Samsung FPT5894W 58-Inch 1080p Wireless Plasma HDTV Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Wireless causes the picture to delay for at least 180ms, your surround reciever needs to be able to delay or it will look like a bad synch'ed movie. Not any good for Wii or PS3, the wireless does break up once i a while, but there is no cable mess at all. I will return this TV and get another with long HDMI cables.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Samsung FPT5894W 58-Inch 1080p Wireless Plasma HDTV

Click here for more information about Samsung FPT5894W 58-Inch 1080p Wireless Plasma HDTV

SMC EZ-Stream Wireless Audio Adapter. ( SMCWAA-B ) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)After rsearching for several weeks various of the wireless digital devices, I focused on the SMC SMCWAA-B EZ Stream. Looking soley for a device to 'pull' my music (no video, etc) to my living room from my PC, I wanted something inexpensive, compact, WMA (version 9) capable, and able to stream internet radio. Though there are no reviews of the EZ Stream, I spotted one on Ebay and in two days (a first) held in both hands a slightly used EzStream (for $59 including shipping; they seem to be available new for around $110.)
The only other unit I might have considered would have been a Apple Airport Express, which requires iTunes and can't play (but will import) WMA's.
Happily after an hour of only mildly tedious configuration, the Ez Stream began delivering music to my living room stereo under the control of a handy but fairly small-buttoned remote.
I'm very satisfied with just a few niggles. SMC has great product and if they take care of a few things, they'll have a home run.
The device itself has a cheezy feel and look. Think 'cheap and cheerful' and you'll have the right picture. While the 'Steam would look fine next to most pieces of office computer equipment, it looks strangely cheap and out of place in a living room. The unit has a blue screen that also looks a tad down-market, though it's the case itself that could use the most attention.
More seriously, the manual is poorly organized and rather light on instruction. If you aren't technically savvy, I'd forget about the EZ Stream. Then again, what technically impaired person would be interested in such a device?
I use a wireless network with WEP enabled and this proved tedious to resolve. Along with Musicmatch the unit ships with a "utility" for the device itself. The setup didn't mention when to use the utiltiy -- in fact it would have made configuring the WEP security much easier. Either way, I had to guess at whether my WEP key was HEX or ASCII and whether it was 64 or 128 bit. I was able to deduce which setting was correct only because my KEY is 26 digits and so is the HEX 128 setting.
And then there's Musicmatch... I really wish the unit could use Windows Media Player. I've submitted to now having yet another music management software on my computer. Specifically I also own an iRiver IHP120 which allows music to be stored and accessed by folder. I consider this by far the easiest way to access music. And while Musicmatch will allow you to browse your music by folder while on the PC, the EZ Stream only uses the Artist, Album, Genre modality -- which leaves me in TAG HELL. The only other device that could handle folder based music organization was the CD30 C series -- but that presently won't work with WMA9's.
I have the unit set up probably less than 20 feet from the AP and every now and then it cuts out. For some reason the signal strength isn't that great and may have more to do with the construction of our house and the Linksys AP than the SMC.
I'd also love to have several EZ Streams set up through the house, which you can do -- however I don't think there's a way to synchronize them and emulate 'whole house audio.'
And lastly, SMC seems to exist ephemerally: their web site isn't very up to date, and you can't download a copy of the manual before buying. Also, there's no user forum -- always the best support a product can have. And oddly, as of July, 2004 there isn't a single review by say PC Magazine or any of the tech web sites; the device was announced in January 2004!
The digital audio receiver market is in its infancy. No doubt this market will mature significantly in the next few years. In the meantime, the SMC Ez Stream does what it's intended to do with little fanfare and at a low price.

Click Here to see more reviews about: SMC EZ-Stream Wireless Audio Adapter. ( SMCWAA-B )

Click here for more information about SMC EZ-Stream Wireless Audio Adapter. ( SMCWAA-B )

Kensington 33350 Entertainment Dock 500 with Charger for iPod Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This docking station exceeded my expectations. I am using this dock with my 30GB Video iPod and the sound quality is great. I earlier tried hooking the iPod directly to my Denon receiver using iPod's mini-jack with composite audio cables but the output wasn't right. It was on the low side. After I hooked the audio out from Kensignton Dock to my receiver, the sound quality is very crisp and awesome.
The S-Video out from Dock is connected to the receiver as well and the video quality on 50 inch widescreen TV is great. I converted some home videos to MP4 format at 512 kbps and the video looks good on big screen.
Pros:
- Sleek and compact dock
- Amazing sound quality. No distortion noticed
- Charges iPod while playing
- S-Video Out provides nice video and photo display on TV
- Remote is RF based so you can operate it from any direction. Remote has good range. The ability to press and hold 'Select' button to move up the menus is very nice
- Docks nicely even with iPod skin on
- Comes with world charger (100 to 240 volts) so you can carry it outside U.S
Cons:
- Menus don't display on TV so it limits menu navigation through remote from a distance. This was not an advertised feature anyway in Kensignton Dock but new docks will come out with this feature soon

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kensington 33350 Entertainment Dock 500 with Charger for iPod

