Headphones
Headphones come in all
styles, sizes, and prices. Small, lower-priced ear-buds and folding on-ear
models are great replacements for the standard earphones that come with the
iPod and other portable players. Larger on-ear and over-ear models are
generally better suited for use at home. Designs that fit inside the ear canal
or that completely cover that ears can create a seal that helps block outside
sounds. Noise canceling models go a step further by using circuitry (which
requires batteries) that can reduce outside noise. All models below are
recommended.
Sennheiser RS 180
Headphone Models are recommended
Grado Prestige SR80i
Blu-ray players
All the Blu-ray
players we’ve tested can provide excellent HD picture quality from Blu-ray disc
and can play standard DVDs and CDs. More new models can access online content,
including streaming movies and TV programs from such services as Amazon, Hulu Plus,
Netflix, and Vudu, and a growing number have built-in Wi-Fi for easy connection
to home networks. Another trend: 3D capability. All models here are
recommended.
Toshiba BDX5300
Blu-ray Models are recommended
LG BP620
Home-theater systems
Buying components can
be costly and time-consuming. Home-theater-in-a-box systems can reduce the
hassles by bundling all the components you’ll need- a receiver, two to seven
matched speakers, a subwoofer, and the wires-into a complete package. Many
include an integrated Blu-ray player, which might have 3D capability and
built-in Wi-Fi, plus access to online content such as streaming movies and TV
programs from Amazon, Netflix and other services. Some models have wireless
rear speakers. An even simpler option is a sound-bar, which integrates several
speakers into one enclosure that can be placed near the TV. All listed models
are recommended.
Bose lifestyle T20
Home-theater systems are recommended
Samsung HT-E6730W
