Philips HTS9800W review

Philips HTS9800W Review

Reviewed by: Richard Arrowsmith

Reviewed on: 4 January 2007

Budget home-cinema systems are often condemned for compromised specifications and performance. But if you step up to midrange systems you can afford some high-end features and greatly improved picture and sound quality.

The Philips HTS9800W offers digital HDMI connectivity with integrated video upscaling, advanced surround-sound processing, multi-channel music compatibility and a 6.1-speaker system that includes wireless rear channels.

It's a large system convoluted by separate units, including a connector box and a wireless receiver that still relies on some cables, but the sleek, futuristic design is unobtrusive and you won't find better, all-in-one performance for just under £650.

Design
For an all-in-one system, this is an incredibly substantial setup that features numerous components, which demand space -- although the sleek styling and flexible positioning options allow it a relatively inconspicuous appearance.

The main unit is accompanied by a separate connector box and a wireless receiver with a 6.1-speaker system that includes an additional centre-rear channel. The rear channels are so-called 'wireless' models that still need connecting to a receiver, but at least you don't have to trawl cables to the other side of the room.

The clean and contemporary main unit features a unique, compact design that can be stood upright or even wall-mounted -- an option that's encouraged by a slot-loading disc mechanism at the side. The illuminated, touch-sensitive screen at the front is free of cumbersome controls and carries plenty of futuristic appeal.

Although the main unit does feature a single HDMI digital output, all remaining connections are housed in a separate connector box. This leaves the system slightly disjointed, but it means most connections can be hidden out of sight. The nondescript unit features an integrated RGB Scart output, component connections (enabling progressive scan) and both stereo and coaxial digital audio inputs. You can use the audio inputs to induce surround-sound effects from separate devices, such as a set-top box.

In turn, the connector box is linked to an attractive active subwoofer that carries all amplification and is wired to the main front channels using colour-coded spring-clip terminals. The rear channels are similarly connected to a separate wireless receiver that needs power, but can be hidden behind the sofa.

All the speakers have flat-panel designs that save space and look suitably stylish, although the Perspex fronts and glossed black finish are prone to smudging fingerprints. The four main channels are supported by tall, solid stands, whereas the corresponding centre channels arrive on smaller, pedestal stands -- but they can all be wall-mounted if you wish.

The final piece in this elaborate setup is a weighty remote that's spaciously arranged with comfortable controls and useful source illuminations.

Features
Home-cinema systems are often compromised as a result of cost-cutting or saving space, but Philips has crammed an impressive specification into this high-end package.

The main unit will play a variety of DVD and CD formats, including recordable discs carrying MP3, WMA, JPEG and compressed DiVX video files. There's also support for SACD multi-channel music discs -- but not DVD-Audio.