Monday, April 29, 2013

Multichannel Audio Systems - How you can Connect Multichannel Audio For Your House Theater System

If you want to have the excitement of watching a film in your house, then you've to obtain a multichannel audio system.

You might curently have the giant screen inside your room, but when you aren't able to hear the soundtrack at its best, then you are passing up on half the enjoyment!

However, lots of people believe that setting up a multichannel audio product is too hard - which it's too complicated to allow them to connect.

Well, it isn't that difficult - follow these suggests understand what you ought to get the own multichannel audio setup.

1. Choose the multichannel audio configuration you would like.

Most contemporary Dvd disks include a 5.1 surround soundtrack - so a 5.1 speaker setup is easily the most common speakers that individuals have. This technique has six loudspeakers - a middle speaker, front right and left, surround right and left along with a subwoofer (for that bass). However, other common configrations are 7.1 and seven.2 multichannel audio audio systems.

2. Buy an Audio-video receiver/amplifier and speaker package - or perhaps a home entertainment in-a-box system.

The Audio-video receiver may be the amplifier for the loudspeakers - and also the processor for that 5.1 surround soundtrack. You'll have to purchase a separate 5.1 speaker package to hook up with the multichannel audio receiver - and most likely the speaker cable too. The primary benefit of an Audio-video receiver is you can connect a variety of exterior products into it - for example DVD gamers, Blu-ray gamers, cable television boxes, DVD recorders etc.

A house theater in-a-box system (HTiB) will include the amplifier, loudspeakers and all sorts of cabling in a single package - and can frequently possess a built-in DVD/Blu-ray player too. However, there's frequently limited scope for hooking up other products to this kind of system.

3. Connect the machine together.
Connect the loudspeakers towards the speaker results around the Audio-video receiver while using speaker cables. Make certain you connect the middle speaker towards the center speaker output, the leading left speaker towards the front left speaker output etc.Connect the High-definition multimedia interface creation of your DVD player towards the first High-definition multimedia interface input around the receiver. This can send the DVD picture and also the seem towards the receiver.Connect the High-definition multimedia interface output port around the Audio-video receiver towards the first (maybe only) High-definition multimedia interface connection in your TV. The Audio-video receiver uses this to transmit the image towards the Television screen.Run the automated speaker setup for that Audio-video receiver (they have this). This can send an evaluation signal around your loudspeakers and hang a great balance.
4. Take part in the movie!

5. The way it all works

Whenever you press experience the DVD player, the audio and video signals are delivered to the Audio-video receiver lower the High-definition multimedia interface cable - make certain you choose the right input around the Audio-video receiver and it'll get the signal.The Audio-video receiver then transmits the image towards the TV - make certain you choose the right input around the TV (the television may change to the right input if this will get the signal).The Audio-video receiver also transmits the audio towards the loudspeakers. It ought to instantly get the 5.1 mix around the DVD and send it to the speakers in multichannel audio.
Summary

There we've it, a fast record of what you ought to buy to obtain a multichannel audio system in your soul home - and just how you connect everything together. If you want more in depth info on this method, then stick to the links below.

Have some fun!

Sunday, April 28, 2013

The High-definition multimedia interface - Could it be the very best Connection Choice For Your High definition tv and Blu-Ray Player?

Using the recognition from the High definition tv, the days are gone whenever a TV only agreed to be employed for broadcasting Television and just hooking up your cable box was whatever you required to do. A myriad of different devices are increasingly being linked to your Tv. Your Television screen provides various functions in your house entertainment because it is employed for gaming, watching movies, photos, also it can even be utilized for a pc monitor.

To be able to obtain the optimal performance from your High definition tv, it always comes lower to how it's connected. Many people become frustrated when confronted with the endless multi-colors rows of inputs and results. It's really a daunting task if you don't know which link with use not just in your High definition tv, but additionally around the many products you're hooking up for example DVRs, Blu-ray gamers, cable boxes, seem devices, and gaming systems. All offer you several choices for hooking up for your High definition tv making no mistake about this, the way your High definition tv is connected does really make a difference both in image and seem quality.

What ways are you able to connect?

You will find usually 5 methods to connect your High definition tv with other products: High-definition multimedia interface, DVI, Component, S-video and Composite. Some HDTVs might not have many of these connections, however, most more recent ones will a minimum of include High-definition multimedia interface, DVI, and component. So, exactly what are these connections?

High-definition multimedia interface - or Hi-def Multimedia Interface may be the standard for top definition home entertainment. It offers a superior uncompressed 1080p hi-def video and as much as 7.1 channels of multichannel audio in a single cable.

DVI - Digital Visual Interface was the best choice with older HDTVs. It can provide you with 1080p hi-def video, but you'll have to make use of a separate cable for audio.

Component - Component Video splits video signal into three separate signals, two for color, and something for brightness. Greatest resolution it may achieve is 720p and 1080i.

S-video - S-Video splits the recording signal into two parts, one for color, and something for brightness.

Composite or RCA - Composite has color and brightness shipped more than one cable.

Which is better?

The simple response to this may be the High-definition multimedia interface cable. With the simplicity of hooking up only one cable you obtain the best quality in image and seem. High-definition multimedia interface cables have as much as 5 Gbps of bandwidth, that is ample to hold uncompressed hi-def video images and as much as 8 channels of 24-bit hi-def audio. This limits any impact on video or audio quality, since there's no transforming of signals (digital to analog) or any compressed signals. And blu-ray gamers are only for experienceing this greatest quality of image and seem possible.

You will find four primary versions of High-definition multimedia interface that many hardware may have. They're: 1., 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3. All versions of High-definition multimedia interface has the ability to carry HD video as much as 1080p.

1. - First form of High-definition multimedia interface. Will decode most audio codecs present in Dvd disks and digital TV signals, in addition to Dolby Digital and DTS.

1.1 - This version permitted for five.1 channels audio, getting rid of the requirement for 6 separate audio RCA cables.

1.2/1.2a - Enables for using Super Audio Compact disc (SACD).

1.3/1.3a/1.3b - This version enables for that transmitting of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Audio, that are combined with Blu-ray gamers. This version also boosts the bandwidth to 10 Gbps.

The downside of the High-definition multimedia interface cable may be the cost. High-definition multimedia interface cables can run between to 0. Some argue there's no improvement in High-definition multimedia interface cables, regardless of what the price. DVI might be an alternative choice for you personally, with this particular cable you need to have the ability to obtain the best hi-def, 1080p. However, other cables is going to be required for audio. The best choice if buying a High-definition multimedia interface cable, is to locate a decently cost High-definition multimedia interface cable and come till you find the one which fits into your budget.

Friday, April 26, 2013

Lasers and Fiber Optics

Using lasers in fiber optics is a vital milestone within the technical area. Due to their capacity for greater modulation frequency, lasers were recognized being an important way of transporting information. Laser diodes (LD) or light giving off diodes (Brought) possess the energy to produce considerable amount of sunshine that's very helpful for fiber optics. In the last days there have been only ruby lasers and helium-neon lasers. Then semiconductor lasers made their entry. Today fiber optics technology utilizes these semiconductor lasers. Lasers help fiber optic technology in data communications, realizing along with other programs.

In fiber optic technology, transmitters comprise lasers and modulators. Lasers assistance to inject an indication in to the fiber. Lasers produce the light and also the modulator changes the energy from the laser light to mix the information to become sent. The modulator helps you to pass or block the laser light. Lasers release just one uncontaminated color light. The types of materials utilized in fiber optics will match the colour from the light from the lasers. Lasers inside an optical fiber offer a similar experience in concept to gas lasers and laser diodes, with the exception that an element of the fiber is used because the resonating cavity in which the laser action happens. Lasers and fiber optics help communication systems for example cable tv companies, telephone companies and Internet companies. They improve the rate of computing.

Lasers and fiber optics have grown to be part in telecommunication programs. At the moment high frequency laser signals take an remarkable load of telephone conversations and carry information around the world. In large banking institutions communication is mainly effected through fiber optics. Lasers and fiber optics are helpful in other fields also. Retail checkout counters and libraries are utilizing scanning devices that are added to lasers. Lasers are extremely helpful for this sort of profession in a number of programs in surgery, diagnosis etc. They're helpful for military and space programs also.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Yamaha RX-V575 7.1-Channel Network AV Receiver from Yamaha

Yamaha RX-V575 7.1-Channel Network AV Receiver
List Price : $549.95

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Yamaha RX-V575 7.1-Channel Network AV Receiver

The RX-V575BL 7.2 channel network AV receiver provides convenient functions including MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link), AirPlay and music streaming services, all controllable through Yamaha's free AV Controller App. Front panel connection and charging for your iPod/iPhone/iPad is provided, as well as wireless capability via optional Wi-Fi or Bluetooth accessories. Zone B output provides 2-channel sound in a second room.

Feature

  • 7.1 channel powerful surround sound
  • Zone B output provides 2-channel sound in a second room
  • MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) supports full HD video and audio from mobile phones and portable devices
  • Network functions including AirPlay for music streaming, AV Controller App and access to Streaming Services such as Pandora.
  • 4K pass-through for next generation super high resolution images

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Samsung BD-P1400 Reviews from the Multi-Region Blu-Ray Disc Player Version

Region code Areas

The multi-region version plays all REGION A And B Blu-Ray Disc movies on any TV with HDMI input.

A/1North America, Central America, South America, Japan, Taiwan, North Korea, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asia.

B/2Europe, Greenland, French territories, Middle East, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, plus all of Oceania.

C/3India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Mainland China, Pakistan, Russia, Central, and South Asia.

Reviews of the BLU-RAY BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player (the is no difference in basic specifications for the
Region A version and the Region A and B Multi-region version so all reviews stand for both versions.):

It's good: Excellent image quality on Blu-ray movies; outstanding soundtrack support with onboard decoding for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD High Resolution and bitstream output for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio; relatively low price compared to other standalone Blu-ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player s; Ethernet port for updating firmware.
MDOJ,

My BD-P1400 arrived late yesterday! The firmware was updated last night via internet download and burning a CD. First impressions:

Video - !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Audio - !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

FYI: There is no image or sound quality difference, or any other type of difference, in the USA Region A version of the multi-region Region A and B version of the Blu-ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player.

