Audio Video News

OSD Audio Nero Studio5 Speakers and Stream-XD Integrated Amplifier: $400 (as tested)

Why mess around with over-priced all-in-one wireless speakers when you can get a component-based streaming setup with a pair of excellent bookshelf speakers for $400? The Nero Stream-XD/Studio5 combo from California’s OSD Audio is ready for hi-res audio action and supports wireless streaming via Bluetooth, AirPlay, and Wi-Fi with ready access to Tidal, Spotify, and other services via OSD’s Player app. The system is also dead simple to set up and has analog and digital inputs to accommodate wired setups. Add to that actual stereo imaging from an impressive set of speakers and it’s quite the deal.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Great value
Tidal, Spotify, and TuneIn streaming
Digital and analog inputs accommodate multiple sources

Minus
Subwoofer output
Treble-forward sound with some music
Coarse volume steps
No USB-DAC input

Full Review Here

Onkyo TX-NR787 9.2-Channel Network AV Receiver: $479 (on Amazon; originally $699)

When some semblance of real home theater is the priority, Onkyo’s TX-NR787 is impossible to beat at its current Amazon price of $479. Sure, it’s a 2018 model but who cares? You’re getting a versatile nine-channel AVR that delivers an impressive blend of performance and features for $220 less than the price that led to it being a Sound & Vision Top Value Pick in the first place. With ample processing power to accommodate a DTS:X or Dolby Atmos 7.1.2 setup, the TX-NR787 is certified by THX to deliver rich, powerful sound in rooms as big as 2,000 square feet. Add to that a robust feature set, including a wealth of wireless streaming options and AccuEQ Advance room calibration, and you won’t be disappointed.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Powerful, full-bodied sound
5.1.4 and 7.1.2-channel surround options
AccuEQ Advance room calibration
Minus
No multichannel preamp outputs
Basic remote control

Full Review Here

Yamaha MusicCast BAR 400 Soundbar System: $499 ($450 on Amazon)

Yamaha’s ultra-sleek BAR 400 system brings movie soundtracks to life without commandeering precious living space. Throw in a MusicCast 50 wireless speaker ($499) and, in the words of reviewer Leslie Shapiro, you have a “stellar wireless 5.1 system that creates an immersive experience.” But the BAR 400 is much more than just a streamlined movie sound system: It can just as easily be pressed into action as a multiroom music system, thanks to the inclusion of Yamaha’s excellent app-based MusicCast platform. If you buy on Amazon you get 50 bucks off.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
DTS Virtual:X simulated surround processing
Simple set up
Multiroom capability
Optional MusicCast 50 wireless speaker ($499) can be used to boost surround performance
Minus
Unnecessarily complicated user controls
No Chromecast built-in

Full Review Here

JBL Stage A170 Tower Speaker: $500/pair

The A170s’ ordinary looks aren’t going to win any beauty contests but reviewer Michael Trei is quick to direct our attention to what really counts — the sound quality delivered by this unassuming pair of speakers from JBL, one of audio’s most iconic brands. As he put it, “The A170 is a slam-dunk winner,” delivering an impressively wide and deep soundstage and nailing tonal accuracy. If you’re looking for good speakers but are low on cash, make the JBL A170s your first stop.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Clear and dynamic sound
Bargain price

Minus
Plain-Jane appearance
Limited finish options

Full Review Here

LG SL8YG 3.1.2 Atmos Soundbar: $600

LG teamed with the audio gurus at Meridian to produce its best sounding soundbar yet. The two-piece system supports voice controllable wireless streaming and is ready for 3.1.2 Dolby Atmos/DTS:X surround action out of the box but can be easily expanded to 5.1.2 playback with optional wireless surround speakers. Summing up his impressions, reviewer Al Griffin wrote: “If you're seeking extended dynamics and thorough immersion from a soundbar, you may want to look elsewhere. But if your expectations — and budget — are more limited, this new, upscale offering from LG is well worth consideration.”

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Good sound quality with movies and music
3.1.2 Atmos playback
Chromecast built-in for music streaming
Minus
Wireless surround speakers not included
Center channel lacks some clarity on dynamic scenes

Full Review Here

SVS Prime Wireless Speaker System: $600

SVS may be late to the wireless speaker party but the company known for delivering great sound at reasonable prices has made its presence known with the Prime Wireless. The powerful dual-speaker system delivers audiophile-caliber sound, uncompromised connectivity, and a wealth of streaming options — including Bluetooth/aptX and DTS Play-Fi support — in a stylish package that won’t break the bank. Reviewer Rob Sabin praised the system for having a near-perfect frequency balance down to its low-end limit: “As long as you don’t push it harder than you would any small speaker of its size, it does everything right.”

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Neutral, open sound
DTS Play-Fi hi-res and multiroom options
Extensive wired and wireless connectivity
Dedicated subwoofer out
Minus
Limited bass output begs for a subwoofer

Full Review Here