Page 1 of Goodmans surround system

I noticed a new Goodmans surround system last night whilst browsing through the missus`s new Argos book.
I think it`s called the GHC50 or something. £139.99 for sub + 4 speakers + centre speaker.
I`m drawn to it because A/ It`s silver B/ It`s cheap C/ The speakers come with stands.
However....the wording is " 5.1 sound from 5.1 systems, dolby 6 speaker surround for 2 channel systems such as TV/satellite etc "
What does this mean ? I have a Toshiba 210 which, as far as I know, does not have a 5.1 decoder built-in even though it mentions bleedin 5.1 everywhere in the sound options when you put a disc in.
What will happen soundwise if I buy this and plug my DVD player into it ?

If it is the same system I am thinking of , then you will need a dvd player with a built in decoder to get Dolby Digital 5.1 or DTS, otherwise it will only give you dolby pro logic surround sound!

Is that a big deal though ? ` Just ` pro-logic ` ?
Is it heaps inferior to 5.1 ?
I just want bigger explosions and better stereo effects.
Cheers again gingerone !

I`ve got an Acoustic Solutions 551 playing through a Hitachi TV that does Pro-logic surround. It`s definitely an improvement over stereo. You get a lot of distinct action from the rear speakers, but there`s no left/right distinction. The sub should give it a bit of oomph.

I`m tempted by this Goodmans setup as well. My player has 5.1 outputs and this is the first combination I`ve seen that will give me the full surround experience and could look reasonable in a living room. If it can do Pro-Logic from the TV then I can get rid of the TV rear speakers.

I know it won`t be as good as a decent amp and speakers, but the setups I aspire to will cost at least £500-800 (Marantz 4200/5200 with Mission or Wharfdale speakers).

I`ve done some searching on-line, but have yet to find a review or better pictures and specifications.

Steve

So my choice is as follows
1/ Get rid of my Tosh 210 and get a DVD that does 5.1,and then get the Goodmans system
2/ Keep the Tosh and buy a sound system that does 5.1.
Hmmmm...
I`m still drawn to the Goodmans system for it`s looks. It`s the first one that really appeals to me lookswise, and the fact it comes with it`s own stands is a major major boost.
One question though. If I wanted to keep the Tosh is there such a thing as a little 5.1 decoder available ? I wouldn`t need an amp, and don`t want one.The Goodmans amplifies so all I`d need would be a little ` in-line ` decoder between the DVD and the Goodmans.
Is there such a thing ??????

I`m sure people will tell you to keep the Tosh. It is a very well rated unit.

As for 5.1 decoders, it looks like that`s a high end business for those who like big, separate power amps. A better option may be one of the decoder/speakers packs like this Videologic

http://www.qed-uk.com/?i=9g_oY0UZQ3A2&bg=225&bp=dtss&v=8

It`s more money, but you`re getting DTS and more power. QED have other, cheaper systems in their Home Theatre section. They generally seem to lack stands and don`t look as good as the Goodmans.

If you do get the Goodmans, let us know how it sounds.

Steve

That`s the thing Steve.
I ain`t buying it unless I can get 5.1
And I can`t get 5.1 with the Tosh.
And I don`t want to get rid of the Tosh.
And I don`t want any other surround system as they look awful.
Quandry or what ?

my m8 got the goodmans speaker set up mentioned hes not impressed by it at all he has it connected to his cyberhome 528 he says that my bedroom set up sounds better ie my hitachi with the packard bell system i bought from pcworld for £60.00 just thought id mention it argos being argos would give yoy youre money back i suppose where he bought his from elsewhere :-(

Why does it have to `look` good? Are you not supposed to be listening?
Go for a Yamaha VS10 and hide the amp in a drawer or something.

I beg to differ on the looks issue.

I think it`s very important. Who wants something ugly in their lounge?

You wouldn`t buy ugly furniture no matter how comfortable it was.

The Sony HTK215 looks good and, I`m realiably informed, sounds great.

Trouble is they are in short supply and are not easy to get hold of.

This item was edited on Saturday, 9th February 2002, 21:41