- Jan 21, 2004
- 1,313,132,415
- 2,953
The Home Theater FAQ is gradually being updated.
The original Home Theater FAQ was written and posted by, JohnnyDrama2006, and I wish to send him my sincere thanks for the tremendous amount of work that went into this FAQ.
Thank you, JohnnyDrama2006
The world of A/V and Home Theater changes quickly and frequently. This FAQ has not been updated for a couple of years, and as such, has fallen rather far behind the times. Updating it will be a lengthy and on-going process. Please feel free to PM me, TerrorBeast, with any suggestions or additions you may have for this FAQ. I will evaluate all submissions and happily include submissions that I feel will enhance this FAQ.
Thank you all for reading this and for your patience
TerrorBeast - "Your Friendly Home Theatre Mod"
A GAMERS GUIDE TO BUILDING A RESPECTABLE HOME THEATER FOR EVERY BUDGET
Contents
1. Introduction
2. Links ~ Guides and Explanations
2.1 Dedicated Home Theater Sites and Forums
2.2 Crutchfield Beginner Guides to everything HD
3. General Links
3.01 720p versus 1080i
3.02 Audio Information ~ Cables, Formats, Etc….
3.03 Calibrating Your Setup
3.04 Black Bars are Not the Work of the Devil
3.05 DVD Information (Including Next Generation Formats)
3.06 Find the ideal Screen Size for your room and other Sizing comparisons
3.07 General HDTV FAQs, Guides, and Facts
3.08 HDCP, Digital Inputs, Analog Inputs, Switches, Video Bandwidth and what it all means to you
3.09 HTPC Information
3.10 High Definition Broadcasts
3.11 Home Theater Terminology/Glossary
3.12 Miscellaneous H/T Related Links
3.13 Technical Issues ~ Electrical and Otherwise
3.14 Trusted Online Retailers
4. Board Recommendations
4.01 Plasma - Displays
4.02 Direct View CRT - Displays
4.03 Rear Projection CRT - Displays
4.04 DLP 720p - Displays
4.05 DLP 1080p - Displays
4.06 LCoS 720p - Displays
4.07 LCoS 1080p - Displays
4.08 LCD Rear Projection - Displays
4.09 LCD Flat Panel - Displays
4.10 CRT Front Projection - Displays
4.11 DLP Front Projection - Displays
4.12 LCD Front Projection - Displays
4.13 Home Theater in a Box
4.14 Receivers
4.15 Speakers
4.16 Subwoofers
4.17 Remotes
4.18 DVD Players ~ Under $500
4.19 DVD Players ~ Over $500
4.20 Power Protections/Line Conditioners
4.21 Video Cables
4.22 Audio Cables
4.23 Speaker Wire
4.24 Audio/Video Switches
4.25 Video Scalers
4.26 DVD Recorders
4.27 Headphones
4.28 Amps/Pre-Amps
4.29 Tacticle Transducers
4.30 Projector Screens
5. Q and A Section
6. Sample Setups
6.1 The Budget Setup
6.2 The Space Saver
6.3 The PC-centric
6.4 The Dorm Room
6.5 The Enthusiast
6.6 The Theater Experience
6.7 The Hardcore Gamer
6.8 The Elite
INTRODUCTION
This gamer-centric guide will offer insight and point you in the right direction when it comes to everything from connection types to recommendations. All the links provided are clearly labeled and will lead you to some excellent, easy to follow, resources that will help you get the most out of your investments.
The guide is setup in a manner that will allow you to quickly browse and search for any information you need regarding your research into the Home Theater field. If you're looking for a quick answer then try the "ctrl-F" function and enter a keyword such as "Plasma," "HDMI," "Universal Remotes," etc.
As well, keep in mind that if you have a general question, Google and Wikipedia are excellent resource that can often point you in the right direction within a matter of seconds.
