Licks are based either off of scales or arpeggiated chords. An arpeggio is a chord played note at a time. As far as scales are concerned, there's major scales, minor scales, pentatonic scales & blues scales. There is also what is called modal scale playing. But in the finish, they are still scales.
When playing lead guitar Effects pedals, it is not to stand or sit there & play scales. You require to generate a library of "licks" that you can use in all keys.
How lots of people start out generating licks is to make use of the melody line of the song. You can do this in long melodic lines or short small blurbs of the melody line. Then start messing around with the melody -- again generating lines of long & short lengths & anything in between. Keep in mind that you have all of those scales as well as arpeggios at your disposal.
Start adding guitar tricks such as hammer-ons, pull-offs, string bending & double notes.
Keep in mind also, that in the event you are learning licks for an electric guitar, you have your amp to think about -- as well as any effects pedals you may have. Practice with all of this stuff. The sound is different then in the event you were playing "clean".
Now what you require to do is practice your new lick at a high register, a low register, & an in-between register. (High, low, mid-range tones).
Next practice any new lick that you generate in several other keys.
Practice the living daylights out of every lick you generate & look for new ways to expand on them. Keep trying to make them sound better. Try them out with different effects pedals.
Use your imagination, & build a massive library of licks that you can keep at your beck & call.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Bose CineMate Series II - Review & Discount - Best Home Theater System Reviews
The Bose CineMate II Home Theater Speaker System provides high-quality
home theater sound to get more from your HDTV experience. Just two
compact speakers and a hideaway Acoustimass® module deliver sweeping
cinematic sound that puts you in the middle of your movies, games and
sports.
Proprietary TrueSpace® technology enables this immersive performance - Without immersing you in equipment. There are no rear or center speakers, eliminating much of the wiring of traditional 5-speaker systems. Just connect the system right to your TV and control basic functions with a simple four-button remote.
The Bose CineMate Series II system is an ideal choice for your first home theater speakers or a Bose surround experience in smaller rooms. The simplified, two-speaker setup offers a hassle-free addition to your HDTV. And the improved acoustics provide exceptional value for home theater performance.
Newly redesigned Articulated Array speakers - Now with a striking, pure black finish - Aesthetically match today's flat-panel TVs. The hideaway Acoustimass module reproduces resonant low notes that add drama to movies and games. And it now includes a dedicated bass control for your listening preferences. Place the module in a corner or out of view-all the sound seems to come from the compact speakers.
The Bose CineMate Series II speaker system only requires a few connections. It hooks up directly to your TV with minimal-if any-disruption to existing component connections. A small interface module houses your audio input from the TV and displays on/off status for your system. And a sleek, four-button remote handles basic system functions.
Bose CineMate Series II - Key Features
The following are some of the key features you'll discover in this Bose CineMate Series II Home Theater Speaker System:
- A 2.1-channel home theater speaker system with redesigned Articulated Array® speakers and improved digital acoustic performance
- Designed for use with your TV
- Sleek, four-button remote controls CineMate system
- Simplified setup, with only a few connections to make
Proprietary TrueSpace® technology enables this immersive performance - Without immersing you in equipment. There are no rear or center speakers, eliminating much of the wiring of traditional 5-speaker systems. Just connect the system right to your TV and control basic functions with a simple four-button remote.
The Bose CineMate Series II system is an ideal choice for your first home theater speakers or a Bose surround experience in smaller rooms. The simplified, two-speaker setup offers a hassle-free addition to your HDTV. And the improved acoustics provide exceptional value for home theater performance.
Newly redesigned Articulated Array speakers - Now with a striking, pure black finish - Aesthetically match today's flat-panel TVs. The hideaway Acoustimass module reproduces resonant low notes that add drama to movies and games. And it now includes a dedicated bass control for your listening preferences. Place the module in a corner or out of view-all the sound seems to come from the compact speakers.
The Bose CineMate Series II speaker system only requires a few connections. It hooks up directly to your TV with minimal-if any-disruption to existing component connections. A small interface module houses your audio input from the TV and displays on/off status for your system. And a sleek, four-button remote handles basic system functions.
Bose CineMate Series II - Key Features
The following are some of the key features you'll discover in this Bose CineMate Series II Home Theater Speaker System:
- A 2.1-channel home theater speaker system with redesigned Articulated Array® speakers and improved digital acoustic performance
- Designed for use with your TV
- Sleek, four-button remote controls CineMate system
- Simplified setup, with only a few connections to make
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
LCD Monitor Driver Board, Inverter Maintenance Tutorial
LCD monitor circuit board components big density, is not easy to
identify, patch component model accessories difficult to buy, and
instead board easy to get, and the price is suitable, so in many cases
are is by changing the corresponding to the maintenance function circuit
board, the so-called board level maintenance.
Board level maintenance main including drive board substitution, the replacement of the inverter and the power of the replacement of the board. Some type of power inverter board and is doing in together, already can respectively substitution, also can use the power supply voltage one board the whole generations change. Due to a power supply part circuit is simple, easy maintenance, little board level maintenance, so this paper only drives inverter board and the substitution method and the matters needing attention in this paper.
A driver, the replacement of the board
Driver board is to point to LCD monitor the whole small signal processing circuit boards, including VGA (DVI) signal input, MCU control system, two times the power supply voltage stabilizing, liquid crystal screen interface circuit, etc. Generally speaking, a driver board switch on the power, with good screen OSD line and according to JianBan, then grafted in inverter, is a complete LCD monitor circuit. Burn through different programs, the driver board can adapt to all kinds of LCD screen.
Optional driven plate mainly to see whether the driver interface board and need long display tally. Through the interface to the work can be explained, shows how the selected drive board.
1. The screen line interface
Screen line interface must LCD screen and cooperate. LCD monitor the use of the main screen interface and TTL LVDS interface two kinds, TTL interface mainly focus on the following 15 inch LCD screen. LVDS interface is covering 13.3 inches above 90% of the LCD screen. Two interface drive mode, screen line shapes different, is not compatible. Judge LCD screen is what kind of interface, mainly through the access to this type of liquid crystal screen technology handbook. Experienced maintenance member can also shape or through the interface of liquid crystal screen type direct judgment. For example, M150X3-L01 LVDS interface is the LCD panel, and M150X3-T03 is by mouth the LCD panel TTL, between the two in the suffix a L model and a T. So, if you can't clear judgment of liquid crystal screen type, must put on the LCD panel and model about all the letters and Numbers tell driven plate distributor.
LVDS interface pin number in 30 the following, cable, the name is DO a, DO +, D1 a, D1 +, D2 a, D2 +, CK ~, CK +, D3-D3 +, etc. If the six screen, there is no D3-a group of signal the D3 + c common are 20 feet and 30 feet of interface, the early 10 inches to 12 inch screen also had 14 feet of the interface.
TTL interface with LCD screen and * * laptop LCD displays of the assembled into the majority, the interface pin general in 41 needle above, most to the next board with special turn and driving plate is linked together, so the cost of changing plate is higher.