I have tried a regular DVD and one BRD so far and am very pleased. Load
times are very acceptable. No negatives from me on this unit so far. Will
report more later when I get some of the more seemingly problematic BRDs.

The BD-P1400 has classic Samsung style. The front of the unit is all glossy black, with a thin strip of silver along the bottom.

Got my Samsung BD-P1400 last night and boy was I excited!! Before this review, let me start by saying that this is the first and only Blu-ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player that I have owned and that I may not make some of the comparisons you are looking for. If I don't, just lemme know! I also want to say that I have NOT upgraded to the latest firmware yet as my modem is not near a TV.

Picture

Excellent, duh...... inky blacks, great contrast, detail, everything you expect from Blu

Design: Wonderful looking BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player , the best yet I think. Face is very open, not cluttered, and the piano gloss finish rocks. Good remote too.
Load Times Wonderful. I have 5 movies so far and they all loaded in approx. 15 seconds. Then there was the new F4 Silver Surfer.... This is a BD+ title from Fox and many have had complaints about its load time. The BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player gave me no problem, and the multi-region version from Planet Omni will be even more incredible. Let me say again that this is right out of the box, no firmware update yet!

FYI: There is no image or sound quality difference, or any other type of difference, in the USA Region A version of the multi-region Region A and B version of the Blu-ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player.
Sound

I have not played with the sound much as I don't have my Onkyo TX-SR705 yet. I did notice that there is an option to set the speakers from small to large in analog 5.1 out mode. There are other discussions and reports of people getting full DTS-MA bitstream from this BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player (after firmware upgrade) on other threads and forums. I'm getting very anxious to try this out!

Others

The rest of the stuff is pretty standard. 128x max forward, unit resumes same position in the movie even after powered off, pretty good response times from remote keys, etc.

All in all, this is a dynamite BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player. With the firmware upgrade, this guy will do just about anything that you can expect from a blu-ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player right now!!

In addition to Blu-ray discs, the Samsung BD-P1400 can play standard-definition DVDs and CDs.

FYI: There is no image or sound quality difference, or any other type of difference, in the USA Region A version of the multi-region Region A and B version of the Blu-ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player.

The BD-PBD-P1400's high-resolution soundtrack support is excellent. It has onboard decoding for Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, and DTS-HD High Resolution, which means it can output these soundtracks either in PCM format over the HDMI output or via the analog outputs. For newer receivers, the BD-P1400 also offers bitstream output for high-resolution soundtracks. So if you have a newer receiver with onboard Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding, you can set the BD-P1400 to output audio over HDMI in encoded bitstream format--letting your receiver do the decoding, rather than the BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player.

There should be absolutely no sound quality difference whether you let the receiver decode or the BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player decode, but some AV fans just love seeing the "Dolby TrueHD" light on their new receiver. If you need a Code free Converting DVD Disc Player for .95 Planet Omni also has that and they come with 2 warranties. So far, I am really happy with this purchase. I was not sure I made the right deal because of the negative reviews I read but bought it anyway.

I really don't know why people get upset when it only takes two minutes to get ready to play. I have used it several times with Blu-Ray disks rented from Netflix with no problems. I am still waiting for the eight free movies.

Connectivity is also solid. There's an HDMI output capable of carrying both 1080p video signals and high-resolution audio.

For high-def analog video, there's a component video output (limited to 1080i), and there's an S-Video output and a composite output for standard-def output. (As with all DVD BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player s, there is no DVD upscaling available via component video). On the audio side, there's the aforementioned HDMI output, along with 5.1-channel analog outputs, both optical and coaxial digital audio outputs, and stereo analog outputs.

Rounding out the connectivity is an Ethernet port, which enables you to upgrade the firmware from the Internet--a feature that's been common to HD DVD Players, but very rare among Blu-ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Players.

FYI: There is no image or sound quality difference, or any other type of difference, in the USA Region A version of the multi-region Region A and B version of the Blu-ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player.

The BD-P1400 did a good job of rendering the opening sequence of Star Trek: Insurrection, demonstrating its 2:3 pull-down prowess. Next up was Seabiscuit, and the BD-P1400 did a solid job with the difficult introduction, with few to no jaggies on the black and white photos.

MDOJ,

Just a quick update on the Samy BD-P1400. I have rented some BR's from Netflix and have really been enjoying the BD-P1400 - how about you? All the techno mumbo jumbo aside, as far as I'm concerned this is a great BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player.

I hope that the head dudes in charge of this forum will make a sticky for the Samsung BD-P1400 - hint - hint! watching home movies here...not saving lives.

The Samsung is a REALLY good unit for the price. The multi-region version is just 9.95 from Planet Omni and considering they use a double motherboard specially imported which must cost a fortune plus the intensive labor it's a real great bargain, IMHO.

I was able to plug my unit directly into my modem with a network cable (as per Samsungs directions in the user manual) and the BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player found it's new firmware and loaded it up without the need for me to get on the computer, burn disks...etc. Very cool.

The Samsung has a great image and with the current update I can listen to DTS-HD Master Audio (Sony can't say that for twice the price!).

With the pace at which the technology is moving I think it is very difficult for a manufacturer to manufacture these units, get them to market and have them totally "current" with the new disk technology, (which is changing daily), but Samsung has provided me with a unit that I can just plug into my modem and get an update when they have it available. I think that is AMAZING.

A little patience and understanding can go a long way. After all...it wasn't that long ago that when you bought an electronic component, you couldn't update it at all. I am sure Samsung will come through with an update soon. I have not run into any disks I could not play as of yet.

Having never seen a 1200 in action, I can't help you - but the BD-P1400 PQ is excellent, but that's what Blu is all about - right?

I have tried several BD's from Netflix as well as a few standard def DVD's. All were great. As far as the handshake issue, I'm not really sure what that is.... and for the off, then play thing... why would you want to do that in a movie anyways?

Great BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player, I couldn't be more happy I got the new BD-P1400 last week. returned the 1200 to get it. (plus 100 price difference in my favor. PROS= the pic quality is by far the best I've seen, even better then the panny I had.

Controls are easy and setup just the same. I don't like it loses the signal at the beginning of the discs.
AUDIO= I am not able to use all the audio features due to my ONKYO being a few years old. I have it setup with a digital optical cable, the sound is really excellent except for the POPS I get every now and then.

As for the BD discs, POTC about 2 minutes, have had no problem, and the multi-region version from Planet Omni will be even more incredible, with any other BD movies. I did notice that after I hit pause and went to hit play, the movie would play for a minute and then stop. I had to hit play again. No big deal.

Used the Ethernet port to download new firmware, can't tell the difference though. I am sorry I am not that technical but this is my blue collar review. any??????s I will answer the best I can

Just finished watching Casino Royale - spectacular!

I have a PlayStation 3 that has awesome picture quality for both Blu-Ray and upscaling of Standard DVD's since a software upgrade. We use this for our main HD TV in the family room. I needed another BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player for a second HD TV we just had hung in our bedroom.

I waited for the BD-P1400 to become available since I already committed to the Blu-Ray format and wanted the latest technology available. I cannot say enough about the sound quality that this BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player offers, it is unbelievable. The picture quality is excellent and on par with the PlayStation 3. I am seriously considering purchasing a second BD-P1400 for our main set because of the outstanding sound. Great BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player especially for the money.

By far the best Blu-ray I ever tested. Never watch cartoons but now I'm spending a lot of time watching with my kids.

This is a great Blue Ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player. DTS HD MA bitstream finally. I have owned this product for about two months and am thrilled with it; it is really a good deal. I only use my Blu Ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player to play Blu Ray movies, since the sound is piped into a Samsung 5-disc receiver. The picture quality is amazing. I own four Blu Ray discs (which I purchased on Amazon at .99 each) and they all play beautifully, with no problem, and the multi-region version from Planet Omni will be even more incredible, and a crystal clear picture.

I bought this BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player in December. I hooked it up with an HDMI cable to a Sony Receiver. The Cable Box from Comcast is also hooked up to the receiver. The receiver is connected to a 42 inch Panasonic 1080P Plasma. Three HDMI cables, that is it.

It has worked flawlessly from the beginning with every Blu-Ray disc we have tried. We get about one a week from Netflix. I can play Pirates of the Caribbean 3. Not sure why the other reviewer could not.

The picture quality is stunning with Planet Earth. I guess I can credit the Panasonic TV mostly for that.

I did the version 1.2 firmware upgrade in December. I just did the version 1.5 firmware upgrade yesterday Feb 5th. I downloaded both and created the ISO CD.

To me it works fast. So you have to wait a few seconds for it to boot up, so what? Go get the DVD while you are waiting.

Most computers nowadays take minutes to boot. I imagine it will never get better, likely probably worse over time since these are in essence computers, and the more technology advances the slower these machines are to turn on and load up.

After doing the firmware upgrade, I checked my settings and noticed they had been reset. If you have a digital receiver, you should make sure that the audio is set to 'bit rate' and not PCM if you want surround sound.

I also had no problem, and the multi-region version from Planet Omni will be even more incredible, playing regular DVDs or CDs either. So when it becomes obsolete, it will replace my other DVD BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player and improve the quality of the regular DVDs with my other older 720P Samsung set.

I don't think anyone should delay buying because of the format war. The minute you buy anything nowadays, it becomes obsolete and is eventually a throw away. So you at least enjoy it while you can, life is too short. At the prices today what the heck, it is cheap, buy now before the dollar becomes worthless! You can get an entire home theatre 1080P HDMI based system with speakers for less than $[...] right now. Thank you China! I got my HDMI cables from Planet Omni, .95 for 2 meter length, superb images and sound!

Before I hooked this up, I updated the firmware via the Ethernet port. Once that was done I have had no problem, and the multi-region version from Planet Omni will be even more incredible, with the BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player at all. I debated whether or not to buy this due to some negative reviews, but the deal was just too good to pass up for a stand alone. Those of you that have had problems with this BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player have every right to complain about them here, that's what these reviews are for.

