Panasonic SC-HT870

The Panasonic SC-HT870 is a very poor value for the money. It would be better to invest in speakers and an AMP.

The only way to discribe the surround sound is; what surround sound. Volume, it does increase the volume.

The Panasonic SC-HT870 is probably the best value, best performing 'out of the box' home cinema system you can buy today. Ok so their might be some drawbacks if you have SKY, i.e. the inability to watch SKY in full dolby surround sound. However apart from this minor negative the whole system is very impressive.

I have my SC-HT870 connected to a Pioneer PDP-435XDE plasma and the sound quality is amazing. The reason why I opted for the SC-HT870 was simply because I wanted an out of the box system, so that I wouldn't have to bother with purchasing separates. Coupled with the fact that the current range of Sony cinema kits are simply terrible down to the fact that Sony have installed poor quality DVD players to their home cinema systems.

Another reason why I opted for the SC-HT870 was the massive 1000watts rms. Because I have a reasonably large room I was initially worried about whether the other systems would have enough power to produce adequate surround sound effects. Boy the SC-HT870 packs a serious punch the huge 'gravestone' subwoofer has enough power to literally shake the room, and you really get the feeling you are in a cinema.

The sound effect quality of the surround sound speakers is superb, the front speakers are slim line powerhouses that add high quality mid range sound and the center speaker provides crisp, clear dialogue.

Just try the Matrix on level 16 with the sub cranked up to level 4 and prepare yourself for a fantastic home cinema experience.

As an overall system the Panasonic SC-HT870 has very good performance. The sound, from this well spec'ed speaker system, is superb. Plenty of option for both picture and sound to keep the home enthusiast happy. Totally transforms the home viewing experience.

However, the lack of a digital input limits true surround sound to your DVD. Any other periferal will have to make do with pseudo surround sound. This is ok, and the options on the amp make this useable and enjoyable. Just not quite the real thing.

Overall a good system.

I have just bought my Panasonic SC-HT870 system yesterday night and in about 1:30hours I installed it. I bought this package for especially re-mastering option because of quality MP3 playing and top rated 1000watts rms sound. Well designed speaker system and very long cables are good. I don't want to mention sound quality one the best sounds I have ever listened on a dvd-home system. (I have been DJing so believe my ears :) anyway good package with a overall rating 9 from me. I bought this unit for about 1300ytl it is Turkish money and about 870$ including vat.

Exellent value and superb sound. We thought that as the SC-HT870 is Panasonic's top the range home cinema system it would include karoke program, why not, as in other countries it is included.