The Samsung HT-TX72 home theater is a 5.1 speaker system which includes several good features for the new home theater user. Along with a five-disc DVD/CD changer, this unit includes HDMI input and output, optical input, a front USB port for computer files, an XM antenna jack, and support for an optional wireless speaker module.

The initial setup is very straightforward and the included manual has very detailed instructions. The front tower speakers are easy to assemble and speaker wire has been included to get you started. The center channel and rear speakers also include notches for hanging the speakers on a wall. If extra lengths of speaker wire are needed, then any generic 16 or 18 gauge speaker wire should do the trick. We should note that the included subwoofer produces a lot of mid-bass frequencies (40 to 200 hertz), so the system will sound best if the sub is placed in the front somewhere near the center speaker or just under it. We were a little disappointed that the included speakers were all rated at a non-standard 3 Ohms, meaning that speaker upgrades will not be possible in the future.

The TX72 main unit is very slim and should easily fit in a small rack or TV stand. There is an HDMI output with supports 720p and 1080i to give new HDTVs the best possible upscaled image. The included HDMI input will make hooking up a game console or HD-DVD player a breeze. There is also an optical input port for other digital sources such as a Satellite Dish or Cable Box. The system has a built in five-disc changer that works for both CDs and DVDs. It is possible to use burned CDs with MP3, WMA, DivX or JPG files, and DivX files are playable from burned DVDs, as well. There is a front panel USB jack that can play all of these computer files from a thumb drive. In addition, the system can be used with AM, FM, and XM radio stations.

The included remote control works with Samsung devices by default, but can be reprogrammed to work with a host of TVs from other manufacturers. We really like the layout on Samsung remotes, with the buttons laid out in a very logical fashion and frequently used functions are right in the middle for your thumb to reach easily. Overall, the Samsung HT-TX72 system is reasonably priced, produces good quality sound, and is very easy to set up and use.

Pros: Easy setup, HDMI and optical input
Cons: Proprietary speakers, subwoofer has a little too much mid-bass

Warranty
1 year, limited