Panasonic SC-PT480EB-K 5.1 DVD Home Theatre System
Product Description
DVD Home Cinema System. SC-PT480 is compatible with Front Layout Mode which allows 5.1ch surround sound with 5 speakers placed in the front. Even with space limitation, 5.1ch surround sound can be enjoyed with selectable speaker layout. “SC-PT480 is compatible with a new feature of ARC (Audio Return Channel). ARC allows receiving audio signals from the TV, on top of the preexisting HDMI function of sending audio/video signals to the TV with just one cable. This new feature will simplify the connection by eliminating an audio cable connection between TV audio output and main units audio input. * ARC compatible TV is required.” “Home cinema system is a great way to enjoy the music, video and photo content on your iPod/iPhone.
- 5.1 Channel Sound
- DVD/-R/-RW/+R/+RW/-ROM Playback
- 590W Total Power Output
- Selectable Speaker Layout
- HDMI 1080p Up-Conversion
Great mid-range product, easy set up, though I would recommend going through the quick guide included, more power than most people with average sized (mine is 5m x 6m)rooms will ever need.Works well with Scart but recommend HDMI and optical link for full benefits.the sound options a bit fiddle although quite gratifying when you get your head around it. Like the discreet sub only 145x289x285, doesn’t clash with the Deco… Missus approved. to neatly run the wires, one might need extension, particularly for the back (Ambiophonie) speakers as I had to do. Using Kingston Technology 4GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive for music and this is quite responsive and the menu for this is uncomplicated. not yet tried the Ipod dock so can’t comment. aesthetics aside this is a good machine all round exhibits the usual Panasonic craftsmanship… Am not how ever sure placing the USB slot behind the front panel cover was a good idea. the flash drive sticks out and leaving the flimsy cover at the mercy what ever domestic elements. Overall well recommended for the price range.
Rating: 4 / 5
I took a while to choose which home cinema system to go for and decided on a budget of £200 max as I only really wanted a system that would double up as dvd home cinema (for occasional viewing) and a surround system for watching tv via Sky on my Panasonic 37″ Plasma( I only have basic Sky package, no sky + or HD). The old Technics amp died but had really struggled to reproduce clear audio dialogue anyway.
We all know how bad the sound is from even the latest flat screen tv’s so it was time to sort it out.
Out of the box this system has a quality feel about it belying its price tag. The main unit is simple but sleek although the subwoofer did seem small and lightweight at first glance thoughI needn’t have worried as it really belts out the lower frequencies with effortless power. The Subwoofer is set at level 2 out of 5, so it has loads in reserve! Putting it together couldn’t be simpler with colour coding from unit to speaker. Easy-peasy.
Sound-wise films like XXX and Transformers 2 are clear and detailed with plenty of bottom end to scare the neighbours come explosion time! Pictures are very crisp and detailed too which is another pleasant surprise. As I have no optical output from my tv this unit had to be connected via its audio out which is absolutely fine.
I can select which sound presets suit what I’m watching or listening to with ease. Playing cd’s through this Panasonic was pretty straight forward as well. As I said there are plenty of presets and options to get a more than decent sound when listening to music but rwemember this isn’t a dedicated cd player so you will have to play around to get something that works for you. The instructions will easily help those who are technophobes.
The important thing was that I wanted to enhance the sound from my TV so having set up via the Aux channel I can now toggle between TV, DVD or AV via the Remote. I’m relly pleased with the results and didn’t realise just how bad my tv speakers were until I plugged inthis Pamasonic system.
The only small niggle I have is the colour of the connecting cables….White? Someone must have been fired for that!!!
Verdict : On a budget of £200 you’ll find it VERY hard to beat.
Rating: 4 / 5
Easy set up, leads could have been a little longer.
Panasonic very helpfull on the phone.
Rating: 5 / 5