JVC TH-L1

Electronics maker JVC today unwrapped the IL-H1, a budget home-theater-in-a-box that adds inputs not always seen in its class. The 360W, 5.1-channel system centers around a uniquely vertical receiver that serves as a hub for digital media. Two HDMI ports provide input and output for HD signals in 1080p, including those encoded with Dolby Digital, Pro Logic II virtual surround, or DTS. USB is also up front; the port not only plays MP3/WMA music and most MPEG videos from any USB storage but also provides advanced connections for iPods, allowing the receiver and its remote to pause and skip tracks as well as charge the device.

JVC has also placed several audio and analog video inputs on the L1, including digital audio through co-ax and optical, dual component jacks, and three sets of RCA and S-video ports. The new surround speaker system launches today and should be available this week for $300.

By Electronista Staff