between the two.

 

The HT Guys love their Starbucks. If you want to say thanks, a cup of joe will do just fine!