However, the people complaining it isn't 1.1 or 2.0 (no BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player is 2.0 yet) should stop. Nowhere in the description does it say this BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player is supposed to be 1.1. If you want to inform people there are updates coming and this BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player will not be able to benefit, go ahead, but to say it is horrible and obsolete because of it being 1.0 is misleading. I have a feeling most people want to just watch the movie and would rarely use the features of 1.1 (like picture in picture commentary).

If that's you, this BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player is perfect. If you need a 1.1 BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player, get the panasonic. For me this one will work fine for the next couple of years while Blu-ray gets its act together and finalizes an emerging product. I hope those of you that have had problems were able to get them resolved and can now enjoy the BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player as I do.

I have had no problem, and the multi-region version from Planet Omni will be even more incredible with the Samsung BD-PBD-P1400. I just plugged it in, connected it to the internet and started the firmware upgrade utility. After about 20 minutes, the firmware upgrade was successful and I played my first movie without a glitch. Every movie I've played since has also played flawlessly. You can also upgrade the firmware by burning a CD or if you don't have internet, Samsung will send it to you.

This product works just fine on blu-ray disks, also on non-European format DVDs, and on music CD-ROMs. I have found no problem, and the multi-region version from Planet Omni will be even more incredible with it. It even does a superior job of showing plain DVDs on my 40" TV, where my previous DVD BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player only would take up part of the screen.

One clever and undocumented touch is that it seeks out the right TV input choice once a disk is inserted. It may help that the TV is also a Samsung.
I got this on Nov.30, 2007, and unlike what other reviewers have said, the BD-P1400 does start back where you stopped. Everything else looks and works great.

I'm editing this review on March 13, 2008, to reflect my experience with the machine. It appears to me that whether a DVD will start back where it stopped depends on how the DVD was manufactured, NOT on the BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player . Some DVDs, such as "LOST, Season 3", don't even have chapter/scene makers on them, much less the ability to restart after a stop.

Some DVDs, such as "3:10 to Yuma", actually have their own system for marking where you stop or where you may want to go back to, but otherwise require a restart from scratch. But some DVDs do restart where stopped.

My chief complaint with Blu-Ray (not necessarily with this BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player in particular) is that it takes FOREVER for a DVD to start up, then if you do have a DVD that won't restart from where it stopped, you have to go through the painfully long start-up again.

I've learned to NEVER PAUSE a DVD, which causes it to shut down the BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player after a few minutes. Instead, I keep it going at 1/8 speed, then when I come back, I can easily back up to where I was -- a lot faster than a restart.

If there is a better BR BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player anywhere near this price range, I haven't heard of it. Now that HD DVD has died, I hope that DVD makers will focus their attention on making BR DVDs work more easily and FASTER.

This is a great player. The only issue is the firmware upgrade. I used CD-R/RW burning method...easiest and fastest. Burn *.iso image using nero burning rom software. The instructions are in [...]/support. I have both HD-DVD and blu-ray. so far blu-ray is better. HD looks like upconverted DVD. Read the instructions carefully i.e. the new Blu-ray "Live Free Die Hard" contains a note letting you know the software upgrade may be needed.

Lastly, remember this is HDMI 1.3 compatible...so in order to use 1.3 capabilities, you need a cable and TV which is HDMI 1.3 compatible also....the picture is great. Buy this BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player and upgrade the software right away.

I have read and continue to see many complaints about different blu-ray and hd-dvd BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player s not working like people hoped. I can say that with this model I have had absolutely zero issues.

I am sure some people will write that it doesn't load this or doesn't do that, but it hasn't affected me. I have not found a single disc that has not played perfectly. What people have to remember is that in this day and age everything is like a computer, you may have to update, it is part of life now, get over it.

Will the manufacturers eventually get this flawless, probably so but in the mean time I will be enjoying my movies now. If you are an early adopter like I am on technology then any issues you might run into will be no big deal. The BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player is easy to setup, easy to play and loads reasonably fast. Glad I bought it and already thinking about a second one for different room.

Complete satisfaction with this product. Greatly enhances my regular dvd's. I was really surprised about this claim, but the Samsung does as advertised. The blu-ray disc audio is very good. Can't wait until hooking this up with my new surround system.

This product is money well spent for the viewing pleasure it gives. I highly recommend this product.

For its price this is a steal. The audio and video quality here is great, the quality and selection of Blu-ray is top notch and you can be fairly confident you'll be getting blu-ray format movies made for you for years to come. One of the better options for a dedicated BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player if you're not interested in the PS3.

Before deciding to purchase my Samsung BD-P1400 I studied many of these customer reviews and they were very useful. I also read a dedicated AV Science forum online concerning this model BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player. First, all of the information and customer reviews highlight the endemic problem that implementation of newer Blu-Ray standards is occurring gradually. Moreover, features are evolving, meaning that we are all taking some chances when we purchase any Blu-Ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player (that is not a PS3).

I personally have no interest whatsoever in owning a game console. Second, many of these reviews describe in conscientious detail the kinds of problems that people are having, as well as whether and how the problems have been overcome. This review adds data to that second category - practical problems.

When my BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player arrived the very first thing I did was install the latest firmware downloaded from the Samsung web site. I suggest the method that uses a cd rather than a direct network connection; in either case the manuals and web site offer complete directions. Be sure to *confirm that the update was successful* by restarting the BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player , re-inserting the firmware cd, and comparing the disk version to the installed version.

What problems have I had? In a month of watching Netflix discs I have had not one single hiccup, not a single blue screen, no refusals to play any of the BDs or SD-DVDs that others have had problems with - I have had *nothing but perfect performance*! True, some of the other criticisms like slower controls are inherent to the technology. But my BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player has been flawless and my expectations have been significantly exceeded. Without hesitation, I give my BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player five stars.

Pros: My favorite feature, by far, is the 24 frame per second output mode. Movies display exactly as they were intended - be that good or bad - and 'judder' in slowly-panned scenes is significantly improved compared to 30 FPS. This alone, in my opinion, warrants the relatively modest price tag. [In direct comparisons using my 50" plasma TV, the video quality of movies from the BD-P1400 at 24 FPS is clearly superior to the same discs when played through advanced computer video cards that cost the same!] I also like the features and layout of the remote control, which doubles up to control my Samsung TV. Yes, these are basic features within the realm of Blu-Ray, but they have been very capably implemented.

Cons: My only nit-pick is that I would like a set-up feature that allowed the audio and video outputs to be delayed relative to each other by a selectable increment. This would allow perfect lip-sync when using older (i.e. slower) audio decoders/receivers that are not HDMI 1.3 compliant. However, to my knowledge this feature is not offered on *any* new Blu-ray BD-P1400 Blu-Ray Disc Player , since the HDMI 1.3 standard incorporates an automatic synchronization feature if all the components are HDMI 1.3 compatible.

Maybe I've been lucky, but I have not had a single 'playability' issue using the latest build of the latest firmware. Based on this - 5 stars.

Let's hope that Samsung will support this model well into the future by further optimizing the operating firmware, as needed.
In brief: Outstanding picture quality---my wife and I say, even for stills, "Polaroid picture!", breathtaking.

The unit has all the requisite connections. I play it through a Yamaha av-tuner with 7.1 channels, via HDMI, but other connections are available.

There is a simple blue-ringed on-off button, and a tray open-close button; that's it on on-board controls. The remote has several levels of sophistication: It is easy to find and use the power, pause-play-rewind-fast/slow controls, those you will use 99% of the time. The remote also provides movie menu controls (e.g., language), player menu controls, and options for controlling other devices---learn to use them only if/when you need them. There was absolutely no setting up to do---plug and play! Great neuro-ergonomics, i.e., intuitive ease of use.

In over three weeks of regular usage, we have noted some glitches, but it's not clear if it is the player itself or the emerging technology. Several times, the unit went into "Stop" mode as if the button had been pushed; I had to hit "Play" to get the movie started again. Mildly distracting.

What would I also like? Perhaps controls for the av amplifier as well, although that unit has all the buttons needed for TV, player, and amp. Maybe better backlighting on all buttons. This is one heck of a deal, recommended to anyone wanting to get into blu-ray.
Good BluRay DVD. Easy to use. High definition DVD's look great but regular DVD's look better too.

No problems found yet.

the Samsung 1400 is significantly superior to the Toshiba HD-A3. The BD-P1400 supports not only TrueHD, but DTS-HD MA bitstream output over HDMI. The A3 can only extract the DTS 'core' and cannot send bitstream DTS-HD MA out. Only the HD-A35 and the XA2 can do that, but both are significantly costlier than this player. The BD-P1400 can also output full 1080p/24 video, while the A3 can only send out 1080i and does not support 24fps output.

Both are slow to load up, but the A3 is significantly slower, taking almost 2 full minutes to warm up the player and display video on your monitor/screen. The PS3 takes less than 30 seconds btw. The A3 is also very noisy, distractingly so especially because it is a high pitched noise that is hard to ignore.

Overall, the BD-P1400 is a high functioning blu-ray stand alone player, that supports lossless audio output (PCM, TrueHD, and DTS-HD MA) and 1080p/24. I would still recommend a four hundred dollar PS3 over the BD-P1400, but if you really want a standalone player, you can't go wrong with the BD-P1400.
I don't actually own this player, but I have a friend who bought one and he loves it.

This is a excellent blu ray and I am very happy with my purchase, I recommend this player to everyone and the price is great.

It did NOT disappoint in the slightest. I have not had any problems playing any DVD Blu-ray or not. I have not had to download any firm-ware to solve ANY issues. The BD-P1400 worked straight out of the box. The only thing that comes close to a con is that it's slow on start-up and loading.

I am very satisfied with this player and I'm happy. All I can report is that mine works perfectly so far, and I have recommended it to many of my friends when asked for an opinion.

