Under normal circumstances, a 2.1-channel system for over £450 would be considered expensive (some sites are even selling it for as much as £800, and don't confuse the SC-PTX7 with the lower-specced SC-PTX5), but with so many unusual value-adding features on board that amount of cash feels strangely justified, especially if you don't have the space (or permission) to install a full 5.1 setup.
We're particularly keen on the jukebox feature, which is a godsend for those who use their home cinema system to play music as much as movies. Having network capability and Gracenote access on board makes ripping and organising music a hassle-free experience too.
Performance is also pleasing, with top-notch 1080p picture quality and a pseudo centre channel that sounds convincing. Only Dolby Virtual Speaker lets the side down, failing to generate the promised ‘5.1-channel effect' - but then again, we've yet to hear a virtual surround mode that does.Read full review
Overall
8/10
By Danny Phillips
Reviewed 29 November 2007
Updated 07 February 2011