Use these resources to their fullest, keep in mind that you're likely on the verge of making a large investment so a little leg work will not only be good for you but help to insure you make an informed decision. However if you are unable to find an answer to your question or have questions about the specifics of a particular item then don't hesitate to ask! We are here to help.
Links ~
Guides and Explanations
Dedicated Home Theater Sites and Forums
While the Home Theater Board at IGN is an excellent place for help and guidance when it comes to anything and everything in the A/V field sometimes it can be hard to get hands on impressions or reviews from other users . Our Home Theater board is small and given how many options and solutions there are out there sometimes it will become necessary to look to a larger community, some that are dedicated solely to A/V.
While they can feel a bit overwhelming at first all are excellent places for HT advice if you do a little leg work.
[link=http://www.avsforum.com]AVS[/link]
[link=http://www.hometheaterspot.com]Home Theater Spot[/link]
[link=http://www.hometheaterforum.com]Home Theater Forum[/link]
[link=http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/]Audioholics[/link]
[link=http://www.hometheaterhifi.com]Secrets[/link]
[link=http://www.projectorcentral.com]Projector Central[/link]
[link=http://www.soundstage.com]Sound Stage[/link]
[link=http://www.hometheaterblog.com]Home Theater Blog[/link]
[link=http://www.hometheatermag.com]Home Theater Magazine[/link]
[link=http://www.soundandvisionmag.com]Sound and Vision Magazine[/link]
[link=http://www.audioreview.com]Audio Review[/link]
Crutchfield Beginner Guides and Basic Technology Overviews
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/learningcenter/home/ht_intro.html?cm_re_o=lbpw_zy*ltB55bETTAbpwl*tfbEfyB]An Introduction to Home Theater[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/learningcenter/home/tv.html?cm_re_o=lbpw_zy*ltB55bETTAbpwl*gtBBlwfM]Selecting a New Television[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/ht_need.html]The Components You'll Need for a New Home Theater[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/tv/hdtv_video.html]What is High Definition[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/tv/hdtv2_video.html]How Do I Get High Definition[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/tv_hdtv.html]Understanding HDTV[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/TV_chart.html]Understanding TV Types (Pros/Cons and basic Comparisons)[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/tv_flatpanel.html]A Basic Guide to Plasma and LCD[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/tv_bigscreen.html]A Basic Guide to Digital Rear Projection Televisions[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/front_projection_TVs.html]A Basic Guide to Front Projection Displays[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/aspect_ratio.html]16:9 or 4:3 and which one is for you[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/SkrG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/HDTV_programming.html]HD Programming the Easy Way[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/tv_video.html]Flat Panel Installation Guide[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/SkrG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/TV_placement.html]Choosing your Screen Size[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/tv_glossary.html]A Basic H/T Glossary[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-krG5cNdqqOV/learningcenter/home/tv_faq.html]General Home Theater FAQ[/link]
General Links
720p versus 1080i
[link=http://ezinearticles.com/?720p-Vs-1080i-HDTV&id=91443]Comparison by Ezine, and why you shouldn't lose any sleep over the debate[/link]
Audio Information ~ Cables, Formats, Etc….