Works wonderfully with my new Samsung plasma... Haven't experienced any issues expressed by other reviewers. Connected with an HDMI to TV and optical audio to Home Theater... Breathtaking PQ and sound.

This Blu-Ray player is first-class. Easy setup. This is my first Hi-Def player, and I am very happy with my purchase. I did the latest firmware update per the instructions in the manual, and it has functioned flawlessly. The player has a modern, slick, glossy appearance. The sounds are incredible, and the images are too beautiful to be described. Very easy to install and use. I never knew the difference that a Blu-ray player can make in the movie watching experience. I am not an expert, just a regular mom that purchased the blu-ray player for family viewing.

I have had this player for about a month now...After updating the firmware, it has been flawless. Amazing picture, quiet unit, looks great in the entertainment rack along with my HD DVD player.

The upconversion is wonderful! Best part is I can use optical and take advantage of the new audio codecs.

I give this player 5 stars!

Not a single problem. I even have it in a tight spot with 2" clearance above top and open back with No overheating problems. None of my movies have locked up or have been unable to play. I have tried Live Free or Die Hard, all the Harry Potters, Planet Earth and others. Firmware 1.5 arrived on Jan 24th and it has seemed to fix all the problems others were having. I would definitely recommend this player to others.

I have a PS3 and a Sony 300 S Blu-ray player, and they are both excellent blu-ray players. However, I love my new Samsung 1400 BD it can decode DTS HD sound, and it makes for a wonderful movie watching experience. The first thing a new owner should do is go to samusung.com and download the latest firmware update (it is a fast simple process). There are also instructions on the owner's manual that explains how to update the player. I have watched the latest Blu-ray releases from Fox, Disney, Sony, etc. and the picture/sound quality is outstanding. Very pleased with the product.

Saturday, April 20, 2013

BlueGate Bluetooth Adapter Wireless Receiver by GOgroove Audio with A2DP Technology for Home Stereo , Portable Speakers , Headphones , and Car Music Sound Systems from Accessory Power

BlueGate Bluetooth Adapter Wireless Receiver by GOgroove Audio with A2DP Technology for Home Stereo , Portable Speakers , Headphones , and Car Music Sound Systems

All of us have several consumer surveys to determine what our customers genuinely want in a BlueGate Bluetooth Adapter Wireless Receiver by GOgroove Audio with A2DP Technology for Home Stereo , Portable Speakers , Headphones , and Car Music Sound Systems. Only following our style team looked inside the results of all of this accumulated particulars did they check out function completely redesigned our item. Instead of fundamentally taking the model we have been selling and adding a couple of new functions, we looked meticulously at what you liked about it and threw the rest away.


Make sure which you will be adding our item to turn out to be the initial answer from the household improvement list. From this moment on you might not been bothered utilizing the hard function any longer. We had been establishing and producing this exceptional BlueGate Bluetooth Adapter Wireless Receiver by GOgroove Audio with A2DP Technology for Home Stereo , Portable Speakers , Headphones , and Car Music Sound Systems for you and your home. Do not invest any extra time to vacillate to acquire our item into your home.

Comfy life style is really crucial for everybody. We quickly get the best feedback from new client everywhere. That BlueGate Bluetooth Adapter Wireless Receiver by GOgroove Audio with A2DP Technology for Home Stereo , Portable Speakers , Headphones , and Car Music Sound Systems will be the finest functional item and acceptable price which is really valuable for every and every single property. It is not just very good for you however it need to be the leading for your household too. Accessory Power is confident that this item is extremely will probably be one from the most popular items about the globe for your home.

BlueGate Bluetooth Adapter Wireless Receiver by GOgroove Audio with A2DP Technology for Home Stereo , Portable Speakers , Headphones , and Car Music Sound Systems
List Price : $59.99

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GOgroove Bluegate Wireless Bluetooth Receiver & Adapter

Easy to Use Bluetooth Upgrade


BlueGate equips your car, home, or portable audio device with Bluetooth audio capability to wirelessly stream music from your smartphone, tablet or computer! Instantly upgrade your favorite speaker by connecting BlueGate through its AUX line-in port, or even add Bluetooth to your favorite pair of headphones with the included 3.5mm audio coupler. It's easy to pair, lasts up to 12 hours per charge, and delivers high quality sound. Enhance your audio arsenal with Bluetooth today!

Bluetooth Equip Your Car Stereo


Any car stereo with an AUX line-in (3.5mm port) can be instantly upgraded with wireless Bluetooth audio. Just plug the BlueGate into your stereo's AUX port to play your music collection or stream apps like Pandora!

Bluetooth Enable Your Speaker System or Headphones
From a small portable speaker to a huge stereo home theater system, you can instantly equip Bluetooth capability! Just locate the AUX LINE-IN & connect the BlueGate! Enable your corded headphones to stream wireless audio! Use the included 3.5mm coupler to attach the BlueGate to any heapdhones, including GOgroove AudiOHM, Bose, Beats by Dre, Sennheiser, Monster & Skull Candy earbuds!

Sync with Tablets , Smartphones & Computers:
Acer Iconia A100 , A500 , A501 / ASUS Eee Pad Transformer , Prime TF201 / Lenovo Ideapad K1 , A1 , P1 / Samsung Galaxy Tab 7 Plus , 8.9 , 10.1 / Google Nexus 7 , 10 / Toshiba Thrive

HTC DROID DNA , ONE , 8X , 8S , One X+ , X / Motorola Droid RAZR V , i , HD , MAXX HD / Samsung Galaxy S IV , S4 , S3 , Note 2 , S III Mini , Galaxy S Player / Apple iPhone 5 , 4S , 4 , 3GS , iPod Touch , iPad , iPad mini / LG Google Nexus 4 , Optimus G / Nokia Lumia 920 , 820

Dell Inspiron / HP Pavilion / Toshiba Satellite / Acer / Lenovo / ASUS / Apple iMac , Macbook / Samsung Chromebook / Google Chromebook , Pixel / Sony

...and many more!

Feature

  • Turn your new and old speakers or headphones into Bluetooth enabled devices! Wirelessly receive music from your A2DP Bluetooth enabled smartphone, tablet or computer from up to 30 feet away!
  • Utilizes Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP streaming for powerful, enhanced audio quality, and features a one-touch control to pair with your device in seconds!
  • Plugs directly into your speaker or stereo's AUX line-in port via 3.5mm headphone plug! Charges via included USB cable in 2 -3 hours to deliver 12 hours of audio transmission!
  • Includes convenient 3.5mm audio coupler for use with headphones and compact speaker systems!
  • Dimensions: 1.8 x 1.3 x 0.3 inches ; Guaranteed Quality ** 3 Year Manufacturer's Warranty **

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

The Most Recent DVD Player Technology - The Blu-Ray DVD Player

There is a period that people were pleased with the floppy dvds because the hard drive, regardless of the only a little space then came the CD's, which in fact had a far greater storage capacity along with a decent resolution. After that, DVD's has been around since. They were far better in resolution along with the space for storage. However, these can not be stated because the best. The most recent which has show up may be the Blu-ray DVD's technology that has amazing clearness because of our prime resolution. Fundamental essentials ones that have been preferred nowadays.

Large ad banners like Warner Siblings and like are delivering their movies around the Blu-ray dvds to achieve the the majority of the resolution that the DVD offers. Clearly, to look at these dvds, one call for a Blu-ray, much like it's needed just in case from the normal player. Most lately, the HD-DVD technology which technology were neck to neck, however the HD-DVD continues to be stopped formally now, departing fraxel treatments to guide the marketplace. Though, these two are nearly exactly the same however these would support different formats.

These DVD's are now being the current ones, the DVD's open to be viewed around the Blu-ray wouldn't be the Blu-ray DVD's. This does not mean you need to possess a standard player using the latest Blu-ray player to have the ability to watch the DVD's which aren't the Blu-ray technology enabled. This digital camera options which are available for sale are backward compatible. Which means that you can dispose from you old player with no worry and may make use of this DVD player to experience a myriad of DVD's including one which aren't the Blu-ray DVD's. This could almost leave that old DVD obsolete. But, the conventional DVD wouldn't reflect within the high definition as these aren't DVD's. These are merely performed within the Blu-ray player. Though, in some instances, this can be up scaly to 720p/1080i or 1080p mode.

However, just in case you've got a handful of CD's too, which you want to participate in the player that's possible too. However, in some cases, this is probably not a choice. Hence, it is advisable to browse the tech specifications of the player under consideration to be certain before you decide to purchase these.

The connectivity aspect is comparable both in the gamer. The inputs for that Blu-ray player will be the S-video, composite and component. The output with this player would come with digital optical, analog stereo system and also the digital coaxial. The additional results might be - the High-definition multimedia interface - This really is accustomed to transport the video and audio to Audio-video/TV receiver 5.1 or 7.1 funnel analog and also the Ethernet jack for internet connectivity.

These advanced gamers could be obtainable in the cost vary from 9- 00. Though, with the passing of time and elevated competition of numerous brands, the likelihood of the price to slide lower are high.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

JVC KWAVX740 6.1-Inch Bluetooth Touch DVD-CD-USB Receiver by JVC

In the period full of remarkable devices which are expected to make how we live easier, it can be difficult to visualize that everything newer or even seriously enhanced will come along. JVC is here now to inform you that not only have we launched a completely new JVC KWAVX740 6.1-Inch Bluetooth Touch DVD-CD-USB Receiver for you, but that that which we have come up with will knock back the competition apart. Never before has any one designed such an extremely practical product therefore we are offering the chance to aquire one for you.

JVC KWAVX740 6.1-Inch Bluetooth Touch DVD-CD-USB Receiver
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As you well realize it requires more than just saying that a product will be both brand-new or maybe advanced to make it thus. We grasped this when we started to produce our completely new JVC KWAVX740 6.1-Inch Bluetooth Touch DVD-CD-USB Receiver and have been determined to make sure that it's everything you may possibly ever want. We attempted to create a product which would not simply be better than everything our competitors have on the marketplace, but could leave them so far behind there's no way they even can come close to catching up.

