HDTV and Home Theater Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Podcast #1074: Matter Hubs and Sony Projectors Nov 11, 2022

Show notes

This week our show really matters! We feature a few of the newly certified Matter controllers and we talk about what projector we would consider if we were building out a dedicated home theater. Plus we read your emails and news of the week.

News:

Other:

Matter Hubs

Hub M2 By Lumi United Technology Co., Ltd.

The Aqara Hub M2 is a smart home control center. It can be connected with a WiFi or Ethernet network, and supports interaction and connection with Aqara Zigbee accessories. It also has an IR remote control function, which can add and manage the control of different IR devices. The Aqara Hub M2 allows you to control your Aqara accessories more conveniently. It can also bridge the Zigbee accessories to Matter to realize the interconnection of devices between different ecological platforms. Company Website

Smart Wired Gateway Pro By Tuya Global Inc.

As the core of the IoT connection, the wired Matter gateway is the first gateway released by Tuya that supports Matter. It supports the communication protocol of Cable+Zigbee+Thread, that is, the uplink Ethernet connects to the cloud, and the downlink supports both Zigbee (compatible with the original Zigbee device ecology of Tuya) and Thread (Matter over thread) sub-devices.

This gateway has powerful localized management capabilities and high stability of multi-device control. It can be connected to all devices such as home automation, smart energy and home security systems to provide users with an intelligent control experience. Company Website

DIRIGERA hub for smart products By IKEA of Sweden

The hub is the bridge between your smartphone and your connected products

LG ThinQ By LG Electronics

Discover an easier way of smart home life with LG ThinQ. With LG ThinQ app, you can manage all your LG smart appliances and IoT devices in one place. More Info …

webOS TV By LG Electronics

LG Smart TV with Matter support will help users register and control Matter enabled home appliances around the TV. Users can maintain the list of Matter enabled devices around, and control using home dashboard application pre-installed on TV. Company Website

Philips Hue Bridge By Signify

The brains of the Philips Hue smart lighting system, the Hue Bridge allows you to connect and control up to 50 lights and accessories. Simply plug it in and use the Hue app to set routines, timers, custom light scenes, and more. It's the Philips Hue Bridge that unlocks it all — including Matter. The Hue Bridge will support Matter with a software update, making all existing and new Hue lights and accessories automatically Matter enabled too (except the Hue Sync Box and dial of the Tap dial switch).

Sony Projectors Something to Consider for Your Home Theater

Sony recently announced three new projectors (VPL-XW7000ES, VPL-XW6000ES and the VPL-XW5000ES) which range in price from $27K at the high end and $6K for the 5000ES. All

three are SXRD panels with native 4K resolution. All three use the X1 Ultimate image processing. And all three use a laser light source that should last more than ten years if you watch your projector five hours a day.

A typical projector uses a lamp that would need to be replaced ten times in the time the Sony laser would last. They typically cost $50 to $100 depending on your projector, so over time this adds up! Plus the laser is much brighter so if you want to watch on a larger screen or in a room with ambient light these projectors have the chops to do so.

We have not seen these projectors in person but we have seen the previous versions when we were invited to a presentation at Sony Pictures in Culver City. What we saw at that time was quite impressive and those did not have the X1 Ultimate processor. If I (Ara) were building a dedicated theater today it would include the 5000ES. But only because I can't afford the 6000 or 7000.

Podcast #1073: Top Ten Movie Rentals and Keeping Your Vinyl Clean Nov 04, 2022

Show notes

This week we take a look at the week's top ten movie rentals and we continue our feature on getting the best results when listening to vinyl. We also read your emails and take a look at the week's news.

News:

Rank LW Rank Title Box Office (Millions)

1 New Bullet Train $103.32

2 1 Beast $31.85

3 New Fall $7.24

4 2 Jeepers Creepers Reborn $2.03

5 3 DC League of Super-Pets $93.36

6 4 Thor: Love and Thunder $343.26

7 5 Where the Crawdads Sing $90.23

8 New Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank $17.81

9 New Orphan: First Kill $5.41

10 6 Minions: The Rise of Gru $368.85

Breathing Life Back into Your Records

Last week we talked about cleaning your record needle for perfect playback based on an article sent to us from long time listener Stan. At that time he also sent us an article on cleaning your records. So this week we continue with our second installment. The following was taken from the Pro-Ject website.

Cleaning records revitalizes old and dirty records. If you don't see scratches on your vinyl, most likely, the reason that your vinyl does not play as well as it should is because of lint, dust, and grime. Luckily, the most common reasons to clean vinyl records are easy to manage and take care of.

Clean records play with less distortion, and it helps the vinyl last longer because the friction that happens when dust is on the record will no longer happen. In fact, keeping your records clean can even extend the life of your record player's stylus, which can save you from having to replace your record player needle. Your entire record collection will sound better with the right cleaning process than when you purchased it at the record store.

Record Washing

Of course, you can wash your records like you would your dishes. Simply put a few drops of dish soap into a tub of water. Avoid using tap water if you are creating your own solution. This will help to keep minerals that could damage the vinyl away from the records that you are cleaning. Di-ionized or distilled water is ideal for cleaning records. Never use Isopropyl alcohol in your vinyl cleaning solution because it removes the shine from the vinyl's surface and makes it more vulnerable to damage.

Instead of making your own cleaning solution, you can purchase a record cleaning solution that will work for your entire collection. It can be purchased individually or in a cleaning kit like the Spin-Clean Vinyl Record Washer System. This is a full cleaning system with soft brushes, cleaning fluid, and microfiber cloths that won't scratch the vinyl.

Once the record is clean, rinse the cleaning solution or any soap off with distilled water, being careful not to get the label wet. If water or cleaning solution does get on the label, make sure that you quickly blot it dry with a microfiber cloth, and don't put it away with your other records until it completely air dries. This helps to ensure that the ink doesn't bleed and the label doesn't tear.

