Top 10 Home Theater Gifts For Mom

1. Sony Bravia KDL-40S4100 40-Inch LCD Television

The Sony KDL-40S4100 is a 40-inch LCD TV with a native pixel resolution of 1920x1080 (1080p) and a real world contrast ratio of 2,500:1. This set also includes 3 HDMI inputs, one of which is side mounted for easy connection of game consoles or other temporary items. NTSC, ATSC (HDTV), and QAM tuners are also included. The ATSC tuner allows reception of the over-the-air HDTV signals and the QAM tuner allows Digital/HD-cable (non-premium channels) reception. The SRS S-Force audio system provides the effect of surround sound with only two speakers. The detail, color consistency, and contrast, on this LCD television is great. Check out the KDL-40S4100, especially if you have a Blu-ray, HD-DVD, or upscaling DVD Player.

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. Panasonic DMR-EZ48VK DVD recorder/VCR Combo with HDMI

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 signals after Feb. 17, 2009.

4. Sony DAV-IS10 Mico Speaker Home Theater System

The trend towards compact home theater-in-a-box systems has just reached its zenith with Sony's DAV-IS10. The main feature of this system that stands out are its palm-sized satellite speakers. Also, the 5.1 Channel receiver/DVD player combo is also compact in relation to other systems, but the Subwoofer is still fairly large. Despite the small physical presence of this system, the sound quality is better than you might expect. However, this is not a system for a large room. If you are looking for system with extremely small speakers, for use in a small room, I would definitely put this one on the list.

5. OPPO DV-980H Upscaling DVD PLayer

The OPPO DV-980H is a feature-packed DVD player that Mom will surely enjoy. HDMI connectivity and upscaling enables the DV980H to deliver an excellent picture on an HDTV. In addition, other features, such as SACD, DVD-Audio, and Divx playback, as well as a front mounted USB port for importing family photos and/or favorite downloaded musisc from flash drives, add great audio and video flexibility. If you are looking for a practical DVD player to use with an HDTV or Video Projector, and surround sound system, make sure you check this one out. The OPPO DV980H is an excellent DVD player, and is priced less than $170. For a more detailed look at the DV-980H, check out my Short and Full Reviews.

6. Toshiba 26AV502U 26-inch LCD TV

The Toshiba 26AV502U is a great gift idea for Mom. With its space-saving 26-inch screen size, 1366x768 (720p/768p) native resolution, and wide viewing angle, this set has a great image. In addition, its 2 HDMI inputs, PC VGA input, and ATSC/QAM tuner allow access to high definition 720p/1080i from a variety of sources, including HDTV broadcasts (Note: 1080i input signals are scaled down to 1366x768 for screen display). It is important to note that this set does not accept 1080p input signals, up to 1080i only. This set also includes Lip-sync adjustment and "thin line" speaker system that provides decent sound in comparision to the built-in speakers of some other sets. For more details, the User Manual is available for download.

7. Denon DF101 Compact Audio System

Here is a compact audio system that really packs a punch. The Denon DF-101 features a separate mini-size CD player and Receiver, combined with two bass relex designed loudspeakers for more efficiency. In addition, the DF101 allows the connection for an external subwoofer, via a subwoofer pre-out connection. The amplifier of the DF-101 delivers a surprisingly hefty 35wpc (at 4ohms) and the CD player is compatible with both CD-R and CD-RW discs. Other practical features include an AM/FM tuner, and iPod connectivity via optional docking station. The DF101 has an abundance of extra audio inputs, including a dedicated phono turntable input. This system is targeted for office use, but makes a great bedroom system as well.

8. Sonoro Cubo Model AU-1300 Compact CD Player and Clock Radio

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.

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. Toshiba 22LV506 LCD Flat Panel TV - DVD Player Combination

The 22LV506 combo features a compact 22-inch LCD television with built-in NTSC/ATSC/QAM tuner that can receive current over-the-air and analog cable programing as well as over-the-air and unscrambled HD cable programming. Also featured is a built-in slot-loading DVD progressive scan player, plus HDMI, Component, and analog video inputs for connecting additional devices, such as a Blu-ray, DVD Recorder, or VCR. You can also use this combo as a PC monitor via its VGA monitor input. This unit is great for bedrooms, offices, or dorm room. If you are looking for a space-saving entertainment solution, check out the Toshiba 22LV506 LCD TV/DVD combination.