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- Value
- Integrated DVD player
- Includes powered subwoofer
- Good sound quality with movies
- Sound quality with music isn't the best\
- No HDMI inputs limits expansion possibilities
- Only so-so surround-sound performance
Reviews say that the Philips AmbiSound HTS8100 sounds great with movies, and rave about the convenience and relative value that this complete home theater solution provides. First and foremost, it includes a good quality upscaling (to 1080p) DVD player. Other goodies include an FM/AM tuner and an iPod dock. Styling is attractive, and the included powered subwoofer gives movie sound its need punch. However, most critics cringe -- or at least look askance -- when the Philips HTS8100 is asked to play music, and some reviewers and users say that the surround-sound effect isn't convincing. The lack of any HDMI inputs is another strike, although there is an HDMI output for connection to the TV. If you don't need an integrated DVD player or radio tuner, the Sony HT-CT100 (*Est. $250) is more basic but less expensive. However, it includes three HDMI inputs, and critics compliment its performance with all types of audio.
We found several reviews for the Philips AmbiSound HTS8100 sound bar. It's featured in a detailed standalone report at CNET, but the article includes ratings that make comparisons with other tested sound bars there easy. The HTS8100 is also included in comparison tests at Home Theater Magazine, CNNMoney.com and Sound & Vision magazine. Amazon.com has a smattering of user-written reviews.
Our Sources
1. CNET
CNET provides a great in-depth review of the Philips HTS8100. Matthew Moskovciak says, "In all, the HTS8100 comes through on most of its promises." The quality of the video from the DVD is an unexpected but welcome surprise.
Review: Philips SoundBar HTS8100, Matthew Moskovciak, July 23, 2007
2. Sound & Vision MagazineDetails/Subscribe
The Philips AmbiSound HTS8100 is part of Sound & Vision magazine's test of seven soundbar systems. Limitations are noted, but Ken C. Pohlmann says that "within its confines, this system has lots to like." Convenience is the biggest plus, though styling and good audio/video performance are positives as well.
Review: 7 Soundbars: Simple to Luxe, Ken C. Pohlmann, April 2008
3. Home Theater MagazineDetails/Subscribe
Home Theater magazine has a less positive opinion of the Philips HTS8100, and it finishes last in this five-sound-bar shootout. However, Adrienne Maxwell also notes that it's priced lower -- in some cases significantly lower -- than other sound bars in the shootout, which put it at a competitive disadvantage in terms of features offered.
Review: The Power of One: Five Soundbar Speaker Systems, Adrienne Maxwell, May 2008
4. CNNMoney.com
The Philips AmbiSound HTS8100 is one of five sound bars tested. None of the sound bars draws rave reviews, but the Philips AmbiSound HTS8100 trails the field because it delivers the least-effective surround sound.
Review: 5 Simple TV Sound Systems, Sonia Zjawinski, Oct. 3, 2008
5. Amazon.com
The Philips HTS8100 has amassed around 40 reviews as of our last visit, with opinions literally spread all over the board. Still, many seem at least somewhat pleased, with the happiest ones being those who value the sound bar's convenience and looks overall.
Review: Philips AmbiSound Home Theater Sound Bar, Contributors to Amazon.com
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Boston Acoustics TVee Model 30 Sound System with Sleek Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer (Black)
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