With the Kensington 33350 Entertainment Dock 500 for iPods you can enjoy all your favorite music, video and photos in your home with a touch of a remote control. The Entertainment Dock 500 lets you also display your videos and photos from your iPod through your TV.
The Kensington 33350 entertainment dock lets you listen to music through your home stereo, as well as play a soundtrack while you view your favorite photos or play your favorite videos over your home entertainment system. What's more, this handy unit comes with a wireless RF remote control that lets you operate your iPod from up to 50 feet away, and simultaneously charges your iPod in its cradle. Constructed with both an audio/video out, as well as S-video, this system is simple plug-and-play, without requiring you to change any settings or download any new software.
This unit has a built-in Universal Dock that allows it to work with the iPod or iPod mini with dock connector, as well as the new iPod nano and video--including the iPod 3G, iPod 4G (Click Wheel), iPod color, and iPod 5G/5.5G Video--and is backed by Kensington's 2-year warranty.
What's in the Box Kensington 33350 Entertainment Dock 500, an audio/video cable, a wireless radio frequency remote, an AC power adapter, a user's guide and warranty information.

Click here for more information about Kensington 33350 Entertainment Dock 500 with Charger for iPod

Logitech Harmony H-659 Advanced Universal Remote Control (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I'll make this easy - the Harmony Remotes are the most brilliantly designed piece of consumer electronics I have fiddled with in a long, long time. I have a system of slghtly above average complexity - a 60" projection TV, Onkyo Home Theater receiver, Nintendo Gamecube, PC-based MP3 server (home built), and a combo DVD/VCR. The web-based configuration pretty much nailed all the settings, and the wizard is a great example of someone that did their homework when it came to figuring out all the possible "use cases" for my set up. Its probably not going to be perfect, though, unless you are using all very common components; you will probably have to tweak some of the settings. For example, after selecting the model number of my JVC combo VCR/DVD player, the standard functions worked fine, but the navigation between menus on DVDs was flakey and inconsistent - I went on the harmony web site, tweaked the settings by learning the missing commands, and voila - it works perfectly now.
OK, so why do some people give such seemingly contradictory negative reviews (definitely the minority of reviews)? I have a theory - the Harmony has no idea of what your little kids, guests, or even pets might do to the settings on your AV equipment. The Harmony can only remember the state it left things in. If your 5-year old (or your mother in law) walks up and picks up the TV remote (or goes to the front of the TV) and fiddles with the video inputs, it will throw the Harmony off (the Harmony will think it is set to "S-video" for example, but it might have been changed by your curious 4-year old to "Satellite" or something.)
But this is actually where the Harmony really shines, in my opinon - and shows how brilliant the design is. When things get out of whack, all you have to do it press the "Help" button on the remote, and it will start walking through settings and asking questions in order to determine where the problem is. In over a year of using the Harmony 659, I have yet to encounter a situation where this did not resolve the problem immediately. In fact, I used to get calls at my office from my wife, frantically trying to put in a video for the kids, but not being able to get it to display on the TV (I have it set up to display DVDs via the component connections, but VCR via the S-Video). I'm not kidding, this would happen twice a week - and I would have to walk her through all the settings on the various remotes until things were fixed. With the Harmony, this is no longer an issue - in fact, I have not had a single call in over a year about the A/V setup - that is worth the $100 alone! :-)
I'll provide an example from just this moment - I was programming a new component on the remote while my kids were watching a video. After programming the device, it assumes everything is turned off (which the system was not). My 5-year old picked up the remote, pointed it at the TV, and pushed the "off" button. Nothing happened (because the Harmony thinks things are already off. So, I just picked up the remote, hit the "help" button, and it send a command. The receiver turned off, but not the DVD player. The remote displayed a message that said "Did that fix the problem?" When I selected "No" it then asked if the DVD was off. When I selected "No" it turned it off and then asked "Did that fix the problem?" again. I selected "Yes" and now the remote and the system are back in synch. Very cool
So, the bottom line is that my 5-year old can now walk into the family room, grab the harmony by himself, and push the "watch a movie" button, stick in a video, and he is all set. It used to take assistance from an adult to turn on the TV, turn on the VCR, turn on the receiver, and then set everything to the right input, etc. In fact, my wife said to me recently "I wish you had gotten one of these a long time ago!"

Click Here to see more reviews about: Logitech Harmony H-659 Advanced Universal Remote Control (Black)

