Quote:
Originally Posted by Flash Walken
Edit: probably 3 thousand dollars I would say is a rough estimate? Maybe including an HTPC in there.
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Well for a generic suggestion, I'll throw out the Definitive Technology Pro Cinema 800, mate that with a mid-level Denon/Marantz/possibly Pioneer. That would be a big sounding (but smaller footprint) system in his price range.
If that range is flexible, upgrade to the one of the 8020/40/60/80 towers for the fronts, and Pro-monitor 800/1000 for the surrounds. I'm extremely happy with the sound, easy to drive speakers so you don't need to drop a ton of cash on a receiver/amp, and if he goes with the towers instead of the pro-cinemas, it eliminates the need for a separate sub.
Geared more for movies then music, but music sounds pretty nice on it too.
As far as stuff to avoid? I don't like to make broad assumptions with brands, as generally every company can make a good (or poor) model, but anything I've read the last few years suggests staying away from Onkyo receivers, as they've had some HDMI issues.
Lots of things to look for in bells and whistles, but it all gets pretty specific depending what you're looking for. One thing I appreciate is an audessy (or similar) auto setup, the ability to control treble/bass/gain at each speaker, allow multiple selections for audio/video source (ie have video from one source and simultaionously have audio from another) and a dual zone output (poor man's version of bi-amping).
YMMV.
Even if you do plan on 'big-boxing' it, you can't beat a day or two meandering through some actual audio stores, and doing some demo-ing. Opens up a whole new world.