Good Things, Small Packages

You don't need a lot of room to enjoy the home theater experience -- check out these systems.

Sony DAV-X1
Sony DAV-X1 System
If your home theater room is on the small side and an excellent picture is of utmost importance to you, the Sony DAV-X1 is the way to go. This compact, stylish system includes a single-tray progressive-scan DVD player Sony's HDMI Technology (High Definition Multimedia Interface) produces the sharpest image and the clearest audio possible. With two satellite speakers and a subwoofer, this system gives 2.1-channel surround sound, with the advantage of a convenient setup.

KEF KIT 100
KEF KIT100 Instant Theatre
Do you want to surround yourself with sound, not speakers? The KEF KIT 100 Instant Theatre offers believable 5.1-channel surround sound from only two front speakers and a subwoofer. This elegant-looking system is easy for the novice to set up and use. Its sleek casing includes a progressive-scan DVD/CD/MP3 player. The front speakers blend nicely with your decor, and the omni-directional subwoofer can be placed out of sight, just about anywhere in the room.

Bose 3.2.1 Series II
Bose 3.2.1 Series II
The Bose 3.2.1 Series II uses two magnetically shielded front speakers and a subwoofer to create the experience of 5.1 surround sound, while maximizing space efficiency for those who don't have a lot of room in their home theater. You can put the front speakers close to or on your TV -- magnetic shielding prevents image disruption. The main unit incorporates a DVD/CD player, and the Digital Dynamic Range Compressor evens out the volume, so dialogue and subtle sounds are easier to hear.

Bose Lifestyle 48
Bose Lifestyle 48
The Bose Lifestyle 48 includes five identical Direct/Reflecting cube speakers, small enough to blend into your decor but providing the rich sound that has made Bose famous. The main unit houses a DVD/CD/MP3 player and a hard drive that lets you record, store and organize music playlists. The Lifestyle 48 analyzes your room's acoustics and adapts its output accordingly. It's an expensive system, but it's one that will provide high-end satisfaction for years to come.

RCA RTD120
RCA RTD120 System
For the home theater shopper on a budget, the RCA RTD120 home theater system includes a progressive-scan DVD/CD player, surround-sound receiver and 5.1-channel speaker system for around $100. The speaker system includes four satellite speakers, a center speaker and passive subwoofer with 100 watts total system power. If you want to save money or are adding a second home theater system to your home, this is a serviceable system without the price tag.