[link=http://www.dolby.com]Dolby[/link]
[link=http://www.dts.com]DTS[/link]
[link=http://www.thx.com]THX[/link]
[link=http://www.audioholics.com/techtips/audioprinciples/interconnects/Audio-Cable-Vendor.html]Are all Audio Cables created equally??[/link]
[link=http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/5/6528.html]Audio Cables - Fact and Fiction[/link]
[link=http://www.eadhome.nl/english/solutions/home/surround/dolby_digital_vs_dts.html]What's the difference between Dolby Digital and DTS[/link]
Calibrating Your Setup
[link=http://www.imagingscience.com/]ISF[/link]
[link=http://www.hkflix.com/xq/asp/filmID.533232/qx/details.htm]Sound and Vision[/link]
[link=http://www.deepdiscountdvd.com/dvd.cfm?itemID=VMG010712]Digital Video Essentials (DVE)[/link]
Contrary to popular belief BLACK BARS are not the work of the devil, quite the opposite in fact
[link=http://widescreen.org/widescreen.shtml]The Letterbox and Widescreen Advocacy Page[/link]
[link=http://www.hometheaterforum.com/home/wsfaq.html]Home Theater Forum's Guide to Aspect Ratios[/link]
[link=http://www.thedigitalbits.com/articles/anamorphic/index.html]The Digital Bits on Anamorphic Widescreen[/link]
[link=http://www.audioholics.com/techtips/specsformats/widescreenletterboxpanscan.php]Audioholics' Guide To Understanding Widescreen, Letterbox, Pan and Scan, etc….[/link]
DVD Information (INCLUDING Next Generation Formats ~ Blu-Ray and HD-DVD, DVD Recorders, DVRs, etc…)
[link=http://www.blu-ray.com/]Blu-Ray[/link]
[link=http://www.hddvd.org/hddvd/]HD-DVD[/link]
[link=http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgibin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=all]DVD Benchmarks[/link]
[link=http://www.videohelp.com/dvdhacks.php]DVD Hacks ~ Find out if your player can become a region free deck[/link]
[link=http://hometheater.about.com/od/dvdbasics/a/bluhddvdinfo.htm]Blu-Ray and HD DVD ~ What you should know[/link]
[link=http://hometheater.about.com/od/dvdrecorderfaqs/a/dvdrecfaqintro.htm]About.com's Guide to DVD Recorders[/link]
[link=http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-6474_7-5682100-1.html]Cnet's Guide to Selecting the right DVR for you[/link]
Find the ideal screen size for your room and other sizing comparisons
[link=http://www.cavecreations.com/tv2.cgi?KeohiHDTV]Compute your Televisions dimensions (compare 16:9 and 4:3)[/link]
[link=http://boards.ign.com/message.asp?topic=95383866&replies=7]A Mathematical Guide to Discovering the ideal size television for your room[/link]
[link=http://www.myhometheater.homestead.com/viewingdistancecalculator.html]Calculate your proper viewing distance[/link]
General HDTV Guides, FAQs, and Information
[link=http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/home-theater.htm]How Home Theater Works[/link]
[link=http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htforum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=120328]Home Theater Forum ~ A Primer for Home Theater Newcomers[/link]
[link=http://www.keohi.com/keohihdtv/index.htm]Keohi ~ Tips and Guides for everything High Def from calibration information to Expert Tips[/link]
[link=http://www.hdtvpub.com/]HDTV Pub ~ General HD Information Including HD Console Gaming[/link]
[link=http://www.digitalconnection.com/FAQ/HDTV_6.asp]Digital Connections HDTV FAQ[/link]
[link=http://www.audioholics.com/techtips/specsformats/displays_LCD_DLP_plasma1.html]Audiohilics' Display Technology Guide and Comparison[/link]
[link=http://www.stonehill.edu/instructional/hdtv.html]The ExtremeTech Guide to Buying HDTV[/link]
[link=http://www.projectorcentral.com/hdtv_edtv.htm]HDTV in Plain English[/link]
HDCP, Digital Inputs, Analog Inputs, Switches, Video Bandwidth and what it all means to you
[link=http://bluejeanscable.com/articles/index.htm]Blue Jeans Guides to Cables ~ EVERYTHING you need to know[/link]
[link=http://tv.about.com/od/hdtv/a/hdmidvihdcp.htm]HDMI, DVI, and HDCP[/link]
[link=http://www.datapro.net/images/dvi-config.jpg]The Many Flavors of DVI[/link]
[link=http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/bandwid.htm]What is Video Bandwidth[/link]
[link=http://www.pacificcable.com/DVI_Tutorial.htm]DVI Tutorial[/link]
[link=http://www.hdmi.org/channel/why_hdmi.asp]HDMI Tutorial[/link]
Connections
Q.) What is coaxial RF?
