Panasonic SC-BTT195

Bottom Line

The Panasonic SC-BTT195 is a simple, no-fuss way to add a Blu-ray player and true surround-sound audio to your TV. Just make sure you keep expectations in line with this system's price tag.

Performance

You get what you pay for. About.com's Robert Silva says the 5.1-channel Panasonic SC-BTT195 home theater system "won't blow your socks off," but if you keep your expectations in line with this system's modest price tag, you won't be disappointed.

Turning first to audio performance, experts agree that the SC-BTT195 won't compete with a full-fledged, full-priced, component-based home theater system. The low frequencies -- critical to enjoying action-packed movie fare -- are surprisingly strong, but things begin to fall apart as you move up the audio spectrum. Unlike many HTIB solutions, there's no sonic "hole" between the low and mid frequencies, but performance at midrange and especially high frequencies is a bit lackluster. Still, what you hear is head and shoulders above typical TV sound.

Surround-sound staging is accurate, according to experts and users, which can't be said of the vast majority of sound bar systems. They also agree that the SC-BTT195 performs at its best in smaller listening rooms. Don't be fooled by the stated spec that calls this a 1,000-watt system; as noted by BigPictureBigSound.com, the speakers are rated at only 3 ohms, not the usual 6 to 8. That results in a higher audio output rating, but not higher sound volumes.

On the video side, reviewers find little to fault, calling the integrated Blu-ray Disc player very capable. Load times are fast and signal processing is steady, with only a few minor bobbles that most will never notice.

Setup and Use

Keeping things on a short leash. Reports say setup couldn't be easier. Like most all-in-ones, the Panasonic SC-BTT195 comes with pre-cut cables and color-coded proprietary connectors that make hooking everything up nearly idiot-proof. And just in case, the system greets owners with a speaker test when first turned on to make sure each of the six speakers and subwoofer is connected properly and placed in the appropriate general area.

One downside is that some users complain about speaker cables not being long enough for their setups. Splicing in some extra cable is somewhat trivial for handy owners, but may void their warranties. Keep in mind, too, that the SC-BTT195 isn't at its best in anything but relatively small rooms. Unlike some systems, there's no automatic speaker setup feature, so you'll need to balance the audio by hand and by ear to get the most immersive surround effects for your listening environment.

Features and Aesthetics

Streaming and 3D. The built-in Blu-ray player is fully featured, with one important caveat: The SC-BTT195 uses the same Viera Connect streaming platform as Panasonic's 2012 stand-alone Blu-ray players and TVs. The content lineup is fairly robust and the interface is straightforward, although a bit dated and sluggish. However, if you want to get this content you'll need to either have a nearby Ethernet connection or spring for an optional Wi-Fi adapter (*Est. $75) because Wi-Fi isn't built in. For those with a 3D-capable TV, the SC-BTT195 does a good job of delivering 3D images, and can also upconvert 2D Blu-rays to 3D, although with mixed results.

If you can live with the 4-foot-high tall-boy front surrounds, most owners call the SC-BTT195 fairly attractive, but some of that beauty may be only skin deep. Several say the speakers look nicer than they feel, with their light weight imparting a feeling of cheapness or at least a lack of substance. While the base of those front surrounds brings the speaker height to one that's ideal for most setups, BigPictureBigSound.com says they also limit placement flexibility: The upper half can't be detached for placement on a shelf or a home entertainment console.

Connectivity is extremely limited, just a single HDMI output and only digital optical and analog audio inputs, which makes future expansion next to impossible.

Value

Decent return for your dollar. For consumers who lack a Blu-ray player, surround-sound amplifier and a 5.1-channel speaker system for true surround sound, the SC-BTT195 is an attractive option for the price, but it does have its downsides. Performance is good, but is easily eclipsed by costlier systems and especially higher-end component systems you select and build yourself. Setup couldn't be easier, but the proprietary speaker connectors and limited overall connectivity mean the SC-BTT195 can't grow if needs demand.

Still, as a low-cost, stress-free way to add true surround sound to your home theater experience, the Panasonic SC-BTT195 is one of the better deals in its class.