"Home theater" may be an overstatement when it comes to back to school. Our focus here was to bring as many of the comforts of home to a typical (and typically cramped) college dorm room. That means affordable gear that can do double or triple duty--all-in-one home theater systems, iPod clock radios, and compact speakers that can be hooked up to just about anything. What you won't find here is more expensive and elaborate AV receivers and speaker systems--though we've got plenty of great options for anyone who's interested in those. Likewise, we're skipping most (but not all) digital media streamers, since we think most high school and college students are well-versed in connecting their laptop to a TV or stereo for easy access to their digital music or movie collection.
Editors' top pick
The bottom line: A handful of notable upgrades from the entry-level model, the 80GB PS3 is superb Blu-ray player and high-definition game console.
Price:
$499.99
The bottom line: With a five-disc changer, wireless rear speakers, and an integrated iPod dock, the Panasonic SC-PT760 offers a solid value for anyone looking for an affordable all-in-one home theater solution.
Price:
$266.95 - $414.99
The bottom line: The unremarkable sound quality of the Philips HTS6500 is outweighed by its winning combination of slick aesthetics, impressive features, and affordable pricing.
Price:
$199.99 - $454.44
The bottom line: While the sound isn't overpowering, the wealth of connectivity options and features bundled into the JVC TH-L1 home theater in a box makes it well worth the inexpensive price tag.
Price:
$257.99 - $299.95
The bottom line: The iPod-friendly Griffin Evolve is the first wireless speaker system that delivers a truly cable-free experience.
Price:
$289.99 - $299.99
The bottom line: The Logitech Pure-Fi Elite stands above the iPod speaker competition with a can't-miss combination of excellent design, great sound, and a low price.
Price:
$89.99 - $176.99
The bottom line: With the iH9, iHome Audio continues to improve its popular iPod clock radio while keeping it relatively affordable.
Price:
$69.98 - $99.99
The bottom line: The transportable Zvox Mini one-box speaker system delivers room-filling sound from any source--for just $200.
Price:
$199.99
The bottom line: M-Audio's Studiophile AV 40 is a PC speaker for music lovers who care more about sound quality than compact size or rock bottom pricing.
Price:
$138.88 - $149.00
The bottom line: Despite a few drawbacks, the combination of a stunning high-resolution screen, long battery life, and impressive design make the Sony DVP-FX820 a winning portable DVD player.
Price:
$145.00 - $179.99
The bottom line: The Slingbox A/V is the best way to stream your home TV programming to an increasingly wide variety of broadband-connected computers and smart phones.
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