Always make sure that the records are dry before playing them on your player. It should also be allowed at least 30 minutes to dry before it is placed back in the sleeve because the excess moisture can damage the records and cause the inner paper sleeves to mold. One way to ensure this is avoided is to use plastic sleeves instead of the paper ones that come with most records.

Vacuuming Records

Vacuuming records is one of the better cleaning methods to consider using. Using a vinyl record cleaner that is vacuum-powered will suck up any dust and debris found in the grooves. Using the vacuum cleaner should be done after the record is brushed to remove excess dirt on the surface. The VC-E Compact Vinyl Record Cleaning Machine falls into this category of record cleaner.

Record vacuuming machines will apply a cleaning solution to the records, scrub them, and vacuum away all of the wet solution and debris. It is the superior way to clean vinyl because it combines all of the cleaning methods using a machine that is quick and safe for the records. It may not be the best option for someone who has just a few records because of the price of these machines, but if you have a larger collection of albums, it's a solid investment to make.

Cleaning Records and Storing Without Worry

Once you have cleaned your record collection, you need to ensure that the vinyl does not get damaged or become warped because it is stored improperly. The first step that you need to take to keep your records safe is to store them in an inner sleeve that will not scratch the surface of the vinyl.

To add more protection, you should also use outer sleeves on your vinyl to keep the dust away from your records completely. Records should always be stored vertically because stacking them on top of each other on a shelf causes warping that hurts the sound quality.

Podcast #1072: Tips to Clean Your Record Needle to Improve Your Experience Oct 28, 2022

Show notes

This week we spotlight some huge "desktop" speakers from Monoprice and take a look at why NFL fans want Youtube or Amazon Prime to pick up Sunday Ticket. We also give you some tips to keep your turntable in tip top shape. All that plus your emails and the week's news.

News:

Other:

Toronto audiofest

Monolith by Monoprice MTM-100 100 Watt Bluetooth Powered Desktop Speakers

Product spotlight

The Monolith™ MTM Desktop Speakers (MSRP $499.99 direct from Monoprice) deliver stunning audiophile performance for your desktop! These speakers feature an accurate frequency response, exceptional sonic clarity, punchy, powerful bass, and present a spacious, and musical soundstage. Set up is a breeze: Connect easily through analog RCA and 3.5mm inputs or through the optical or USB digital inputs. Pair your device wirelessly using the Bluetooth® with Qualcomm® aptX™ HD Audio for high quality, CD audio level Bluetooth performance. A headphone jack adorns the front, allowing you to easily switch between the speakers and headphones. The Monolith MTM powered speakers are a perfect, great sounding addition to a home office, gaming, or bedroom system.

50 Watts per Speaker
Flat Frequency Response (50Hz ~ 20kHz)
Dual 4" Woofers per Speaker
1" Silk Dome Tweeter
5.25" Passive Radiator
45Hz-20Khz Frequency Response +/- 3db
Bluetooth 5 with aptX HD
Toslink Optical Input
USB-C Input
RCA & 3.5mm Inputs
Subwoofer Output
Front Headphone Jack
Remote Control
Dimensions (each) 6.3" x 14.0" x 7.9" (160 x 355 x 200 mm)

Survey: Fans Hope YouTube or Amazon Win the NFL Sunday Ticket Bidding War

Nearly two-thirds of NFL fans said they are most likely to subscribe to Sunday Ticket if it lands on either YouTube or Amazon Prime Video, according to a survey by The Streamable Full article…

How to Clean a Record Needle for Perfect Playback

We have talked about listening to music on vinyl lately and this prompted long time listener Stan to send in an article about cleaning your record needle for perfect playback. And with the Holliday's quickly approaching some of you may be thinking about buying a turntable for yourself as a present. So if you currently own a turntable or are thinking of buying one, we thought this may be of help to you. The following was taken from the Pro-Ject website.

How a Dirty Turntable Stylus Impacts Sound Quality

Clean record player needles help prevent playback issues. When dust interferes with the stylus reading the record grooves properly, you will hear a slight scratching or popping sound when you play the records. If you hear these sounds, it's time to inspect your record player's stylus to see if there is any visible build-up that's removable.

When a stylus is dirty, you are more likely to hear the needle jump as it navigates the turntable. This is referred to as record skipping, and it can affect the sound of the music. Dust and grime will also cause additional wear on the stylus tip, which will be heard as you play your music. If you don't keep your stylus clean, it will wear down more quickly. In effect, a clean stylus will help you save money because you won't need to replace it as often.

Tips to Follow when Cleaning a Turntable Needle

Cleaning a record needle should be done once a week. If listening to records is somewhat infrequent, you will be able to clean the needle every other week instead.
Most record player needles last for about 1,000 hours, so the first time you hear static during playback, it most likely only needs to be cleaned.
When using a brush to clean the tip of the stylus, make sure that you brush in the direction that the record spins. This helps to ensure that the cantilever is not damaged during the cleaning.
Even if your stylus looks clean, before playing a record, whether it's new or used, use an anti-static record brush to ensure no dust is hidden in the grooves that will transfer to the needle.
When cleaning your stylus, use a cleaning solution to get a deeper clean when using a stylus brush.
If you are uncomfortable using a stylus cleaning brush on the tip of the stylus, try using a stylus cleaning gel pad. This method may cost more, but it's an option that many feel is less abrasive than the brush bristles.

You may have also read forums about cleaning record needles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. To start, gently place a small piece of the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on the platter. These sponges can be purchased at any hardware store. It needs to be an all white pad because the blue ones are a bit more abrasive and could cause unwanted damage. Lower the tonearm down to touch the pad, and then raise it back up. Do this process about two to three times or until the debris is removed.

Vinyl Records Cleaning and Proper Storage Helps

Even if you clean your stylus every time you use your record player, there is a good chance that dust will transfer from your records unless you have clean vinyl as well. Cleaning records revitalizes them and gives you better sound during playback. We'll discuss cleaning records next week.

No Show This Week Oct 21, 2022

Show notes

No show this week.