A.) Coaxial RF, commonly used for connecting antennas, cable and
satellite to TVs. It can carry both audio and video modulated over a radio frequency (RF)
signal. It is essential for long runs, cable and satellite systems. Coaxial RF is however
the lowest quality connection of them all and is only really used for antenna, cable and
satellite now.
[image=http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/graphics/infolib/homelib/l75ohmCoaxialJack.jpg] [image=http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/graphics/infolib/homelib/l75ohmCoaxialConnector.jpg]
Q.) What is composite?
A.) Composite is a step up from coaxial RF. However, unlike
coaxial RF, composite can only transmit video. It transmits the luminance (brightness) and
chrominance (color) information over a single interconnect. The most commonly used
interconnect for composite is called RCA, its ends are usually always colored yellow. Also
composite should be rated at 75ohms.
Composite can only do SD, it cannot do ED or HD.
[image=http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/lifestyle/2001/lCompositeVideoJac.jpeg] [image=http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/lifestyle/2001/lCompositeVideoPlu.jpeg]
Q.) What is S-video?
A.) S-Video provides better quality than that of composite.
S-video splits the signal down to luminance (brightness) and chrominance (color), but
unlike composite it keeps this information separate. S-video uses an S-video uses a 4 pin
DIN connector and also should be rated at 75ohms.
S-video can only do SD, it cannot do ED or HD.
[image=http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/graphics/infolib/homelib/lSVideoJack.jpg] [image=http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/graphics/infolib/homelib/lSVideoConnector.jpg]
Q.) What is component?
A.) Component takes it a step and then some further than
S-video. It subtracts the luminance (brightness) signal from the subcomponents of the
chrominance signals (blue and red signals); it is often described as Y, R-Y, B-Y or as
YpbPr. Component also instead of bundling it all in one cable, bundles it into three
separate cables. This helps with better color separation, less bleeding and interference.
It uses RCA connectors and is color coded as Red, Blue and Green. Like the others,
component should be rated at 75ohms.
Component can do SD, ED and HD.
[image=http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/graphics/infolib/homelib/lComponentVideoJack.jpg] [image=http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/graphics/infolib/homelib/lComponentVconnect.jpg]
Q.) What is DVI?
A.) DVI stands for Digital Video Interface.
DVI is one of the interconnect types in the evolution of interconnects. Its main assest
lies in that it is meant to achive a pure digital transfer. The benifit of a pure digital
transfer is that there is less conversion of the signal, which in thoery is supposed to
give us the best picture quality. There is one catch with it though, with CRT based
displays who are analog the conversion to analog is going to happen anyways. Then it comes
down to the video DACs in the TV and how good they are. With digital displays, like DLP,
LCD, LCoS and plasma, this is not the case since they are digital. It also is capable of a
higher bandwidth than all of the previous types of interconnects.
DVI can do SD, ED and HD.
There are three flavors of DVI: DVI-D, DVI-A and DVI-I.
DVI-I is able to do both DVI-D and DVI-A. However, this cable can only do DVI-D to
DVI-D or DVI-A to DVI-A, it cannot convert them.
DVI-D is true digital video and is the most common flavor of DVI.
DVI-A is analog and is rarely used. It was many put into play just to help the
switch over to DVI more graceful.
Also it should be noted that DVI-D and DVI-A are not interchangeable.
DVI-I.............................DVI-D............................DVI-A
[image=http://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/dvi/dviiplug.jpg] [image=http://www.ramelectronics.net/assets/images/DVI/M1toDVI.jpg] [image=http://pchcables.com/DVI-A-Dual-Male.jpg]
Q.) What is HDMI?
A.) HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface. HDMI was developed by some of the major electronic companies (Hitachi, Matsushita Electric Industrial (Panasonic), Philips, Sony, Thomson (RCA), Toshiba, and Silicon Image) out there to be purely digital and support uncompressed video and unlike DVI, also audio all in one simple interconnect. HDMI has a bandwidth of 5 Gbps which HD currently only takes up 1/2 of that and helps makes it future proof. It also supports 8 channel audio (7.1) and copy protection known as High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDPC) which the movie studios like. HDMI is also backwards compatable with DVI. A DVI source can be converted to HDMI at the destination easily and also a HDMI source can be converted to a DVI destination. Also, it was designed to support long cable runs.
