Sony's BDV-IS1000 Blu-ray HTIB reviewed: probably a skip

Sony's BDV-IS1000 has two big things going for it. For starters, it comes with a Blu-ray player. Secondly, it's drop-dead gorgeous. Critics over at DigitalTrends were able to secure one of the 5.1-channel HTIBs for review, and while they were big, big fans of the compact design, powerful subwoofer and inclusion of Profile 2.0 on the BD deck, they simply couldn't recommend it as it stood. Why? The wireless rear speakers didn't work on either of its test units. Instead, they were troubled with dropouts and interference from other radio emitting devices. It seems that critics went out of their way to ensure this wasn't just some setup issue, and they even caution to prospective buyers that they too are apt to encounter the problem. 'Tis a shame -- these looked so promising.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 3:31PM]

I have the BDV-IT1000ES which is identical except for the kind of speakers and had no issues with the wireless rear surround. In fact, you can obtain a second S-AIR unit, connect it to your own speakers and get 7.1. The cons for me for the unit are only 2 HDMI inputs, regular (no HD) radio, and a problem when using the component output which would cause the video/audio to drop out on very bright screens/flashes. Works fine via the HDMI output.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 6:42PM]

I have the BDV-IT1000ES as well. At first, I did have problems with the wireless rear speakers. After a couple hours of troubleshooting I was able to place blame with my HDMI cable. The HDMI out on this unit is very close to the wireless transceiver. If your HDMI cable is not well shielded it will interfere with the wireless speakers at 1080 resolution. Bought a high quality cable and have no problems since. Sony is clueless and had no idea this is a problem when I spoke with them.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 3:52PM]

I'm surprised they liked the small speakers. Other reviews of Sony's previous system utilizing those speakers complain about the high cross-over frequency - voices can be heard emitting from the "subwoofer" location instead of the speaker location, because much of the mid-range comes out of the subwoofer.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 6:13PM]

I've listened to the DAV1S system which seems to have similar speaker design, and I thought it sounded horrible. Basically, disconnected vocals resulting in what's essentially MONO sound.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 28th 2009 6:43PM]

"drop-dead gorgeous"!

Since when?

It's just another (rather bulky looking actually) rectangular black box and a collection of small silly sized speakers which are never going to be capable of anything even close to hi-fi reproduction.

Sometimes I wonder what planet you're on Darren.

[lee7n Posted Jan 28th 2009 9:36PM]

I love Sony products but their HTIB's have always been somewhat lacking. I used to own one and it was ok but not that great. Onkyo and Yamaha both make HTIB's at similar price points and are much better.

[(Unverified) Posted Jan 29th 2009 12:34AM]

Just bought this system a couple of days ago, I had this exact problem and couldn't rectify the issue, took it back to the retailer the following day, got a refund no questions! Off to find a better system, Sony shouldn't bother with audio gear in my mind.

[Joe Las Vegas Posted Jan 29th 2009 2:41AM]

A BR HT system that is 5.1 defeats the purpose of playing BR movies, so why even make that crap, and those speakers the size of a mouse are supposed to the job, LOL! what a joke!

[joshrocker Posted Jan 29th 2009 3:58AM]

I bought this exact system last week and I have to say i'm pleasantly suprised. The sound coming from the tiny speakers is full and enjoyable. I did have trouble with the wireless rear speakers. After an hour or so of messing around and actually taking a break, I was able to get them working. If the rear speakers were easier to connect this system would be a perfect solution for people who can't run wires (which is the boat i'm in). I recommend this system to anyone who has a living room with limitations just be aware that the rear speakers can be problematic and some users have had trouble and some haven't been able to get them to connect at all. The user reviews of people who have got them up and running though have been excellent.