Panasonic offers up SC-BT200 and SC-BT300 7.1 Blu-ray HTIB systems

Somehow, in the midst of the mayhem that was CES, we managed to gloss over a pair of swank HTIB systems from Panasonic. Sure, the DVD-based SC-PT770 and SC-PT670 units are all fine and dandy, but it's the Blu-ray-packin' SC-BT200 and SC-BT300 that really have our attention. Each bundle includes a 7.1-channel audio system with "wireless ready" rear speakers, an integrated iPod dock and a BD deck with the ability to connect to the internet and suck down BD-Live content. The only notable difference between the two sets seems to be the overall power ratings, with the BT300 cranking out 1,250 watts and the BT200 doling out "just" 1,000 watts. Both packages should be available this Spring for undisclosed prices.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 8:12AM]

Looks expensive. I think I'd rather have a dedicated receiver and a standalone Blu-ray player. 7.1 doesn't pass the wife test in my house, so I just picked up a new 5.1 system on a TechDealDigger deal for $199 - http://www.techdealdigger.com/deals/pioneer-htp-2920-199-at-newegg/6235

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 8:28AM]

Shame on Engadget, you should know these power ratings are bogus. 1,000 watts is only attainable with 10% T.H.D. and 3-ohm speakers.

However, I am interested in the anti-gravity technology that levitates the center speaker.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 8:40AM]

I was wondering if I was the only one that noticed/was amused by the hover-speaker.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 9:16AM]

Hover speaker FTW!

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 9:37AM]

i was looking at the older 5.1 set up, that was just a 5 disc dvd changer. but ya it was 409 on newegg. i just wish i wasnt poor and could afford a semi nice theater system.

[glennS Posted Jan 28th 2009 3:35PM]

Wishing won't make that happen. Sorry to be the barer of bad news.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 10:00AM]

My only question for you knowledgeable audio people is, can this beat Onkyo's HT-S9100THX 7.1 Channel Receiver and Speaker Package? I want wireless but I want really good sounding/quality 7.1 more so. Damn you WIRELESS 7.1!!!!!

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 10:48AM]

I want a floating speaker for my home theater!!

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 11:44AM]

How does this blue-ray player compare to the Panasonic 35 series? Does the receiver have the minimum requirements (decoding) most will want?

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 29th 2009 2:41AM]

They've had the same thing at Sam's club for $949 for almost a year now.