Maintenance general board has 3.3 V and 5 V voltage jump line so that the power to choose, be careful not to make a mistake. Because RSDS interface, * * S interface dosage is very few, it shall not be introduced in this paper.
2. The video card signal input interface
17 inches below the display, mostly only VGA signal input interface, because the VGA interface is driven plate basic configuration, so low can not be considered. 17 inches above the display, a lot of the VGA + DVI double interface way, if only with single VGA driver interface board, the user does not accept, be about to choose VGA and DVI double interface drive board, the cost will also increases.
3. According to JianBan interface
According to JianBan OSD of LCD with 4 to 7 keys to 5 keys are in the majority. How many of the key support the decision by the drive program, and driving plate buttons interface in how much needle, not five buttons including POWER, AUTO, DOWN and UP, MENU, six keys will increase the ENTER key. When maintenance can be used the method of flexible. For instance, some LCD monitor is 6 key, but only 5 key program, it can not ENTER key empty; Be like again, a LCD monitor is four key, and only 5 key program, can abandon AUTO needle inserted and not pick up, so that does not affect use; Part of LCD JianBan is through the flat in soft row with driver board connect the line, can't drive board with matching, right now, can give up flat line line, one with the thin wire connection, installation empty ask special small, can use wire enameled wire connection.
In addition, to pay attention, maintenance general board can make is the key of the way short sub, and many of the PinPaiJi according to JianBan is the resistance points the way pressure, therefore, to the original machine according to the relevant JianBan resistance take out, through the jumper into resistance on short way to pick up. For the film and not to short of buttons by the way, or a key of the shuttle, if the original keys bad changes, we have to buy another according to JianBan and then find suitable location installed.
4. Inverter interface
The sold maintenance generic driver interface for high pressure plate more + 1 2 V double needle, GND double needle, BLON and wild. Most ADJ function is virtual didn't of, that is, the foot voltage is fixed, not with the brightness to adjust and change, brightness is completely through the software in the control chip internal simulation of the AD. In fact to 3 line transfer to inverter.
At the same time in wiring simple, also brought some of the inverter and not compatible, and appear boot after a bright put out, or can't adjust brightness anyway also go up. The former solution is, the original inverter control side brightness directly grounded, the latter need through a proper resistance even the + 5 V and the original inverter brightness to adjust end. The so-called appropriate, because its resistance to change with the inverter parameter adjusted flexibly, not the same and the resistance for more than 2.2 kQ or so.
5. Power source
Maintenance generic driver interface board for 12 V power input. If is the external power adapter, add to pick up a universal plug it; If the power is built, it will have to through a wire welding to the original mechanical and electrical source on the corresponding solder joints.
Note, wire shall not be too thin. Part of the PinPaiJi secondary voltage stabilizing the main source for 13 V, can be directly connected, do not affect use. Some built-in power the 13 V (or 12 V), 5 V party type, can give up 5 V need not, because of the liquid crystal display 5 V power load not heavy, will not affect the normal work circuit. Some PinPaiJi only output a group of + 1 8 V power supply (the part of the aircraft fly miura), and so to the original machine on voltage stability of the quarter change, make its output + 1 2 V voltage can only after. If rushed through, burn down driver board.
Second, the replacement of the inverter
Liquid crystal displays of the inverter is the most commonly used one lamp ~ 4 lights, and have a big and small mouth of the points. The number of light depends on how much liquid crystal screen, such as 4 lamp LCD screen (1 7 inches above the display) will match 4 lamp inverter, 1 lamp LCD screen (14 inches below the display) will match 1 lamp inverter.
1. The big and small mouth
Big and small mouth is refers to the inverter and tube connection interface width, difference and because lamp quantity and different.
1 lamp inverter and basic it is small mouth, even if there is big, you only need to put the tube connection directly welded in corresponding position, can, do not affect use.
2 lamp inverter big and small mouth the distinction is not big, but high pressure interface width different just, mutual substitution is very convenient.
4 inverter big and small mouth lamp of a bigger difference. Big of an interface to pick up two tubes, that there was a connection is common. With big inverter substitution small mouth OEM L305-S5944 inverter , just need to take a group of two tubes original lines (DiYaXian) parallel together take public line and the remaining two line separate connection can; With small mouth inverter substitution big inverter, because a group of two different tubes loop (only a few inverter is the same), it can not be simply two low voltage interface in parallel, need to view LCD screen tubes wiring, will DiYaXian separate, then connect the corresponding, otherwise it may cause failure.
2. The line interface either 1 lamp inverter, or 4 lamp inverter, is inseparable from the interface. Through the connecting cables and drive very connected, accept the MCU control. For the GND pin, VCC, ADIJ and BLON. Namely, power supply, brightness to adjust and high voltage switch, different drive indicated by a board of letters makes a difference. The main difference is the control interface is how many of the pins and the form of wire. The same four pin some leads 1 a needle inserted, of which more than have put the needle in parallel. Especially GND pin and inserted into VCC needle as current is bigger, use more more in the form of needle in parallel. Using a multimeter to measure resistance or watch circuit board copper foil can difference.
Control interface using wire form of different, is mainly refers to ordinary wire and flat stream line line. The former even if the interface is different, need according to meet H function just one docking, easy to solve. The latter if is flat line line damage it can be difficult to find substitute, its maintenance method is: welding the row line off the interface to thin wire enameled wire connection, etc.
3. The number of different lamp inverter substitution some readers will ask, not to say a few lamp LCD screen with a few of the OEM L455D-S5976 inverter to the substitution? And how the number of different light can also substitution inverter? In the maintenance or DIY, often need not with the number of lights on the substitution between inverter. Substitution principle is, the less light can be more than the lamp replacement, if use many of the substitution of the lamp light less, is to change the circuit, more trouble.
Under what circumstances would involve different lamp inverter of substitution between number?
A volume is not allowed. For example a 2 of light in hand display, the original machine inverter volume is very small, 2 lamp inverter contain, can use 1 lamp inverter substitution (1 lamp inverter smaller), already: can use two 1 lamp of parallel substitution, light at the two lights tube, can also be idle a lamp, with only one 1 lamp light up one high linking piece tubes. Theoretically, such substitution for tube haven't fully lit and the brightness will reduce about 25%, brightness will not even, but actually very ugly out, the visual effect the impact is not big, especially to the office or word processing monitor. The author use the display is deliberately only light one tube, in order to achieve energy saving and reduce the purpose of the dazzling light. In general, the light of the inverter can substitution 1 2 lamp, 2 of 4 inverter can substitution lamp light.
2 it is no accessories. LCD monitor is four lights, and have no 4 lamp inverter, where you can recommend guest door inverter with 2 lamp to brighten LCD screen.
4. The monomer inverter of many display USES is the replacement of the power supply voltage one board, if only high pressure partly damaged whether to replace the entire circuit board? The answer is no. Change the whole board while convenient but not economic, volume and suitable one plate is not easy to get. The right way is: first to circuit analysis, the high pressure part of the components down. And then in the position to make the fixed the new inverter, completes the insulation protection.
From the driver plate to one board connection method: find ADJ and BLON (the two line many can parallel use), and received inverter control interface into the corresponding needle, again in a power board to find and + 12 V, inverter control to meet H in the corresponding needle, has been accomplished.
