*** THE OFFICIAL HOME THEATER & AUDIO THREAD**

[pyromaniax]

I'm looking around for a LED Smart TV 40-46", looking for one that wouldn't produce much motion BLUR, will be used more for heavy gaming rather than watching movies. Don't really want to spend more than $6000 any recommendations around that price range?

[Duane 3NE 2NR]

I'm looking around for a LED Smart TV 40-46", looking for one that wouldn't produce much motion BLUR, will be used more for heavy gaming rather than watching movies. Don't really want to spend more than $6000 any recommendations around that price range?

any 120Hz or 240Hz TV should work.

[Duane 3NE 2NR]

Didn't see it posted before - Amazon Fire TV Stick, just $19 for Prime members for a limited time.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GDQ0RMG/ref ... _i=desktop

What you guys think? Worth getting it at that price for someone who isn't a Prime member to use for Netflix, Crackle, PBS, Vevo, etc?

Pros/Cons?

can't beat the price, but not sure how fast it is - Might be better of with the Fire TV box or a Roku 3

[Anton]

Already bought the fire tv but for 19$ it might be worth a try for a secondary tv.

[Aimar]

Hey Anton How is the Jamo's doing?

[vasquez]

Guys what you all views on the Bose 301 series speakers ,heard them in the Bose store and I was impressed its 3 k for the pair 1 k for the stands. ,Do you guys think using it with a mbQuarts center speaker and a phase technology 10 inch sub , pioneer 5.1 receiver should sound nice ?

[Anton]

Hey Anton How is the Jamo's doing?

Boy, the still in the box as well as the Sunfire
Had some delays in moving. Should be finished with the move by the middle of November.

[RapToR]

[Xecutive]

Whayyss @75"...what price is it going for?

[searchingone]

Question:

I have a 55" LED Samsung TV (non-smart). When I run a movie from a USB drive directly into the USB port, the video is CRISP (just like those previews you see at price smart etc) but the audio is poor. However, if I run those same movies through a laptop via HDMI, the video quality isn't as crisp but the audio is significantly better. Why is this? It's so convenient to just plug in a USB drive and watch..

[Duane 3NE 2NR]

Question:

I have a 55" LED Samsung TV (non-smart). When I run a movie from a USB drive directly into the USB port, the video is CRISP (just like those previews you see at price smart etc) but the audio is poor. However, if I run those same movies through a laptop via HDMI, the video quality isn't as crisp but the audio is significantly better. Why is this? It's so convenient to just plug in a USB drive and watch..

could be a number of reasons, but it could be because the TV does not have the ability to properly decode the audio from a HD video but the more powerful processors in the laptop can.

There are a number of factors to consider. What is the format of the video? MKV, MOV, AVI, WMV? What compression? what audio codec?

HD video with HD audio will be 1080p with a HD audio format such as Dolby TrueHD or dtsHD MA. More than likely a TV will not be able to decode the massive bandwidth of this audio properly so you will get a thinned down stereo version as best as the small processor in the TV can manage with it.
The sound card in the laptop however may be able to handle it or convert that audio to a better sounding stereo signal. Since the laptop is doing the sound processing, it means the TV processors aren't needed so it's more of a pass-through to the TV speakers and so it sounds better.
The poorer video could be a similar issue where the TV video processors are better than the video card in the laptop.

This is why it is best to use a HD audio/video receiver (AVR) that has the processing power to handle both the audio and video. It also helps to have a good media player like an OPPO that can handle the files required to get perfect quality.

Instead of plugging the USB stick with MKV files into my Samsung TV, I plug it into a Roku 3 connected to a Pioneer AVR and it plays with HD video and HD audio perfectly.

[Morpheus]

Quick question. What is the latest series of Samsung LED Smartvs?

Like how Vizio's latest is the Mseries

[Duane 3NE 2NR]

Quick question. What is the latest series of Samsung LED Smartvs?

