Vizio, which has built its way up to be known as a reliable & inexpensive manufacturer  of TV displays , has come up with yet another budget-friendly project. VSB210WS, Vizio’s new Sound Bar, is bundled with a wireless subwoofer.  It is a great solution in places where wiring is simply not an option.  The SoundBar retails for about $349.99, which is fairly inexpensive for a product using cutting edge audio technologies such as SRS TruSurroundHD^TM and SRS TruVolume^TM.  The sub works up to 60ft away, as long as it maintains a line of sight with the Sound Bar, it features a 6.5″ long throw woofer with a Frequency Response 35Hz up to 80Hz.  The VSB210WS includes 2x analog audio inputs and an optical (Tosslink) digital input.

Vizio ’s VSB210WS is a great solution if you rent, or are unable to have your place wired for surround sound.  Overall good audio quality, great sounding sub, and most of all, the price of the unit makes it fit our list of gadgets to consider.

The new Onkyo TX-SR607 is a true gem.  Retailed at arround $499, it features a wide array of formats, including DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby Pro Logic IIz.  It features full video upconversion through HDMI and uses picture enchancing technologies through a Faroudja processor, and audio enhancing technologies, like Audyssey 2EQ .   It is also “beefed-up” with a front HDMI input, in addition to 5 HDMI inputs on the backside of the receiver. It makes it a first A/V receiver with a front HDMI input.  Onkyo TX-SR607 makes a great receiver for media room applications and starter home theater systems.  Great bang for a buck.

July 17, 2009 | by Robert Archer (Electronic House)
You want the best performance out of your home theater, right?

To help achieve that level of performance, home theater enthusiasts often look to the power and versatility of separate amplification and signal processing.

Pre/pros offer several step-up qualities when compared to A/V receivers. Many high-performance pre/pros offer modular designs that allow for upgrades, as well as software-based firmware and flash memory upgrades.

According to the CE Pro 100 Brand Analysis, the five most installed pre/pro brands are:

• Integra
• Lexicon
• Rotel
• McIntosh
• Denon