Now you recognize our JVC KWAVX740 6.1-Inch Bluetooth Touch DVD-CD-USB Receiver might be rated as the very best on the market, what can we perhaps do in order to make it even better? First of all we've included quite a few extras that not one of the other companies in the marketplace appear to have even planned. However, since the genuine indication of a great product is in giving authentic value for money, we've set the cost so unbelievably low that they're flying off the shelves.

Click here to read more about the JVC KWAVX740 6.1-Inch Bluetooth Touch DVD-CD-USB Receiver full review & cheap price

JVC KWAVX740 6.1-Inch Bluetooth Touch DVD-CD-USB Receiver

The KWAVX740 features a rear USB port for easy, high-speed digital connection to iPhone/iPod devices, digital audio players, flash memory drives, and most cell phones. 7" LCD Touch Panel is fully detachable, and includes a high-resolution, high brightness VGA monitor for superior video playback. MotionX-GPS Drive feature lets you add app-based on-screen navigation display and turn-by-turn voice commands when connected to your iPhone 4 (KS-U30 Cable Required). Bluetooth Wireless Technology supports hands-free dialing/calling as well as wireless audio streaming from your Bluetooth enabled cell phone or other devices.

Feature

  • Touch Panel
  • MOS-FET 50W x 4 (20W RMS x 4)
  • Built-in 6.1-inch WVGA Widescreen Monitor
  • Wallpaper Capture
  • Bluetooth Wireless Technology (Bluetooth adapter included)

Friday, April 12, 2013

High-definition multimedia interface Cables - Overflowing the parable and Biased High-definition multimedia interface Cable Reviews

Your house cinema system or av system will need a particular degree of cabling to increase the accessible seem quality of the system. Therefore you will need to increase your equipment with digital connections to every av component to offer the best listening experience. The good news is you can obtain noticeable seem quality enhancements out of your home cinema system through using appropriate digital High-definition multimedia interface interconnects (Hi-def Multimedia Interface).

In the following paragraphs we explode the biased High-definition multimedia interface Cable Reviews and demonstrate how with affordable standard High-definition multimedia interface cable you are able to achieve excellent results and increase your home cinema listening experience and obtain noticeable seem quality improvement using your av system making use of the accessible digital connections.

Selecting the very best High-definition multimedia interface cables for your own personel system is a reasonably straightforward process and you will find a couple of things that need considering before you purchase. First of all, don't get brainwashed by stores that sell the most costly cables simply because they would like you to invest whenever possible instead of comprehending the needs or needs of your house cinema setup - you shouldn't be misled.

What exactly High-definition multimedia interface Cable might be best suited to my house cinema system?

First of all, the fundamental principle behind High-definition multimedia interface would be to transmit uncompressed digital data via 2 connects and digital data cables ought to be mainly in comparison by the standard from the components and manufacture. The High-definition multimedia interface Cable Reviews available appear to pay attention to the greater spent the greater you accomplish - well stop and reconsider. Top quality output of an affordable High-definition multimedia interface connector cable provides the same results as investing 10 x or 20x more.

Generally you will notice that most of the available High-definition multimedia interface Cable Reviews don't explain the significance of the usages in varying programs from the standard home used High-definition multimedia interface interface. It's very helpful to know the significance of the various High-definition multimedia interface specifications, whereby, the cat 1 cable is capable of doing delivering a sound visual signal to attain maximum results on the 720p or 1080i TV/Vast screen along with a Cat 2 High-definition multimedia interface Cable is capable of doing delivering a sound visual signal to attain the best results on 720p, 1080i, 1080p &lifier the brand new 1600p TV/LCD products. The conventional specifications for High-definition multimedia interface are a lot varying from 1. to at least one.4 which signifies the brand new High-definition multimedia interface specs and interface versions being made available today, 1.4 to be the latest DHMI interface specs. However, don't be concerned about these amounts just like any new High-definition multimedia interface outfitted products are backwards compatible for cabling reasons.

It is crucial that you select the minimum period of cable for hooking up your equipment and becoming an High-definition multimedia interface interconnect which has top manufacture quality. To be able to attain the best seem and video quality out of your equipment digital cabling plays a large part.

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Connect A Receiver For Your House Theater

What is a Receiver?

A receiver is that big, heavy thing that you plug your speakers and other components into (like a DVD player, TV, CD player, Xbox, PlayStation, iPod, and etc.). Its the "brain" of the show, really. The idea of connecting all your components to a receiver is the concept of audio/video switching, allowing you to switch to different video sources (like TV, DVD, camcorder) on your TV
and thus changing the audio source accordingly - all without touching anything but the receiver.

Of course, the main purpose behind audio/video switching with a receiver is to drive audio to external speakers, like surround sound or stereo speakers.

Most receivers have a plethora of inputs; up to 8 speakers and a subwoofer (more commonly, 5.1, or five speakers and a subwoofer), several video inputs, and even HDMI inputs. You could plug your Xbox, Plasma, and DVD player into the receiver and use one remote to switch between all the different video sources (games, TV, DVD video) and have your speakers pump out surround-sound. Let's start with inputs and outputs. If you don't understand something, read through the entire How-To as most of it will be explained in detail.

Keep in mind that a receiver is the hub of your entire home theatre, so this How-To will actually guide you through the basics of connecting your complete home theater.

So what the heck is all this 'stuff' on the back of your receiver?

I'm going to go over just about anything that you would find on the back of your receiver. The one I'm basing this guide off of is a Harman Kardon AVR-247 I'm going to start from the top left of the unit and work my way to the right, then I'll start at the left of the next row and so on.

The first three inputs are for antennas. An FM antenna cable would slide on to the first jack while two speaker wires would plug into the remaining slots for AM. Of course, you don't have to plug your antennas in, but if you'd like AM/FM reception through your speakers, you'll want to go ahead and do that. These are standard connections, so if you lose one of your antennas, just go buy another for a few bucks.

You've probably heard of composite video. Its a very basic video connection used by most any component (TV, DVD, VCR especially). Its common and its cheap. As such, its very low quality.
Composite uses an RCA cable for video (yellow) and two more RCA cables for audio (red and white, stereo). The problem is that a composite video cable combines luminance and chrominance in the same cable, reducing the quality of the picture. You lose a lot of sharpness, and the color begins to degrade from the original source. Its useful when you need the extra input or the device you're connecting only has composite video. Otherwise, use something else, like component video. Sounds similar; very different.

S-Video is next in line after composite. It uses a different type of connector (five pins in a circle) and gives you marginally better video quality. It is also a video-only cable, so you'll need to plug in audio separately. In this case, you'll probably use a pair of red and white RCA cables for your audio inputs.

Next up: a ton of composite audio inputs. These inputs use left channel and right channel RCA cables, typically red and white. They look just like the yellow composite video cable, and you could even use them for video and the yellow for audio, but let's keep the color scheme how it is ;) Composite audio is the bottom-of-the-barrel in audio. Its perfectly fine for most use, but if you're looking for high quality surround sound, you don't want composite. Game systems, like the Wii or Xbox, and very basic DVD players are a perfect match for composite audio.

The same goes to VCRs, CD players, and anything that only has a composite audio output. Plus, if you don't have surround sound, or your receiver is only two channels (2.1, stereo sound), you won't be able to use anything but composite audio. Note that there is a composite audio input under each composite video input so that it is easy to match them up. Plug them in the wrong inputs and you won't get sound when you're on that particular video input.

Here we have one of the least-used features of a modern receiver: 6 (or 8) channel direct input. This is only used for two purposes: SACD or DVD Audio. SACD is an acronym for Super Audio CD. It is a proprietary audio format developed by Sony for special CDs that are recorded in 5.1 surround sound. That means you need a CD or DVD/CD player that supports SACDs, a receiver with SACD support (as in the picture), and of course Super Audio CD's. DVD Audio is the same idea, different brand, different media (its a DVD, not a CD!).

DVD Audio discs are special DVDs that are recorded in 5.1 surround sound and can only be played by devices with support for them. These CDs go all the way up to 7.1 surround sound, meaning you would need to have two front, two rear, two side speakers and a subwoofer to enjoy full 7.1 surround sound. Most receivers support up to 7.1 now but you won't find DVDs with that kind of capability for movies. 5.1 surround is still the defacto standard, so don't run out and buy more speakers any time soon.

You could skip this next little item because it is unique to this brand of receiver (Harman Kardon). The Bridge" is a proprietary connection they developed for you to connect
an iPod. You need to buy a separate component that includes a docking station and special cables to connect the iPod. It fully integrates with the receiver, displaying
menus and songs on the front LCD screen of the receiver. This allows you to easily pump your tunes through your speakers, whether it be stereo sound or full surround sound.

Of course, the music on your iPod is stereo sound, so the best you can get is simulated surround sound or stereo surround; the same music playing in the front two channels
is put through the rear and center channels. Some receivers do this more intelligently than others, but more on that later.

Here we have our high-end sound inputs/outputs. Basically the same performance wise, you have fiber optic connections (with the square shape) and digital coaxial (just like an RCA cable).
Both of these are 100% digital, whereas composite is analog. The only way you can get true surround sound from any source is by using one of these connections (or the SACD/DVD Audio option)

Almost all DVD players these days have either optical or digital coaxial outputs (sometimes, both). Many high definition cable and satellite boxes also come with these
connections so you can enjoy 5.1 surround sound on high definition channels. Choosing between the two, there's really no different in audio quality, so feel free to use
what you'd like (or what you're forced to).

I don't think I need an image for the next plug. Its a pair of power inputs. One is for powering the receiver, the other for whatever you'd like. This way, when you turn
on the receiver, you give power to the other device (be it a DVD player, CD player, cable box, whatever). I don't necessarily recommend this unless it specifically suits
your needs. It is useful if you're running low on outlets, of course.

