Looking to surround with sound, not wires

About seven years ago we purchased a new TV and surround-sound system. It was my first nice television, and the addition of the surround system made us wonder why we had been watching our TV shows and movies in such an archaic way.

However, we had a mass of cords running around the perimeter of the room. We did the best to conceal the components and the cords but came to realize that unsightly cords were a necessary evil.

Two years ago when we decided to build a new home, we didn't have it wired for surround sound. Stacy was convinced the cost of wiring our rooms wasn't worth it and by the time our current system was ready to be updated, the technology market would be offering a wide range of wireless surround systems.

Fast-forward to 2009 and the recent Consumer Electronics Show. Although wireless surround systems have been around for some time, CNET News said that several companies will be touting wireless loudspeaker solutions at the show, but they would still require at least one cable -- the power cord.

I decided to investigate what was on the market that would meet my rather simple needs: good sound, unobtrusive to the design of our home's interior and affordable -- an entire system under $500.

Many companies are offering wireless surround systems with multiple components but here are a few that caught my attention from the Consumer Electronics Show reviews:

Panasonic's SC-ZT1 offers a wireless option, except for the power cord, to four tall "stick" style speakers. The SC-ZT1 is set for release this spring and will probably be a hit with medium-level techies who like a minimalist decor. Suggested retail price has not been announced.

Another entry in the single-source surround-sound system is Philips Cineos Soundbar DVD Home Theater. Like the Polk system, the Philips offers a wireless subwoofer and single sound bar speaker with a super-streamlined design. Additionally, the Philips line comes in four variations of the product designed for different user segments, from home theater enthusiasts to gamers. The Philips system has a lot more connection options and is designed so that it can be wall-mounted below a flat-panel TV. The Philips collection has suggested retail prices ranging from $299 to $399 with release dates this spring.

I'm hopeful that I'll find something that not only provides high-tech home entertainment, but improves visual aesthetics, as well, with wireless components eliminating unsightly cords.