Samsung HT-AS730ST Review
The Samsung HT-AS730ST didn't impress users and reviewers quite as much as the HT-BD1250, one of our best picks. Although Bigpicturebigsound.com liked the audio from this cheap HTiB, they didn't like the fact that the subwoofer would start to buzz if turned up more than 40% of its max volume, and that its audio support is limited to Dolby Digital and DTS Audio. Cnet only gives this unit 2 out of 5 stars. They liked the fact that the HT-AS730ST included a lot of connectivity options, including three HDMI inputs, but they also note that the HDMI inputs would sometimes stop working until the cable was removed and plugged back in. Cnet was also not very impressed with the system's audio, calling it "lifeless".
The Samsung HT-AS730ST is a 5.1 speaker HTiB that includes an A/V receiver and an iPod dock. The system has several connectivity options, including three HDMI ports, two component inputs, and three digital optical inputs. It also includes a microphone to automatically calibrate the speaker's sound when you set it up. The HTiB's radio is FM-only.
Samsung's HT-AS730ST isn't a terrible cheap HTiB. It has a lot of connectivity options and we like that it includes automatic calibration for the speakers. But it's audio prowess is questionable, and you can pick up the great-sounding Onkyo HTiB for a lot less than this model.
Other Recommended Home Theater
Samsung HT-BD1250
Expert reviewers and users alike are quite impressed with the Samsung HT-BD1250 due to its excellent audio and video quality. The Samsung HT-BD1250 also boasts all the features you'd want in a best cheap HTiB, including streaming support for Netflix and Pandora, support for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, an FM tuner, even iPod support. Read more »
Onkyo HT-S3200
Home users who already have a Blu-ray or DVD player should look no further than Onkyo's cheap HT-S3200 to round out their home theater. Experts and users lavish praise on the HT-S3200 for its excellent music and movie sound quality. The receiver includes three HDMI ports for high-definition devices as well as an AM/FM radio. May be hard to find, but worth your time looking. Read more »
Sony HT-SS360
The Sony HT-SS360's biggest advantage is its price. For less than $250 you get a home theater receiver with three HDMI inputs, AM/FM radio, and five speakers and one subwoofer. Although some users aren't overly impressed with its ability to play music, the HT-SS360 handles movie audio quite well and is a good entry-level system. Read more »