HDMI can do SD, ED, HD and unlike any other format currently supports all current audio formats.
[image=http://www.ecat.sony.co.jp/products/picture/large/VPL-HS3_006.jpg] [image=http://www.hembiobutiken.se/images/hbskolan_hdmi_dvi_2.jpg]
HTPC (Home Theater PC) Information
[link=http://www.htpcnews.com/]For All your Questions[/link]
[link=http://www.tigerdave.com/wgl/]Widescreen Gaming and Custom Resolutions[/link]
[link=http://archive.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=90945]AVS ~ A Definitive Guide to Custom Resolutions[/link]
[link=http://entechtaiwan.net/util/ps.shtm]Powerstrip[/link]
[link=http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/powerstrip.html]A Guide to Powerstrip (HTPC)[/link]
[link=http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/content_provider/film/abouthdvideo.aspx]Everything you ever wanted to know about WMV HD[/link]
High Definition Broadcasts
[link=http://www.atsc.org/guide_default.html]ATSC ~ A guide to DTV[/link]
[link=http://bbauer.gomen.org/ota.htm]Getting FREE High Definition OTA broadcasts ~ A How-To[/link]
[link=http://www.antennaweb.org]Antenna Web[/link]
Home Theater Terminology ~ from Aspect Ratio to Wobulation and beyond
[link=http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/vidglos.htm]Comprehensive H/T Glossary[/link]
Miscellaneous Links
[link=http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/hdtvreal.htm] Is it really High Def?? Dirty secrets in the H/T Industry[/link]
[link=http://blogs.zdnet.com/ITFacts/index.php?id=C20_25_1]General IT Facts[/link]
Technical Issues ~ Electrical and Otherwise
[link=http://www.eurotherm.com/training/tutorial/instrumentation/holland/emi.htm]Electrical Interference Crippling your Control System? Understand it and you can defeat it[/link]
Trusted Online Retailers
[link=http://www.amazon.com]Amazon[/link]
[link=http://www.bestbuy.com]Best Buy[/link]
[link=http://www.bettercables.com]Better Cables[/link]
[link=http://www.bhphotovideo.com/]B & H Photo[/link]
[link=http://www.bluejeanscables.com]Blue Jeans[/link]
[link=http://www.circuitcity.com]Circuit City[/link]
[link=http://www.copperbox.com]Copper Box[/link]
[link=http://www.costco.com]Costco[/link]
[link=http://www.crutchfield.com]Crutchfield[/link]
[link=http://www.deepdiscountdvd.com]Deep Discount DVD[/link]
[link=http://www.dell.com]Dell[/link]
[link=http://www.dvdo.com/]DVDO[/link]
[link=http://www.hp.com]Hewlett Packard[/link]
[link=http://www.hkflix.com]HK Flix[/link]
[link=http://www.hometheaterpeople.com/]Home Theater People[/link]
[link=http://www.hsuresearch.com/]HSU[/link]
[link=http://www.ibuyplasma.com]I Buy Plasma[/link]
[link=http://www.newegg.com]New Egg[/link]
[link=http://www.onecall.com]OneCall[/link]
[link=http://www.oppodigital.com]Oppo Digital[/link]
[link=http://www.ramelectronics.net/index.html]Ram Electronics[/link]
[link=http://www.samsclub.com]Sams Club[/link]
[link=http://www.svsubwoofers.com/]SVS[/link]
[link=http://www.tvauthority.com/]TV Authority[/link]
[link=http://www.walmart.com]Wal-mart[/link]
[link=http://www.zektor.com]Zektor[/link]
Board Recommendations
Here you'll find recommendations from your fellow IGN Home Theater experts ranging from displays to remote controls. By the time you have reached this point in the guide this section will take it that you understand the different technologies currently available and their pros/cons when it comes to displays.
