Home Theaters

The main complaint I hear from people about flat screen televisions is the price tag. Despite plummeting prices, trying to find an LCD or plasma television that suits your needs for less than $1000 is still not an easy task. Many models that do fit in this price range have drawbacks that may not be worth the money you save bringing them home, including lack of functionality and connectivity.

Fortunately, there are some choices out there that should satisfy your needs. On top of this list is the Samsung LN-T3253H HDTV. At 32″, it has a large enough picture for many small home theaters and produces the accurate colors and fine shadow detail often reserved for high-end models. It also offers versatile connectivity options (one PC and three HDMI inputs) in a stylish package.

Thanks to its combination of features, quality and style, it has been well-received by professionals and buyers alike.

Though most retailers are still selling this set for $1200-$1300, our friends at Amazon have recently lowered the price to just a tad over $900.

Not bad at all!

Perfect for your gaming needs and intimate settings, the Samsung LNS3251D 32″ LCD HDTV earns two green envy buttons.

samsung, lcd tv, home theater, hdtv

In a follow up to my recent post about the Toshiba HD-A2 HD DVD Player, I have recently found a price you won’t want to miss.

For the time being, you can get this top of the line, next-generation High-Def DVD player for only $311.50!

Through July 31, 2007, you will also get 5 free HD DVD’s with your purchase. You won’t find a better picture or price.

Enjoy.

toshiba, hd dvd, deal of the week, home theater, 2 geb

Aimed at the those who relish showing off their HDTV’s feature set, the Sony KDS-R60XBR2 is a 60-inch high-def magnet.

Loaded with just about every feature of today’s HDTV, the “Grand Wega” flaunts 720/1080p support and can handle any new video input with three HDMI slots. One is conveniently located under a flap in the front for short-term connections like your video camera or Playstation 3.

With the future in mind, Sony included a built-in HD Decoder that is capable of rendering both over-the-air and cable high-definition programming and a handy CableCard slot in the back hidden from view. Picture quality is superb for a rear-projection television of this size, as this video of “Flushed Away” can attest to.

Reviews for this model have been excellent all around, garnering an 8.3/10 at CNET and a 4.5/5 at Amazon. See a full list of features here.

On the flipside, the Sony KDS is quite large, no thanks to the speakers which extend 5″ on each side, and has received poor remarks for its use with next-generation video gaming consoles. Standard-definition reception could also be better, but as I said, this set was made for the HD future in mind.

Though reviews call it one of the best televisions you can buy for the money, the steep price tag could scare some away. I’ve seen numerous online retailers offering it for less than $2,500.

sony, home theater, sony kds, television, 2geb, video

I’ve always loved remote controls. When I was a child, my step-father used to have me record baseball games and things when he was out. To save tape space, he’d have me pause recording during the commercials. To do so, I’d have to get up and push pause, and then make sure I was back in a couple of minutes to unpause it.

I was ecstatic the day he bought a clicker that plugged into the VCR and allowed the user to sit a few feet away and pause the VCR from wherever they were sitting. It was a dream come true…for the early 80’s.

Fast forward a couple decades and we have remote controls for everything with every type of connection. I posted on a massive universal remote a month or so ago that controlled basically everything in your whole house, but for today’s post, I thought I’d focus on something a bit smaller.

The Logitech Harmony 880 is a great universal remote for those who have most of their multimedia hardware in one room. It’s also a well-reviewed mid-range universal remote that is focused on ease of use.

The best prices I could find or this well-designed and feature-packed remote were here and here.

logitech, universal remote, harmony 880, home theater, 2 geb

No matter how much time and effort you put into building a home theater, it isn’t going to please everyone (not that it matters, they are in your home theater for a reason), but attempting to please each member of your family is an admirable effort.

To help you complete this near-impossible mission, Elite does its part in the area of theater seating. Their website allows you to build your own theater seat by choosing your favorite materials, colors, arm and back styles, cup holder qualities, foam density and layout. Through this process (assuming everyone picks the same material and colors), everyone in the family can have their very own seat customized to their liking that will fit perfectly with your home theater setup.

