Philips Electronics is currently showcasing the new Ambisound home theater system (HTS8100) at the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Featuring Philips’ proprietary Ambisound technology, the HTS8100 SoundBar boasts full 5.1 surround sound through a one-piece fully integrated home theater system.

Only five-inches thick, the Ambisound SoundBar provides an amplifier and a DVD player all in a single design.

The Ambisound SoundBar features five amplifiers, similar to a 5.1 system, integrated into a single horizontal sound bar. The HTS8100 uses a host of technologies including array processing, precise driver positioning and psycho-acoustic innovation to achieve the full surround sound performance. 

It also features a 3-band equalizer and DoubleBASS deep bass performance, creating a smooth cross over between sounds. The speakers feature soft dome tweeters and are designed for maximum efficiency for full midrange performance. Additionally, users will enjoy the Smart Surround feature, which automatically ensures correct surround sound settings whether a movie or music is playing.

Featuring a single central sound bar and subwoofer, there is no risk of cluttered space or obstruction of speaker wires.

Philips will also offer the HTS6600 using the same technology but in a two speaker system.

• $999 (HTS6600 = $599)
• Available in Q2 2007
• Features 5 amplifiers
• 5 inches thick
• Smart Surround feature

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.