Home Theater Gifts For Mom

The Epson MovieMate 85HD is one of a class of video projectors that include a built-in DVD player. The projector section utilizes 3LCD technology with 1280x800 (approx 720p) native resolution. All DVDs played in the projector's built-in DVD player are projected in 720p. The 85HD also has both an HDMI and microphone input (for Karaoke or presentations), and also has both built-in speakers and digital audio output (for connection to a home theater audio system). The 85HD is easy to set up, making it great for novice users. To find out if the Epson MovieMate 85HD is right for you, check out my Review, Photo Gallery and Video Performance Tests.

For more suggestions on video projectors, also check out my list of LCD and DLP video projectors.

Here is a great gift for Mom The Samsung HT-D6500W combines a 3D Blu-ray Disc player, a 5.1 channel surround sound system (including speakers), and network media player into a single package for less than $700. There is even a wireless amplifier module for the surround speakers, and the system can be easily be connected to your internet router (via wired eithernet or WiFi) to allow the streaming of movies and TV shows from the internet or content stored on a PC or media server. Chck out more info on the details or the Samsung HT-D6500W in my Review and supplementary product photos, and vdeo performance tests.

For additional suggestions, check out my list of Home Theater-in-a-Box Systems.

Are you looking for a bargain-priced Blu-ray player that still delivers the goods? If so, check out the easy-to-use, fast-loading, very affordable (about $100) Panasonic DMP-BD75. The DMP-BD75 plays Blu-ray discs at full 720p, 1080i, or 1080p resolution via its HDMI output. This player is compatible with standard DVDs and most recordable DVD formats, as well as standard music CDs and CD-Rs/RWs. Standard DVDs are upscaled up to 1080p via the HDMI output.

With its built-in Ethernet connection, the DMP-BD75 can access both Profile 2.0 internet content related to some Blu-ray Disc releases, as well as the content streamed from Netflix, CinemaNow, and Vudu. Another bonus is that the DMP-BD75 also has a front mounted USB for access to media content stored on USB flash drives. You can even access media content stored your PC.

NOTE: The Panasonic DMP-BD75 is not 3D-compatible.

Here is a great idea for Mom that will really like - A home theater sound bar system that is also a TV stand. The ZVOX Audio IncrediBase 580 fill your room with great sound for both movies and music, without the clutter of a lot of speakers. Alos, the ZVOX 580 provides a wide sound image using virtual surround processing. The ZVOX provides both analog and both digital optical (Toslink) and coaxial digital audio inputs which makes connecting CD player, DVD player, and even a VCR easy. Check out more about the ZVOX Audio IncrediBase 580 in my Review and Photo Profile.

For more suggestions, check out my current list of Digital Sound Projectors and Sound Bars.

An increasing number of consumers are accessing TV programs and movies via the internet, and, as a result, Network Media Players and Media Streamers are becoming very popular gifts. The Sony Media Player SMP-N100 is a network media player that brings internet-based audio and video content from many content providers your TV and home theater system. The video quality of the SMP-N100 is very good, due to the incorporation of video upscaling. In addition, the SMP-N100 incorporates DLNA features, which allow added access to media content stored your PC or media server. For all you need to know about the Sony Media Player SMP-N100, check out our four-article series, which includes a comprehensive review.

For additional suggestions, also be sure to check out our listing of Best Network Media Players and Media Streamers.

The Panasonic DMR-EZ48VK DVD recorder/VCR combo has the ability to record most DVD formats and play back most DVD and CD formats, including MP3 and Divx files. In addition using the VCR section, the consumer can both record directly to VHS or dub non-copyprotected video content from VHS to DVD or DVD to VHS. With Panasonic's enhanced 4-hour recording mode, you can record sporting events and longer movies onto DVD with the same video quality as the 2-hour recording mode. The incorporation of HDMI and video upscaling makes the EZ48VK a good match for an HDTV. The DMR-EZ48VK has both an SD card slot and USB input for digital image and music file playback, as well as an ATSC tuner, for the reception of digital TV broadcast signals.

For more suggestions, also check out my list of DVD Recorders and DVD Recorder/VCR Combos.

Do you have a great home theater or audio system in your home, but listen to a cheap clock radio for your bedroom or kitchen? If you desire a compact CD player/Clock radio combination that actually delivers great sound, then you might consider the Sonoro Cubo Model AU-1300. The Cubo features a built-in slot load CD player that is CD/CD-R/RW, CD-MP3, and CD-WMA compatible. Also, this compact unit also has a rear mount audio input jack for connecting an iPod or other digital audio player. In addition, the Cubo also contains an FM tuner and Clock, and is available in ten different colors. To find out if the Cubo is right for you, or if you are looking for a great gift for a special occasion, check out my product review.

For more suggestions, also check out my list of Compact Audio Systems.