Next-gen consoles are currently pushing graphics farther than ever, prompting gamers to run in spades to purchase high-def television sets to get the most out of their new systems. Gamers are also going out in full force to pick up new home theater systems in order to make their games sound as good as they look. However, for the average gamer, this can be an overwhelming process, as they try to get the most that they can without breaking the bank. Luckily, Pioneer has the answer for many gamers. Their HTS-GS1 HTIB (Home Theater in a Box) is a cost-effective solution for gamers looking for an easy and good sounding setup. Officially licensed by Microsoft for use with the Xbox 360, Pioneer’s HTIB sounds great with games, has an extremely easy auto-calibration system, and can be found online for relatively cheap.

Setting up the HTS-GS1 was a snap. The set up doesn’t have an A/V receiver in the package, and thus all of the speaker connections and the receiver had to be plugged into the unit’s subwoofer. Luckily, every wire was color-coded and the instructions do a fine job. The package comes with a digital audio cable to connect to your Xbox 360 in order to get the whole 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound shebang. There’s a second digital audio input on the back of the subwoofer in order to hook-up a second 5.1-capable device (a DVD player or a PS3 perhaps), as well as analog inputs (standard red and white audio cables).

Once you have your speakers where you want them and everything connected, it’s time to calibrate your setup for the best sound. The HTS-GS1 utilizes Pioneer’s Multichannel Acoustic Calibration System (MCACC). Basically, all you have to do is plug in the included microphone and place it in the sweet spot in your room, and then the auto-calibration utility will determine the acoustics in your room and set your speakers to the right levels. The utility is very easy to use, and is a great idea for non-advanced users just trying to get peak performance.

The setup sounds really good for gaming, and definitely will get the job done for gaming on the Xbox 360. The first game tested with the setup was (of course) Gears of War. Dialogue in cutscenes played through the center speaker, and the sounds of gunfire and explosions would pop all around the room. Emergence Holes would tear the ground behind you, and the sound would come from the correction location. Next up was Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six: Vegas, which also showcased some excellent sound effects that would bring the level of immersion to a new high.

The HTS-GS1 also performed very well with movies. In the Mission: Impossible III DVD, voices were easy to make out, and the booming sound effects sounded great, especially during the scene on the bridge.

Perhaps one of the best things about the unit that sets it apart from other HTIBs is the remote control included in the package. On top of a bevy of control options for the unit itself, it also works as a Media Remote for your Xbox 360, letting you turn on the system and navigate through movies and the dashboard with ease.

Pioneer’s officially licensed system retails for 299.99, putting in the affordable bracket for gamers looking to take their sound to the next level. While audiophiles might find problems with the lack of A/V connectivity (a feature that’s fairly common amongst other HTIBs), its fine sound, nice remote and easy of use will make it a good investment for home theater newbies.

Pros:
Extremely easy setup, good performance for gaming and movies, remote works with the Xbox 360.

Cons:
Performance may be a little too bottlenecked for audiophiles, no A/V connectivity.

Verdict: 8.5
Pioneer’s HTS-GS1 is a great entry-level surround sound setup that offers some great sound for gamers looking to bring their gaming audio up to snuff.