If you have a perfectly good DVD player but are less than impressed by the stereo sound from your TV, the Pioneer HTP-2800 home theater system makes a smart purchase. The HTP-2800 package includes a complete five-channel home theater receiver, a center-channel speaker, four satellite speakers and a passive subwoofer, as well as a remote control with dedicated DVD controls. There aren't many bells and whistles, but the HTP-2800 will give you a surprisingly strong sound for a reasonable price. Keep in mind that you will have to supply the DVD player yourself.

The HTP-2800's powerful internal amplifier provides an impressive 860 watts, which is evenly divided among the five speakers and subwoofer. Each of the identical satellites uses a full-range 3-1/16-inch driver, while the center channel sports the same driver in a horizontal design. The high-frequency response suffers due to the lack of a dedicated tweeter, but thanks to the matching components, the surround soundstage is seamless. All of the HTP-2800's speakers are magnetically shielded for placement near a TV. The 6-5/16-inch subwoofer produces a clear and accurate low end, but don't expect to rattle the windows with earth-shattering bass.

In addition to integrated processing for Dolby Digital, DTS and Dolby Pro Logic II, the HTP-2800 has nine digital signal processing modes to fine-tune the sound. This home theater system lacks an equalizer, but it does have separate treble and bass controls. The HTP-2800 can play a stereo source through all five speakers, although some music sounds decidedly strange in this mode. An AM/FM tuner is included, and it has presets for 30 stations.

The HTP-2800 has coaxial and optical digital audio inputs for connecting your DVD player. If you don't have a DVD player or are looking for an upgrade, this isn't the system for you. However, if you are happy with your current disc player, the Pioneer HTP-2800 is a capable and affordable way to jump into the world of surround sound.

Pros:  Powerful for the price, identical speakers produce smooth soundstage
Cons:  Requires a separate DVD player, relatively basic features

Warranty
1 year parts and labor