Podcast #1071: Technics EAH-A800 Noise Canceling Over Ear Headphones Review Oct 14, 2022

Show notes

This week we have a review of the Technics EAH-A800 Noise Canceling Over Ear Headphones and we read your emails and look at the week's news.

News:

Other:

Technics EAH-A800 Noise Canceling Over Ear Headphones Review

We have spent a lot of money on wireless earbuds over the years looking for that ultimate tradeoff in sound quality, fit, and noise cancellation vs portability. To date, we have found a few that we liked but have settled on the Technics EAH-AZ60 ($230 MSRP). Today we decided to look at our first full size over the ear headphones, the Technics EAH-A800 ($350 MSRP). What we give up in portability we expect to get back in sound quality and noise cancellation. Let's see if that thought process pans out.

Features:

Polyurethane 3-Layer Diaphragm 40mm driver
8 distinct mics and advanced wind noise reduction
Dual Hybrid feedforward & feedback noise canceling with analog & digital processing
Cushioned, super-soft earpads that evenly distribute pressure for a stable fit, with a headband that reduces pressure across your entire head.
Multi-Point Connectivity lets you connect to more than 2 Bluetooth devices at once

Music Quality

Audio quality was quite good! We listened to the same music that we did for our AZ60 review (SRV - Tin Pan Alley, Snoop Dog - California Roll, Pearl Jam - Yellow Ledbetter, Diana Krall - Fly Me to the Moon) and found that everything we like about the AZ60 was turned up a notch on the A800. The detail in the music was clear and precise; the bass was boomy, maybe a bit too boomy. But still very good. The place where these headphones shined was in the vocal range. You could hear texture in the voice of Diana Krall. It was very good.

Movies did really well too. Dialog was easy to understand and the noise cancellation made it easy to hear at lower levels. One issue we have is that on airplanes the dialog can be hard to hear. The A800 did an exceptional job with boomy special effects.

Telephone Quality

We don't discuss telephone quality really on this podcast but the phone calls that I made and received were good. The listener on the other end had no issues hearing me and me them. If you work using headphones to make calls these will work just fine.

Comfort

The memory foam ear pads conform to your ear providing a comfortable fit that makes it easy to wear for hours. I wore them in the woodshop for three hours without issue. In fact they are the most comfortable headphones I have worn.

Noise Canceling

Noise canceling is good but not on par with some of the ear buds. One of the benefits of ear buds is that they can create a barrier that prevents noise from getting in and those with active cancellation can eliminate the rest. But here is the tradeoff, I have found that no matter what size silicone earpiece I use, they eventually lose their tight fit and let outside sound in. It's gradual so you don't notice right away. If you are eating something it happens much faster.

These headphones make a tighter connection with the ears and never let go. I used table saws, planers, and sanders while wearing these headphones and never noticed an increase in outside noise coming through. The noise reduction made it easy to work with loud machinery without fatigue. Plus I got through more podcasts because I was able to continue listening while working with those tools.

If you need to hear something from the outside a simple tap to the earpad lets in the exterior sound. The amount of sound allowed in is set in the Technics Audio Connect App. You can also select the amount of noise cancellation in that app as well. Although that always amuses me. Why do people want less than max cancellation?

Battery Life

These things never run out of juice! They can give you anywhere from 30 to 60 hours of use depending on the noise cancellation and codec you are using. If you listen to AAC without noise cancellation you can get close to 60 hours. If you have max cancellation and hi res audio playing you can expect the 30 hours. I was using cancellation and AAC and didn't need to recharge for over a week. About 35 hours. Also, if you run out of power, a fifteen minute charge can get you another 10 hours of noise canceled AAC music.

Room for Improvement

There is no AptX support which can limit the quality of what you are listening to. For instance Apple does not support LDAC. Many Android devices support it so keep that in mind. The noise canceling is good but not the best. Perhaps a firmware update can improve it. Lastly, these are expensive and there are other headphones that perform as well and cost less.

Podcast #1070: Best of Show Awards Winners Oct 07, 2022

Show notes

This week we present the TWICE Best of show awards for the CEDIA show that took place last weekend. We also read your emails and take a look at the week's news.

News:

Other:

Best Ultra Short Throw Projectors 2022 || AWOL LTV-3500, FORMOVIE Theater, XGIMI AURA