Something else you'll never use: D-bus RC-5 input/output. This is used for infrared remote controls to take over your home theater system. Honestly, its not something any of us will ever use. Some of the real high-end junkies might be using something for it, but I've never even come across a device that uses this technology. Stick to the remote that came with your unit, or buy a quality universal remote control. There's no need for this option. An alternate use for this may be a bit more common: if your receiver's front panel is blocked (like inside a cabinet), you could get an infrared transmitter to latch on to the front of it. This transmitter would hook up to another device somewhere in your room that will accept signals from your remote control. The receiving device then transmits the remote's commands to your receiver (via the transmitter you've attached to the front over the regular infrared transmitter).

Pre-outs , located right under the Remote in/out. Pre-outs are used when you'd like to add an amplifier to your system to boost the power (and hence volume/audio quality). Average
users will not use this for anything but the subwoofer preout. You'll want to run a subwoofer cable from your subwoofer to the subwoofer pre-out to provide it with
the right frequencies. This is the proper way to connect your subwoofer to your surround sound system. The other inputs won't be used unless you plan on adding
an amplifier. This is highly unnecessary for home use. You might add an amp if you're trying to fill a room the size of a small house with enough sound, but you're not, right?

Here we finally get to the meat of the system: the speaker inputs! Harman Kardon receivers use bind posts for connecting speakers, as seen in the picture. They
work by being loosened up as your turn them counter-clockwise, then you sneak the speaker wire in underneath the caps and tighten them back up by turning clockwise. This'll
give your speaker wire a nice tug fit that probably won't loosen up on itself over time. Other brands may use other types of connectors, but bind posts are very common.
You might have been able to tell this is a 7.1 channel receiver because of the speaker inputs.

You've got room for 2 front left and right speakers, 2 rear left and right speakers,
a center channel, and two left and right "surround" channels which are placed somewhere in between your front and rear speakers ("side surround", or 7.1). If you have enough
speakers, you can go ahead and plug in those extra 2 side ones, but they won't play any sound at all on a 5.1 DVD. You would need a DVD that supports 7.1
surround sound, and at this time, there just isn't a market for it. CDs will gladly blast stereo surround through all 7 speakers, though, so for some larger rooms, that's an
advantage.

Our final set of connectors for this receiver: component video . The best video you can get next to composite or s-video. You'll notice its a set of three cables (all for video),
usually Red, Green and Blue. Don't think that's what the cable does, though - it separates the video signal by luminance and two separate color channels. In the past, component
did it in fact represent R, G, B (splitting the primary colors in transmit and recombining them at the destination device), but that is not used in current component video
connections. Component video can carry high definition signals, all the way up to 1080p, so it is the most cost effective and readily available high definition input.
Not seen on this receiver are DVI and HDMI, the two all-digital video connections.

HDMI is the newest, fastest, sharpest video and audio connection available today. Its the only cable that can carry audio and video in one - not to mention, in high definition.
HDMI must be supported by the source and the display you're connecting it to to use all of its features. Not all DVD players, cable boxes, or receivers support both
audio and video in HDMI. Its becoming more and more of a standard now to support both. The advantage is clear: less cable clutter, higher quality audio and video. You can get up
to 1080p high definition video and 7.1 surround sound through an HDMI cable. Newer cable and satellite boxes, DVD players, high definition DVD players, and more expensive receivers
support the full capability of HDMI. Its the best you can get as all-digital goes.

The last connection for this article is DVI. DVI is also all digital like HDMI, but it cannot process audio signals. HDMI may provide a technically superior image,
but I don't think anyone could tell the difference. DVI supports high definition video all the way up to 1080p, just like HDMI. Its being used less frequently now,
but if you've bought a new computer or video card for your PC recently, it probably has a DVI (or two) port on it. Most computer monitors use DVI now and video cards
have followed suit. HDMI is edging its way into the PC market, but its dominance is seen in the home theater arena.

Now that you've familiarized yourself with common connections, let's plug it all together.

This part of the receiver How-To is going to guide you through hooking a 5.1 surround sound system(5 speakers and a subwoofer) with a high-definition TV, a high-definition cable or satellite box, a DVD player, and a 5.1 receiver.

Your TV & Components

Where you put your TV is dependent on how large it is, how large your room is, and where you will be sitting. If its 50 inches, don't sit more than 10-15 feet away; but no less, either.
A 60" set is perfect for 12-20 feet. If you have a 32 inch set, try to sit no farther than 8-12 feet away. Your receiver, DVD player, cable box, and other components should obviously be close together, but don't place them physically on top of each other. They all get hot, especially your receiver. If you have no other choice, slide a thin piece of plywood between the components to help dispense the heat.

Lay Out of Speakers

The first step is to lay out your setup. Different rooms call for different locations for your speakers and subwoofer. If your room is a typical rectangle, go ahead and place your two front left and right speakers somewhere flush with the television on that side of the room. Your left speaker goes toward the left corner, right speaker toward the right corner. Don't bother with speaker wire yet (unless your speakers come with speaker wire attached already; in that case, just let them dangle for now). Note that which speaker is left or right is solely dependent on how you connect them to your receiver. Your speakers aren't actually designated "left" or "right".

Depending on how you acquired your speakers, your front speakers could be larger than your rear speakers. That's how you know they're for the front. Otherwise, all your speakers are the same shape and size, and you can use each for any purpose.

One exception: the center channel. Usually, a center channel is much shorter and wider than your other speakers. It should only be used for the center channel. Sometimes, all 5 of your speakers could be the same, usually on a very inexpensive setup. You can use any of these speakers for any purpose.

Your center channel should always go either directly on top or under your television set. However you have to do this, get it done! It's not called the center channel for nothing, you know. Any movie will pump out almost 90% of the voices you hear and a majority of the rest of the sounds through the center channel. It is a vitally important component to your surround sound setup.

Your subwoofer should always be on the floor. If it is impossible to place it on the floor, get it as close to the floor as possible. Placing it behind objections or in closets will diminish its effects. In a perfect setup, the subwoofer would be on the floor close to the TV (perhaps off to the left or right) in your line of sight. Nothing should block the side of the subwoofer that air will come out of (usually covered by a grill protecting the subwoofer speaker itself).

When it comes to finding a good spot for your speakers, you might want to mount them. You can usually buy compatible speaker mounts online or in stores. You can also
use existing shelving, buy some shelving, or place them on tables or other objects. No matter how you do it, try to keep the speakers as close to ear level as possible. A speaker mounted at the ceiling of your room isn't going to give you the optimal aural experience.

The last thing to keep in mind about layout is speaker wire. You'll probably need at least 100ft of speaker wire, but you'll often find yourself using much more if you
try running wire through your ceiling, under carpeting, up through the basement, or around objects to conceal it. Take measurements and buy at least 10% more wire than
you think you need. You'll probably use it!

Cabling

You need to know the different kind of speaker wire available to you before setting up your home theatre. If you bought an HTIB (home theater in a box), it probably came with 100ft of horribly cheap speaker wire. You don't want that! Do yourself a favor: buy some high-quality, 14-gauge speaker wire. Anything higher than 14-gauge is just to thin and will be susceptible to interence, quality loss, and poor quality over longer distances. Fourteen gauge is a good thickness and suitable for most home theatres. Make sure its also not too thick - some speaker wire simply will not fit in to the speaker wire jacks on some receivers.

Some receivers use proprietary speaker inputs. Sony is one example. Many Sony receivers have special connectors for speaker wire and will not accept a standard speaker wire. You'll need to use either the Sony-provided speaker wire, take the ends off of Sony speaker wire and put it on your own, or buy some of these special connectors from Sony directly to place on your speaker wire. My recommendation? Avoid any receivers with non-standard speaker wire posts/jacks/connectors. Look for bind posts or other jacks that allow you to slide in and clamp down on a typical speaker wire.

Once you've got your speaker wire sorted out, you'll have to do some cutting and stripping if you opted to purchase your own. This is way easier than it sounds, so don't worry!

Measure out each length one at a time, cutting the speaker wire with either really great scissors or a sharp blade. Now you need to strip the ends of the wire. Use either a stripping tool or plain old scissors. You can place the scissors on the cable and gently apply some pressure as you twist the scissors around the cable, carefully slicing into the plastic coating. Eventually, it'll get weak enough that you can just slide it off by tugging on it with your fingers. You need at least 1/4" of exposed wire.

Now you can connect your speakers. Note on your speaker wire the difference between the two ends. You'll need to use one as your positive and one as your negative. Sometimes the coating is a different color between the two or there is text on one and not on the other. Keep track of this - whichever side you use for positive on your speaker, use it for positive on your receiver. Crossing the two can cause damage, either immediately or sometime in the future. It might work this way but you don't want it to!

Connecting the speakers is easy enough. Front left to front left on your receiver, center speaker to center on your receiver, etc... Your rear speakers may be referred to as "Surround" or "Rear Surround" instead of just "Rear", but keep in mind, if you have a 7.1 or 8.1 channel receiver, "Surround" may indicate side surround speakers, not rear speakers.

Subwoofers

Your subwoofer is going to be a little more complicated. There are a few different ways to do it and many variations of inputs/ouputs on the back side of subwoofers. I'm going to go with the most standard and efficient method first.

You will need a subwoofer cable for connecting your sub. If you don't have one or don't want to buy one, you can substitute it for a standard red or white RCA cable (or a pair, since they are usually connected; just let the other cable dangle). It will work, but its really not the best way to do it. You'll also need whats called a Y adapter. On the back of your sub, there should be a left/right input (red and white). You plug the Y adapter in to these connections and then your subwoofer cable (or RCA cable) in the other end of the Y (note: if you don't have a Y adapter, just choose the left or right input to plug into).

Now, take the other end of your cable and plug it into your receiver's
subwoofer preout. Hopefully you have a powered sub, meaning it gets plugged into an AC power outlet. All you need to do now is plug that in and your subwoofer is good to.

If you don't have RCA jacks on your subwoofer, or it only has speaker wire jacks (and its most likely not powered), you'll need to connect it the old fashioned way. Your front left and right speakers will plug into your subwoofer's ouput jacks instead of your receiver. You'll then run speaker wire from the left and right inputs on the subwoofer to your left and right speaker outputs on your receiver. This way, the subwoofer is powered by the receiver and will not work as well as a powered sub. You also take some power away from your front speakers with this method. A good idea is to buy a new, powered subwoofer with line in RCA jacks.