Like how Vizio's latest is the Mseries

seems to be Samsung LED H Series, with the flagship being the H8000

http://www.samsung.com/us/video/tvs

[Morpheus]

Thanks man. Looking to get a one soon. Want an up to date one.

[Duane 3NE 2NR]

Thanks man. Looking to get a one soon. Want an up to date one.

http://www.cnet.com/topics/tvs/best-tvs/led-lcd/

you might be surprised what is topping the charts right now

[Kenjo]

I have to rewire and entire house. Could anyone make suggestions as to any technology to add to my electrical system such as if there are newer breakers that also add voltage/ surge protection one time, versus the usual stand alone surge protectors. Dimmers for lights or any other recommendations would be cool

[searchingone]

Question:

I have a 55" LED Samsung TV (non-smart). When I run a movie from a USB drive directly into the USB port, the video is CRISP (just like those previews you see at price smart etc) but the audio is poor. However, if I run those same movies through a laptop via HDMI, the video quality isn't as crisp but the audio is significantly better. Why is this? It's so convenient to just plug in a USB drive and watch..

could be a number of reasons, but it could be because the TV does not have the ability to properly decode the audio from a HD video but the more powerful processors in the laptop can.

There are a number of factors to consider. What is the format of the video? MKV, MOV, AVI, WMV? What compression? what audio codec?

HD video with HD audio will be 1080p with a HD audio format such as Dolby TrueHD or dtsHD MA. More than likely a TV will not be able to decode the massive bandwidth of this audio properly so you will get a thinned down stereo version as best as the small processor in the TV can manage with it.
The sound card in the laptop however may be able to handle it or convert that audio to a better sounding stereo signal. Since the laptop is doing the sound processing, it means the TV processors aren't needed so it's more of a pass-through to the TV speakers and so it sounds better.
The poorer video could be a similar issue where the TV video processors are better than the video card in the laptop.

This is why it is best to use a HD audio/video receiver (AVR) that has the processing power to handle both the audio and video. It also helps to have a good media player like an OPPO that can handle the files required to get perfect quality.

Instead of plugging the USB stick with MKV files into my Samsung TV, I plug it into a Roku 3 connected to a Pioneer AVR and it plays with HD video and HD audio perfectly.

Some are mkv and some are mp4. The bit rate of the audio in some of the videos ~93kbps with 2 channel stereo audio.....so I think you hit the nail on the head. Thanks.

Never even heard of an AVR. Will look into it. I do plan to get a Roku 3. Just waiting on Black Friday for any deals on it.

[metalgear2095]

Thanks man. Looking to get a one soon. Want an up to date one.

Samsung UN65H8000 Curved 65-Inch 1080p 240Hz 3D Smart LED TV https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDXIM88/re ... yub12TG1YH
Saw this in pricesmart and it looked amazing. Reviews on amazon are great too.

[Anton]

Any users of the Directv HD Gold package? Would like to get your reviews on the service
http://www.directvcaribbean.com/tt/plans/index?link=nav

[lancer3]

Thanks man. Looking to get a one soon. Want an up to date one.

http://www.cnet.com/topics/tvs/best-tvs/led-lcd/

you might be surprised what is topping the charts right now

I am also in the hunt for a tv 60" bigger , looking at that link, it shows that the visio E series rating close to the samsung PNF8500.

What do you guys think is the best deal on a great picture quality/smart hdtv currently.

[Duane 3NE 2NR]

Question:

I have a 55" LED Samsung TV (non-smart). When I run a movie from a USB drive directly into the USB port, the video is CRISP (just like those previews you see at price smart etc) but the audio is poor. However, if I run those same movies through a laptop via HDMI, the video quality isn't as crisp but the audio is significantly better. Why is this? It's so convenient to just plug in a USB drive and watch..

could be a number of reasons, but it could be because the TV does not have the ability to properly decode the audio from a HD video but the more powerful processors in the laptop can.

