Thanks--I've already tried calling it a couple times (from my home number, which I'm pretty sure isn't in the phone), and there was no answer. I'm really hoping I somehow find it--it seems odd someone at the gym would've taken the phone but nothing else, but I suppose it's possible and maybe easier.

meara will whoever your plan is with trace it for you? If it is on, they can do it, but "will" is another matter.

I bought a HDTV last fall, HDTiVo a few months ago, and have been thinking about upgrading the rest of my system for a while. I have an old all-in-one Panasonic DVD player-home theater system I bought... I dunno, something like 7-8 years ago. Very basic -- it cost about $250 back then. As basic as it is, it's served me well, but I've been thinking about upgrading the DVD player to a Blu-Ray player, and my current system has the DVD player integrated with the sound system (the power cord actually goes into the subwoofer). So if I wanted to upgrade, I'd need to jettison the whole thing.

My option would be: 1) Get an all-in-one blu-ray home theater system. Like this one. [link]

2) Get a blu-ray player + a sound bar

3) A blue-ray player + separate full audio system.

I love music but not a huge audiophile or anything. I have a decent-sized living room (13x27 ish) in my condo. Surround sounds would be nice but not a must. It would be fabulous if it has the capacity to play the digital media on my computer (I have a home network) without the intermediary step like me having to burn a DVD or use an USB stick -- a capacity my TV currently lacks. Err, whadayacallit, DLNA-compatible? I'm thinking of spending maybe around $500 in total, although I can go up a bit if needed.

Anyone has a set up similar to mine, and if so, any advice on which set-up to go to / any models you particularly like?

Thanks!

Wow, I had no idea home theatre Blu-Ray systems were that cheap. Hmmmm....

I would not order one online without seeing it in a store to make sure it has all the inputs/outputs you need to integrate with the rest of your system.

You don't need to see it to be sure it has the inputs and outputs, do you? You just need to read the specs.

I am in general averse to all-in-one systems. I think it's more freeing to be able to upgrade one piece without regard for the other. Starting off with a sound bar means you can later upgrade to a full system if you want the more complete experience.

You don't need to see it to be sure it has the inputs and outputs, do you? You just need to read the specs.

No, that's true. Amazon just doesn't always list them.

That's what product manuals are for.

The main Amazon product page on the blu-ray home theater system linked above has photos of the input/outputs, which is helpful. $300 price for the whole shebang really can't be beat and it sounds like quality is pretty sweet for the money, but I share ita's reservation about all-in-one systems. I'd have upgraded my DVD player to blu-ray player a while ago if my current system wasn't integrated.

How do people like their sound bars? Polk models seem to have the best reviews but they're also pretty pricey.

I have a Samsung sound bar. I'm no audiophile, but I really like it. I think much more would be lost on me.

Once ND is off his business conference call I will direct him here. He may have an answer or more insight/other options for you to consider.