TWICE Best of Show Awards Winners

Crestron LED Light Fixtures - The modular design of Crestron LED light fixtures gives you unprecedented flexibility and control to complement any décor with the highest quality light. Options include adjustable, wall wash, fixed frame, pinhole fixtures, multiple enclosure possibilities, and square or round trims.
Epson Pro Cinema LS12000 Pro UHD Laser Projector - Utilizing an all-new Laser Array Light Source, the Pro Cinema LS12000 is capable of displaying a 4K picture on screen up to an astonishing 2,700 lumens for both color and white brightness2. And, when driven by a proprietary Epson ZX Picture Processor for powerful picture processing, the Pro Cinema LS12000 produces incredible brightness, color accuracy, and image detail to faithfully display all your content the way it was meant to be seen. $5000
Hisense PX1-PRO TriChroma Laser Cinema - The PX1-PRO features the award-winning TriChroma laser engine to achieve full coverage of the BT.2020 color space for a true-to-life picture. With its Digital Lens Focus the PX1-PRO delivers a razor-sharp 4K image in sizes from 90 to 130-inches. Add to that premium features eARC for lossless audio, Filmmaker Mode, and smart home integrations and you've got yourself an Ultra Short Throw brimming with entertainment potential. Support for Dolby Vision $3000
Hisense U8H - Featuring a Mini LED upgrade paired with Hisense's ULED technology and Quantum Dot, the U8H delivers vibrant colors, impressive contrast, and its trademark bright picture for a fantastic HDR experience. For those looking for a stunning picture and a robust set of premium features, the U8H delivers. $1,500 for 75"
Kaleidescape Compact Terra 22TB Movie Server - The compact Terra 22TB can store over 350 4K UHD movies or over 650 movies with a mix of 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and DVD-quality titles, and serve up to 5 simultaneous 4K UHD playbacks. The compact Terra allows customers the flexibility to add playback zones and grow their movie collection over time. Up to four compact Terra servers can be combined in a single system for more storage. $11,000 plus you need Strato C players which are priced at $3,995 each.
LG CineBeam HU915QB Premium 4K UHD Laser Projector - The LG CineBeam HU915QB Projector is the total premium package for integrators and customers alike, offering a suite of CI-centric features, astonishing immersion with a 3-channel laser, plus an ultra-short 0.19 throw ratio. Install it just inches from the wall to give your customers dazzling color and contrast—all at epic proportions. $6,500
LG OLED Flex (Model LX3) - With LG OLED Flex, go from a flat display all the way to a spectacular 900R curve* until you find the ideal arc for total immersion. Simply press the curvature button on your remote control and explore 20 different levels of curve. LG hasn't released pricing for its new LG OLED Flex TV, nor a release date.
Lutron Palladiom Wire-Free Shading System - The Palladiom Wire-Free Shading System offers both simple, wire-free installation and precise, automated control of daylight in our most refined aesthetic. Extend the ultimate in design flexibility to every room in every home - for both existing homes and new construction. This shade uses no more than six D-cell batteries, while still maintaining an industry-leading battery life of three to five years using fewer batteries.
Samsung Neo QLED QN100B 4K TV - Get immersed in this virtually edgeless, all picture 98" Class Infinity Screen television. Our best AI-Neural Processor always displays glorious 4K, powers the latest Smart TV Apps and fills the room with sound, all in an ultra-sleek high end metal design. Brilliant details in any light with Quantum Matrix Technology. Powered by a huge grid of Samsung's ultra-precise Quantum Mini LEDs, it takes exact control of the individual zones of light in your picture for breathtaking color and contrast. No pricing yet. But the QN90A 98" is currently selling for $15,000. So probably close to that.
Samsung The Frame QLED 4K Smart TV - The Frame transforms to art when you're not watching TV. Choose from the Samsung Collection or upload your own pieces to reflect your personality. $3000 for 75" Frame extra but right now Samsung is running a promotion where the frame is free.
Sonus (NOT SONOS) faber Arena - Handmade in Italy by our experienced Artisans of Sound, Arena delivers the acoustic power and dynamics required for hi-performance home cinema with the Natural Sound signature, definition, and details for which Sonus faber has been long admired. Anchored by our patented subwoofer technology, ARENA is a step forward in your private home cinema innovation. Pricing… well if you have to ask…
Sony A95K - Discover the next dimension in entertainment with our breakthrough QD-OLED panel and ingenious, multi-purpose Dual Style design. See the world come vividly to life with unprecedented color and pure black contrast, powered by Cognitive Processor XR™. $3500 for 65"
Sony VPL-XW7000ES - The compact, beautifully styled VPL-XW7000ES blends effortlessly into today's living spaces. The native 4K HDR laser projector features a long-lasting laser light source delivers an impressive 3,200 lumens brightness – plenty for vibrant, punchy pictures even in brightly lit living rooms, home cinemas and media rooms. $28000
Victrola Stream Carbon - Experience your vinyl like never before in rich, vivid sound via your Sonos system. The Victrola Stream Carbon has been certified by the Works with Sonos program, ensuring that the integration meets Sonos' highest standards. Made from premium materials, the Victrola Stream Carbon features a sleek modern design that will be a statement piece in any environment. Equipped with a carbon fiber tonearm, meticulously machined aluminum headshell, and a premium Ortofon 2M Red cartridge, the Victrola Stream Carbon delivers on both sound and aesthetics. The easy-to-adjust tonearm counterweight provides the perfect downforce for dynamic frequency response and increased clarity. $800

For reference. Here are the Residential Systems Best of Show Awards Winners

Arlington Industries CH1
Autonomic Advanced Music Bridge
Crestron Home OS
Crestron LED Light Fixtures
DMF Lighting DMF Lighting iX Series
DreamScreen UltraWeave screen fabric
Hisense U8H
Hunter Douglas PowerView Gen 3 Automation
Integrated Fiber Platform IFP Connect
Just Add Power 718KVM and 749KVM transmitters
Kaleidescape, Inc. Compact Terra 22TB Movie Server
Legrand Shading Systems Designer Series Decorative Brackets and Hembar Endcaps
LG Electronics G2 OLED evo Gallery Edition TV
Lithe Audio Pro Series Wi-Fi Multiroom Ceiling Speaker
Lutron Electronics Palladiom Wire-Free Shading System
MetraAV Big Dog Power – Smart Power Distribution Unit (PDU)
Modulus Media systems Modulus M2
Natufia One
NETGEAR M4250 Desktop Models
One Firefly, LLC Video Pioneer
Orro Orro S
Planar Luxe UltraRes X 100
Portal.io 'Payments' by Portal.io
Quantum Media Systems Cinematic XDR LED Video Wall
Samsung The Wall All-in-One (IAB)
Samsung The Frame QLED 4K Smart TV
Savant Home backup & Restore
Shade Pocket Bracket
Sonus faber SPA Arena
Sony Electronics X95K
Sony Electronics HT-A7000
Victrola Stream Carbon
WALL-SMART for Savant Ascend Keypads

Podcast #169: 5 Ways Matter Will Disappoint and Denon 2022 Lineup Sep 30, 2022

Show notes

This week we look at five ways Matter will disappoint you at launch. Spoiler, we don't think it will. We also take a look at the new lineup of Denon Receivers for 2022. We round out the episode with email and news.

News:

5 ways Matter will disappoint users at launch

After participating in a panel on Matter at Silicon Labs' Works With event on Tuesday and conversing with attendees throughout the event, I think the initial response to Matter is going to be tepid at best and downright aggravated at worst. Full article here…

New Denon Receivers for 2022

The new A/V receivers all pass 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz signals via HDMI and are compatible with just about every HDR format(Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, HLG, and BT.2020). Denon's new line-up combines popular 3D formats such as Dolby Atmos®, DTS:X®, IMAX Enhanced and Auro 3D, along with Dolby Surround, DTS:X and others.