Board level maintenance main including drive board substitution, the replacement of the inverter and the power of the replacement of the board. Some type of power inverter board and is doing in together, already can respectively substitution, also can use the power supply voltage one board the whole generations change. Due to a power supply part circuit is simple, easy maintenance, little board level maintenance, so this paper only drives inverter board and the substitution method and the matters needing attention in this paper.
A driver, the replacement of the board
Driver board is to point to LCD monitor the whole small signal processing circuit boards, including VGA (DVI) signal input, MCU control system, two times the power supply voltage stabilizing, liquid crystal screen interface circuit, etc. Generally speaking, a driver board switch on the power, with good screen OSD line and according to JianBan, then grafted in inverter, is a complete LCD monitor circuit. Burn through different programs, the driver board can adapt to all kinds of LCD screen.
Optional driven plate mainly to see whether the driver interface board and need long display tally. Through the interface to the work can be explained, shows how the selected drive board.
1. The screen line interface
Screen line interface must LCD screen and cooperate. LCD monitor the use of the main screen interface and TTL LVDS interface two kinds, TTL interface mainly focus on the following 15 inch LCD screen. LVDS interface is covering 13.3 inches above 90% of the LCD screen. Two interface drive mode, screen line shapes different, is not compatible. Judge LCD screen is what kind of interface, mainly through the access to this type of liquid crystal screen technology handbook. Experienced maintenance member can also shape or through the interface of liquid crystal screen type direct judgment. For example, M150X3-L01 LVDS interface is the LCD panel, and M150X3-T03 is by mouth the LCD panel TTL, between the two in the suffix a L model and a T. So, if you can't clear judgment of liquid crystal screen type, must put on the LCD panel and model about all the letters and Numbers tell driven plate distributor.
LVDS interface pin number in 30 the following, cable, the name is DO a, DO +, D1 a, D1 +, D2 a, D2 +, CK ~, CK +, D3-D3 +, etc. If the six screen, there is no D3-a group of signal the D3 + c common are 20 feet and 30 feet of interface, the early 10 inches to 12 inch screen also had 14 feet of the interface.
TTL interface with LCD screen and * * laptop LCD displays of the assembled into the majority, the interface pin general in 41 needle above, most to the next board with special turn and driving plate is linked together, so the cost of changing plate is higher.
Maintenance general board has 3.3 V and 5 V voltage jump line so that the power to choose, be careful not to make a mistake. Because RSDS interface, * * S interface dosage is very few, it shall not be introduced in this paper.
2. The video card signal input interface
17 inches below the display, mostly only VGA signal input interface, because the VGA interface is driven plate basic configuration, so low can not be considered. 17 inches above the display, a lot of the VGA + DVI double interface way, if only with single VGA driver interface board, the user does not accept, be about to choose VGA and DVI double interface drive board, the cost will also increases.
3. According to JianBan interface
According to JianBan OSD of LCD with 4 to 7 keys to 5 keys are in the majority. How many of the key support the decision by the drive program, and driving plate buttons interface in how much needle, not five buttons including POWER, AUTO, DOWN and UP, MENU, six keys will increase the ENTER key. When maintenance can be used the method of flexible. For instance, some LCD monitor is 6 key, but only 5 key program, it can not ENTER key empty; Be like again, a LCD monitor is four key, and only 5 key program, can abandon AUTO needle inserted and not pick up, so that does not affect use; Part of LCD JianBan is through the flat in soft row with driver board connect the line, can't drive board with matching, right now, can give up flat line line, one with the thin wire connection, installation empty ask special small, can use wire enameled wire connection.
In addition, to pay attention, maintenance general board can make is the key of the way short sub, and many of the PinPaiJi according to JianBan is the resistance points the way pressure, therefore, to the original machine according to the relevant JianBan resistance take out, through the jumper into resistance on short way to pick up. For the film and not to short of buttons by the way, or a key of the shuttle, if the original keys bad changes, we have to buy another according to JianBan and then find suitable location installed.
4. Inverter interface
The sold maintenance generic driver interface for high pressure plate more + 1 2 V double needle, GND double needle, BLON and wild. Most ADJ function is virtual didn't of, that is, the foot voltage is fixed, not with the brightness to adjust and change, brightness is completely through the software in the control chip internal simulation of the AD. In fact to 3 line transfer to inverter.
At the same time in wiring simple, also brought some of the inverter and not compatible, and appear boot after a bright put out, or can't adjust brightness anyway also go up. The former solution is, the original inverter control side brightness directly grounded, the latter need through a proper resistance even the + 5 V and the original inverter brightness to adjust end. The so-called appropriate, because its resistance to change with the inverter parameter adjusted flexibly, not the same and the resistance for more than 2.2 kQ or so.
5. Power source
Maintenance generic driver interface board for 12 V power input. If is the external power adapter, add to pick up a universal plug it; If the power is built, it will have to through a wire welding to the original mechanical and electrical source on the corresponding solder joints.
Note, wire shall not be too thin. Part of the PinPaiJi secondary voltage stabilizing the main source for 13 V, can be directly connected, do not affect use. Some built-in power the 13 V (or 12 V), 5 V party type, can give up 5 V need not, because of the liquid crystal display 5 V power load not heavy, will not affect the normal work circuit. Some PinPaiJi only output a group of + 1 8 V power supply (the part of the aircraft fly miura), and so to the original machine on voltage stability of the quarter change, make its output + 1 2 V voltage can only after. If rushed through, burn down driver board.
Second, the replacement of the inverter
Liquid crystal displays of the inverter is the most commonly used one lamp ~ 4 lights, and have a big and small mouth of the points. The number of light depends on how much liquid crystal screen, such as 4 lamp LCD screen (1 7 inches above the display) will match 4 lamp inverter, 1 lamp LCD screen (14 inches below the display) will match 1 lamp inverter.
1. The big and small mouth
Big and small mouth is refers to the inverter and tube connection interface width, difference and because lamp quantity and different.
1 lamp inverter and basic it is small mouth, even if there is big, you only need to put the tube connection directly welded in corresponding position, can, do not affect use.
2 lamp inverter big and small mouth the distinction is not big, but high pressure interface width different just, mutual substitution is very convenient.
4 inverter big and small mouth lamp of a bigger difference. Big of an interface to pick up two tubes, that there was a connection is common. With big inverter substitution small mouth OEM L305-S5944 inverter , just need to take a group of two tubes original lines (DiYaXian) parallel together take public line and the remaining two line separate connection can; With small mouth inverter substitution big inverter, because a group of two different tubes loop (only a few inverter is the same), it can not be simply two low voltage interface in parallel, need to view LCD screen tubes wiring, will DiYaXian separate, then connect the corresponding, otherwise it may cause failure.
