The Panasonic SC-PT950 home theater system includes a 5-disc DVD/CD changer as well as front tower speakers and wireless rear speakers. In addition, it boasts a flexible iPod dock, subwoofer module, center speaker, remote control, setup microphone, and cables for various component connections.

The main unit is very slim, containing the DVD/CD changer as well as the amplifier hardware and the wireless transmitter. The rear of the unit has audio outputs for the front speakers and subwoofer module. We like that this unit includes and HDMI port for newer HD televisions. The video output can be specifically set to 720p, 1080i, or 1080p depending on your HDTV's native resolution. There is also a stereo input jack on the back as well as a portable device input on the front. However, it is missing an optical input so you won't be able to use the surround sound coming from your HDTV's built in digital tuner. It includes composite and component video outputs for older TVs, too.

The center and tower speakers are a little nicer than some of Panasonic's other theater systems, as they are two-way instead of just one-way units. As there is a separate tweeter and midrange cone in each speaker, it produces better sound. The subwoofer module is still a little on the small side, however, and will sound best in a smaller room. It won't produce the same kind of explosive sound as a larger subwoofer module but will be adequate in rooms sized from 10x12 feet up to about 12x16 feet. Note that the front, center, and subwoofer speakers run at 6 ohms and can be upgraded to larger or higher quality speakers in the future. However, the rear speakers run at a non-standard 4 ohms and will be difficult to drive from the wireless receiver module. Additionally, the center channel and rear speakers can easily be mounted to a wall simply with screws.

We really liked the inclusion of a setup microphone. You can easily plug the microphone into the main unit, make a few button presses, and have the system setup up the speaker properties automatically. This is an excellent feature for first time home theater users. Otherwise, the setup is relatively easy with good instruction from the manual and color coded connections.

Not only can the PT950 play DVDs, it does a good job with MP3 / WMA / JPG files, XM radio with an optional antenna, and music from the included iPod dock. The remote control is pretty comprehensive, but the lower half may be a bit confusing for those of you new to home theater. There are also a few sound modes--Flat, Heavy, Clear, and Soft--that can be activated to suit the music or movie being played.

If you are looking for a feature filled system for your small room, then this may be just the right find for you. With options to play DVDs, music from the radio, portable audio devices, and the inclusion of good looking tower speakers and a wireless receiver for the rears, the Panasonic SC-PT950 fits the bill nicely.

Pros: Wireless receiver included, flexible iPod dock, 5 disc DVD/CD changer, XM compatible
Cons: Smaller subwoofer, cluttered remote, no optical input

Warranty
1 year, limited