Finally, the new receivers all work with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri for voice control of major functions, and Denon has added a new set of front panel indicators that visually confirm the kind of signal that's being processed (4K/8K/HDR).

A-Series

AVR-A1H: AVR-A1H is the latest in Denon's class-leading "A-Series" of receivers, designed to deliver the ultimate home-theater experience. With 15 channels of amplification, Denon's most powerful transformer, carefully selected parts, and hefty, high-rigidity construction, the flagship AVR-A1H delivers a professional theater experience in your home cinema, perfect for cinephiles of the greatest caliber to fill large rooms with engulfing 3D sound. The A1H will support Dirac Live upgradability with a future software update. $6,499.00 Coming Soon!

X- Series

AVR-X580BT: The Denon AVR-X580BT offers an entry-level AV receiver for those looking to enhance their home theater set up. This powerful 5.2 channel AVR provides 70W per channel. Could not find pricing info

AVR-X2800H: Fill medium-sized rooms with more refined sound using this 7.2 channel AV receiver with 95W per channel. The Denon AVR-X2800H consists of increased HDMI 2.1 connectivity with three 8K inputs, which leads to supporting higher video resolution and refresh rates. $1,199.00 Available Now

AVR-X3800H: Powering 105W per channel, the Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4 channel 8K AV receiver delivers an enveloping 3D audio experience and amazing picture quality to satisfy the most discerning home theater enthusiast. The X3800 will support Dirac Live upgradability with a future software update. $1,699.00 Available Now

AVR-X4800H: This 9.4 channel AV receiver, powering 125W per channel, delivers breathtaking 3D audio that perfectly matches high-definition video up to 8K. With nine channels of amplification and up to four independent subwoofers, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X plus IMAX Enhanced and Auro 3D, this unit envelops large rooms in theater-quality sound. The X4800 will support Dirac Live upgradability with a future software update. $2,499.00 Coming Soon

S-Series

AVR-S570BT: For movie lovers looking to take the first step in upgrading their home theater experience or those who want better quality sound in a smaller space, this powerful 5.2 channel AVR, with 70W per channel, is the perfect entry-level accompaniment to any users' set-up. The Denon AVR-S570BT is available in North America only. Could not find pricing info

AVR-S970H: Offering 90W per channel power, the Denon AVR-S970H 7.2 channel AV receiver consists of three 8K inputs, leading to an increased HDMI 2.1 connectivity and delivers support of higher video resolution and refresh rates. $899.00 Coming Soon

Podcast #1068: Sunday Ticket without the Satellite and The Fosi Digital Amp for Audiphiles Sep 23, 2022

Show notes

This week we take an extended look at an email from Chris who is paying for two sports packages but still can't watch all his team's games. Is there a VPN solution? Did you know you can get Sunday Ticket from DirecTV without a Satellite? There are some limitations but we have the info. Finally we have a brief review of two portable amplifiers from Fosi Audio that pack a huge punch. All that plus your emails and the week's news!

News:

Other:

VPN for dummies

I use Xfinity for cable & internet service in Central PA but also have an apartment in Central NC with ATT internet.

Back home, if I subscribe to MLB.tv, I can watch all games except for the Pirates and Phillies. My team is the Orioles.

In Central NC, the Orioles are blacked out even though the stadium is 5.5 hours away (it's only 3 hours from Central PA). Figure that one out...

Your show on 9/16 talked about Sling Box and VPNs.

I don't mind paying for a service but when you are paying (sometimes multiple times), it is frustrating to not get what you pay for.

(((Ara, you'd appreciate this-I am a Washington Capitals fan. I pay for the NHL Network, I subscribe to the ESPN+, and when I go to a youth hockey tournament, I cannot use my Roku in the hotel to watch a Caps game that night because it's on the NHL Network...which I pay for back home!)))

There are alot of YouTube videos about VPNs but a simple questions is:

what is the best way to use my laptop in Central NC and make it think I am in Central PA? Xfinity will only let you watch certain "To Go" channels if you are on your home wifi. NHL Network is one of them. I can record the event but then only watch it after it completes the recording.

Thanks guys.

Chris

Sunday Ticket without Satellite

NFL Sunday Ticket

Offer Details:

NFLSUNDAYTICKET.TV service is only available to non-DIRECTV customers who live in select multi-dwelling unit buildings (apartments, condos, etc.,) nationwide in the U.S. where DIRECTV service is not available
Live in select areas within various metropolitan cities
Live in a residence that has been verified as unable to receive DIRECTV satellite TV service due to obstructions blocking access to satellite signals
Actively or previously enrolled college students
NFLSUNDAYTICKET.TV U only available to students actively enrolled or previously enrolled within the last 18 months in post-secondary educational institutions from the date of purchase.
NFLSUNDAYTICKET.TV consists of all out-of-market Sunday regular-season NFL games (based on customer's device location) broadcast on FOX and CBS.
Games broadcast by your local FOX or CBS affiliate will not be available in NFLSUNDAYTICKET.TV.
Access via NFL SUNDAY TICKET App to only one game at a time based on device location.

If you qualify, here are the packages and prices:

NFLSUNDAYTICKET.TV TO GO - $69.49 for four months or $277.96

INCLUDES

Enjoy every live out-of-market game every Sunday afternoon.(Eligibility restrictions and other conditions apply)
Watch on your compatible tablet, smartphone, laptop, or connected device like a game console
Get real-time stats and scores
Customize your Game Mix to watch up to 4 games of your choice on one screen
Track up to 20 of your favorite players with Player Tracker
Short Cuts: see whole games, commercial free, in 30 minutes

NFLSUNDAYTICKET.TV MAX - $93.49 for four months or $373.96

INCLUDES

Enjoy every out-of-market NFL game LIVE, every Sunday(select int'l games excluded)
Watch on your compatible tablet, smartphone, laptop, or connected device like a game console
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Fosi Audio Digital Amplifies

I was looking for a new amplifier to test my speakers more in different rooms of my house. So the amp needed to be small, high quality, and inexpensive. My searching around the internet landed me on Fosi. A company I had never heard of.