2. The line interface either 1 lamp inverter, or 4 lamp inverter, is inseparable from the interface. Through the connecting cables and drive very connected, accept the MCU control. For the GND pin, VCC, ADIJ and BLON. Namely, power supply, brightness to adjust and high voltage switch, different drive indicated by a board of letters makes a difference. The main difference is the control interface is how many of the pins and the form of wire. The same four pin some leads 1 a needle inserted, of which more than have put the needle in parallel. Especially GND pin and inserted into VCC needle as current is bigger, use more more in the form of needle in parallel. Using a multimeter to measure resistance or watch circuit board copper foil can difference.
Control interface using wire form of different, is mainly refers to ordinary wire and flat stream line line. The former even if the interface is different, need according to meet H function just one docking, easy to solve. The latter if is flat line line damage it can be difficult to find substitute, its maintenance method is: welding the row line off the interface to thin wire enameled wire connection, etc.
3. The number of different lamp inverter substitution some readers will ask, not to say a few lamp LCD screen with a few of the OEM L455D-S5976 inverter to the substitution? And how the number of different light can also substitution inverter? In the maintenance or DIY, often need not with the number of lights on the substitution between inverter. Substitution principle is, the less light can be more than the lamp replacement, if use many of the substitution of the lamp light less, is to change the circuit, more trouble.
Under what circumstances would involve different lamp inverter of substitution between number?
A volume is not allowed. For example a 2 of light in hand display, the original machine inverter volume is very small, 2 lamp inverter contain, can use 1 lamp inverter substitution (1 lamp inverter smaller), already: can use two 1 lamp of parallel substitution, light at the two lights tube, can also be idle a lamp, with only one 1 lamp light up one high linking piece tubes. Theoretically, such substitution for tube haven't fully lit and the brightness will reduce about 25%, brightness will not even, but actually very ugly out, the visual effect the impact is not big, especially to the office or word processing monitor. The author use the display is deliberately only light one tube, in order to achieve energy saving and reduce the purpose of the dazzling light. In general, the light of the inverter can substitution 1 2 lamp, 2 of 4 inverter can substitution lamp light.
2 it is no accessories. LCD monitor is four lights, and have no 4 lamp inverter, where you can recommend guest door inverter with 2 lamp to brighten LCD screen.
4. The monomer inverter of many display USES is the replacement of the power supply voltage one board, if only high pressure partly damaged whether to replace the entire circuit board? The answer is no. Change the whole board while convenient but not economic, volume and suitable one plate is not easy to get. The right way is: first to circuit analysis, the high pressure part of the components down. And then in the position to make the fixed the new inverter, completes the insulation protection.
From the driver plate to one board connection method: find ADJ and BLON (the two line many can parallel use), and received inverter control interface into the corresponding needle, again in a power board to find and + 12 V, inverter control to meet H in the corresponding needle, has been accomplished.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Yamaha Home Theatre Systems
Yamaha home theatre systems are among the best systems on the market,
providing you with one of the best sound and picture quality to be
found. They are very easy to use and easy to be installed, thus giving
you and your family the pleasure and relaxation that you so desire.
Contrary to the popular belief, that Yamaha systems are expensive
because of their high quality in production, these home theatre systems
are actually available in a wide assortment of colors and models at
affordable prices, to attract just about any and every kind of customer.
A home theatre system is greatly judged by it sound quality and Yamaha home theatre systems are definitely a winner in this aspect. Actually this is one of the products' strongest properties. Its' stereos are of high quality with dynamic power capability giving you a broad range of frequency response for both your audio CD and TOPPING TP60 Amplifier. Home theatre systems from Yamaha also have high current amplification and excellent touch volume control. The home theatre system also has excellent surround sound qualities, such as compressed music enhancer, and enhancer for night listening and the option to select the subwoofer phase, giving you an audio experience like none other.
The Yamaha home theatre systems are so easy to use, that you will neither need an expert or need to be one. There on-screen menus are very detailed and hence easy to understand, with excellent graphic options. You will however need a television monitor in order to view the many options that are available with a Yamaha home theatre system. Considering the ease of use associated with home theatre systems from Yamaha, it is highly recommended to customers buying a home theatre system for the first time.
The only real downfalls of Yamaha home theatre systems are that the speakers are very big and bulky. As a result they tend to make your living room look rather full and cluttered. However if you have a big room to install these in or your living room is quite big, this should not be a problem. The other downfall of this product is the outdated look that the online displays have in comparison to other brands which have a trendier look.
It can be seen that the advantages to be had with Yamaha home theatre systems by far outweigh the downfalls. Yamaha gives you a wide range of options with state of the art technology, for a price you can afford. You can have a look at the many different models designed for you to choose from. It is guaranteed that whichever model you choose will have your living room or TV room transformed, giving you an experience close to that received at the cinema. Also these home systems are available in different styles and colors giving you the option to choose the perfect system that will accentuate the overall decor of your home. With a home theatre system from Yamaha, not only are you getting quality and an affordable price, but you will be getting the best your money can buy.
A home theatre system is greatly judged by it sound quality and Yamaha home theatre systems are definitely a winner in this aspect. Actually this is one of the products' strongest properties. Its' stereos are of high quality with dynamic power capability giving you a broad range of frequency response for both your audio CD and TOPPING TP60 Amplifier. Home theatre systems from Yamaha also have high current amplification and excellent touch volume control. The home theatre system also has excellent surround sound qualities, such as compressed music enhancer, and enhancer for night listening and the option to select the subwoofer phase, giving you an audio experience like none other.
The Yamaha home theatre systems are so easy to use, that you will neither need an expert or need to be one. There on-screen menus are very detailed and hence easy to understand, with excellent graphic options. You will however need a television monitor in order to view the many options that are available with a Yamaha home theatre system. Considering the ease of use associated with home theatre systems from Yamaha, it is highly recommended to customers buying a home theatre system for the first time.
The only real downfalls of Yamaha home theatre systems are that the speakers are very big and bulky. As a result they tend to make your living room look rather full and cluttered. However if you have a big room to install these in or your living room is quite big, this should not be a problem. The other downfall of this product is the outdated look that the online displays have in comparison to other brands which have a trendier look.
It can be seen that the advantages to be had with Yamaha home theatre systems by far outweigh the downfalls. Yamaha gives you a wide range of options with state of the art technology, for a price you can afford. You can have a look at the many different models designed for you to choose from. It is guaranteed that whichever model you choose will have your living room or TV room transformed, giving you an experience close to that received at the cinema. Also these home systems are available in different styles and colors giving you the option to choose the perfect system that will accentuate the overall decor of your home. With a home theatre system from Yamaha, not only are you getting quality and an affordable price, but you will be getting the best your money can buy.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Is Re-Equalization in Your Home Theater For You?
Re-Equalization (Re-EQ) can be a feature found only in THX Licensed
Audio-video Products and Pre/Pros. The problem it's addressing is among
fixing the overall appear excellence of the film soundtrack that was
mixed for just about any large theater for the home atmosphere. Large
theaters are flattened carrying out a "X-Curve", a standardized response
curve. Oddly, the curvature itself was produced to solve the identical
problem, in reverse. Material incorporated small rooms appeared too
vibrant in large theaters, so while using the technology of occasions
(early seventies), the X-curve was created to repair the problem.