Judging from the amount of combinations possible through their website, I’m pretty sure there is a chair for everyone. You’ll need to contact them directly about price and distribution options as I could find very little outside information, so do your due diligence here.

For giving consumers control over their theater seating and doing it with style, the Elite product line gets two green envy buttons.

home theater, seating, elite, custom

With the DVD format war in high swing, buying any high-def player is a risk in itself. Of course, there are certain people that take pride in being ahead of the technological curve that don’t care if the latest gadgets are busts or blockbusters, as long as they were in on it first.

For this crowd, Toshiba’s second generation HD DVD offering is sure to catch quite a bit of attention. The HD-XA2 provides excellent image quality for both HD DVD’s and DVD’s, booms audio in Dolby TrueHD sound, loads brilliant high-def imagery with ease and even makes your standard DVD’s look better.

Regardless of how good the player actually is, there are some big drawbacks that will scare away most prospective buyers, namely its hefty cost, potential to its battle with Blu-Ray and be a relic far before its time and its clunky 80’s style remote control.

Those that have taken a chance despite these risks seem to be very satisfied and enthusiastic about its capabilities and have no problem justifying its $600-$800 price tag. I’m not sure about you, but that’s a bit too rich for my blood considering its chances of being top dog in a few years, but I sure do want one. Window shopping for prices turned up a considerably lower price at Amazon than anywhere else on the net.

For improved loading speeds of superior quality (HD and SD) video and being riskier than hunting with the VP, this HD DVD player gets two green envy buttons.

hd dvd, toshiba, dvd player

Whether you are in the market for a 720p projector or a 1080p projector, Panasonic has released a great solution for your needs, bringing together excellent picture quality with input versatility and powerful preloaded functionality.

Delivering near-seamless video quality, the PT AX100 series has garnered raving reviews from just about everyone that has tested it. It’s also gotten high marks for its ease of use out of the box, a nice shift lever tool that easily focuses the lens and its incorporation of nearly all of Panasonic’s highly-acclaimed projection technologies.

Panasonic is poised to be the major player in home theater projectors, offering a complete projection solution for under $2,000 in many cases. A little trip around the net finds it as low as $1,700 (with an average 5 star rating) on Amazon and even lower with a rebate through Buydig and some vendors at eBay.

Its large size seems to be the most common complaint, in addition to the expense of replacement bulbs, the usual drawback of projectors.

Quality high-def projectors with 1080p functionality are normally twice as much. For this reason, the Panasonic PT-AX100U earns itself two green envy buttons.

panasonic, home theater, projectors

Finding a quality projector for your home theater needs that doesn’t include sleepless nights and creditors calling your momma’s house is a difficult proposition, one that Optoma seeks to destroy.

The Optoma HD72 not only breaks the price barrier for 1280×768p DLP projectors, at less than $2000, it also includes the majority of features normally reserved for projectors that cost two to three times as much. It incorporates Texas Instruments’ Brilliant Color, designed to deliver higher vibrancy and overall brightness and claims to provide truer colors to on screen images.

It also boasts a 3000-hour lamp-life, which is of major importance when factoring in the fact that all projectors need to have their expensive bulbs replaced every few years. To reduce buyer uncertainty, the projector also includes a 2 year limited warranty with a ZERO dead pixel policy, a move many of Optima’s competitors have yet to take with their entries.

As for picture quality, the projector utilizes a 3500:1 contrast ratio, but is capable of 5000:1 with its built-in AI turned on, a feature designed to automatically adjust the light output of the projector and deliver better contrast ratios while marinating high ANSI lumen output. This is the first projector in or near its price class to offer this feature. True Vivid technology is also integrated, adding a deeper three dimensional look to images, complimenting the TrueVision processor that effectively eliminates object jaggedness and smooths images for a cinema-style look.

This projector is also compatible with just about anything you can throw at it. The dual digital inputs are HDMI and HDCP compliant, important if you prefer to route video sources directly to the projector instead of through a video-switching device that could possibly degrade the signal performance, and also includes component video, S-video and composite video cpnnections.

