Top 10 Home Theater Gifts for Grads

1. Sony KDL-26L5000 26-inch LCD HDTV

Here is a great HDTV for your Grad. The Sony KDL-26L5000 has a modest-size 26-inch screen, but boasts a native 1366x768 native pixel resolution and 3,000:1 native contrast ratio. In addition, this set features a decent sound system with four processing modes: Clear Voice, Dynamic, and Standard, backed up by a 8 wpc amplifier. Also, don't worry about inputs, the KDL-26L5000 has 3 HDMI inputs for high-def sources, and Component, Composite, and S-video connections for older sources. Another bonus is that you can use the set as a PC monitor and a TV at the same time with its PC-PIP function. The KDL-26L5000 is also Energy Star 3.0 rated, with 59.6 watts of power consumption when in operation. Download the user manual for operational specifics

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Toshiba XD-E500 Upscaling DVD Player With Extended Detail Enhancement

With the demise of HD-DVD, Toshiba has taken a path to improve the upscaling capabilities of standard DVD players. With improved 1080p video upscaling capability over previous Toshiba upscaling DVD players, the XD-E500 delivers a very good picture on an HDTV. In addition, the user also has some control over sharpness, color, and contrast, which compensate for variations in DVD source quality. Although not as good as Blu-ray the Toshiba XD-E500, priced at $149, provides good viewing of DVDs. For more details on whether the Toshiba XD-E500 is right for you, check out my Short and Full Reviews, as well as a Photo Gallery.

5. Panasonic DMR-EA18K DVD Recorder

The Panasonic DMR-EA18K is one of a growing number of entry-level DVD recorders that require an external tuner, such as a cable box, satellite box, or DTV converter box, to receive and record television programming. However, the DMR-EA18K does include compatibility with most DVD recording formats, a DV input for recording from digital camcorders, USB and SD card slot for digital still image playback, both progressive scan component video outputs, and 1080p upscaling via its HDMI output. Another bonus is Panasonic's enhanced playback quality on discs recorded using the four hour LP mode. The EA18K can also play Divx files. When comparing the LP mode playback on Panasonic DVD recorders and most other brands, you can tell the difference.

6. Pioneer VSX-918V - 5.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver

If you are looking for a flexible receiver that doesn't break the bank, check out the Pioneer VSX-918V. Featuring 5.1 Channels with Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Prologic IIx, and DTS-ES surround processing the VSX-918 has the power and options you need for a home theater system. This receiver also incorporates HDMI 1080p switching and both XM and Sirius satellite radio inputs. With optional XM and Sirius tuner/antennas and paid subscription, you can listen to a full range of XM and/or Sirius radio offerings, including XMHD surround broadcasts. Also, another great convenience is a front panel mounted USB port that allows direct connection of an iPod. The VSX-918 also has Pioneer's MCACC speaker calibration system.

7. Vizio VSB210WS 2.1 Channel Sound Bar Home Theater System with Wireless Subwoofer

Vizio is not the first brand you think of when considering a home theater system, but with the VSB210WS, it offers an attractive compact, self-contained, easy-to-use system that can complement a flat panel television and create an intimate, but satisfying home theater listening experience. The system combines a main unit that houses a 2 channel speaker/amplifier, with a wireless subwoofer, making it a 2.1 channel system. The subwoofer receives audio signals from the main unit without the need for an unsightly audio cable. For more details on whether the VSB210WS is right for you, check out both my Review as well as my up-close Photo Gallery.

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 are looking for 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 325 Single Cabinet Surround Sound System

The ZVOX 325 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. For look at the ZVOX 325 Single Cabinet Surround Sound System, also check out my review. Makes a great gift for use in a dorm room or apartment.

10. Sony CDP-CX355 CD Changer

Is your Grad's CD collection crowding out your bookcases? If so, check out this 300-CD Megachanger from Sony. In addition to storing an entire CD collection, this player is also compatible with CD-R/RW and Text Discs. There is even a PS/2 Keyboard connection to enable you to connect a PC-keyboard to assist in organizing and cataloging your collection. Of course, the CDs sound great too. This is a great gift for the Grad that loves music on CD.