Theoretically, the vary info on the X-curve should have made Re-EQ
unnecessary. However it didn't work by doing this.
Original data collected to develop the X-curve was limited in resolution, and for your reason, precision. It calculates, there is a little but noticeable error, which produces the identical symptom in reverse: material mixed around the large X-Curve dub stage sounds too vibrant in your house. Tom Holman, developer of THX for theaters and houses, known towards the Re-EQ curve inside the original Home THX specs. Many people early home theatre adopters had already observed the problem, and were very relieved that Re-EQ made people vibrant-sounding Laser Dvd disks appear smooth and natural. It labored.
THX Re-EQ is on should you choose the THX Surround mode from the receiver. Without getting a THX Certifice AVR, you may also find something such as CinemaEQ (Denon), or perhaps the like. That's intended as the same curve, however isn't the identical.
Why, then, this season, might be the Re-EQ function progressively more overlooked? It's associated with how soundtracks are handled for home video. Previously, really the only choice ended up being to accept original masters and execute a straight transfer for the home formats. Nothing was changed whatsoever, really, the higher accurate the transfer, the higher. That started to change when Digital video disks showed up. The film industry started to think about it might be wise to re-master people theater-centric soundtracks for your home. So, what did they're doing? Rather than send the material away and off to a learning lab getting a reference home theatre, the material was shipped to music learning labs. Now, that is one might appear like advisable, really the music activity marketplace is remarkably not-standardized if the requires the monitoring conditions used. What showed up in this area of that's re-mastered tracks that doesn't only forget about needed Re-EQ, but furthermore had changes created in overall equalization and dynamics that now handled to obtain impossible for individuals who've modified home theatre systems copying the theater experience.
Will there be any hope?
Really, yes! People at DTS made certain the brand new Blu-ray audio spec incorporated DTS Master Audio along with Dolby TrueHD. Yes, it's competition. We are in a position to debate technical advantages of one inside the other all day long lengthy, but exactly what it can get lower to is recognise the company situated itself where it could use content producers with techniques that was helpful and beneficial. DTS did that. What's being launched from the efforts is really good mixes intended for the home. As well as, given that they understood this is when it absolutely was going, they needed proper proper care of Re-EQ inside the re-learning stage. Obtain a BD player going, and choose the DTS track, then turn off THX Re-EQ (usually, just turn off the THX Surround mode).
But is always that an universal fix? Sadly, not. Inside the mass of legacy Digital video disks it's pretty wild. You have to give consideration to increase the risk for choice. Can it be too vibrant? Then kick on THX Surround. Can it be too dull? Turn THX off. And, listen carefully to people Blu-ray dvd disks. It is not 100% whatsoever. But no less than it's a start.
Original data collected to develop the X-curve was limited in resolution, and for your reason, precision. It calculates, there is a little but noticeable error, which produces the identical symptom in reverse: material mixed around the large X-Curve dub stage sounds too vibrant in your house. Tom Holman, developer of THX for theaters and houses, known towards the Re-EQ curve inside the original Home THX specs. Many people early home theatre adopters had already observed the problem, and were very relieved that Re-EQ made people vibrant-sounding Laser Dvd disks appear smooth and natural. It labored.
THX Re-EQ is on should you choose the THX Surround mode from the receiver. Without getting a THX Certifice AVR, you may also find something such as CinemaEQ (Denon), or perhaps the like. That's intended as the same curve, however isn't the identical.
Why, then, this season, might be the Re-EQ function progressively more overlooked? It's associated with how soundtracks are handled for home video. Previously, really the only choice ended up being to accept original masters and execute a straight transfer for the home formats. Nothing was changed whatsoever, really, the higher accurate the transfer, the higher. That started to change when Digital video disks showed up. The film industry started to think about it might be wise to re-master people theater-centric soundtracks for your home. So, what did they're doing? Rather than send the material away and off to a learning lab getting a reference home theatre, the material was shipped to music learning labs. Now, that is one might appear like advisable, really the music activity marketplace is remarkably not-standardized if the requires the monitoring conditions used. What showed up in this area of that's re-mastered tracks that doesn't only forget about needed Re-EQ, but furthermore had changes created in overall equalization and dynamics that now handled to obtain impossible for individuals who've modified home theatre systems copying the theater experience.
Will there be any hope?
Really, yes! People at DTS made certain the brand new Blu-ray audio spec incorporated DTS Master Audio along with Dolby TrueHD. Yes, it's competition. We are in a position to debate technical advantages of one inside the other all day long lengthy, but exactly what it can get lower to is recognise the company situated itself where it could use content producers with techniques that was helpful and beneficial. DTS did that. What's being launched from the efforts is really good mixes intended for the home. As well as, given that they understood this is when it absolutely was going, they needed proper proper care of Re-EQ inside the re-learning stage. Obtain a BD player going, and choose the DTS track, then turn off THX Re-EQ (usually, just turn off the THX Surround mode).
But is always that an universal fix? Sadly, not. Inside the mass of legacy Digital video disks it's pretty wild. You have to give consideration to increase the risk for choice. Can it be too vibrant? Then kick on THX Surround. Can it be too dull? Turn THX off. And, listen carefully to people Blu-ray dvd disks. It is not 100% whatsoever. But no less than it's a start.
Pro audio tracks Speakers using the price of the home customer Stereo Speaker founded - the right way to accomplish This
Quality audio tracks apparel is really a extremely subjective.
countless males and ladies might have an judgment that varies through
the subsequent particular person of especially where to discover very
good to best high quality audio tracks speakers. Some will almost
invariably default in the direction of regional brick and mortar
electronics awesome chain. The standard customer may possibly be ready
to settle for this solution not knowing the truth.
There are countless brand recognize names all through the pro-audio speaker world. Some makers have even attempted to hold greater than their recognize in the direction of home audio tracks enthusiast, occasionally with out sacrificing very good quality. countless times, however, the home audio tracks speakers accessible on the electronics store are created with affordable high quality parts. routinely this allows the store to promote the objects getting a appropriate purchase with deep discounts.
There are excellent options to relying for the regional retailers. purchasing for the internet can generate many advantages. The principal movement in buying a great founded of audio tracks speakers can be to create straight down the intended atmosphere for which the speakers should be used. particular components and speaker specifications may possibly create excellent seem within of a dance club, but be unsuitable within of a residential setting.
It is recommended, especially for aspiring bands or disc jockeys, to truly construct their non-public custom made audio tracks drivers. even although this may possibly seem intimidating at first, with patience and recognition to detail, the standard dude or ladies can craft a exceptional speaker set. obviously other components go in to the seem getting developed just such as the high quality belonging in the direction of source as well as the amplifier.
For individuals males and ladies new in the direction of world of speaker restoration or speaker package deal setting up there are many very good guides on the regional bookstore which could provide a wealth of information and details with out inundating the reader with overly specialized jargon. countless of those exact same guides will possess the programs for developing and setting up the speaker enclosure. The design and design belonging in the direction of speaker box and components will possess a instant result for the ability belonging in the direction of speaker to create abundant and complete seem moreover in the direction of structure belonging in the direction of speaker itself.