As a true 720p DLP projector, the Optoma gives you a sharp, bright image up to 104 inches in size at a projection distance of 12 feet…for less than $2000! The only negatives concerning this projector are the maximum 1.2x zoom lens and the lack of lens shifting ability. Depending on the size of your room, these may or may not be important restrictions, but for the price, are almost expected. A full-function remote is also included.

Prices around the internet have generally been established at around $2000, but at least one seller has it for considerably less after a substantial rebate.

For offering affordable cinema-style quality and a movie experience you just don’t get with big screens, the Optoma HD72 earns an envy rating of two.

optoma, projector, home cinema, home theater

While some folks simply want a home theater they can invite friends and family over to enjoy the latest new release, others want a fully integrated movie going experience. For these people, furniture can be the extra touch that sets their home theater apart.

In the search for unique home theater furniture that allows the viewer to enjoy their experience in luxury, I have come across an enviable, yet endless list of recliners. One area that I have not explored much is tables, but for those interested in turning their home theater into an authentic experience of their own, I showcase for you today the reel end table.

Standing 24″ high with a 22″ diameter, these three-legged stainless steel beauties may just put the magic into your movie room. Available with a stationary solid top or a lazy-Susan cut-out glass top to fit 2 bowls, these tables are a perfect fit for any movie memorabilia maniac, and will not only increase the aesthetic nature of your home theater, but will also take your guests back to movies golden age while offering them a contemporary solution to snack management.

For the extra price, the lazy-Susan model will keep your spill to compliment ratio at an all-time high. With its rotating top, the popcorn will never be too far and built with durability and style in mind, are the added detail that will keep your home theater a cut above the rest.

Their steep price can be a deal breaker, but with substantially lower prices available on eBay and other internet outlets, I’m positive you can find a pair of these beautiful tables for a tolerable amount.

For turning the end table on its head and offering a classic yet contemporary look, with the movie-goer in mind, these tables earn two green envy buttons.

home theater furniture, end tables, reel tables

One of the best parts of going to the movies is enjoying all the goodies at the concession stands. Price withstanding, the concession stand has the ability to make just about anyone feel like a child again. With so many choices, there are still two more popular than any others: popcorn and soda.

While we’ve long been able to enjoy soda in our home theaters, recreating movie popcorn has been elusive for all but the most dedicated home theatricians. As the marketplace for home theaters continues to explode, you can find products to satisfy just about any itch. Having movie popcorn at home is one of these markets that in time will offer diverse products of all shapes, sizes and prices.

Unless you are planning on building a complete concession stand, with soda fountain, popcorn maker and candy displays, one of the best ways to bring movie popcorn home is this Goldrush two-wheeled home theater popcorn machine.

Complete with scratch-resistant windows, six ounce kettle and plenty of room to satisfy your whole clan for at least one sitting, this popcorn cart evokes theater memories of the golden days.

With its marriage of antique styling and contemporary build, both models unite the best of old and new in cooked corn. The interior heat lamp and heated corn deck keep popcorn warm and buttery for the duration of your movie, and the removable nickel-plated, all-steel kettle and unpopped kernel tray make cleaning up afterwards a snap.

At nearly six feet tall, this model will be an eye-catching addition to your home theater and a mouth-watering surprise for your guests sure to keep them coming back for more. As a popcorn enthusiast and a fan of the old-school, this cool cart gets two green envy buttons.

popcorn, home theater, snacks, carts, design

Shopping for a television for your home theater has become much like shopping for a car. With so many models available, finding the perfect one for your long-term needs that fits in your budget can be a harrowing experience.

Whether you are on a budget or simply do not wish to spend a fortune on a widescreen television, the Samsung HL-S5687W is a great option that will allow you to sleep soundly at the end of the day. From the leader in DLP (digital light processing) hardware, this 56″ rear-projection model delivers top of the line High-Def Television with 1080p of vertical display resolution.

The first thing about this model you will notice is the sleek design, which will fit nicely with most modern home theater decor. Next, at only 16.3″ deep, this model will waste very little space and should fit snugly into your entertainment center. It’s also relatively light in weight, tipping the scales at just under 74 lbs. and can be moved around with relative ease by one person.

