Rarely do integrated components perform as well as separates for an equivalent amount of money. The AVR307, from Buffalo, NY-based B&K, is an exception. Its operating flexibility, multi-format surround capability and audiophile amplifier technology make it an attractive choice for those who want maximum performance with minimum clutter. The AVR307 is intended for music and movie fans who agree with B&K's philosophy of "sensible simplicity."
Durham, NH-based Outlaw Audio has slashed the price of its popular model 1050 home theater receiver by $100. Introduced last year, the 6 x 65-watt, multi-format unit originally sold for $599, and won plenty of critical praise as it gained market share. The 1050 is compatible with Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic, and DTS surround sound formats, and features an adjustable subwoofer crossover with settings at 60, 80, 100, 120, 150, and 200Hz.
Big speaker boxes are the bane of interior decorators. They've been battling with audiophiles for decades. Home theater, with its reliance on huge powered subwoofers to create realistic bass, has expanded the war.
We at <I>SGHT</I> are no strangers to Rotel products. In the October 2000 issue, Michael Fremer reviewed Rotel's RTC-965 surround processor/tuner with the RB-985 Mk.II power amplifier, and in February 2001, Robert Deutsch waxed enthusiastic about the RMB-1095 power amp. Both writers lauded these products' value, and RD spoke of Rotel's consistency in product and circuit design, something he'd noticed through the years. He declared the RMB-1095 "one of the best buys in a multichannel amplifier."
As HDTV slowly rolls out across the US, more and more consumers are finding that those simple days of common connectors and out-of-the-box compatible equipment are now over. What many unsuspecting consumer electronics buyers are now discovering that not all HDTV equipment is configured to the same operating standards.
<I>Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, Kate Beckinsale, Cuba Gooding, Jr., Tom Sizemore, Jon Voight, Colm Feore, Alec Baldwin. Directed by Michael Bay. Aspect ratio: 2.35:1 (anamorphic). Dolby Digital 5.1 (English, French), DTS 5.1 (English), Dolby Headphone. THX-certified. Two discs. 183 minutes (film only). 2001. Touchstone Home Video 2388903. PG-13. $29.99.</I>