http://www.walmart.com/catalog/produ...uct_id=5622735

Basically, I want to make sure I have this right:

If I bought this and an HDMI switchbox, I could have all of my HDMI components (DirecTV, XBox360, HD-DVD player) going through this HTIAB? Plus there'd still be a couple of spots left for regular audio components?

It doesn't have HDMI input, just an out for the DVD player. I'd personally stay clear of Philips audio as its never seemed to good to me. Save a few more bucks up and grab a Samsung or Panasonic if you just want something basic or even the Onkyo HTSR600 which normally runs between $250-300. The Onkyo has alot of inputs (no HDMI though) and can be expanded nicely since its more of a real receiver.

No. This thing is a DVD/receiver combo. It mainly has outputs, not inputs. You would need an HDMI switcher, with the HDMI going to the TV for video. And you would need a digital coax audio switcher, with the output going to the HTiB. And since I'm guessing some/all of those sources you have don't offer digital coax, you'd need converters from optical to coax.

So what would be some good recommendations on inexpensive HITABs with plenty of audio inputs and HDMI? I don't need something super fancy - just something with speakers, decent enough sound, and HDMI/plenty of audio ins.

Since you state "good recommendations" I would say there are none.

The Onkyo is about the only one regularly recommended for a theater in a box and not sure his has HDMI.

I would say there are no "inexpensive HITABs with plenty of audio inputs" at all. Good, bad or anything. You can look at receivers in the $300 range and up (maybe less on deals), or you can look at a mix of switches.