Though priced significantly lower than its main competitors at less than $2,000, the Samsung offering also features dual compatible HDMI inputs to connect your Blu-Ray DVD player, as well as a PC input to play your favorite next generation games. Poring over reviews, it appeared the only drawbacks of this model were the absence of picture-in-picture, fire wire, and cable card, features that are quickly losing necessity in today’s marketplace.

To make up for those losses, Samsung completely redesigned the menu system for this model and makes navigating the intuitive interface a snap. A USB port is another nice feature that allows the user to display their favorite digital photographs, as well as play their mp3 collection with little trouble. A comprehensive list of detailed features can be found here.

Go to your local A/V store to test drive it for yourself, but make sure you browse the internet for an even better price. Even after shipping, you should definitely be able to beat the retail price.

For offering superior visual quality and an attractive frame at a price even a single-father of three can appreciate, this HD TV garners two green envy buttons.

Samsung, HDTV, widescreen, home theater, 56″

If you are looking for a smaller surround sound package in the $1000 range, yet have been unsatisfied with most of the offerings in this category, check out the Wharfedale Moviestar 70 Surround Sound Speaker System.

Wharfedale has done an incredible job packing the sound into these compact cinema speakers, made possible by a 80 Hz, 150w subwoofer. For around $600, you get all the speakers you will ever need for your home theater, and save a lot of space in the process. Four front-ported, single-way satellites pump out superior sound, not only for the price, but any price range, and are equally adept for music and movies.

Made of high-density MDF construction with molded baffles and gold-plated metal binding posts, durability is a key component of Wharfedale speakers. Each of the compact speakers delivers up to 100w per channel, with domed tweeters that provide an exceptional level of frequency response.

The system also comes with a tuned center channel speaker with extended frequency response to cover even more range. Designed for new users, the system is easily tuned for optimum sound in any room, and thanks to their size, the speakers are all capable of wall or ceiling mounting. Matching stands are also available, though sold separately.

For this price, you’d expect to pay more for extras, but speaker cable and mounting brackets are also included in this package. All in all, this system offers exceptional quality and design at an amazing price. Add in the fact they match my furniture and television, and they earn two green envy buttons.

Wharfedale, audio, home theater speakers, Surround Sound

Remember the drive-in?

It was about the only place you could play tag, eat popcorn and watch a movie at the same time. The drive-in from my youth was turned into a full time swap meet, and later on, a Wal-Mart. Luckily, both places I have moved since have drive-ins, and the good memories have continued well into parenthood. I now enjoy watching my own kids run around and play while taking in the new animated feature.

Much of the country is sadly lacking a drive-in now, as megaplexes with $9 tickets and $8 popcorn dominate the movie-going landscape. Most of today’s kids grow up without this wonderful tradition, but thanks to MobMov, they no longer need be deprived.

MobMov (short for Mobile Movie) is an online community of do-it-yourself drive-in fans. By joining the community, you get invites to chapters in your area and information on how to start your own, including details on how to set up your own vehicle with a projector and suggestions for where to host your theater. There’s also information about what movies you can watch and any copyright legalities you may need to know about.

This seems to be an idea with some legs, as people are continually seeking affordable social fare, especially when it comes to a night out with the kids. As exciting as watching a movie from your car is, I don’t see why the idea can’t be taken a step further. Car’s are mostly symbolic and nostalgic in this model. If you can find an audio source and weather is warm in your area of the world, a white screen, lawn chairs, an ice chest and a barbecue would be more than sufficient in setting up your own theater in your backyard and enjoying your feature under the stars.

Either way, hosting your own theater is a great way to socialize with friends, family and neighbors. The MobMov Manifesto has some projector and transmitter suggestions, as well as how to legally set it all up. The biggest drawbacks from most people will be the cost of a good projector (though I ‘m sure you basically make up for it after just a few showings) and the lack of movies that are apparently available legally at this juncture. Barriers ordinarily can’t keep good ideas contained, and so I think in time, the movie companies will find a way to benefit from relaxing their rules, and we can all benefit from bringing the drive-in home.