A good universal remote may control an entire home entertainment system, but more often than not, it also looks like the instrument panel of the space shuttle, with dozens of intimidating and confusing keys. Enter the Logitech Harmony 659 remote, which is not only simple to program and use, but also consolidates a user's preferences for watching TV, viewing movies, or listening to music into three clearly labeled buttons. Simply press the Watch a Movie, Watch TV, or Listen to Music button to activate all the appropriate equipment--including surround sound components--and the remote does the rest. The device will automatically switch to your favorite settings for each component, while offering you a host of customized controls on its interactive LCD screen. It's called Smart State Technology, and it puts you and your family back in control of your home theater system.
The remote is an ideal choice for families with kids, though in many cases, it's the grownups that will find the simplicity most appealing. Like many other universals, the remote lets you assign tasks to individual buttons. However, unlike most other remotes, it also lets you create new functions to specifically match your component, such as when controlling multi-angle playback or zoom on a DVD player. To do this, merely connect the Harmony remote to your computer through the USB port, install the included CD software, walk through the Web wizard's step-by-step setup process, and start programming. Once you enter the model numbers of your components and answer a few easy questions about personal preferences, you'll soon be able to control a complex home theater setup without any hassles of frustrations. The Harmony 659 also includes a learning port, which picks up commands from other infrared remote controls to simplify setup even further. And should the setup process ever get too confusing, the remote includes a handy Help button that guides you through common troubleshooting steps--the only remote on the market to do so.
The Harmony 659 is compatible with everything from surround sound systems to satellite and digital cable boxes to DVD players. As a further enticement, Logitech includes two free months of TV listings. For the computer setup to work properly, users will need to own USB-equipped computers running Windows 98 SE, 2000, Me, or XP or Macintosh OS X 10.2 or later.
What's in the Box Harmony 659 remote control, software installation CD, USB cable, four AAA batteries, quick-start guide.

Get 30% OFF

Click here for more information about Logitech Harmony H-659 Advanced Universal Remote Control (Black)

Tom Tom iPod Connect Cable and Audio Cable Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Now I'm going to sit on the fence a little bit here. I bought a TomTom GO 910 a few months ago and bought the iPod cable at the same time. I also wanted to use the TomTom as a hands free kit for my phone, via Bluetooth.
Issue number one is cables! If you're using all of this then you will have four cables trailing over your car dashboard: TomTom power, external mic, iPod cable, cable to car stereo aux input. You can reduce this cable count by one if you have a car stereo that supports Bluetooth (I don't so have not tried this).
I paid to have all of my cables routed behind the car dashboard. They come out in a neat little cluster by the corner of my windscreen. The iPod connector comes out in the glove compartment (the cable is plenty long enough).
So, functionality:
No iPod charging! This is a pretty serious omission, especially for long journeys.
The on-screen iPod controls are OK, but not excellent. Relatively responsive, but clunky compared to the iPod itself (not entirely surprising).
There is no support for compilations, so the artist list contains artists who only feature on a compilation album. This is a bit annoying, but not the end of the world.
No support for album art.
It takes a few seconds to transfer the song list to the TomTom. I have about 4000 songs on my iPod, transfer takes 2-3 seconds.
Annoyingly the TomTom volume control changes the volume of the directions voice and the iPod. It would be better to have two volume controls, or to just have the iPod audio level fixed.
When the TomTom has something to say, the iPod is paused. This is useful, but it would be nicer if there was an option to just lower the iPod volume.
And quality:
There is definitely noise on the line. It's not noticeable when driving and listening to music, but when stopped in traffic listening to an audio book you can hear the noise.
There are some bugs in the system. Occasionally the TomTom loses contact with the iPod and I have to unplug/replug it. Also sometimes after I've been playing music the TomTom will go silent (no more talking) until I power off/on.Overall I'm happy with the product as it means I can listen to anything from my iPod when I'm driving, and cost less than getting a new car stereo with iPod support, but it could certainly do with some improvements.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Tom Tom iPod Connect Cable and Audio Cable

The Tom Tom iPod Connect Cable and Audio Cable lets you enjoy easy, safe in-car entertainment by controlling your iPod via your Tom Tom GO's screen. Just plug in the iPod cable and connect the audio cable to the car stereo, and you can instantly brighten up your journey with your favorite songs and playlists in safety.
The iPod Connect Cable is designed to link an iPod to your compatible Tom Tom GO models. This unit has a 2.5-millimeter stereo-style connector on one end, and an iPod connector on the other, and is 200 centimeters in total length. This cable allows you to control your iPod via your GO touch-screen, so you can play all mp3s from your iPod and from your GO through the GO speaker. During spoken instructions and use of hands-free calling on your compatible GO, the music will automatically pause, and then start again once the call has ended.
The audio cable included in this set is a standard line-out audio cable for linking your Tom Tom GO to your car stereo. This unit has a 3.5-millimeter stereo-style connector on each end, and is 200 centimeters in total length. This cable allows you to play mp3s from your GO through your car's speakers, as well as receive spoken instructions through the car speakers. During spoken instructions and use of hands-free calling on your GO, the music will automatically pause and then start again once the call has ended.
When used in combination, these two cables let you not only control your iPod from your Tom Tom GO, but play all of your favorite music from both units through your car's speaker in an easy, plug-and-play fashion. The system lets you operate all the necessary iPod functions, such as: play, pause, fastforward, rewind, next song, previous song, shuffle, select and browse, as well as viewing the current: playlist, composer, artist, album, genre, song, and audio books. The system is compatible with iPod mini, iPod photo, iPod nano, iPod video, iPod 3rd generation and iPod 4th generation iPod products, as well as the GO 510, GO 710 and GO 910 Tom Tom products.
User's should note that the audio cable is already included in the GO 910 box as a standard, and that the iPod Connect Cable cannot be used at the same time as the Tom Tom RDS-TMC Traffic Receiver, which uses the same connector. Also make sure before purchasing this product that your car stereo has a 3.5-millimeter audio jack in order to connect via the audio cable.
What's in the Box iPod connect cable and audio cable.