Connecting the Dots

You've got the hard stuff out of the way. Now finish it up by connecting your TV, DVD, and cable/satellite box. Always try using the best options first. If your DVD
has HDMI and so does your receiver, use it. If your DVD only has composite, s-video, and component, use component video cable. When it comes to audio, you absolutely need
to use digital coaxial (jacks are usually orange) or fiber optic (usually the jack is recessed into the unit and has a door on it; when the door is open, a red light is visible). If you do not use either of these two, you won't get true surround sound! When all else fails, resort to composite (red and white) audio connectors.

Note: Look closely at the connections on your receiver. Everything is labeled, like the first set of red, green, and blue component video inputs might be labeled "Comp 1". If you're using composite audio cablesfor your sound, you'll need to plug them into the jacks that coordinate with "Comp 1". This might not be clear by looking at the receiver, so refer to your receiver's manual to figure out which video inputs use which audio inputs. Most often, you'll be able to configure them from the receiver's internal menu using the remote control.

On some receivers, all the component video inputs, for example, are linked to a single composite audio input (usually "DVD"), so if you connect more than one of the component inputs, you will be competing for sound when more than one device is active. This is why you'd want to configure the component inputs to use different audio inputs.

Your manual is the only way to figure out how to go about it. Composite video will usually match up to composite audio inputs with naming conventions like Video 1 -> Video 1, Video 2 -> Video 2, etc., but cables like component and DVI may not. You should also configure digital audio inputs to match up with the video inputs you're planning on using. For example, if you're using a digital coaxial input (possibly "Digital 1"), and you use component video, you'll want to match "Digital 1" with "Comp 1". Again, refer to your users manual for how to do this.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Onkyo HT-R530 7.1 Channel Surround Sound Receiver from Onkyo

You will find more far better way to alter your life that you simply could have not been done. The usual way is altering the interior style of one's resident or may possibly be redecorate your house. However some individuals go for a simple effortless way by purchasing a brand new residence improvement item. Onkyo would like to offer essentially the most convenience option of decision for you and every person with Onkyo HT-R530 7.1 Channel Surround Sound Receiver, our proud and excellence item which can be out within the industry now.


Onkyo HT-R530 7.1 Channel Surround Sound Receiver

We undoubtedly particular that our item is going to certain make your property as more pleased location for you and your family members as ever. We're studying much more in relation of item development to generate greater and far far better more item for every single consumer all more than the globe. We would like to offer you having a new item Onkyo HT-R530 7.1 Channel Surround Sound Receiver that's absolutely in a position of dealing with anything that you simply simply happen to have in thoughts. And containing with full high quality item will make you've got a far better likelihood of one's residence altering.

As we all know time to time that a majority of customers they don't wish to invest their spending budget by unnecessary. That brought us to be more concern on the spending budget of our new Onkyo HT-R530 7.1 Channel Surround Sound Receiver to make it more reasonable value for you.

Onkyo HT-R530 7.1 Channel Surround Sound Receiver
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Enjoy impressive home theater performance with Onkyo's HT-S787C. This capable system boasts a separate receiver and DVD player for clear, precise images and sound. The receiver's built-in amplification and processing combine with seven speakers and a powered subwoofer for 360-degree wraparound audio from your DVD movies, VHS tapes, CDs, video games, and TV shows. The receiver features component video switching. That means you can connect up to three High-Definition video sources and select the one you want to watch without changing inputs on your TV. This capability is also handy if you don't have enough connections on your TV for all your High-Def sources.

Feature

  • Boasts a separate receiver and DVD player for clear, precise images and sound
  • Has built-in amplification and processing combine with seven speakers
  • Has a powered subwoofer for 360-degree wraparound audio from your DVD movies, VHS tapes, CDs, video games, and TV shows
  • Includes high-end circuitry that reduces noise early on
  • Is clearer, more detailed audio from your DVDs, CDs, and more
  • Features component video switching

Monday, April 8, 2013

Wireless Multichannel Audio Home Cinema - 5 Best

If you're searching for a brand new home entertainment then you definitely certainly want to get the wireless multichannel audio home cinema. This new kind of audio electronic innovation from Chinese engineers is presently among the best selling on audio market, since it provides a new feature that leads it before other home entertainment systems. The brand new primary feature is wireless loudspeakers, the loudspeakers of theater system which are attached to the primary station with wireless, so ignore cables and wires which help your house be look chaos, now you'll have a clean floor home without cables that will also look more stylish. Here you will notice that are presently the top five items selling around the internet.

Like every other wireless items wireless multichannel audio home cinema doesn't need any cables or wires to become connected. It is best to purchase the system not just the loudspeakers because then you'll experience connection. There are many different system types from 5.1 surround system, 6.1 to 7.1 surround system. Presently among the best and best selling are 5.1 and when you continue reading you will notice what are top ones to buy. You will find many quality brand items like: The new sony, Panasonic, Creative Labs, Samsung, Bose yet others. Option is yours! Within the pack of 5.1 surround theater system you're going to get 4 satellites, 2 front wireless loudspeakers and a pair of rear wireless loudspeakers, then 1 center speaker and 1 subwoofer, having a station where one can play Compact disc, Dvd disks and USB.

Cost for such audio electronics are actually cheap. Using the seem quality and wireless feature they supply the cost vary from 200$ as much as 1990$, however the 300$ ones are quality enough because they are the presently best selling ones. If you prefer a quality seem then having to pay 300$ is sufficient!

This is actually the listing of best wireless multichannel audio home cinema:

Samsung HT-Z310T 5.1 Home Entertainment Multichannel Audio SystemWirelessCreative Labs GigaWorks 550W 5.1 System Panasonic SC-PT760 5.1 Loudspeakers 1000 WThe new sony DAV-HDX275 Bravia 5.1 1000 W Wireless Bose Lifestyle Wireless Surround Link

Sunday, April 7, 2013

Hi Fi Systems Amps - 7 Expert Ideas to Enhance Your Home Theatre Seem

How do you want to possess a home stereo system that sounds so fantastic what you know already the entertainers are playing in your house right before you? Selecting the perfect hi fi systems amps can produce a dramatic musical improvement in how good your house theater and residential stereo system will seem.

Begin using these expert hi fi systems strategies for choosing your house entertainment and stereo system components and you will create a fantastic sounding hi fi systems experience without needing to spend a lot of money.

Here's how for the greatest value together with your home theatre stereo system

o Your biggest investment after your High definition tv ought to be in your house audio amps, not your loudspeakers

o Specific brands of Audio-video devices are recognized for getting exceptional music fidelity

o You require a specific minimum energy capacity to attain great audio seem

o Why you'll need a 2 funnel stereo system stereo system

o Stereo music and residential theater multichannel audio need different energy amps

o AV receiver versus separate audio energy amplifier components

o What comprises the center of your house theater and stereo system seem?

However , you've a lot of options and you will find a lot of brands available to select from it's tough to know how to start. Should you shop at the local electronics stores nowadays, you most likely will not locate an expert home based audio entertainment who's knowledgeable enough to actually assist you to. Most online forums and review sites are largely too biased.

The greatest distinction between a great sounding home stereo system and getting an incredible sounding home theatre product is the synergy of the components. Essentially, how good all of the separate pieces seem together much like your loudspeakers your Audio-video receiver, your house audio amps, DVD/ blu-ray gamers, video games, ipod device, DAC and so on.

The center of the entire music entertainment system would be the hi fi systems amps that you're using. Hi fi systems amps are just like the engine of the vehicle. They're a significant component within the musical synergy that you'll hear throughout your house entertainment system. Your next greatest investment after your High definition tv ought to be in your house audio amps, not your loudspeakers.

Choose your audio amps according to what you're most thinking about for your house entertainment. Would you mainly want to hear stereo system music (2 channels) or would you like your stereo system to participate your house theater movie system 5.1 or 7.1 multichannel audio system?

Generally, probably the most realistic live show music seem that you could experience in your house is going to be listening through amps that are 2 channels stereo system only.

If you would like the very best value in stereo system music select a stereo system integrated amplifier having a energy per funnel with a minimum of 75 w to 150 w into 8 ohms. In case your finances are greater, you'll hear the very best stereo system music utilizing a separate stereo system energy amplifier or individual mono energy amps along with a matching stereo system preamplifier together. Hi fi systems amps with a minimum of 250 w per funnel provides you with the very best deep bass and overall warmth and seem stage depth and width out of your music listening.

In case your primary interest rates are taking pleasure in a house theater multichannel audio movie experience or playing game titles and not simply hearing music, you may need a hi fi systems system with 5.1 or 7.1 multi-funnel abilities to see fantastic seem in your house.

There is a best values home based theater amps by selecting a multi-funnel Audio-video (audio/video) receiver. There are many options in choosing an Audio-video receiver. Every one has comparable features today only a couple of possess the greater degree of hi fidelity seem and build musical synergy for you personally. Choose an Audio-video receiver which has a minimum of 120 w per funnel for those channels. Marantz makes the best sounding Audio-video devices available and Marantz quality is top class.

When budget isn't a concern, you'll hear probably the most incredible sounding home entertainment systems using separate muti-funnel high energy hi fi systems amps having a matching av processor/preamp. You will want to consider multi-funnel hi fi systems amps with a minimum of 150 w to 350 w per funnel. A few of the top brands within this category come from: Marantz, Krell, Paragon, Lexicon and Mcintosh to title a couple of. For any significant step-up from an Audio-video receiver, separates such as the Marantz AV8003 and MM8003 are generally affordable and also have outstanding musical seem quality making a great value for a first-class home entertainment and residential sound system.

Keep in mind, when assembling your house theater entertainment system or hi fi systems stereo system, the center of the audio system can come from the standard of the house audio amps that you're using.

