Yamaha YHT-380 HTiB

Yamaha has done something pretty cool with its entry-level YHT-380 system. They included several standalone products all in one  big, heavy box.  That's right, a full Yamaha receiver, 5-speaker package, and subwoofer are part of this home theater system.  It might even make you say "Yama-HEY!"  Well, that is, if you listen to Tom or Dina over at AVRant.

So, what's the big deal with separate components?  Well, the Yamaha HTR-6030 receiver is a full featured entry level unit that is ready for future upgrades. Of course, if you are a first time home theater user, then this means you can start small and work your way up.  Unfortunately, the HTR-6030 doesn't have any HDMI inputs, but it does have component video switching and a couple of digital optical inputs. Though the included speakers are certainly adequate for smaller rooms and when used at moderate volume levels, they are probably the weakest point in this system. The 8" subwoofer is actually quite good for a home theater-in-a-box system.  It doesn't go to the very lowest frequencies, but will output a good rumble for those explosions and other movie sound effects. Experiment with positioning it around the room for the best possible sound.

Please note that a DVD player isn't included with this package, as this HTiB system focuses more on audio instead of being a do-it-all solution.  This is actually nicer than you might think, as it provides you the opportunity to get a quality upscaling DVD player, or even jump to an HD-DVD player.  The YHT-380 system is pretty easy to hook up otherwise and has standard connectors that won't leaving you cutting wires if you substitute upgraded components down the road.  The remote control is also one of the cleanest layouts we have seen from Yamaha.  Other features include an AM/FM/XM radio tuner and some new sound modes that can be customized by the user. The new SCENE system makes it a little easier to understand the DSP modes, as well and stores your settings in an easy-to-recall manner.

If you can only spend a few hundred dollars, but want a system that allows for future upgrades, then make sure to check out the Yamaha YHT-380.  It will certainly do the trick for now, and has a few nice features and higher quality hardware to power the speakers. Yeah, we like higher quality hardware, that's what makes us Audioholics!