Click here for more information about Tom Tom iPod Connect Cable and Audio Cable

GRIFFIN TECHNOLOGY Xpress Digital Audio Cable for Airport Express Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I wanted an optical cable to connect my MacBook to my home theater receiver, and this works just fine. I had no trouble with connecting it to my MacBook or receiver. The cable is a good length and is plenty flexible. I like it because it's cheaper than other cables that I've looked at, it comes with two mini-Toslink adapters, and it can be used as a regular Toslink cable by simply not putting on the mini-Toslink adapters.
I gave it four stars because there was a cut across part of the sheath when I took it out of the package, so I wasn't very impressed with the quality control. Luckily, the cut wasn't deep enough to penetrate the sheath into the optical fiber. Overall, I think that it's a good choice.

Click Here to see more reviews about: GRIFFIN TECHNOLOGY Xpress Digital Audio Cable for Airport Express

Click here for more information about GRIFFIN TECHNOLOGY Xpress Digital Audio Cable for Airport Express

Cmple - REMIUM IR Extender Hidden Infrared Repeater System IR Emitters Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As I write this I am still trying to locate information on the manufacturer of this product... The instructions, all 2 pages (one sided) don't mention who makes this.
To put it simply, while there is a relatively straight forward installation process, once you use the IR repeaters to cover up the windows of your device IR receivers, good luck having an easy time getting them to function. I have a TV, sound bar, dvd player, and Cable box connected through this system. Only the cable box seems to get any sort of reliable signal... and then only to change channels.
If I find a fix for this or even the manufacturers website I will repost.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cmple - REMIUM IR Extender Hidden Infrared Repeater System IR Emitters

Click here for more information about Cmple - REMIUM IR Extender Hidden Infrared Repeater System IR Emitters

TCC TC-754 BLACK RIAA Phono Preamp (Pre-amp, Preamplifier) With Three Switchable Aux Inputs and Variable Output Level Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This product has far exceeded my expectations! I bought this because I thought I could not go wrong with this price since I had just purchased new tube amps and I was using my old receiver as a pre-amp. However, I thought the sound from my SACD player was 10 times better if plugged directly into my new amps and thus this started my search for a passive pre-amp. Amazingly, the TCC TC-754 is totally quiet. I can perceive no difference in sound compared to having my components plugged directly into my amp versus being routed through this pre-amp. Although technically there is 20 dB of boost through the line outs, it does not appear to change or alter the signal to my ears. The TNT audio review was extremely helpful as it recommended a power supply upgrade. This upgrade greatly improved the TCC's phono pre-amp capabilities in my system, it really (to borrow an audiophile term) created a much larger sound stage. The phono stage is also pretty quiet but I can hear a slight hiss with the volume turned way up, but by comparison, I hear nothing at all with components turned off from the line outs when the volume is turned all the way up. The phono stage is for moving magnet cartridges only and it matched or slightly surpassed my 1990 Sansui's AV receiver's built in phono stage. One other thing that is important in evaluating audiophile gear, the burn-in or break-in period, I personally don't rationally understand this, but after listening to music through this pre-amp the sound seemed to be further mellowed, improved and warmed after about 50 hours of use. The TNT reviewer was indeed accurate in reporting this pre-amps closest competition would cost several times the TCC price. If your audio system matches well with passive pre-amp or sounds awesome with just the cd player plugged directly into the amplifier then I would highly recommend this little pre-amp! Another TNT audio reviewer's noted that his ~ $10,000 priced amps did not sound good at all with the TC-754. But that particular description reminded me of the same critiques that I have read about passive pre-amps as a class' sound with amps that need the higher gain and the other nuances of active pre-amps, but I am not an expert and I am only guessing. The TC-754 is not equipped with remote control, loudness, balance or tone settings. Instead it is product of elegant simplicity that has met my audio hobby desires perfectly!

Click Here to see more reviews about: TCC TC-754 BLACK RIAA Phono Preamp (Pre-amp, Preamplifier) With Three Switchable Aux Inputs and Variable Output Level

Get 47% OFF

Click here for more information about TCC TC-754 BLACK RIAA Phono Preamp (Pre-amp, Preamplifier) With Three Switchable Aux Inputs and Variable Output Level

NEW 7" Touch Screen 2-Din In-Dash GPS Navigation DVD Bluetooth US&Canada Map TFT LCD Display Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased this same item from a different seller. Item comes from china
its larger thae 2 din after I had o cut my dash board to install it discovered
that it did not work properly it had terrible feed back, navigation system did not
work at all, back up camera stopped working, radio stations were not clear. I paid
$200.00 to have this professionaly installed this was a huge waste of my money. take my advise by a name brand you recognize. Again I did not buy from this seller but system is the same.