From the company's web site:

Audio equipment company with a focus on HiFi sound Fosi Audio was founded in 2017 by a team of engineers and music lovers with the objective of delivering high-quality audio products. After years of research and development, we have mastered the art of miniaturizing HiFi sound and bringing it to any space, big or small. Fosi Audio's range of products includes speakers, amplifiers, headphones, turntables, and other hi-end audio equipment. Our goal is to make audiophile-grade sound accessible to everyone and to further the advancement of music technology.

I first bought the BT20A ($75 direct from Fosi) which sounded really good.

Features:

Frequency Range: 20Hz - 20kHz (±1 dB)
Output power: 100W + 100W
Input mode: Bluetooth and Analog
Bluetooth 5.0 core, up to 33ft connection range
Size Product Size: 130 x 100 x 35mm (5.1 x 3.9 x 1.4 inches)
Product Weight: 700g (1.5 lbs)

The device worked great and connected instantly.The sound was quite good and would work for any desktop or temporary use outdoors. This was just the thing I needed for verifying that any speaker I build passes audio. But being so impressed with how good they sounded without Hi-Res or even AptX I looked into their higher quality amp, the DA2120C ($160 direct from Fosi)

The 2120 is far more capable but only 80W a channel, which is imperceptible even at max volume. It takes twice the wattage to hear 3dB difference at the ear.

Features:

Frequency Range: 20Hz - 20kHz (±1 dB)
Size: 180 x 130 x38mm (7x5x1.5 inches)
USB Chip: Cmedia CM6642 SUPPORT 24bit/192Khz
Bluetooth Chip: Qualcomm QCC3031 Bluetooth 5.0 chip supports aptX, aptX-HD, SBC, AAC
Output Power: 2 × 80W at 10% THD+N Into 8 Ω

The main reason I decided to upgrade is that I want to put the highest quality audio through my speakers to determine their quality. The 2120 gives me a lot of connection options, Bluetooth, USB, optical, coaxial, and RCA. There is also a remote that you can use to select the inputs, switch modes, adjust the volume, bass, treble and EQ to dial in your sound.

The sound was outstanding. Listening to my favorites sounded as good as they did when using my SVS amp. Deep tight bass and bright highs. I find my latest speakers are a bit brighter than my typical JBL 2500 makeover. That is due to the fact that I ended up using a Dayton Audio 1 inch Titanium tweeter instead of the ones that come with the 2500. There is a video that goes along with this on our Youtube channel but we'll link it here as well.

In my comparison of 24bit 192Khz audio vs what was being sent via AptX Bluetooth, I couldn't hear a difference. As much as I tried I just couldn't. It could be my ears, the speakers, or even the recording. But it did sound really good. So good that it may replace my SVS amp as my main amp for my office. If you are looking for a small portable amp check out the Fosi Audio BT20A and the DA2120C you will thank me!

For our listeners who listen to the end of the show. We are giving away the BT20A. Send an email to htguys@htguys.com with Bluetooth Amp in the subject line. We'll pick a winner at random and announce it on next week's show. We won't mention this anywhere else so entries will be small. Contest open to anyone with a US mailing address. Entries must be received by Wed October 28th at Noon Pacific Time. Void where prohibited.

Podcast #1067: Fluid One: Next Generation Smart Home Control and Network TV Premiers Sep 16, 2022

Show notes

This week we take a look at a startup home automation company, Fluid One. Their goal is to seamlessly connect your actions, your decisions, and your home. Then we go through the network shows and premiere dates. We also read your emails and the week's news.

News:

Fluid One: Next Generation Smart Home Control and Automation

We found a super interesting Kick starter project called Fluid One. It takes home automation into the AR realm and if it works is pretty cool. From the campaign page: At Fluid, we aim to seamlessly connect your actions, your decisions, and your home - making the environment around you its own responsive interface.They are trying to raise $100,000 but at the time of this writing have only secured about $9,500 from 40 backers.

We know what you're thinking. Do we need another Home Automation controller? Probably not a typical one, but this one has some unique features that may appeal to some of you. Most notably, to control a device you simply aim your smartphone at it and the relevant controls appear on your screen. You can also use gestures with the phone like swiping up to turn something on or swipe down to turn it off.

Fluid One also makes setup straight forward as well. You aim your phone at the device, tap it and then select it from automatically discovered devices. This also places an air marker at the location. There are some aspects of the setup that the developers claim makes it simple but based on our experience some people will find it overwhelming. The whole concept of laying out the home floor plan including furniture placement is very cool and precise. But that will turn some people off.

Setting up Zones and automations as you walk through them are also very cool, but again, many people just want a few lights to turn on at sundown. So the question is who is this system for? Do we need a home automation system this sophisticated?

Smart Device and Phone Compatibility:

Fluid Lite comes directly compatible with all Homekit devices. To gain access to even more devices, Fluid One enables control over Homebridge, Home Assistant, and any IR devices, amounting to over 2000+ compatible integrations.

Fluid One will also be fully Matter compatible upon its upcoming release.

The lowest pledge for the Very Early Bird Fluid One Lite is $249 which gets you access to Fluid controls in a Primary Area in your home. When the product comes to market it will cost Retail $399.