Such "general" recommendations are rarely possible in the H/T field however the nature of this forum puts us in a unique position. Given that IGN is 99.999% gaming and .0001% H/T we've found that most gamers are looking to get their feet wet and start to work on their first home theater setup. Most fall in to a much narrower demographic when it comes to price, preference, and the reasons behind their interest in purchasing new A/V gear.
Given that we're able to make general suggestions that will apply to 95% of interested parties on IGN. However if you feel something doesn't apply to you or you fall within that unique 5% that requires case by case help then don't hesitate to post and one of us will assist you and get you pointed in the right direction.
~note that given the ever changing nature of year in/year out model changes, for the most part, only trusted manufacturers will be listed. If you have a question about a particular model don't hesitate to ask.
Displays
Plasma
Panasonic
Pioneer
Hitachi
Direct View CRT
Sony XBR Series
Sony XS Series
Sony HS Series
Panasonic TAU Series
Rear Projection CRT
Pioneer
Mitsubishi
Hitachi
Toshiba
Panasonic
DLP - 720p
Mitsubishi
Toshiba
Panasonic
Samsung
DLP - 1080p
Hewlitt Packard
Mitsubishi
Samsung
Toshiba
LCoS - 720p
JVC HD-ILA
LCoS -1080p
Sony SXRD
JVC HD-ILA
LCD Rear Projection
Sony A10
Sony A20
LCD Flat Panel
Sharp Aquos
Sony Bravia
Samsung
Vizio
Tatung
Sceptre
CRT Front Projection
DLP Front Projection
Mitsubishi HC3000
BenQ 7700
BenQ 8720
Optoma H78DC3
Optoma H79
Infocus 7210
Optoma H31
Infocus 4805
LCD Front Projection
Panasonic AE900
Sanyo Z4
Sanyo Z3
Epson 550
Home Theater In A Box
Onkyo
Denon
Harmon Kardon
Yamaha
Receivers
Denon
Harmon Kardon
Marantz
Panasonic (XR55)
Yamaha
Onkyo
NAD
Pioneer Elite
Speakers
Athena
Axiom
Ascend
Onix/Rockets (av123.com)
Paradigm
B & W
Energy
Magnepan
RBH
Definitive Tech
Phase Tech
Mirage
Mission
Monitor Audio
Wilson, Revel
Linn
Martin Logan
PSB
M&K Klipsch
Atlantic Technology
Subwoofers
SVS
Velodyne
Dayton
HSU
Remotes
Philips Pronto
Logitech Harmony
Home Theater Master Series
DVD Players ~ Under $500
Oppo 971
Panasonic S97
Panasonic S77
Denon 1920
Denon 1910
Sony DVP-NS775V
Pioneer DV-578A
Sony DVP-NS50P
DVD Players ~ Over $500
Denon 2910
Denon 3910
Denon 5910
Power Protection/Line Conditioners
Panamax
Monster
APC AV
Exact Power
Video Cables
[link=http://www.bluejeanscable.com]Blue Jeans[/link]
Entry Level Acoustic Research
Entry Level Monster
Entry Level Phoenix Gold
Audio Cables
[link=http://www.bluejeanscable.com]Blue Jeans ~ No Optical[/link]
Entry Level Acoustic Research
Entry Level Monster
Entry Level Phoenix Gold
Sound Professionals
Speaker Wire
Generic 16 Gauge (Home Depot)
Vampire Wire
Axiom
SoundKing
Audio/Video Switches
Zektor
Audio Authority
GeFen
Video Scales
DVDo
Key Digital
ADS
DVD Recorders
Panasonic
Headphones
Sennheiser
Grado
Sony (MDR-V6)
Amps/Pre-Amps
Anthem
Arcam
Aragon
Lexicon
Parasound
Outlaw,
Emotiva (av123.com)
Sunfire
Rotel
B&K
Tacticle Transducers
Clark Synthesis (partsexpress.com)
Aura bass shakers (partsexpress.com)
ButtKicker (thebuttkicker.com)
Projector Screens
Ultra White paint (regular paint)
Goo Systems Screen Paint (CRT White)
Carada
Da-Lite
Stewart FilmScreen
Screen Research
Vutec
Screen Innovations
Q and A Section
Here you'll find answers to the most commonly asked questions. This section will be constantly updated as needs, concerns, and curiosities change.
