The following is list of my favorite home theater-related product picks for 2002. This listing is kept for archival and continued reference purposes. Although many of these product have now been discontinued, they are still in use by consumers.
1. Philips DVDR985 DVD Recorder
Despite the quagmire over standards and compatibility with current DVD playback technology, Philips arrives with a reasonably priced DVD recorder that delivers what it promises. It is the only DVD recorder on the market under $1,000 whose recordings can be played in most any DVD player, whether recorded on a write-once(DVD+R) or re-writable(DVD+RW) disc. My favorite product of 2002.
2. Pioneer DV-47A DVD/SACD/DVD-Audio Player
Earlier this year this unit from Pioneer created quite a stir in the marketplace. Not only does it play DVDs and CDs, but also plays both SACD (Super Audio CD) and DVD-Audio discs. Also, with its impressive progressive scan video output, the DV-47A was one of the most sought after DVD players this past year. May be hard to find now as the new Pioneer DV-45A has recently entered the market.
3. Sony SLV-D100 DVD/VCR Combo
Sony introduces its first DVD/VCR combo. Features include: DVD/DVD-R/RW, CD/VCD/CD-R/CD-RW, and MP3 Playback, a 4-Head Hi-Fi VCR, an RF Output for both DVD and VCR, Component Video and S-Video Outputs for DVD, as well as coaxial and optical digital outputs. Also included: Front A/V inputs for camcorders or video game systems, and Plug/Play VCR Setup. This is a great combination unit for the price.
4. Kenwood VR-6070 THX-Select AV Receiver
The Kenwood VR-6070 is the flagship of its affordable 6.1 channel AV receivers. With 100 WPCx6 in surround mode, this unit is powerful enough for most home theater setups. In addition, this unit features THX Surround EX, DTS-ES, Dolby Pro-Logic II, DTS-NEO:6, and SRS Circle Surround II. Lastly, the VR-6070 also has 6-channel analog inputs for SACD or DVD-Audio playback. This unit is a great value.
5. Yamaha YHT-900 Home Theater-In-A-Box
Unlike most HTIB systems, the Yamaha YHT-900 utilizes separate components. As packaged, the system includes Yamaha's HTR-5560 6.1 channel receiver, featuring Dolby Digital EX and DTS-ES decoding, the DV-C6480 5-disc DVD-Video/DVD-Audio/CD player with progressive scan, 6 NS-AP580 satellite speakers, and its excellent YST-SW205 8-inch 150 watt powered subwoofer. This is a great system package.
6. Sony KV-34XBR800 16x9 Flat Tube TV
Sony's newest HD-ready 34" 16:9 TV features reverse 3-2 pullDown progressive scan, a 3-D Digital Comb Filter, 720p Input Capability (converted to 1080i), 2 HD component video inputs, and TruSurround™ SRS Audio. In addition the XBR800 also features Memory Stick slot for viewing of digital stills, and a DVI input for direct input of digital HD signals. Set-top box needed for HD reception.
7. Hitachi 65SWX20B Projection TV
Hitachi has always made excellent projection TVs, but has taken their product up a notch with HD-upgradable sets. With a large 65-inch 16x9 screen, the 65SWX20B includes a DVI-interface, as well as HD-component inputs. this unit has ability to display 480p, 720p, and 1080i HD signals as well as providing upconversion for standard definition signals. This set is an all-around great performer.
8. Sony KZ32TS1 Integrated Plasma TV
Make the leap to Plasma TV, with this gem from Sony. This unit has a bright 32-inch 16x9 screen, a built-in NTSC tuner and is able to accept any HDTV source. Combine these features with 3:2 progressive scan, built-in sound system, and computer RGB inputs, and you have a space-saving centerpiece for your home theater or computer system. Plasma is expensive but this set is definitely worth a look.
9. Panasonic CT-36HX42 36-Inch TV
The CT-36HX42 has an excellent contrast ratio. This set is a flat tube HD-upgradable unit with progressive scan doubler for non-HD sources. Weak or poor signal sources are quite revealing, but sources such as DVD and satellite signal look excellent. Equipped with all the needed inputs/outputs and a two-tuner PIP/Split screen function. This set is defintely a great value for the price.
10. JVC HM-DH30000 D-VHS VCR
In the boldest marketing move of the year, JVC launched its new High Definition VCR, the HM-DH3000. This is no ordinary VCR. Compatible with yesterday's VHS recordings, this unit can also record in full 1080i HD or play back pre-recorded HD content (D-Theater). Backed by several movie studios, D-Theater titles are being released on a regular basis. DVD looks good, but D-Theater looks great!
