If you want a system with good looks, and requires a minimum of fuss to set up, then an all in one home cinema system could be just what you need.
Modern all in one systems are designed to go together perfectly, both acoustically, and aesthetically. This has the advantage that not only will they look good in your lounge or bedroom, but you will have a great sounding home cinema system without the extra hassle of trying to select the right speakers, or amplifiers.
All in one home cinema systems normally include everything you need to get started, even if you only have a television: a DVD or Blu-ray Player with built in amplifier, speakers and speaker cables, and simple instructions. Some systems are available without the DVD and Blu-ray player and just include the speakers and amplifier which is useful if you are already happy with your existing player.
Why choose an all in one system?
You could go for a separates system, but here are our top 5 reasons why buying an all in one system is a good choice:
Making the right choice
If you've now decided that an all in one system is the right choice for you, the only thing left to do is to choose! The choice of systems available is enormous so there are a few areas you might want to consider to help narrow down your selections:
Top 3 Home Cinema Systems
Deciding to get your own system is the easy part - selecting exactly which one is a little more difficult! In terms of price and features, we think these three systems currently offer just about the best value for money:
Sony BDV-E280 Blu-ray Home Cinema System
Although sitting at the budget end of the range, Sony’s E280 is surprisingly packed full of features – including being 3D Ready and with the Bravia Internet Video service – making it a great value package.
Samsung HT-D5500 Blu-ray Home Cinema System
You need a good reason to upgrade your home cinema system each year, especially in these austere times. But Samsung, with their latest HT-D5500, might just have given you some compelling reasons do so.
Sony BDV-E380 Blu-ray Home Cinema System
Whilst the edgy looks of the previous model may have been toned down, the features and performance haven’t. If you’re looking for a high definition Blu-ray home cinema system with full 5.1 surround sound, then the BDV-E380 should definitely be on your short list.
Wireless Home Cinema Systems
Many people find it difficult to run cables to the rear speakers in their lounge - whether it be for practical or aesthetic reasons - so often have to resort to a 2.1 system. If you're one of these people, and you still want the full immersive surround sound experience that 5.1 can offer, then a wireless home cinema system could just be the answer to your prayers.
DVD Based Systems
With the surge of high definition Blu-ray, the range of DVD based surround sound systems has reduced somewhat in recent years, despite it still being the best selling format in the UK. However, if you are looking for a low cost home cinema then a DVD based system is still your best option - and with prices starting at around half that of an equivalent Blu-ray system, it's not hard to see why.
2.1 Home Cinema Systems
Many All In One Systems are titled as being '2.1' rather than '5.1'. This simply means that there are only 2 speakers and a subwoofer to handle all the movie sound effects rather than 5 speakers and a sub. Whilst this has obvious advantages that there are fewer speakers to position, there is also a slight compromise to be made on the quality of the surround sound effects. To find out more, and see the latest systems available, read our article on the pros and cons of 2.1 home cinema systems.
5.1 Home Cinema Systems
Considered by many to be the only real way to get the full surround sound experience, 5.1 systems are still the most popular option. As long as you can place the rear speakers in an ideal position then 5.1 is still the best option. Our article on 5.1 home cinema systems explains more and shows the latest systems available.