Click Here to see more reviews about: NEW 7" Touch Screen 2-Din In-Dash GPS Navigation DVD Bluetooth US&Canada Map TFT LCD Display

Click here for more information about NEW 7" Touch Screen 2-Din In-Dash GPS Navigation DVD Bluetooth US&Canada Map TFT LCD Display

LaCie LaCinema Mini HD 500 GB USB 2.0 WiFi Multimedia Portable External Hard Drive 301914KUA Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The hard drive in this unit loses it's connection with the wireless, but only when 3/4 through a movie sitting on its hard drive. Do yourself a favor and consider other products. Our experience has been less than fulfilling.

Click Here to see more reviews about: LaCie LaCinema Mini HD 500 GB USB 2.0 WiFi Multimedia Portable External Hard Drive 301914KUA

Get 17% OFF

Click here for more information about LaCie LaCinema Mini HD 500 GB USB 2.0 WiFi Multimedia Portable External Hard Drive 301914KUA

Yamaha HTR-5740 6.1 Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I replaced my Sony str-dee 335 which was a 5.1 channel receiver and 100W per channel. The Yamaha 5740 has a much improved power output and a very clean sound. It easily fills a large room and powers my large floor model Klipsh speakers quite well. I believe the technical specifications above are wrong, and it is 100 W per channel. It is interesting to note that Sony reports power per channel but only when running one channel at a time. There is a sharp decline in power on the Sony product when all of the speakers are running. The Yamaha is much better in this regard. I don't particularly care for all of the different sound options (concert hall, jazz hall...), but they can add some new variety to old music. Thankfully, the receiver has a "straight" button which cuts out all of the different sound field options and just plays the media as intended. My only real complaint is that the receiver needs one more digital inputs for optional devices (such as an x-box), but I am able to hook up my TV, VCR, DVD and X-box without too much trouble, but I had to set it up slightly differently than the manual suggested (for instance I have to have my VCR on to get stereo TV broadcasts). The Yamaha compares very favorably with higher priced Dennon units. I find this to be a great buy, and would purchase it again.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha HTR-5740 6.1 Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver

For high-quality, future-ready home theater on a budget, look no further than Yamaha's HTR-5740 audio/video receiver. The HTR-5740 offers the convenience of DVD-Audio/SACD-ready analog inputs alongside the latest 6.1-channel surround processing and premium Yamaha sound technologies. Finished in traditional black, the receiver will disappear in your darkened living room during movies.When hooked up with the digital-audio output from a DVD-Video player or digital satellite receiver, the 85-watts-per-channel HTR-5740 handles 5.1-channel surround decoding for both major formats, Dolby Digital and DTS. In addition, the receiver processes Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS Neo:6, DTS-ES Matrix 6.1, and DTS-EX Discrete 6.1. The extended-surround formats create even more expansive soundfields through a center-rear channel, resulting in six discrete, full-range signals in addition to the LFE (low-frequency effects) channel: front left/right, surround left/right, and front/rear center channels.A key benefit from a Yamaha receiver, of course, is Yamaha's proprietary signal processing, including Cinema DSP (digital soundfield processing), which creates aural "imaging" that not only makes your home sound like a theater, but also sounds better than most movie theaters. Based on a wealth of measured data in real studios and halls, Cinema DSP is designed to bring out the full potential of movie sound mixes, reproducing them the way directors and sound engineers intended.Non-Dolby Digital and DTS sources can benefit from surround processing, too. With enhanced directional steering over standard four-channel Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Pro Logic II provides 5.1 channels of surround processing from any stereo source--whether that's a TV broadcast, VHS tapes, or your favorite CDs, cassettes, and LPs.And, when you're listening to multichannel presentations late at night, you'll appreciate Silent Cinema, which simulates 5.1-channel listening through a pair of ordinary 2-channel headphones (not included). Silent Cinema uses unique parameters for each soundfield to ensure accurate headphone representations of each soundfield.Then there's the six-channel DVD-Audio/SACD-ready inputs mentioned above. Due to anti-piracy measures, DVD-Audio and SACD players perform their own digital-to-analog conversion, passing high-resolution analog signals on to your amplifier. (And analog, after all, is what your amp feeds your speakers.)DVD-Audio and SACD can each deliver up to six channels of discrete, full-frequency sound at greater-than-CD resolution (in the case of DVD-A, that means 24 bits, 96 kHz sampling rate versus 16 bits, 44.1 kHz for CD). In stereo or surround, the sound from DVD-Audio and SACD is packed with detail, yet smoother and sweeter from than the sound from even the best standard CD players. The HTR-5740 accommodates decoded DVD-A/SACD signals and routes them to the appropriate speakers in your surround system.The receiver offers four audio/video input connections (all with composite-/S-video, two with component-video), two fixed and assignable digital-audio inputs (great for DSS, CD, laserdisc, gaming consoles, or minidisc), and front-panel input connections for your camcorder or other spontaneous hookup. The receiver's video circuitry is high-definition ready, too (60 MHz bandwidth), and it will upconvert composite-video to an S-video signal to simplify TV hookup.Last, but certainly not least, the HTR-5740 benefits from Yamaha's Digital ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) build philosophy. The culmination of the best digital engineering and design possible, it brings together several key elements to create the best-sounding, easiest-to-use A/V components available.What's in the Box Receiver, remote control, four AAA batteries, an AM loop antenna, an indoor FM antenna, a warranty card, and a user's manual.

