Sony's HT-CT150 sound bar home theater system sounds great and is way ahead of the competition with its three HDMI inputs; however, its IR receiver limits the subwoofer's placement options.

The Vizio VHT210 sound bar sports an uncommonly compact design and sounds better playing music than the average in its class, but its input options are limited.

The Vizio VHT210 sound bar sports an uncommonly compact design and sounds better playing music than the average in its class, but its input options are limited.

The Sony BDV-E770W is one of the best Blu-ray home theater systems we've tested, with excellent sound quality, tons of streaming media options, 3D compatibility and wireless rear speakers. The lack of HDMI inputs is the only big omission.

The Samsung HT-BD8200 packs a Blu-ray player into a sound bar for unparalleled simplicity, but disappointing sound quality and operational glitches limit its appeal.

The Samsung HW-C451 is an exceedingly thin sound bar home theater system that sounds surprisingly good with movies, but lacks HDMI connectivity.

The Yamaha YSP-4100 offers better surround effects, superior sound quality and more features than competing sound bars, but it's expensive and most buyers won't need all its functionality.

The LG LHB535 offers an outstanding feature set for its price, but its sound quality is only passable.

While its bulky design isn't for everyone, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more full-featured and better sounding all-in-one 7.1 home theater system for the price than the Onkyo HT-S7200.

The LG LHB953 combines Blu-ray, tons of streaming media content, and solid AV quality into an all-in-one home theater system that scores high on the value quotient.