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Home Entertainment Setup (Multichannel Audio Speaker Setup)

I will make the assumption that you have a surround sound or home theater receiver and start from there. There are 3 main home theater speaker setups which you will see termed 5.1, 6.1, and 7.1 channel surround. You will also see mentioned the terms Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby Pro Logic. Let's dispense with the latter first: if your receiver is only Pro Logic (only older receivers at this point) you do not need to worry about 6.1 or 7.1 surround. There are some other formats such as Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro-logic IIx, Dolby TrueHD, DTS neo:6.1, DTS-ES, True-Surround XT, and undoubtedly more.

The two factors to consider are:

1. how many channels does your system permit, and

2. Do you want to buy that many speakers?

All the receivers that support more than 5.1 channels will also work fine with a 5.1 channel setup. Obviously, 7.1 will provide better surround sound than 5.1, but at the expense of two extra speakers. If you have a limited budget you will have to decide whether to buy 5.1 higher quality speakers, or go for cheaper speakers to allow for 7.1 channels. By the way, the .1 channel is the home theater sub-woofer. The sub-woofer is, in my opinion, really needed for home theater. A system will work without it, but I don't recommend going without for home theater. The center channel is also very important for home theater, serving to anchor the sound to the video screen. If you go to our site by the link at the bottom of this article you can see images for the descriptions following. These are the recommended placements according to Dolby Labs.

5.1 surround system:

A). Center speaker centered on video source

B). Sub-woofer(s) in arc with the main L & R speakers between speakers and video source

C). L & R front on a 22-30 degree angle from the sitting, on an equidistant arc connecting the center channel and subs

D). L & R surround equidistant and on a 90-110 degree angle from the sitting position

6.1 surround system:

A). Center speaker centered on video source

B). Sub-woofer(s) in arc with the main L & R speakers between speakers and video source

C). L & R front on a 22-30 degree angle from the sitting, on an equidistant arc connecting the center channel and subs

D). L & R surround equidistant and on a 90-110 degree angle from the sitting position

E). Rear center 180 degrees (directly behind) the sitting position

7.1 surround system:

A). Center speaker centered on video source

B). Sub-woofer(s) in arc with the main L & R speakers between speakers and video source

C). L & R front on a 22-30 degree angle from the sitting, on an equidistant arc connecting the center channel and subs

D). L & R surround equidistant and on a 90-110 degree angle from the sitting position

E). L & R rear equidistant and on a 135-150 degree angle from the listening position.

Sub-woofer Setup

Your sub-woofer may have a switch for Dolby Digital / Pro Logic. If you have a Dolby Digital capable receiver set it to that even if you are using Pro Logic. The same goes if you have multiple inputs on your sub. If your input is labeled LFE it is the equivalent of a Dolby Digital input. You want to use the input to the RCA style plug (or plugs) if you are using the sub-woofer in a surround system.

If you have speaker level binding post inputs, these are almost always for using the sub-woofer in a non surround sound speaker setup. Preset the sub-woofer level control to about halfway before running the white noise test tone to calibrate your receiver speaker levels. You absolutely must run the test and balance your speaker levels to have the surround system perform properly.

Don't worry about the crossover frequency control on the sub for Dolby Digital or better systems. For Pro Logic set it to the point where bass in your main speakers drops off, which will require looking at the documentation for your speakers.

If you are not using your sub in a surround system, you may, with advantage, use the speaker level inputs on the back of your sub. The advantage to this is if you have small speakers. The receiver left and right channels are connected directly to the sub-woofer, and the left and right speakers connect to the speaker out connectors on the sub-woofer. What this does is allow the sub to produce the low bass that the main speakers can not, which of course the other types of connections would do also. The advantage here is the fact that with the sub-woofer connected this way, it filters the bass out of the signal, so your main speakers never try to produce the bass that they can't handle. This results in clearer, cleaner sound and more volume capability from your main speakers.

Sub-woofer placement is generally as below for other speakers. It is true that bass is omnidirectional and so you should be able to place a sub-woofer anywhere, but as usual this depends on your situation. I play music loud, and can detect where the sub-woofer is located by the feel of the vibrations. I find it very distracting to have the bass seem to come from the front of the room, but the vibrations of the bass coming from another direction. I therefore always prefer a sub-woofer to the front of the room.

How to get the most out of your speakers (How to improve your sound quality for no extra money )

The first consideration with a new speaker system is placement, and the second is wiring, both of which deserve consideration. We will cover wiring first with some generalities that apply to all kinds of speakers. The placement part will cover in home speakers only.

Wiring your speakers

First and foremost, wire selection can be very important. If your speakers are to be installed in-wall, you will need speaker cable rated cl3 or equivalent. If outdoor speakers, you should try to use what is termed direct burial cable or equivalent. Next, if you care about the sound quality at all, 22 gauge cable is not recommended. It can be used for very short runs, and is smaller for hiding, but due to resistance you will sacrifice some sound quality. I would recommend 16 gauge wire for most runs, unless you really want to get the best out of your speakers, in which case use 12 gauge or larger. For a long run I would recommend larger than 16 gauge. (We have a cable article and distance chart on our site at the link at the bottom.) I personally use a good audio quality 12 gauge cable myself, but you will pay more for cable this large. The advantages are better dynamics, and the amplifier can control your speakers better due to low resistance wire. As always, let the price point of your speakers determine the cable. Don't put expensive cables on cheap speakers, and vice versa. BTW, don't try to use romex (house wiring) instead of decent quality audio cable. Really, just say no. For so many reasons.

One common question is if fancy cable makes any difference. I must state here that many persons consider the very subject to be so much snake-oil. I personally believe that I can hear some differences, depending on the quality of the associated system. In other words, any hearable differences in cable will be more noticeable in a system with more resolution. Also consider that many listeners not selling cable claim to hear a difference. Consider any double blind tests carefully. I usually can pick holes in the logic behind most of these tests, and point out factors not considered. One perfect example was an amplifier test (by a major audio magazine) that level matched the amps, did a double blind test, and asserted the amps sounded identical, so they recommended that everyone buy the cheaper amp.

Here's the rub: Under their exact conditions, which are not normal listening conditions, the amps sounded the same. Consider this unmentioned idea: The cheaper amp had less power output than the other, and under normal listening conditions, say with loud rock music, and inefficient or difficult to drive speakers would have pooped out before reaching satisfying listening levels, not to mention clipping and distorting from over-driving the amp. One problem with the double blind tests is, in order to be accurate, they have to control every factor in the universe that could affect the results, even unknown factors. The other is, in order to compare everything on an even playing field, they purposely diminish or nullify the differences, then triumphantly proclaim they are all the same. The perfect example from above is level matching at a volume level that does not stress the more easily stressed amp.

Polarity or Phasing of your speakers is very important. This means finding the wire with a stripe or writing on one side, and connecting that wire to either the + (red) or -(black) on the amplifier and the speaker. It does not matter whether the stripe on the wire connects to plus or minus, as long as it is the same at both ends, and on all speakers. I always connect the plus to the stripe, just to be consistent. If you get this wrong you will lose almost all your bass response, and voices will float around instead of being centered when they should be.

Home Speaker Placement

Ideal placement for best sound is going to vary with the type of speakers you have, but we can supply some good generalities. Obviously, for a surround system, you have some built in limitations. The center channel needs to go above or below center of your television, (or perhaps centered behind a projection screen) and the left and right front need to go to the left and right front. So on for the rest of the speakers. It should be added at this point that for surround sound placement the ideal is all 3 front speakers an equal distance from the listener. This actually places the front speakers on an arc. It is generally good to put rear surrounds a little higher than ear level so that all listeners get a better chance to hear all the speakers. Leaving aside the obvious details of surround sound, here is how to improve the sound of your system for free.

First, don't put anything in front of your speakers, and if they are placed in a cabinet make sure that the front of the speaker is even with the front of the cabinet. Also, keep in mind that some speakers such as the rear ported variety perform very poorly in cabinets. Make sure speaker ports, which may be in the front, rear, side or elsewhere, are not blocked. This goes for sub-woofers also. Stability is also important, your speakers need to remain stable at high volume levels. If they move with loud drum beats, your system will be robbed of punch and impact. If you use speaker stands make sure they are stable enough for the size of speakers you have. One quick tip is to use some blu-tack or mortite putty between the speaker and stand to improve the coupling and add stability. Spikes on the bottoms of the stands work well for carpeted rooms.

Next, check out the sound of your speakers. Many speakers sound better when aimed directly at the listener, and located at ear height. This is not always the case, however. If the treble or voices sound a little too sharp, then perhaps the speakers will sound better aimed straight out instead of at the listener. Listen to the bass. Is it boomy, or lacking? If your speakers sound a little boomy, like they are in a barrel, bass response can probably be improved by moving your speakers farther from a wall or corner. If your speakers are too light in bass, they may sound better closer to a wall. Remember not to block any bass ports. If the speaker is rear ported it needs a little space out from the wall and clearance on the sides of the speaker to perform properly. One little tweak you might try: some speakers sound better with the speaker grills off. Try removing them and see if they sound better. In many cases there will be no noticeable difference, but it costs nothing to try.

Other issues: If your speakers are correctly phased as described above but voices are not sharply locked in location you may have your speakers too far apart. This generally applies to stereo, not surround sound. If not used on a surround system, the sub-woofer crossover point should be adjusted to coincide with the drop off in bass from your main speakers. You may find this listed in your documentation, usually on the order of the -3db point. If after all this your speakers don't seem to perform like they should, you should consider whether the amplifier attached to them is up to the task of driving them. There are more issues here than power, especially impedance. An amplifier that has high wattage may drive 8 ohm speakers well, and do very poorly on 4 ohm speakers if the amplifier is not designed for "high current" or rated into 4 ohm speakers. In addition, many amplifier (or receiver, home theater amplifier, etc) manufacturers use various methods to exaggerate the wattage ratings on their amplifiers. The true rating to look for is called the RMS rating, and should be rated into a specific impedance (4 ohm, 8 ohm) etc and at a specific distortion rating.