INCLUDES:

4× Smart Node

ESTIMATED DELIVERY

Aug 2023

Only available in the United States

For $799 you get the Special Fluid One Pro which gets access to Fluid Controls in a Primary Area and Automation in a Primary Area plus four Extension Areas

INCLUDES:

8× Smart Node
Smart Hub

ESTIMATED DELIVERY

Aug 2023

Fall 2022 Premiers

It's that time of year when our favorite shows come back with new episodes and we get new content as well. The following is the release dates for new and returning shows on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and CW

ABC

ABC 2022-2023 Fall TV Lineup: New Shows and Trailers

Wednesday, Sept. 21

8 p.m.: The Conners

8:30 p.m.: The Goldbergs

9 p.m.: Abbott Elementary

9:31 p.m.: Home Economics

10 p.m.: Big Sky

Friday, Sept. 23

8 p.m.: Shark Tank

9:01 p.m.: 20/20 (two hours)

Sunday, Sept. 25

10 p.m.: The Rookie

Tuesday, Sept. 27

8 p.m.: Bachelor in Paradise

10 p.m.: The Rookie: Feds (NEW SERIES)

Sunday, Oct. 2

7 p.m.: America's Funniest Home Videos

Monday, Oct. 3

8 p.m.: Bachelor in Paradise

10 p.m.: The Good Doctor

Thursday, Oct. 6

8 p.m.: Station 19

9 p.m.: Grey's Anatomy

10 p.m. Alaska Daily (NEW SERIES)

ABC 2022-2023 Midseason Premieres

New seasons of A Million Little Things and The Wonder Years will premiere on ABC at midseason sometime in 2023. Additionally, Gina Rodriguez's comedy Not Dead Yet, Milo Ventimiglia's drama The Company You Keep, and the adaptation Will Trent will also premiere early next year.

CBS

CBS Lineup: All the New Shows and Trailers Coming in Fall 2022

Saturday, Sept. 17

10 p.m.: 48 Hours

Sunday, Sept. 18

7:30 p.m.: 60 Minutes

Monday, Sept. 19

8 p.m.: The Neighborhood

8:30 p.m.: Bob (Hearts) Abishola

9 p.m.: NCIS

10 p.m.: NCIS: Hawai'i

Tuesday, Sept. 20

8 p.m.: FBI

9 p.m.: FBI: International

10 p.m.: FBI: Most Wanted

Wednesday, Sept. 21

8 p.m.: Survivor

10 p.m.: The Amazing Race

Sunday, Sept. 25

8 p.m.: Big Brother

Thursday, Sept. 29

8 p.m.: Young Sheldon

8:30 p.m.: Ghosts

9 p.m.: So Help Me Todd (NEW SERIES)

10 p.m.: CSI: Vegas

Sunday, Oct. 2

8:30 p.m.: The Equalizer

9:30 p.m.: East New York (NEW SERIES)

Wednesday, Oct. 5

9 p.m.: The Real Love Boat

10 p.m.: The Amazing Race

Friday, Oct. 7

8 p.m.: S.W.A.T.

9 p.m.: Fire Country (NEW SERIES)

10 p.m.: Blue Bloods

Sunday, Oct. 9

10 p.m.: NCIS: Los Angeles

CBS 2022-2023 Midseason Premieres

Fans will have to wait until midseason to see CBS's TV adaptation of True Lies.

Fox

Fox Lineup: All the New Shows and Trailers Coming in Fall 2022

Sunday, Sept. 11

After NFL: Monarch (NEW SERIES)

Monday, Sept. 19

8/7c: 9-1-1

9/8c: The Cleaning Lady

Tuesday, Sept. 20

8/7c: The Resident

9/8c: Monarch (regular time slot)

Wednesday, Sept. 21

8/7c: The Masked Singer

9/8c: Lego Masters

Sunday, Sept. 25

8/7c: The Simpsons

8:30/7:30c: The Great North

9/8c: Bob's Burgers

9:30/8:30c: Family Guy

Thursday, Sept. 29

8/7c: Hell's Kitchen

9/8c: Welcome to Flatch

9:30/8:30c: Call Me Kat

Fox 2022-2023 Midseason Premieres

Fox's midseason debuts include 9-1-1: Lone Star, new dramas Accused and Alert, and new animated comedies Krapopolis and Grimsburg.

NBC

NBC Lineup: All the New Shows and Trailers Coming in Fall 2022

Monday, Sept. 19

8 p.m.: The Voice

10 p.m.: Quantum Leap (NEW SERIES)

Tuesday, Sept. 20

8 p.m.: The Voice

10 p.m.: New Amsterdam

Wednesday, Sept. 21

8 p.m.: Chicago Med

9 p.m.: Chicago Fire

10 p.m.: Chicago PD

Thursday, Sept. 22

8 p.m.: Law & Order

9 p.m.: Law & Order: SVU

10 p.m.: Law & Order: Organized Crime

Saturday, Sept. 24

9 p.m.: Dateline Weekend Mystery

10 p.m.: SNL Vintage

Tuesday, Sept. 27

9 p.m.: La Brea

Friday, Nov. 4

8 p.m.: Lopez vs Lopez (NEW SERIES)

8:30 p.m.: Young Rock

NBC 2022-2023 Midseason Premieres

NBC's midseason and summer debuts include Night Court, Grand Crew, American Auto, and The Blacklist. NBC has yet to announce a release date for Magnum, P.I. after rescuing the reboot from CBS's scrap pile. Production is underway, so we're unlikely to see new episodes until midseason at the earliest.

The CW 2022-2023 Fall TV Lineup: New Shows and Trailers

Wednesday, Aug. 31

8 p.m.: DC's Stargirl

9 p.m.: Wellington Paranormal

9:30 p.m.: Wellington Paranormal

Sunday, Oct. 2

8 p.m.: Family Law

9 p.m.: Coroner

Wednesday, Oct. 5

8 p.m.: DC's Stargirl

9 p.m.: Kung Fu

Thursday, Oct. 6

8 p.m.: Walker

9 p.m.: Walker: Independence (NEW SERIES)

Friday, Oct. 7

8 p.m.: IHEARTRADIO Music Festival (Night One)

Saturday, Oct. 8

8 p.m.: IHEARTRADIO Music Festival (Night Two)

Monday, Oct. 10

8 p.m.: All American

9 p.m.: All American: Homecoming

Tuesday, Oct. 11

8 p.m.: The Winchesters (NEW SERIES)

9 p.m.: Professionals

Friday, Oct. 14

8 p.m.: Penn & Teller: Fool Us

9 p.m.: Whose Line Is It Anyway?