There are a number of factors to consider. What is the format of the video? MKV, MOV, AVI, WMV? What compression? what audio codec?

HD video with HD audio will be 1080p with a HD audio format such as Dolby TrueHD or dtsHD MA. More than likely a TV will not be able to decode the massive bandwidth of this audio properly so you will get a thinned down stereo version as best as the small processor in the TV can manage with it.
The sound card in the laptop however may be able to handle it or convert that audio to a better sounding stereo signal. Since the laptop is doing the sound processing, it means the TV processors aren't needed so it's more of a pass-through to the TV speakers and so it sounds better.
The poorer video could be a similar issue where the TV video processors are better than the video card in the laptop.

This is why it is best to use a HD audio/video receiver (AVR) that has the processing power to handle both the audio and video. It also helps to have a good media player like an OPPO that can handle the files required to get perfect quality.

Instead of plugging the USB stick with MKV files into my Samsung TV, I plug it into a Roku 3 connected to a Pioneer AVR and it plays with HD video and HD audio perfectly.

Some are mkv and some are mp4. The bit rate of the audio in some of the videos ~93kbps with 2 channel stereo audio.....so I think you hit the nail on the head. Thanks.

Never even heard of an AVR. Will look into it. I do plan to get a Roku 3. Just waiting on Black Friday for any deals on it.

an AVR is the center of any home theater setup

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_nr_n_1?r ... 2941120011

everything plugs into the AVR and fed to the TV and speakers properly.

[searchingone]

Cool. Thanks, Duane.

[Duane 3NE 2NR]

I have to rewire and entire house. Could anyone make suggestions as to any technology to add to my electrical system such as if there are newer breakers that also add voltage/ surge protection one time, versus the usual stand alone surge protectors. Dimmers for lights or any other recommendations would be cool

I take it by "re-wire" you mean there is existing conduit and you are pulling out all the wires and replacing with proper wires according to code? Otherwise if you are now wiring the house there are a million things you can do.

check out Control4.com for home automation, though there are many new wifi based systems coming out now.

of course you should try to run cabling for networking, POE security cameras and your alarm system. Also try running isolators for AC units.

There are whole-house surge suppressors and voltage regulators - your electrician will know what you can use based on what you have in your panel.

Most modern home automation dimmers are wireless and either run on RF or wifi and don't require additional wiring. Quirky has some interesting stuff coming out that works with your smartphone https://www.quirky.com/shop/quirky-ge

Belkin WeMo are also cool. http://www.belkin.com/us/Products/home- ... utomation/

I personally used Lutron IR and RF dimmers and switches in my home
http://www.lutron.com/en-US/Products/Pa ... rview.aspx
As they work with Logitech smart remotes too.

if you want to use these new smart switches etc, you would want to add more 4x2 cans, one for each switch. IN T&T we tend to put up to 3 switches in one 4x2 can, but in the US they put one switch per can, so if you want to use those switches you will need to break the wall and add a can for each switch.

[skylinechild]

tuners i need some advice.

i would like to install some speakers in my room but i have space constraints so i cant use full floor stand speakers which i really wanted.

so this is my receiver -its considered vintage - note its not modern and doesnt have SPDIF / coaxial / optical / dolby etc
its just a basic receiver with alot of power - yes 30W per channel is alot- to me
and it has connectors to connect things like turntable and dvd player to expand the audio and such..



rear connectors


so this is the specs i found online
Specifications

Tuning range: FM, MW

Power output: 30 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)

Frequency response: 10Hz to 100kHz

Total harmonic distortion: 0.005%

Damping factor: 40

Input sensitivity: 2.5mV (MM), 120mV (DIN), 120mV (line)

Signal to noise ratio: 85dB (MM), 100dB (line)

Output: 120mV (line), 28mV (DIN)

Semiconductors: 10 x IC, 1 x FET, 24 x transistors, 22 x diodes, 4 x LED

Dimensions: 435 x 122 x 337mm

Weight: 7.7kg

Year: 1980

the receiver is a quad speaker system and i want to start off with a two speakers.
my price budget is roughly about $150 US.

http://www.amazon.com/JBL-ES20-High-Per ... f+speakers

http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bo ... f+speakers

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-SS-B3000-Boo ... f+speakers

i will have a cupboard built in that runs along the wall in my room - like a bulkhead - but leave space for these speakers to fit in.

which unit would you recommend and why. any advice given will be appreciated.