For individuals do-it-yourself novices as well as individuals that are experienced, countless over the internet providers that specialize in speaker restoration kits or dude or ladies speaker components undoubtedly are a excellent source with which to consult. routinely the representatives on the over the internet store have useful speaker setting up come throughout to write about using the customer. As cut-throat since the merchandising market place can be, a excellent offer better support and information and details could possibly be experienced from over the internet speaker specialists than what is accessible from the clerk on the brick and mortar stores.
There are countless brand recognize names all through the pro-audio speaker world. Some makers have even attempted to hold greater than their recognize in the direction of home audio tracks enthusiast, occasionally with out sacrificing very good quality. countless times, however, the home audio tracks speakers accessible on the electronics store are created with affordable high quality parts. routinely this allows the store to promote the objects getting a appropriate purchase with deep discounts.
There are excellent options to relying for the regional retailers. purchasing for the internet can generate many advantages. The principal movement in buying a great founded of audio tracks speakers can be to create straight down the intended atmosphere for which the speakers should be used. particular components and speaker specifications may possibly create excellent seem within of a dance club, but be unsuitable within of a residential setting.
It is recommended, especially for aspiring bands or disc jockeys, to truly construct their non-public custom made audio tracks drivers. even although this may possibly seem intimidating at first, with patience and recognition to detail, the standard dude or ladies can craft a exceptional speaker set. obviously other components go in to the seem getting developed just such as the high quality belonging in the direction of source as well as the amplifier.
For individuals males and ladies new in the direction of world of speaker restoration or speaker package deal setting up there are many very good guides on the regional bookstore which could provide a wealth of information and details with out inundating the reader with overly specialized jargon. countless of those exact same guides will possess the programs for developing and setting up the speaker enclosure. The design and design belonging in the direction of speaker box and components will possess a instant result for the ability belonging in the direction of speaker to create abundant and complete seem moreover in the direction of structure belonging in the direction of speaker itself.
For individuals do-it-yourself novices as well as individuals that are experienced, countless over the internet providers that specialize in speaker restoration kits or dude or ladies speaker components undoubtedly are a excellent source with which to consult. routinely the representatives on the over the internet store have useful speaker setting up come throughout to write about using the customer. As cut-throat since the merchandising market place can be, a excellent offer better support and information and details could possibly be experienced from over the internet speaker specialists than what is accessible from the clerk on the brick and mortar stores.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Home Theater And Home Audio Sound System Secret Tips
Rome wasn't built in a day and neither are good Home Theater and
Audio Systems. Hopefully this article will save you time, money and
aggravation.
This is how I put together my Home Theater and Audio Sound System and you might want to use this as a general guide in terms of what I learned through trial and error. The first part of this article is general buying tips. The remainder of the article is arranged in alphabetical order by topics beginning with Audio/Video Receivers and ending with Tweaks. Thus you can scroll down in order to find DVD players come after CD players, etc. As previously mentioned, this article is intended as a general guide written in layman's terms not technical terms trying to summarize Home Theater and Home Audio basics. Onwards and upwards.
Buying Used or Refurbished Items
My rule of thumb with buying something used online is: 1.Make sure it comes with the original manual and remote control, which will make reselling it, should you chose to do so, easier. 2. Make sure it is described as in very good or better condition from a seller in the US (or the country you reside in). 3. Pass on any item which the seller has described previous problems with., 4. Do not buy anything listed "As Is" or "No Returns" as it basically says your stuck with this once you pay for it even if its DOA. 5. Only buy from someone with a lot of feedback whose positive percentage is 95% or better. As a rule I won't buy from anyone with feedback of 10 or less, if you're putting up $200 or more, I'd increase that to 20. Even if you do pass up some legitimate people in the process with that rule, the chances are good that the item will show up again within the next 2 months or so from a seller with feedback of 20 or better. What I'm saying is, don't rush things when you don't have to. Also pay by paypal only. This way if there is a problem, paypal will help resolve it and/or get your money back.
What Not to Buy Used or Refurbished:
Do not buy a used or refurbished TV under any circumstances. You are asking for trouble if you do.
Do not buy a used or refurbished DVD player, Universal player or DVD recorder under Any circumstances. These are made with a limited life in mind.
How to decide what to Buy
If you've heard or seen any system personally that you liked, I would go by that first to decide what to buy. What I wouldn't do is go to a store & make your decision based on what you hear or see there. In many cases for instance, the HDTV's are not actually showing HD shows in the store because they're not receiving HD signals or the sound system is giving lousy sound because of bad acoustics, bad ambience and improperly set controls which the salesman is pretending to not notice. Should you ignore all that, let the buyer beware, at least bring a CD and/or DVD of your choice to sample their system, not the stores generic ones.
I would go to Forum sites and see which components or system, are constantly being praised and then read Online Reviews and information from the Manufacturer and base your decision on that. Likewise use the forums to ask about a specific product.
Audio/Video (A/V) Receiver
Most of the basic features on 7.1 or 5.1 A/V receivers are similar, no matter how old the receiver is. Before I go on, you can get 5.1 sound (5 speakers and a sub)on a 7.1 receiver and most of the receivers in the last 5 years or so are 7.1. You can get very good used receivers online for, 40 to 70% off the listed retail price when that receiver was new, complete with a remote and manual. Again, research any receiver, from a friend's opinion, a forum, manufacturer information & online reviews. I myself got a Denon A/V 3801 Receiver which I love for around $380 including shipping that came with the Remote and Manual. As I had a Universal Remote and knew I was going to keep this receiver, I sold the remote for around $35 online, so all I spent was $345. This receiver cost over $1100 when it was new. On a lot of these receivers, you are just paying for extra bells and whistles, which if you don't need, can save you on money. For instance, many of the newer receivers come with built in EQ/DB systems, that will automatically set up the receivers & these cost a lot more then systems which you have to do this manually. Note, I listen to CDs on the Denon's All Natural 5.1 Stereo Sound which plays CDs from all 5 speakers and my subwoofer without reprocessing the sound. To me this gives my sound much more depth. Other people do not like to listen to CDs that way.
Cables
You will need good cables to get a good sound and picture: These cables include: Fiber Optic Cables to get 5.1 sound from your HD Receiver/DVR and DVD players. You will also need Analog RCA Cables to get good sound from your CD or Universal Player. You will need 2 sets of Component Cable to connect your DVD player to your TV and HD Receiver/DVR to your TV. Finally you will need a subwoofer cable and speaker wire.
If you get your HD service from a Cable or Satellite Company, usually they give you free component cables. Do not use these as they're not all that great on the average and buy better component cables. Cables are not built the same and will produce different results, contrary to general opinion. I use standard Monster component cables, Monster Standard THX Subwoofer cable, glass optic cable which gives a more upfront revealing sound in my opinion for my DVR/Receiver & standard optic cable for my DVD player, speaker wire, and believe it or not, 2 cheap pairs of Acoustic research analog cables which I find the most neutral and least likely to reveal a recordings weaknesses!
CD Player
This is the component I have upgraded and changed the most as believe it or not, the sound differs greatly between players. As mentioned above, unless CD sound is not that important to you, do not use a DVD player to plays CDs.