A simple solution for a dying institution. For reincarnating an old favorite and making it available to the masses, this idea gets two green envy buttons.

MobMov, drive-in, home theater, home video

One thing you gotta love about radio is NOT hearing the same song over and over and over…

Thanks to companies like Sirius and XM, that became a reality for the first time several years ago. Radio had finally taken that giant leap towards *gasp* diversity, and having satellite radio installed in the car became mandatory for the talk radio and alternative/underground types. Not only does it free you from paying $18 for a CD you were less and less likely to enjoy, it opens your eyes to a ton of new music you’d never heard before. And there was no end to it.

Until you got out of the car.

In the living room, the best solution has always been that channel in the 900’s somewhere with the humorous trivia. That’s fun sometimes, but if thrilling friends and family with crystal clear, commercial-free streaming radio of your favorite news, sports, talk radio and musical boat-floaters is your passion, this product is for you.

The Polk Audio XRt12 XM Component Tuner is not only the best looking of the home components I’ve seen, it also sounds the best. You don’t even have to take my word on this one (as if you ever did), Polk actually guarantees it. I got a chance to listen to it in the A/V store downtown during a recent Farmer’s Market, and granted, their speakers are set up for a rock concert, but that’s exactly what it sounded like.

After a moment of rocking to Skynyrd’s Freebird, I got a taste of the other channels. The Giants were there, up 4-3 on the cross-state rival Padres. Bloomberg and Disney Radio were there, too (some bubble dance song my daughters love; luckily they weren’t there). Comedy, check. News, check. Very impressive. Only thing missing is the steering wheel.

While looking for some reviews, I had the brilliant insight to check the Polk website and came across the guarantee and the best price I had seen anywhere which even included free shipping. I’m not a salesman, but that’s a pretty good offer. If you’ve listened to satellite radio, you know it’s a pretty good product, as well.

For bringing outdoors, indoors, and doing it with style, my envy reared its ugly head to a level of two green buttons.

Polk, audio, XM, Sirius, satellite radio, home theater

My last post dealt with playing the media stored on your PC directly on your television, but if you are like me, your PC is more of a home theater than your television is. Today, I’d like to talk about doing the opposite and turning your PC into your television.

2005 saw the release of the Slingbox, a 14″ x 5″ device that connects to your home audio/video components and then through your broadband connection, remotely streams your live television feed to your Windows XP computer. Six months ago, the second generation variation hit the market and offered Mac and non-XP users the ability to enjoy television on their computer.

With the new version, once the software is installed on your machine, you literally can watch your cable and satellite programs anywhere in the world you have access to a high-speed connection. For those on the go, the newer version is even more valuable as it can be installed on pocket PC’s as well, though I have never seen the quality on one of these devices. Having seen it used on home PC’s and desktops, I can say the quality is much better when run through your home network and assume the lower quality is present on smaller devices, too.

The second generation release came in three varieties, but the Pro version allows the user to stream their television content on more than one device. This feature alone trumps the other versions for me, but if you only want television access on one computer, the Slingbox A/V is equal in quality and about $70 cheaper. At $250 for the Pro, the picture quality, operating system versatility, onscreen remote and ease of setup are worth the money. Being able to watch your computer screen as if it were your home television while travelling is also very comforting and worthy of the cost alone. There’s simply no better (or easier) way to take your home theater viewing on the road with you.

Check out some of the Slingbox’s versatility on the demo page here or find out which version is best for your needs. If you spend a lot of time on your computer and are looking for a way to spend even more, Slingbox has a product for you. If you’d rather keep your television viewing to your living room or home theater, but want your computer media available, then Apple TV is your product. All in all, both are great products and welcome additions to the home theater landscape depending on where and how you prefer to veg out.

For being more versatile than Apple TV and giving computer addicts like myself more reason to stay chained to it, Slingbox Pro gets two green envy buttons

Slingbox, Slingbox Pro, television, computer, PC, video