Surround Sound Bars... are they the way to go for home audio?

I just bought a new High Def LED LG TV and now want a decent surround sound system to go with it. I was introduced to the sounds bars but know nothing about them. They seem like the way to go since they are compact and the sub is wireless. Can anyone give me any advice or suggestions regarding these devices? And maybe recommend a good one for the money? ThanksSurround Sound Bars... are they the way to go for home audio?
The Sharp HT-SB200 is a slim, stylish, and wall-mountable 2.1 channel sound bar designed to simulate surround sound without the added bulk and cost of a full blown home audio theater system. Built for at-home use, the HT-SB200 features left and right integrated speakers, an integrated subwoofer, and adjustable bass, treble, and sub-level options for a truly unique surround sound experience.Surround Sound Bars... are they the way to go for home audio?
A sound bar consists of several speakers, and a subwoofer. The surround models use some complex computer algorithms to simulate surround sound without needing to mount a pair of speakers behind you. A wireless subwoofer is nearly pointless since you can put the subwoofer anywhere in the room - including right close to the sound bar, so why not just a regular wired subwoofer for less money?



However sound bars also have several disadvantages. The biggest being lack of additional inputs. If you're just going to connect a DVD/Blu-Ray player and maybe your iPod, they're fine, but soundbars lack the plethora of audio and now video inputs that a real AV receiver has. Also the surround sound effect isn't as good as having 5 speakers physically placed around the room. Finally, soundbars with surround sound and a subwoofer start approaching the cost of a normal AV receiver and set of 5.1 speakers.



That said, for a bedroom, or very small room, a soundbar may be a good solution.