Just bought a new display what do I need to do or purchase anything else before popping in Project Gotham Racing 3??
For starters you need to calibrate your display, whether you purchased a $300 television or a $30000 projector making sure your display is set up properly is an absolute must. If you can warrant the expense your best option would be a proper ISF calibration. However if that isn't feasible or you went with a display on the lower end of the pricing spectrum then a simple calibration disc will do wonders. For information on calibrations and where to purchase a calibration disc please refer to the "calibration" links above.
What is this gaming lag I hear about and how will it affect me??
Gaming lag, or simply "lag," is one of the few downfalls when it comes to DLPs. Thankfully though it's not much of an issue any more and the future of gaming will be completely unaffected. This on screen "lag" is a result that support a maximum resolution of 480i being scaled to match the native resolution of DLPs.
This problem was primarily an issue with early Samsung DLPs, measures were taken early on to ensure that Mitsubishi and Toshiba DLPs did not suffer from this so called lag. Even as such the only games that are truly affected are timing based games that require precise and accurate button presses such as Amplitude, Frequency, DDR, Hot Shots Golf, etc…
As well it is/was only a concern with 480i games. This means that 99.9% of Xbox titles, all major first and second party Gamecube titles, all 360 titles, all PS3 titles, and all Revolution titles will be immune as all support a bare minimum of 480p (720p in the cases of the 360 and PS3). In other words the only games are PS2 titles that only support 480i and fall in to a similar demographic as that of the titles listed above.
My receiver has numerous video inputs, are there any downsides to using said inputs for my video switching needs??
When it comes to SD (480i) and ED (480p) content absolutely not. However it becomes a bit more complicated. Using a receiver to pass an HD signal (720p and above) will work, obviously providing your receiver offers component/HDMI/DVI switching, without incident providing your receiver has the necessary bandwidth to pass an HD signal. If you have a decent receiver from a respectable manufacturer then you can expect to find your receivers bandwidth rating clearly labeled. Most should be between 50mhz and 100mhz. Anything below that and you'll run the risk of signal degradation which is something you most certainly don't want after investing heavily in your setup.
I just purchased a new HDTV now what type of gaming centric A/V Cables do I need to get the most out of my consoles
Before we get in to the specifics lets cover one important factor when it comes to brand choice. When purchasing dedicated gaming A/V cables stick with first party cables or third party Monster cables. Do not purchase any other third party brand when it comes to cabling. You've already invested in an HD monitor and the console itself so it's not time to become cheap when it comes to something as important as your cabling.
Connecting your consoles to your new HD Monitor
PS2
Video
Sony First Party Component Cable with Analog Audio
Monster Component Cable with Digital Audio
Monster Component Cable with Analog Audio
Monster Component Cable with no Audio
Audio
Sony First Party Cable with Analog Audio
Monster Component Cable with Digital Audio
Monster Component Cable with Analog Audio
Traditional Optical Cable from Acoustic Research, Monster, or Phoenix Gold
Gamecube
Video
Nintendo Component Cable (must be purchased through Nintendo's online store)
*please keep in mind that progressive scan/480p is only possible on older model consoles sporting a Digital Video output. See below for example…..