Click here for more information about Yamaha HTR-5740 6.1 Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver

Denon AVR-3300 Dolby Digital Audio/Video Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Featuring the newest Analog Devices SHARC 32-bit DSP processor, the AVR-3300 provides Dolby Digital and DTS decoding with superb precision. The AVR-3300 is the most affordable A/V component to include the SHARC processor as the heart of the DDSC-D technology, and features premium 24-bit, 96 kHz DACs on all output channels. Prepared for the future, the AVR-3300 features 8 Channel external input, for connection to future multi-channel surround formats, along with 8 pre-amp outputs, providing a full upgrade path. A high quality, discrete power output section provides a total system power of 850 watts (1 kHz, 6 ohms).
In addition to providing five pairs of composite and "S" video inputs, the AVR-3300 is equipped with two sets of component video (Y, CB, CR) inputs (DVD and TV/DBS), and one set of component video outputs for connection to high resolution video displays. Dual Surround Speaker switching allows the use of two different types (and placements) of surround speakers - connect a pair of diffuse surround speakers for movie soundtracks, and a direct radiator type surround speaker for multi-channel music surround.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Denon AVR-3300 Dolby Digital Audio/Video Receiver

Click here for more information about Denon AVR-3300 Dolby Digital Audio/Video Receiver

Harman Kardon Signature Series 2.0 Surround-Sound Processor/Tuner Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is simply the best audio processor I have owned (Denon and Onkyo pale by comparison) This receiver has ample Coax, Fiber, s-video, and RCA connections. (Sadly no composite video). You can create absolutely perfect reproductions with the onscreen programming. Each channel of sound coming in lists if its to low, high or reference. You adjust the gain so that each audio channel is staying within refernece (For instance my VCR is +22, the CD player is -5) In addition you can use any audio and any video source at the same time - say your listening to a CD and want to watch DSS or DVD, no problem. You set the distance from the listener to the speakers, so the speakers have the correct volume. You also have 6 channel input as well. The finest DSP you can purchase

Click Here to see more reviews about: Harman Kardon Signature Series 2.0 Surround-Sound Processor/Tuner

The Signature Model 2.0 Processor/Tuner has been designed to provide all the excitement and detail of motion picture soundtracks and reproduce every subtle nuance of your favorite musical selection. On-board Dolby Digital and DTS decoding enables the 2.0 to deliver six channels of fully discrete sound from the exciting new digital audio formats that are a part of DVD and HDTV broadcasts. A wide selection of matrix decoding modes delivers full compatibility with conventional Dolby Surround stereo and mono programs. The 2.0 is also ready to accept future surround systems through the use of six-channel direct inputs that accommodate optional outboard decoders for future surround systems.While complex digital circuits are hard at work within the 2.0, a simple F menu system and learning remote control make the unit easy to install and operate. In addition to selecting from a variety of audio/video sources, the Signature 2.0 is equipped with the latest in tuner technology, including the RDS data system that automatically identifies FM stations transmitting special data and provides information they transmit about the station's programming. The RDS system even lets you automatically search for a station with a specific program type from the participating stations in your reception area.

Click here for more information about Harman Kardon Signature Series 2.0 Surround-Sound Processor/Tuner

Harman Kardon AVR320 Audio/Video Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a very good receiver if you know how to use it.
Sound is very clean. Harman Kardon's 55 watts rate is
very consertive, it has more than enough power for my
need.
When I started shopping, I bought Onkyo 600 first (mainly
attracted by its 80 watts rating, and 6 channel output).
However, after listen to Onkyo for a couple weeks, I am not
satisfied with Onkyo's sound quality, so I purchased this one.
This receiver sounds much better than Onkyo. It produces much
cleaner sound. Finally, I returned Onkyo and kept this one.
I am using a pair of JBL S38-II as my main speakers. If you
can't hear the difference between this receiver and other
cheaper receivers, you are probably using not-so-good speakers.
If so, upgrade the speaker and hear the difference.
This receiver do have weakness though. It is not easy to use.
It takes me quite a while to get familiar with the remote and
the control buttons on the receiver. Even after I am familiar
with the remote, I would still say the remote is not easy to
use. Harman Kardon needs to improve its egnomics design.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Harman Kardon AVR320 Audio/Video Receiver