9:30 p.m.: Whose Line Is It Anyway?

Saturday, Oct. 22

8 p.m.: Criss Angel's Magic with the Stars (NEW SERIES)

9 p.m.: World's Funniest Animals

9:30 p.m.: World's Funniest Animals

The CW 2022-2023 Midseason Premieres

Fans will have to wait until midseason for new episodes of Riverdale, The Flash, Superman & Lois, and Nancy Drew. Gotham Knights will join the schedule in 2023.

Podcast #1066: Home Theater Trends Sep 09, 2022

Show notes

This week we take a meta look at Home Theater Trends by comparing what different groups are saying. Let's see if there are any common threads. We also read your emails and the week's news.

News:

Five Home Theater Trends

We decided to take a meta look at this subject by comparing what different groups are saying. Let's see if there are any common threads.

First up is a West Palm Beach Company called ETC. The company's vision is: "company vision is to enhance our customer's lifestyle using technology to simplify their lives."

Comfort is desired more than ever - Most of us think of a home theater as a mini-theater-like space complete with stadium seating. Some people still enjoy such a space, but the trends are evolving, and people are investing more in comfortable recliners or loungers to relax while binge-watching their favorite shows.

Multi-Use Rooms - Today many homeowners want to invest in home theaters, but they find it difficult to allocate an entire room to theater. This has resulted into a growing demand for modern home theaters, which allows homeowners to have a multi-use room where their whole family can sit together and have quality time. Home theater is now becoming the heart of the family by enabling people to watch movies, stream shows, or simply do gaming while sitting at their favorite place.

Screens - Screens make one of the most common elements of a home theater. A good quality and a high-resolution screen is a must whether you are investing in a home theater for watching a movie, series, gaming, or streaming. The screen is truly the key focus area of home theaters. It can make or break the look and feel of your home theater. The market is expanding with many good quality screen options for home theaters, which makes it one of the key trends that will stay longer than you think.

High Speed Internet - Today most people choose various OTT services available in the market to fulfill their entertainment needs. For feasible home theater installation, you need a good and reliable high-speed internet connection.

Soundbars - Music and sound fanatic homeowners usually have multiple speakers scattered across the room. But this isn't viable anymore. Sleek soundbars are now increasingly becoming a common name in the home theater of this age. Today, homeowners can enjoy an elevated auditory experience with fewer wires and no clutter.

Next up is Elite Home Theater Seating. Elite Home Theater Seating (Elite HTS) is an internationally recognized manufacturer of ultra-luxury home theater seating for residential and commercial projects.

Color: Serene and Neutral Tones - The choice of color is a major factor in your home theater design because it sets the room's tone. For 2022, we are going with a neutral color palette. Beiges, taupe's, grey's, and creams are a great starting point, offering a blank canvas that can make even a small home theater appear larger.

Furniture: Sculptured Curves - Curved furniture has proved to be a top trend in 2022. A curved form is interpreted as safe and welcoming. From subtly rounded to circular, curved furniture can add softness and a sense of effortless flow to your home theater.

Comfortable Lounge Seating - The desire for comfort remains a huge trend in home theater seating ideas in 2022. With families spending more time at home, homeowners have become very creative in finding new ways to enjoy the experience. The home theater is a place to go to relax and unwind, where comfort is key.

Multi-Functional Spaces - Turn your home theater into an "entertainment space" that can be used for activities that appeal to everyone in the family. Also referred to as a media room, multi-purpose, dual-purpose or hybrid room, your home theater can also be a place to listen to music, do a home workout routine or play video games.

Texture - Texture has always played a big role in interior design. This year, interior designers are predicting a huge uptick in textured materials that feel good to touch and are interesting to look at. Texture It is used to keep a space from feeling flat or one-dimensional and adds warmth and dimension. It can also be used to make a room pop. It has "visual weight," drawing attention to itself, and creates contrast to help the room look balanced.

Residential Systems serves the custom home entertainment and automation design and installation professionals with solid business solutions to real-world problems.

Dedicated Spaces - Dedicated theater spaces are being specified and designed more than ever, possibly because consumers are tired of having multi-use spaces in every room of the home and want a room devoted to just being entertained. We are also seeing them being added to housing plans right from the start.

Streaming is King - Media production and consumption is extremely disruptive, and some might say out of control. It's such a big topic right now the CEDIA Expo keynote will feature Greg Durkin from Guts+Data who will focus on the streaming content conundrum, the overload felt by the consumer, and what integrators can do to help. These days most visual media are being streamed, but there are so many services it's hard to keep track of them all and remember what show is on which service.

Immersive Music and Atmos - Home theaters are not just for movies anymore immersive mu-

sic has contributed to the new ways people are using their media spaces, driven by the surge in popularity for Dolby Atmos technology by the consumer.

"So often we see that clients have not thought about how they may use their dedicated theater to listen to music," says Adam Pelz, CEO of Bespoke Home Cinemas. "Generally, consumers may be used to a 2-channel system or using headphones or Bluetooth connections in their car to listen to music. In our final walkthroughs with clients, we will spend a significant amount of time showing them what playing live concert recordings and high-fidelity music would be like in their theater environment. They leave in awe of the immersive experience."

Video Processors and Calibration - Those who have been around a few decades can remember the massive demand for video processors to go along with giant CRT projectors. Back in those days it was needed to take the lower quality media formats and reproduce them at a higher quality.

However, video processors are more necessary now than ever before. "Integrators need to understand and communicate to their customers that some level of dynamic tone mapping is required to get really good HDR quality; the way it is being handled without outboard video processing is poor at best,' he says. "We are seeing huge differences in the quality of the mid-line projectors when you add a video processor." Along with video processing, video and audio calibrations can take a well-designed system and put it over the top.

Video Walls - Video walls in the residential space took off back in 2017 with the introduction of The Wall by Samsung. These days there are options by the other top consumer brands and the trend is continuing to grow.

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