Jumped on this the last time this deal came around. The system is great but I don't like how the two HDMI ports are simply pass-thrus. This basically means you'll need a SECOND source (ie. optical cables) to get audio from your device (ie. PS3) out of the system speakers.

#1 I am seriously thinking of buying this but would like to know the model number on the receiver to see how much it costs on it's own, assuming it is sold without the speakers. are there any other cons you know about? Thanks.

I got this last time it was on sale also. Decent system for the money, but I do use it in a very small room. Personally I think it could be a little louder, but then I like things loud. The receiver that came with it is the HT-R550. Of course you'll want to upgrade the speaker wire to 18G min, 16 or 14 would be better. Also receiver gets quite hot, normal for this one, don't know if it is normal for other brands.

That said, I don't believe that the R550 is available alone. Thus the HT?? Do your own research but I think it's better than the SR505 and closer to (or the same) as the SR575.

Many thanks #3/4 I don't think the speaker wire is normally included with refurbs and your correct, the receiver does not seem to be available on its own. On Amazon the heat issue was raised so using it in an enclosed space seems to be out! The room I was going to use it in is large so maybe I should go for a more powerfull receiver.

#2: As mentioned, this refurbished system does come with speaker wire, but it's a relatively high gauge so you might want to pick up something thicker. It also comes with the speaker set-up mic and remote but no batteries. Just as a heads up, the system is very heavy (~105 lbs and pretty awkward). I hope this helps.

#6 yes very useful info, thanks. The black is OOS so may have to go for the silver or wait until the next offer.