Top 10 Home Theater Gifts For Mom

1. Panasonic TH-42PZ700U 42-Inch Plasma Television with 1080p

If you are considering a Plasma Television, put this one on the top of your list. The Panasonic TH-42PZ700U is a breakthrough 42-inch Plasma TV that features full 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution at a price less than $2,500. In addition to 1080p resolution, this set also has a 5,000:1 constrast ratio, and 60,000 hour screen life. Inputs include HDMI, HD-component, S-video, Composite, and a VGA input for PCs. In addition, this set has built-in NTSC and ATSC/QAM (HDTV) tuners and an SD card slot for playback of digital still photos. There are larger Plasmas, but combining a good performing set with a decent 42-inch screen size, native 1080p resolution, and a price less than $2,500, the Panasonic TH-42PZ700U may be hard to pass up.

2. Epson MovieMate 72 3LCD Video Projector Upscaling DVD Player Combination

The Epson MovieMate 72 is one of new class of video projectors that includes a built-in DVD player. The projector section utilizes 3LCD technology with 1280x720 (720p) native resultion. All DVDs played in the projector's built-in DVD are upscaled to 720p. In addition, this unit also has extra inputs (including HDMI) that can accommodate another device, such as a Blu-ray or HD-DVD player, game system, or other source. The MovieMate 72 also has both built-in speakers and a digital audio output for connection to a home theater audio system. The MovieMate is easy to use and very portable, making it great for novice users. Also, check out my Review and Photo Gallery.

3. JVC DR-MV99B DVD Recorder/VCR Combination

The JVC DR-MV99B is a DVD Recorder/VCR combo that offers both good performance and a versatile feature package. This combo records on both the DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW formats and plays 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 (HiFi) or dub non-copyprotected video content from VHS to DVD or DVD to VHS. The MV99B also has a front mounted DV input (iLInk) that allows direct video and audio transfer from digital camcorders. Also, with its HDMI output the DR-MV99B can upscale to both DVD and VHS up to 1080i. The MV99B is also equipped with an ATSC tuner, for the reception of digital TV signals after Feb. 17, 2009.

4. Panasonic SC-PT750 Home Theater-in-Box

Home Theater-in-a-Box systems provide an easy and affordable way to enter the world of home theater. With that in mind, the Panasonic SC-HT750 home theater system incorporates an amazing amount of useful features for a very reasonable price. First, this system includes a five-disc DVD changer with both HDMI outputs with 1080p upscaling for connection to an HDTV. Other useful features are the built-in Universal Dock for connecting your iPod, and an a wireless rear speaker. The SC-HT750 also includes an AV receiver/amplifier section that can fill an average size room with great sound. This unit is worth considering if you would like a basic home theater system that offers a lot of useful features, but is still easy to install and use.

5. Helios H4000 Upscaling DVD Player with HDMI Output

The Helios H4000 is feature-packed DVD player with several innovative features. The H4000 can deliver 720p/1080i/1080p upscaled images through HDMI connectivity and/or Component video connections. In addition, other features, Region Code Free and PAL/NTSC compatibility add to its flexibility. If you are looking for a new DVD player, whether to use with that new flat panel HDTV and surround sound system, make sure you check out the Helios H4000 as an option.

6. Denon S-102 2.1 Channel Home Theater System

The Denon S-102, is a compact system that combines a receiver, two speakers, a subwoofer, and an upscaling DVD player with HDMI output. The DVD player section is compatible with commercial DVD, DVD-R/RW, CD/R/RW, Kodak Picture CD, MP3, WMA, and HDCD disc formats. The S-102 also includes Dolby Virtual Speaker technology, allowing listeners to experience 5.1 channel surround sound with just the two provided loudspeakers and subwoofer. Also included: Dolby Headphone Surround, and inputs for additional components. This system is great for an office, bedroom, or dorm room. For more details on the features and operation of the S-102, download the User Manual.

7. Sharp AQUOS LC-26D43U 26-inch LCD TV

Get Mom into the flat panel television craze with this unit from Sharp. The LC-26D43U features a 26-inch 16x9 screen,, 1366x768 pixel resolution, HD-compatiblity via 2 HDMI and 2 HD-component inputs, 6,000:1 contrast ratio, progressive scan, internal stereo amplifier with front mounted speakers, and NTSC and ATSC/QAM (HDTV) Tuners, and a fast 6ms response time. You owe it to yourself to check out the space saving, stylish, and performance that this LCD TV can deliver. In addition, if you receive your TV programming over-the-air, the LC-26D43U has the proper tuner to allow you to continue to view television shows after all TV broadcasting switches from analog-to-digital on February 17, 2009.

For a closer look, check out the User Manual/

8. Chestnut Hill Sound - GEORGE Compact Audio System

GEORGE is a unique combination product that blends a compact audio system with full iPod connectivity and control. In addition to providing great room-filling sound from your iPod, GEORGE also features a built-in AM/FM radio and an auxiliary input for the connection of a CD or Cassette player.

Adding to its flexibility is the inclusion of the detachable front control panel, which also doubles as the GEORGE's wireless remote control. Some drawbacks, however, are the large external power supply, inconvenient subwoofer control, no incorporation of XM or Sirius Satellite Radio connectivity, and a high price tag.

9. ZVOX Audio 425 Single-Cabinet Surround Sound System

The ZVOX Audio 425 surround sound system is one of the latest in a growing trend towards one-box surround sound solutions that are targeted to those consumers that want more than just listening to sound from cheap built-in Television speakers, but don't want the hassle, of setting up and using a multi-speaker home theater system. The ZVOX 425 is an easy-to-use system that delivers great sound and its physical design is a great complement for use with a flat panel television. For look at the ZVOX Audio 425 Single Cabinet Surround Sound System, check out my Review and Photo Gallery.

10. Sylvania LD155SL8 15-inch LCD TV/DVD Player Combination

Wouldn't it be nice if you could have a small TV with built-in DVD player? The Sylvania LD155SL8 fills the bill. This is a 15-inch stereo LCD TV/DVD combo with tiltable screen, 4x3 aspect ratio, and 1024x768 native pixel resolution. The DVD player is fully functional, including digital audio output for DTS/Dolby Digital surround sound. One downside is a lack of an HDMI input. However, this is a very good package, despite its size. With this unit and a small surround system you can have your own mini-home theater in a space as small as a Dorm room or Kitchen. This could be a great gift for Mom.