The AVR 320 is Harman Kardon's first entry-level 7.1-channel surround-sound processing. Featuring support for Dolby Digital, DTS, Logic 7, and VMAx digital sound processing, the AVR 320 is meant to satisfy nearly any audio taste.
Pushing 55 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the AVR 320 will give you strong sound with less than 0.07 percent harmonic distortion, even with all channels being driven simultaneously. Eight-channel direct inputs are provided for future digital sound processing upgrades.
Loaded with advanced features, the AVR 320 includes DTS-ES 6.1 surround sound, wideband HDTV-ready component video switching, and 24-bit/192kHz audio digital-to-analog converter. Connection options are extensive with 7.1-channel preamp outputs, six digital inputs and three digital outputs, plus a front-panel digital input that can be switched to output mode.
Support for Dolby Pro Logic II Surround Sound is included to create surround-sound effects from a stereo input such as VCR or TV.
Additional features include multiroom/multisource audio which allows users in separate rooms to listen to different sources simultaneously. A separate Zone II Remote Control is included for multiroom operation. Power-up volume can be programmed to avoid that jarring sensation of powering up your stereo with the volume at max from the night before, and rotary controls let you adjust bass, treble, and balance settings.
A universal remote is programmable to control up to eight devices from preset codes or by using its learning capability.

Click here for more information about Harman Kardon AVR320 Audio/Video Receiver

Yamaha HTR-5650 6-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I truly love this receiver. One of the things that initially attracted me to it was the 480 watts of power. I couldn't wait to take it home and see how my CD's and DVD's sounded on it. What amazed me was not only the really great bass responce, but the clearity. I watched my Phil Collins DVD and it was like I was actually there in front of the stage. For the first time I really feel like I now know how the artists truly sound. I can honestly say, I know I got my money's worth with this receiver! Thank you Yamaha! Jess

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha HTR-5650 6-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver

High convenience and high quality doesn't have to mean "high ticket." Yamaha's HTR-5650 is loaded with features and exclusive Yamaha technologies. Easy to set up and operate, the receiver can power two rooms at once (one in surround sound, the other in stereo), and it offers the convenience of DVD-Audio/multichannel SACD-ready six-channel analog inputs alongside the latest 6.1-channel surround processing.When hooked up with the digital-audio output from a DVD-Video player or digital satellite receiver, the 80 watts-per-channel HTR-5650 (95 wpc peak) handles 5.1-channel surround decoding for both major formats, Dolby Digital and DTS. In addition, the HTR-5650 also processes Dolby Digital EX and DTS-ES, which create an even more expansive soundfield through the use of a center-rear surround channel, totaling six discrete full-range channels in addition to the LFE (low-frequency effects) channel: left, center, right, and left, center, and right surround.Exclusive Yamaha technologies include Quad-Field Cinema DSP (based on a wealth of measured data in real studios and halls, this processing is designed to highlight the full potential of movie sound mixes), Silent Cinema (which simulates 5.1-channel listening through a pair of ordinary stereo headphones, not included), and the company's YSS-938 32-bit DSP chip providing 25 unique surround algorithms with 44 variations to help you perfectly match your simulated acoustic space to your video program.Non-Dolby Digital and DTS sources can benefit from surround processing, too--with enhanced directional steering over standard four-channel Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Pro Logic II provides five channels of surround processing from any stereo source--whether that's a TV broadcast, VHS tapes, or your favorite CDs, cassettes, and LPs. Pro Logic II delivers full-bandwidth stereo surround channels with 40 dB of left-right separation.And, when you're listening to multichannel presentations late at night, you'll appreciate Silent Cinema, which simulates 5.1-channel listening through a pair of ordinary stereo headphones (not included). Silent Cinema uses unique parameters for each soundfield to ensure accurate headphone representations of each soundfield.Then there's the six-channel DVD-Audio/SACD-ready inputs mentioned above. If these formats are so high-tech, you might wonder, why do you need analog inputs to appreciate them? Because, for reasons of content protection, DVD-Audio and SACD players perform their own digital-to-analog conversion, passing high-resolution analog, rather than digital, signals on to your amplifier. (And analog, after all, is what your amp feeds your speakers.)The versatile unit offers nine video input connections (with three S-video inputs and two high-resolution component-video inputs), four fixed and assignable digital-audio inputs (great for DVD, DSS, CD, laserdisc, gaming consoles, or minidisc), and front-panel input connections for your camcorder or other spontaneous hookup. The HTR-5650 comes with a preset remote control.Last, but certainly not least, the HTR-5650 benefits from Yamaha's Digital ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) build philosophy. ToP-ART's goal is to maximize digital quality while minimizing analog circuitry. The culmination of the best digital engineering and design possible, it brings together several key elements to create the best-sounding, easiest-to-use A/V components available.What's in the Box Receiver, remote control, remote batteries, FM wire antenna, AM loop antenna, a user's manual, warranty information, and registration information.