[Morpheus]

Sweet!

Won't mind getting back a lil vintage reciever at all nah

[X_Factor]

http://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-B652 ... ayton+b652

i know the older 652's were probably better, but i recently heard 4 of these( the newer set) and was really amazed
100USD...impressive.....the tweets were a little harsh
midrange started to break up at almost max volume but a little eq and you good to go...
midbass...maybe a little increase in the 80-100hz range will make them shine

if you are looking for audiophile grade.....the budget is too small.....
if ur looking for the best bang for the buck.....get 2 pairs of the daytons and you good to go
for a while

[Kenjo]

I have to rewire and entire house. Could anyone make suggestions as to any technology to add to my electrical system such as if there are newer breakers that also add voltage/ surge protection one time, versus the usual stand alone surge protectors. Dimmers for lights or any other recommendations would be cool

I take it by "re-wire" you mean there is existing conduit and you are pulling out all the wires and replacing with proper wires according to code? Otherwise if you are now wiring the house there are a million things you can do.

check out Control4.com for home automation, though there are many new wifi based systems coming out now.

of course you should try to run cabling for networking, POE security cameras and your alarm system. Also try running isolators for AC units.

There are whole-house surge suppressors and voltage regulators - your electrician will know what you can use based on what you have in your panel.

Most modern home automation dimmers are wireless and either run on RF or wifi and don't require additional wiring. Quirky has some interesting stuff coming out that works with your smartphone https://www.quirky.com/shop/quirky-ge

Belkin WeMo are also cool. http://www.belkin.com/us/Products/home- ... utomation/

I personally used Lutron IR and RF dimmers and switches in my home
http://www.lutron.com/en-US/Products/Pa ... rview.aspx
As they work with Logitech smart remotes too.

if you want to use these new smart switches etc, you would want to add more 4x2 cans, one for each switch. IN T&T we tend to put up to 3 switches in one 4x2 can, but in the US they put one switch per can, so if you want to use those switches you will need to break the wall and add a can for each switch.

Thanks this is exactly what I was looking to find out. Basically an e tire neglected house that needs to be redone, only the 4 walls should remain from the existing structure and I just want to have the electricals up to date and more

[skylinechild]

Sweet!

Won't mind getting back a lil vintage reciever at all nah

thanks Morpheus - this receiver rocks!! it has an FM lock muting mode function - if the station is not centered properly - ie a perfect "lock" it mutes it out.
so when its on this muting mode - turning the dial from one station to another is silence and when you get a "lock on" the station- then it plays. - i love it !

if the station you want isnt a perfect lock you can still tune in- just turn off the FM muting mode.
(little press button under the turning dial)

you can hook up your DVD player to it and convert the 2 channel audio from your movies to quadrophonic sound...pair the stereo with a yagi antenna built for FM reception- and yea...yuh orn like socks.

X factor the set you showed is two way...just a tweeter and mid range.
i was looking for 3 way i like a lil bass too nuh...i mean is either a 6 inch or 8 inch it will have for bass- not much but i still want a lil ting...

[meccalli]

It really doesn't make much of a difference in bass, the daytons will probably be alot more natural sounding as its pretty much a fullrange with a hf driver. You need to look at the freq response, all those bookshelf speakers are around 60hz - 25khz.

[Anton]

Used the B652's in my previous system ans was nothing but impressed, especially considering their price point.. As X2 said, the tweets were a bit harsh and the midrange needs a little eq-ing. Set the crossover at 80Hz and they will take some jamming.