Home Cinema Systems > 2.1 Channel Surround Home Cinema Systems

Advantages: Doesn't require separate rear speakers for surround sound.
Disadvantages: No optical sound input. Booming base speaker that can't be toned down.

...digital surround sound through the Philips system Philips system. The instruction manual repeatedly implies that the scart socket can be used to input a Dolby Digital surround signal, but this is totally incorrect and misleading, and frankly makes you wonder if anyone at Philips knows what they're talking about. This is a digrace, and many purchasers may be greatly confused by this nonsense. FM radio reception and playback is very weak and noisy, ...
...way of doing it. The Philips software intercepts the signal, and in my hands at least, insists on displaying it at low res. Very frustrating! I've always been a fan of Philips products in the past, but sadly this half-baked offering has made me change my mind. Incidentally, I see tat this product is no longer listed on the Philips website - less than a year after I purchased it. I presume this means that it has been deservedly discontinued. ... Read review

Advantages: design, sound, picture quality, size etc.
Disadvantages: remote control

The most striking thing about this system is its incredibly debonair design which adapts to most styes of decor. The main DVD console is finished in tasty piano black with silver around the edge and a row of tiny illuminated buttons on the front. Hit the open/close button and the entire right hand side slides across, allowing you to insert your disc. The whole unit is perched on a circular stand that makes it look hi-tech and futuristic, setting ...
...market. It can be placed on a side board or fixed to the wall making it extremely versatile. The speakers are similarly styled in black and silver and perched on circular stands, but they can also be wall-mounted. Inside each one is a set of independent speaker drivers positioned at precise angles, which attempt to mimic the effect of a real 5.1-channel system, whatever the size or shape of your room. Excellent sound quality and fantastic design. ... Read review

Advantages: Good styling and easy set up
Disadvantages: Poor value for money and sound not adjustable

...and links well with a Samsung TV using the 'Anytime system, plus the clean sleek glossy styling is easy on the eye. The downside is that the bass is too deep and not adjustable, and a very noticable 'static noise' comes in after about half an hour after the system has been switched on. I have heard since that others have noticed this only through a games console but i have had the same effect through watching satellite and terrestial TV. I queried ... Read review

Advantages: superb quality of sound and picture
Disadvantages: hidden costs

The basic points of the entertainment system are: Pros: 1 - Unbelievable sound quality 2 - Easy installation, 3 cables, 2 speakers, 1 boxset hence 321 3 - great picture quality 4 - prepares you for the future of digital tv with HD compatibility 5 - stores huge amounts of music on the hard drive installed in the set. Cons : 1 - hidden costs in the hdmi cable and speaker fixings. 2 - unattractive box set. Large and clumsy. 3 - only comes ...
...is a beautiful model and great for home entertainment without bursting your purse strings. Unbelievably easy to install with minimal effort, only things were when I bought it there were the hidden costs of speaker fixings to attach to the wall and the hdmi cable for future purchase of a HDTV but otherwise highly recommend it. ... Read review

Advantages: it makes a good ornament
Disadvantages: it frustrating looking at it cos it cost a fortune

...even working. i bought a philips 32" flat screen the same time as these and it all cost 1750 euros, im just waiting for that to break down now. it makes me sick that companies can sell electrical equipment for such high prices and then they dont even work. i always thought philips was an expensive make because it was a good make. i couldnt have been more wrong. well i am going to fight to get a replacement or my money back because i dont think they ... Read review