Click here for more information about Yamaha HTR-5650 6-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver

Pioneer VSX-D514 Multi-Channel Digital A/V Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've used this receiver for a year, during which time I've had nothing to complain about. It's a respectable buy in its price range, sounds quite good, and is not overly complex. I've just replaced it as my primary receiver, though, because it doesn't have enough digital inputs to handle a variety of sources. To manage the optical inputs from my TV, DVD recorder, Macintosh computer, cable box, and CD recorder, I was required to buy a switching device from Radio Shack. Now my new receiver has enough inputs to manage the load, as well as vastly more power and features. The 514 has only one optical and two coax inputs.
I expect the 514 to continue to give service for a long time, hooked up the bookshelf speakers in my bedroom.
If you want basic stereo and surround capability, this is a model worth considering, but if you imagine your needs will grow like mine have, then you might want to bump up to a more expensive/expansive unit. (In case you wonder, I now have a Yamaha HRT-5890, and it early on seems an excellent choice.)
Note that I do not dabble in the black arts of the audiophiles. I'm an unpretentious listener with reasonably high expectations. I doubt if I would care about the alleged sound distinctions between, say, a Denon and a Yamaha. I do care a lot about the quality of the user's manual, and the D514 has one that is not hard to understand.
You might have a problem figuring out from the Amazon description that the 514 is 5x100 watts.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer VSX-D514 Multi-Channel Digital A/V Receiver

Designed to give consumers full control over their home entertainment experience, the Pioneer VSX-D514-S 5.1-channel digital A/V receiver is a great fit for the discriminating movie and music fan. The receiver, which powers five channels at 100 watts each, is equipped with Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby Pro Logic II surround processing, giving DVDs a rich, full-bodied sound through a multichannel speaker system. Dolby Digital and DTS decoding technologies split the audio signals among four left and right surround speakers, a center speaker, and a subwoofer, while Pro Logic II converts two-channel stereo sources into five-channel surround sound. On surround encoded material such as movie soundtracks, the resulting audio is powerful and explosive, while with two-channel encoded material such as music CDs, the effect is a wider and more encompassing sound field with more localized vocals.
Internally, the VSX-D514-S boasts a single compact circuit board for all digital signal processing, thus ensuring exceptional purity, plus a double-precision Motorola 48-bit DSP engine that's similar to the one used in top theaters worldwide. The receiver also offers a discrete configuration along with Pioneer's hybrid amplification system, which directs the correct amount of bias signal to each transistor for extremely low distortion. This means that Pioneer's amps are designed to handle the full bandwidth of Dolby Digital, DTS, SACD, and DVD-Audio encoded software. Add that to the high-end digital-to-analog audio converter and you have a top-shelf receiver.
Installation takes just a few minutes thanks to the Quick Setup feature, which walks the consumer through the setup process. Listeners simply tell the receiver how many speakers are connected and then select the room size. The receiver then delivers an accurate surround sound performance based on the configuration. Additional features include component and S-video switching, which allows both progressive and interlaced NTSC and HDTV signals to travel to the TV or monitor; five digital signal processing modes, including game and movie modes; multiple digital coaxial and optical inputs; and a preset LCD remote control. The VSX-D514-S measures 16.56 by 6.25 by 15.5 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty on parts and labor.
What's in the Box VSX-D514-S receiver, remote control, two AA batteries, AM and FM antennas, user's manual.

Click here for more information about Pioneer VSX-D514 Multi-Channel Digital A/V Receiver

Zenith HDV420 HDTV Digital Video Tuner / Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I just upgraded to this HDTV receiver from a Samsung. Before Samsung I used an RCA receiver. I was going to get another Samsung but I figured for [$] more this one was worth it. This receiver blows both of my old ones away. It was child's play to set up. It scanned for all of the channels and got every channel automatically. The menu is very well laid out. The exterior looks very modern and high tech with the reflective panel and the brushed metal. It also has coaxial and optical digital output so that I can now watch TV in Dolby Digital (when the program is in DD). It has component out for HDTV. It also has 15-pin computer VGA out. I hooked it up to my regular 15-inch computer monitor and the picture was too small. However, it looked even better than my TV! The remote is very simple. I like it that way but that's a matter of choice. The best feature is that you can change the display format just by the push of the button. Next I am going to buy a wireless transmitter to send the HDTV channels to the rest of my TV's in the house through the analog out. I highly recommend this. ...

Click Here to see more reviews about: Zenith HDV420 HDTV Digital Video Tuner / Receiver

Affordable and flexible, Zenith's HDV430 terrestrial high-definition TV/digital TV receiver features a high-performance ATSC tuner for terrestrial HDTV reception--just hook up an aerial antenna and you're in business--as well as a QAM tuner for use with an unscrambled cable HDTV transmission using a direct digital DVI connection. If you don't yet own the HD-ready TV of your dreams, you'll be delighted to learn that the HDV420 supports simultaneous HD and SD (standard-definition) outputs, allowing you to build a high-definition empire from the receiver on up, or--if you already have an HDTV--simply watch standard TV in a second room on a lesser set. The receiver offers selectable output modes for 1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i, and native output. There's even a 15-pin RGB connection for use with a computer monitor. Other handy features include auto channel programming, channel labeling, a user-friendly graphical user interface, fast program search, and digital closed-captioning. Hook the Zenith up to a compatible audio/video receiver through a digital-audio interconnect (either optical or coaxial) and you'll be ready to enjoy immersive, 5.1-channel Dolby Digital surround sound.
What's in the Box Set-top box, composite-video/stereo analog audio interconnect, a component-video cable, a universal remote control, remote batteries, and a user's manual.

Click here for more information about Zenith HDV420 HDTV Digital Video Tuner / Receiver