QUOTE(ktek @ Nov 13 2014, 10:40 PM)
got plenty choices, hard to recommend directly. anyway i'll make it short, hopes u can catch up...
HDMI-ARC function is transfer audio data to a decoder, then play using external speakers. RCA does the same for 2 channel (left and right sound). whats make the different between HDMI versus RCA is extra ability to carry 5.1 surround.
in your case dont need surround, so why not buy speaker that able to fit on table +
stereo amp. thats the best combination
for sound quality.the size is smaller and setup as easy as plug & play.
the weakness, because all in analog connection (RCA), tv has to receive all hdmi cable.
do you planning to add other video player? if true i affraid ur tv may
run out of hdmi port...
the 2nd choice would be AV receiver. a.k.a.
home theater amplifier with
many hdmi ports. got HDMI-ARC !!
all are digital connection (non-RCA) and support latest
movie codecs like Dolby TrueHD, DTS-MA and plenty more like do-re-mi-fa-so...
entry level can drive 5 channel speakers. better ones give 7 channel, network (for music streaming & remote apps), usb port and auto calibration.
it takes more space and u might wasted the additional channel because you dont plan to have rear speaker.
for speaker, need to know the depth measurement of cabinet first

QUOTE(hushymushy @ Nov 14 2014, 10:39 PM)
it really depends what you want out of your system
3k can get you basic stereo amplifiers and bookshelf speakers. basic amps nowadays have at least 4 to 5 analog inputs which is more than enough
so newer amps can even connect digital connection direct, ie; NAD D3020 where you have optical and coaxial inputs
your source can connect to the stereo amp via normal analog cables directly or via tv (which i don't recommend)
I mentioned about ARC in previous post was bcoz someone asked what could he get for 1k.....sort off not much of a choice
speakers.....plenty choices with 1k +/- budget
in my list now....XLS Encore....local made from Sarawak......honestly speaking....kinda great sounding speaker for that price
of coz you have the usual lists of speakers like KEF, Mission, Wharfedales and etc
if you are into futuristic plus a little lifestyle wanna look fancy, KEF X300A with or without wireless is one good choice
if you are thinking into future expansions for home theatre system....you can start with a basic pioneer HT amp and basic speakers.
at the end of the day.....its what are your expectations of your sound system and what features is a must....
there's plenty of second stuffs going around....some are a bargain....
head down to few shops like Highway Laser @ SS2, Amcorp mall, Desa Home Theatre and etc.....they have packages as well
if you need to understand connectivity....let me know...be glad to help
First of all guys, thank you for ya replies. Appreciate them truly.
Does any of the integrated amps have wireless connectivity, ie say i wanna connect my ipad or tab to listen/watch movie? There are some soundbar that have that feature but im not sure about amps. Or is there sumtin else that does the job?
Also, there are a few soundbar that can give a faux surround sound, but how can i have that surround sound with just front bookshelve speakers?
tq