Features:
- Dolby Digital audio-video receiver (VSX-D508)
- 100-watts per channel x 5
- Complete 6-speaker package including a 100-watt powered subwoofer
- DSP (digital signal processing) with 6 simulated soundfields
- 5.1-channel analog inputs
Description:
Pioneer's HTP-305 is a fully integrated home theater system. It comes equipped with a 100-watt 5.1-channel Dolby Digital surround receiver, five identically sized satellite speakers for the front left, right, center, and surround channels, plus an 8-inch subwoofer powered by a built-in 100-watt amplifier. The HTP-305 is easy to set up and a snap to operate. That's all great, but what's most important is the simple fact the HTP-305 provides exceptionally good performance for its price. Although the HTP-305's speakers are all the same size, they contain different driver components. The three front speakers are two-way (woofer-and-tweeter combos), but the surrounds contain just a single full-range driver. (Pioneer identifies the duty for each on the rear of the cabinets.) Even though the surrounds lack a tweeter, Pioneer has done a fine job of "voicing" the speakers to create a seamless surround experience. Just as critical is the subwoofer's role. The 8-inch driver is quick (that is, it offers fast transient response), so it blends nicely with the satellites. It also delivers plenty of weight and rumble when you're in the mood for a blockbuster movie, and its built-in 100-watt amp never seems to run out of juice. The VSX-D508 receiver is a cinch to set up and operate, and we found operation of both the front panel and the remote control intuitive and straightforward. We're pleased to see a superior-sounding coaxial digital input in addition to an optical digital input on the receiver, though we do miss S-video switching, which is visibly superior to composite. The 5.1-channel inputs are a welcome addition in case you want to hook up a DTS- (Digital Theater Systems) decoding DVD player or a decoder for any other future six-channel surround format. Lots of home-theater-in-a-box systems sound puny, but not this one. With both regular stereo sources (such as CD and FM broadcast) and the latest 5.1-channel DVDs, the sound is clean, clear, and open, with surprisingly good low-end weight and balance. The highs are not be quite as extended or airy as with the very best systems, and the subwoofer doesn't reach far below 40 Hz, but the ultimate in frequency extremes generally comes at a very high price. In all, Pioneer's HTP-305 is a fine product and good value. You'll have to spend quite a bit more to get a better-integrated system than this one. --Wayne Garcia Pros:
- Big, open sound
- Coaxial and optical digital inputs
- 5.1-channel analog inputs
- Good value
Cons:
- No S-video switching
- Limited high-frequency response
- Headphone jack has no separate volume control
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