Best Home Audio Shelf System/Other for About 400$?

[Devcon]

I just returned my JVC HX-Z3 because I didn't feel like lugging it back from school when I could just buy a better system for the same price. My price ceiling is 400$, and at this point, I was thinking of this:

JVC HX-Z30

I know a lot of people will probably say that computer speakers is a better choice, but I don't want to have to have a computer in the vacinity just to play music, and I want to be able to hook it up to my TV. It appears that shelf systems would be my best option considering quality and price; but I thought I'd ask for some opinions before comitting to any one system.

Thanks in advance for any comments.

 

[Devcon]

No suggestions?

 

[ElFenix]

is there an onkyo in that range? they're making the best HTIB systems right now

 

[jagr10]

I suggest you stick with JVC shelf systems (mini systems). I own one (bought it last summer) and it's awesome. IMHO they are the king of mini systems. I think the one you're considering plays mp3's? I know they came out with one that plays mp3's now so make sure it's that one. THe one you've linked to looks sweet though. How many Watts is it? Make sure it's at least 350W. Preferrably 500W.

 

[Devcon]

The HX-Z3 was the first model in the HX-xx series to play mp3's and I had that one but returned it because they discontinued the model. Both the Z10 and the Z30(linked above) also play MP3's. The Z30 is 540 watts as opposed to the Z3 which is 460watts and the Z10 which is 480watts. I used to have a kaboom box and I loved it, but it broke and I was curious if any other shelf systems rivaled JVC these days.

And I'll check out Onkyo.

Thanks for the comments

 

[Thraxen]

Look at the Kenwood HTB-505. It can be had for about $400 and the Kenwood systems have a pretty good reputation.

[EDIT] So are you looking for something with a CD player included?

 

[Devcon]

Yeah, preferrably. This would mainly be a college dorm system so i'm looking for an all-in-one type package. It seems that 400$ is the bottom of the barrel when it comes to home entertainment, but its closer to top of the line in shelf systems. As far as I can tell, JVC seems to put out the best feature/cost ratio, but I wanted to be sure.

 

[JCP]

Check out the NAD L40. May have to look preowned for $400. Check audiogon.com, speakers included are PSB Alpha's.

 

[tkdkid]

Refurb onkyo hts 650 - $319.95

Hot Deal

Awesome system