I've personally found that many vintage CD players which you can find online generally give fantastic sound and are relatively cheap. I had a Pioneer Elite 59 CD player for many years that one could get between $150-$250, that produced great rock sound.
I've found buying a CD player is a total trial and error proposition. Depending on the audio equipment on hand, the person and the music they like, one man's Heaven is another man's hell. Many people, myself included, have bought CD players based on great forum comments and/or reviews only to be disappointed when they actually listened to them and then resold them the next day or week online at a loss.
My current CD player is a Jolida JD-100A Tube CD player, which I love. I got it used for about $350 less then I would pay retail for. Tube CD player's sounds change greatly depending on which tubes one uses. Again, this is a trial and error Preference. I currently am using 2 ECC83 12Xa7 Tubes.
DVD Player
I have a Harmon Kardon 31 DVD player which I bought online for about $50 less then the retail price, when it first came out. I chose this model because of the reviews I found online which raved about its great sound & excellent picture.
I do not use my DVD player to play CDs because in my personal opinion and those of many other people, CD players produce better audio sound. So if the sound of a CD is important to you, buy a CD player separately and ignore the company BS line that there is little sound difference between playing CDs on DVD players instead of CD players.
DVD Recorders
There are 3 types of DVD recorders: Internal computer DVD recorders, external computer DVD Recorders and Stand Alone DVD Recorders that you can record TV Shows on. The main difference between the stand alone DVD recorders and the computer Internal and external recorders are that the stand alone DVD Recorders can not as far as I know record 5.1 sound while internal and external computer DVD recorders can. While stand alone and external computer DVD recorders are relatively cheap, they usually don't last more than a couple of years before their lasers break down. The good news is, they're relatively cheap to just buy a new one. My internal computer DVD Recorders have never broken down. You do need software to record DVD's on your computer and a lot of these players come with it. I use Nero which I love and which is also good for burning CDs as well. One important thing to know is that most commercial DVDs are encrypted as to prevent DVD copying using standard commercial software.
HD DVR/TIVO
My HD DVR is provided for a rental of about $10 a month from my HD service. I am very happy with my set but I really am not qualified to make any recommendations on these.
HDTV
I have 2 widescreen HDTV's which I love, a Panasonic 34" set and a Mitsubishi 48" set, both of which I bought new. I would not recommend buying an HDTV set used. I also would take an extended warranty for the maximum length so you don't have to worry if something breaks down. I made my purchase decision on these sets based on what I read online in forums and reviews as well as manufacturer information. You usually can get great discounted prices both from retail discount electronic chains as well as online discount electronic companies including extended warranties.
5.1 Headphones
I didn't realize in my wildest dreams these actually existed and worked until I did a Google search and wound up at a forum where people all raved about the relatively expensive, Pioneer SE-DIR800C HDPH Dolby Digital 5.1 Wireless Headphones, which I got new for $300 online $100 less the retail price. These headphones are my Holy Grail, I don't know how Pioneer does it, but they produce incredible 5.1 sound and I'm not aware I'm listening through headphones! These are furthermore, wireless and work terrific, I've never experienced any Static noise or interference. To me these headphones are in a class by themselves with no peer. I use them for TV and DVD by Connecting my receivers optic digital out to the Pioneer's Wireless Station's Optic Input. My best electronics purchase ever.
MP3/IPOD Headphones
For some reason, most of the free headphones supplied with Ipods/MP3 players, suck. Meaning, they are uncomfortable or lack something in sound or both. For myself, I found I could not tolerate earbuds, headphones which like hearing devices get attached to the inside of your ear. I wound up buying at a great online price, a new set of over your head, Koss Porta Pro headphones which were super light and comfortable, stayed over my ears and had good though not great sound, for about $15 less then I would have to pay, retail. Again, I bought these based on forums, reviews and company information.
MP3 Players
Sorry I'm not going to be much help here, as I only use my MP3 player for jogging and working out and as such I use a Creative Zen Nano 512 Plus as its super small and light and has great sound.
Speakers
I use my 5.1 speaker system for DVD, TV and listening to CDs. I feel my system, which is an Orb Audio Mod 1 5.1 speaker set-up (5 speakers & a subwoofer) bought new, has great sound for all of these. Other people prefer to use 5.1 speakers only for DVD & TV and listen to CDs on different speakers. I discovered Orb based on finding an incredible amount of positive reviews on them in forums and based my buying decision solely on that.
Tweaks and Accessories
This is another hit or miss proposition. I bought online a new Musical Fidelity X-10 V3 Tube Buffer for $250 and it improved my CD player sound when connected to both my current, Jolida JD-100A (Tube) CD player and my previous Pioneer Elite PD-59 Solid State CD player. I purchased the X-10 V3, Tube buffer again from forums and reviews as well as company information.
This is how I put together my Home Theater and Audio Sound System and you might want to use this as a general guide in terms of what I learned through trial and error. The first part of this article is general buying tips. The remainder of the article is arranged in alphabetical order by topics beginning with Audio/Video Receivers and ending with Tweaks. Thus you can scroll down in order to find DVD players come after CD players, etc. As previously mentioned, this article is intended as a general guide written in layman's terms not technical terms trying to summarize Home Theater and Home Audio basics. Onwards and upwards.
Buying Used or Refurbished Items
My rule of thumb with buying something used online is: 1.Make sure it comes with the original manual and remote control, which will make reselling it, should you chose to do so, easier. 2. Make sure it is described as in very good or better condition from a seller in the US (or the country you reside in). 3. Pass on any item which the seller has described previous problems with., 4. Do not buy anything listed "As Is" or "No Returns" as it basically says your stuck with this once you pay for it even if its DOA. 5. Only buy from someone with a lot of feedback whose positive percentage is 95% or better. As a rule I won't buy from anyone with feedback of 10 or less, if you're putting up $200 or more, I'd increase that to 20. Even if you do pass up some legitimate people in the process with that rule, the chances are good that the item will show up again within the next 2 months or so from a seller with feedback of 20 or better. What I'm saying is, don't rush things when you don't have to. Also pay by paypal only. This way if there is a problem, paypal will help resolve it and/or get your money back.
What Not to Buy Used or Refurbished:
Do not buy a used or refurbished TV under any circumstances. You are asking for trouble if you do.
Do not buy a used or refurbished DVD player, Universal player or DVD recorder under Any circumstances. These are made with a limited life in mind.
How to decide what to Buy
If you've heard or seen any system personally that you liked, I would go by that first to decide what to buy. What I wouldn't do is go to a store & make your decision based on what you hear or see there. In many cases for instance, the HDTV's are not actually showing HD shows in the store because they're not receiving HD signals or the sound system is giving lousy sound because of bad acoustics, bad ambience and improperly set controls which the salesman is pretending to not notice. Should you ignore all that, let the buyer beware, at least bring a CD and/or DVD of your choice to sample their system, not the stores generic ones.
I would go to Forum sites and see which components or system, are constantly being praised and then read Online Reviews and information from the Manufacturer and base your decision on that. Likewise use the forums to ask about a specific product.
