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Panasonic SC-PT960: Review

Posted to Lifestyle/ Mini Systems 2009-03-04

The Panasonic SC-PT960 is a 1250W DVD "home theater in a box-" (HTIB) system. It includes everything you need for a home theater system, right down to the speaker wire (although you'll get better results if you replace the thin wires supplied with a good quality speaker wire). The system features a progressive scan DVD player/amplifier with 1080p upscaling, a 5 DVD/CD changer, HDMI connection, and an optical digital input.

The system speakers include a subwoofer with Kelton type 6-1/2-" woofer and a 10-" passive radiator. The front speakers are 2-1/2-" 2-way cone-type drivers, the center channel speaker contains 2 cone-type 2-way bass reflex speakers, and the wireless surround (rear) speakers are 2-1/2-" cone-type bass reflex units. The unit also features a built-in universal dock for iPod, Panasonic's VIERA link menu system for other Panasonic devices, and speaker stands for the rear speakers.

Rating:

4.4 out of 5

Value

The SC-PT960 packs a lot of bang for the buck. It's a complete home theater solution in one package, and the wireless rear speakers make installation and setup a snap. The sound quality is quite good - it's not an audiophile system, but it provides a true home theater experience. There's enough power to drive all of the speakers at comfortable levels, and the DVD upscaling to HD is a welcome bonus. As mentioned earlier, the only place that Panasonic skimped on quality is the speaker wire - you might want to replace it with some good quality audio cables.

Ergonomics

Panasonic gets high marks here for a handsome system that should blend in well with the décor in your multimedia room - even if it's the same as your living room. In addition, the convenience of the wireless rear speakers means there are no wires to trip over. The ability to use the included remote with other Panasonic devices is also a plus. The 5 DVD/CD changer has a sleek design, and the unit features a user-friendly menu system.

Summary

The SC-PT960 is an excellent home theater system at a very reasonable price. Whether you want to avoid the hassle of piecing together separate components or you're looking for a home theater system that's a cut above the budget class, the SC-PT960 deserves a look. It couldn't be easier to set up, and includes plenty of features not found in lower-priced budget systems.

Pros

5 DVD/CD changer
1250W RMS amplifier
Wireless rear speakers
DVD upscaling to 1080p
Kelton subwoofer

Cons

There are no cons for this product