Audio Systems: audio, screen playback, tinny speakers

Question
Hello

I am considering a micro system JVC ex-A10 (they call it "theater "  system...)  .  However, at the same time, I am considering switching from my current TV set - to a new plasma or LCD.   
1 Is it possible, (and recommended) to connect and enjoy the JVC EX-A10 to the new TV set and get a good sound out of it?
2 Will this sound be as good or almost as good as a real surrounding sound, the one that has these about 5  narrow speakers?

3 Or, is it better to get a separate system - one for the TV and another for CD's music?

Thank you,    Gabe

Answer
1. Yes.
2. Maybe better.  Many subjective factors to consider. The JVC ex-A10 is a find sounding stereo unit and will give good sound.  You would get the center channel when using a 5.1 surround system.  For large screen playback it is nice to have a center speaker for voice; both in music and speech.  So, the JVC ex-A10  could be lacking in that regard.
3.  You must decide.  It is more to do with what you want.  Technology wise all you have to do is make sure you have a tv that has audio outputs to feed into your reproduction system.  Most people in their music habits do not relate the two concepts together.  For example, the tv is more of a visual experience.  Even when the tv is used for movie playing the experience is more visual.  The surround systems use little tinny speakers in the back that are not high fidelity but give sounds that integrate with the main channels to produce a sound field that augments the visual scenes.  For music the emphasis is on the sound itself.  Reproduction of the delicate as well as the robust sounds is what is wanted.  Fidelity (true fidelity; that is high performance, accurate sound) is the holy grail to music lovers.

The JVC ex-A10  is likely a very good product. I am not familiar with it but I have deep experience with JVC as a company and their technological know-how.  There is no reason why the JVC ex-A10  would not be a great music playback system.  I would suggest it to be much better for music than for tv and movie viewing.

Those are my thoughts.
C
PS: I googled for reviews and there are many that comment on this model. I suggest you read through them.