Audio/Video (A/V) Receiver
Most of the basic features on 7.1 or 5.1 A/V receivers are similar, no matter how old the receiver is. Before I go on, you can get 5.1 sound (5 speakers and a sub)on a 7.1 receiver and most of the receivers in the last 5 years or so are 7.1. You can get very good used receivers online for, 40 to 70% off the listed retail price when that receiver was new, complete with a remote and manual. Again, research any receiver, from a friend's opinion, a forum, manufacturer information & online reviews. I myself got a Denon A/V 3801 Receiver which I love for around $380 including shipping that came with the Remote and Manual. As I had a Universal Remote and knew I was going to keep this receiver, I sold the remote for around $35 online, so all I spent was $345. This receiver cost over $1100 when it was new. On a lot of these receivers, you are just paying for extra bells and whistles, which if you don't need, can save you on money. For instance, many of the newer receivers come with built in EQ/DB systems, that will automatically set up the receivers & these cost a lot more then systems which you have to do this manually. Note, I listen to CDs on the Denon's All Natural 5.1 Stereo Sound which plays CDs from all 5 speakers and my subwoofer without reprocessing the sound. To me this gives my sound much more depth. Other people do not like to listen to CDs that way.
Cables
You will need good cables to get a good sound and picture: These cables include: Fiber Optic Cables to get 5.1 sound from your HD Receiver/DVR and DVD players. You will also need Analog RCA Cables to get good sound from your CD or Universal Player. You will need 2 sets of Component Cable to connect your DVD player to your TV and HD Receiver/DVR to your TV. Finally you will need a subwoofer cable and speaker wire.
If you get your HD service from a Cable or Satellite Company, usually they give you free component cables. Do not use these as they're not all that great on the average and buy better component cables. Cables are not built the same and will produce different results, contrary to general opinion. I use standard Monster component cables, Monster Standard THX Subwoofer cable, glass optic cable which gives a more upfront revealing sound in my opinion for my DVR/Receiver & standard optic cable for my DVD player, speaker wire, and believe it or not, 2 cheap pairs of Acoustic research analog cables which I find the most neutral and least likely to reveal a recordings weaknesses!
CD Player
This is the component I have upgraded and changed the most as believe it or not, the sound differs greatly between players. As mentioned above, unless CD sound is not that important to you, do not use a DVD player to plays CDs.
I've personally found that many vintage CD players which you can find online generally give fantastic sound and are relatively cheap. I had a Pioneer Elite 59 CD player for many years that one could get between $150-$250, that produced great rock sound.
I've found buying a CD player is a total trial and error proposition. Depending on the audio equipment on hand, the person and the music they like, one man's Heaven is another man's hell. Many people, myself included, have bought CD players based on great forum comments and/or reviews only to be disappointed when they actually listened to them and then resold them the next day or week online at a loss.
My current CD player is a Jolida JD-100A Tube CD player, which I love. I got it used for about $350 less then I would pay retail for. Tube CD player's sounds change greatly depending on which tubes one uses. Again, this is a trial and error Preference. I currently am using 2 ECC83 12Xa7 Tubes.
DVD Player
I have a Harmon Kardon 31 DVD player which I bought online for about $50 less then the retail price, when it first came out. I chose this model because of the reviews I found online which raved about its great sound & excellent picture.
I do not use my DVD player to play CDs because in my personal opinion and those of many other people, CD players produce better audio sound. So if the sound of a CD is important to you, buy a CD player separately and ignore the company BS line that there is little sound difference between playing CDs on DVD players instead of CD players.
DVD Recorders
There are 3 types of DVD recorders: Internal computer DVD recorders, external computer DVD Recorders and Stand Alone DVD Recorders that you can record TV Shows on. The main difference between the stand alone DVD recorders and the computer Internal and external recorders are that the stand alone DVD Recorders can not as far as I know record 5.1 sound while internal and external computer DVD recorders can. While stand alone and external computer DVD recorders are relatively cheap, they usually don't last more than a couple of years before their lasers break down. The good news is, they're relatively cheap to just buy a new one. My internal computer DVD Recorders have never broken down. You do need software to record DVD's on your computer and a lot of these players come with it. I use Nero which I love and which is also good for burning CDs as well. One important thing to know is that most commercial DVDs are encrypted as to prevent DVD copying using standard commercial software.
HD DVR/TIVO
My HD DVR is provided for a rental of about $10 a month from my HD service. I am very happy with my set but I really am not qualified to make any recommendations on these.
HDTV
I have 2 widescreen HDTV's which I love, a Panasonic 34" set and a Mitsubishi 48" set, both of which I bought new. I would not recommend buying an HDTV set used. I also would take an extended warranty for the maximum length so you don't have to worry if something breaks down. I made my purchase decision on these sets based on what I read online in forums and reviews as well as manufacturer information. You usually can get great discounted prices both from retail discount electronic chains as well as online discount electronic companies including extended warranties.
5.1 Headphones
I didn't realize in my wildest dreams these actually existed and worked until I did a Google search and wound up at a forum where people all raved about the relatively expensive, Pioneer SE-DIR800C HDPH Dolby Digital 5.1 Wireless Headphones, which I got new for $300 online $100 less the retail price. These headphones are my Holy Grail, I don't know how Pioneer does it, but they produce incredible 5.1 sound and I'm not aware I'm listening through headphones! These are furthermore, wireless and work terrific, I've never experienced any Static noise or interference. To me these headphones are in a class by themselves with no peer. I use them for TV and DVD by Connecting my receivers optic digital out to the Pioneer's Wireless Station's Optic Input. My best electronics purchase ever.
MP3/IPOD Headphones
For some reason, most of the free headphones supplied with Ipods/MP3 players, suck. Meaning, they are uncomfortable or lack something in sound or both. For myself, I found I could not tolerate earbuds, headphones which like hearing devices get attached to the inside of your ear. I wound up buying at a great online price, a new set of over your head, Koss Porta Pro headphones which were super light and comfortable, stayed over my ears and had good though not great sound, for about $15 less then I would have to pay, retail. Again, I bought these based on forums, reviews and company information.
MP3 Players
Sorry I'm not going to be much help here, as I only use my MP3 player for jogging and working out and as such I use a Creative Zen Nano 512 Plus as its super small and light and has great sound.
Speakers
I use my 5.1 speaker system for DVD, TV and listening to CDs. I feel my system, which is an Orb Audio Mod 1 5.1 speaker set-up (5 speakers & a subwoofer) bought new, has great sound for all of these. Other people prefer to use 5.1 speakers only for DVD & TV and listen to CDs on different speakers. I discovered Orb based on finding an incredible amount of positive reviews on them in forums and based my buying decision solely on that.
Tweaks and Accessories
This is another hit or miss proposition. I bought online a new Musical Fidelity X-10 V3 Tube Buffer for $250 and it improved my CD player sound when connected to both my current, Jolida JD-100A (Tube) CD player and my previous Pioneer Elite PD-59 Solid State CD player. I purchased the X-10 V3, Tube buffer again from forums and reviews as well as company information.
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