[image=http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/EagleEyeEd/gcn_sysback.jpg]
1. Digital Video Out
2. AV Multi Out
3. Power Supply Connection
Audio
Nintendo Composite Cable with Analog Audio
Xbox
Video
Microsoft HD A/V Pack
Monster Component Cable with Digital Audio
Monster Component Cable with Analog Audio
Monster Component Cable with no Audio
Audio
Microsoft HD A/V Pack with Analog Audio
Microsoft HD A/V Pack with Optical Cable of your choice (Acoustic Research, Monster, Phoenix Gold)
Monster Component Cable with Digital Audio
Monster Component Cable with Analog Audio
Xbox 360
Video
Microsoft Composite/Component Cable with Analog Audio
Microsoft VGA Cable with Analog Audio
Monster Component Cable with Analog Audio
Monster VGA Cable with Analog Audio
Audio
Microsoft Composite/Component Cable with Analog Audio
Microsoft Composite/Component Cable with Optical Cable of your choice (Acoustic Research, Monster, Phoenix Gold)
Microsoft VGA Cable with Analog Audio
Microsoft VGA Cable with Optical Cable of your choice (Acoustic Research, Monster, Phoenix Gold)
Monster Component Cable with Analog Audio
Monster Component Cable with Digital Audio
Monster VGA Cable with Analog Audio
Monster VGA Cable with Optical Cable of your choice (Acoustic Research, Monster, Phoenix Gold)
Wireless rear speakers would really help me out, why should I avoid them??
Unfortunately while they sound like an excellent idea on paper the technology has yet to catch up. Results will vary depending on your home and your speaker selection expect problem after problem when trying to get respectable performance from "wireless" speaker solutions.
I just spent my college fund on an HDTV, now why do my PS2 games look awful??
The problem is simple, 99% of titles in the PS2s extensive library support no higher than 480i. Unfortunately HD monitors rarely do an exceptional job with 480i content and this is only made worse the larger the set you buy.
If retro gaming and the PS2 are two very important parts of your life then it would certainly be in your best interest to keep your traditional standard definition (480i) display at the ready. Even though your new television may offer an HD picture to make all your friends drool you'll still need your old faithful SD display if you want to get the most out of your PS2 and all of your older gaming systems.
How do I fix Overscan
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/86561742/p1/?7]Answer[/link]
HD versus HD-Ready
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/87533045/p1/?6]Answer[/link]
When Upgrading your Home Theater what do you do with your old gear??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/87460646/p1/?4]Answer[/link]
My DVD player doesn't have any Region Free Hacks, what inexpensive options are out there for me??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/89736290/p1/?14]Answer[/link]
Dolby Digital Headphones sound so cool in theory, why should I avoid them like the plague??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/92345957/p1/?7]Answer[/link]
I just added a new DVD player/Receiver/etc… to my setup do I really need to calibrate my display again??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/92271418/p1/?1]Answer[/link]
I've got a dead pixel on my new LCD based HD Monitor is there anything I can try before returning it??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/96337179/p1/?8]Answer[/link]
Any suggestions for inexpensive Home Theater Lighting??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/99944139/p1/?4]Answer[/link]
Extended Warranties, worth the extra expense??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/100750610/p1/?3]Answer[/link]
What is scaling and how does it work??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/101915602/p1/?6]Answer[/link]
I need a Laserdisc player, what are my options in this day and age??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/99891397/p1/?20]Answer[/link]
Where can I get a list of shows broadcast in HD??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/102572671/p1/?7]Answer[/link]
What's with the current state of 1080p and what should I know before deciding on a display??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/102652157/p1/?11]Answer[/link]
Are Upscaling players really worth the investment??
[link=http://boards.ign.com/dvd_home_theater_board/b5043/100275993/p1/?8]Answer[/link]
Sample Setups ~
Now that your head is swimming with knowledge and you've got the basics sorted out it's time to think about what type of setup is going to be right for you. Below is a list of setups ranging in price from $800 ~ $20000. Of course everyone's setup will be different but for a general idea of where, and at what, you should be considering then refer to the setup below that you feel best suits your needs and budget.
[hl=#009999]THE BUDGET SETUP[/hl]
Spent all your money on cheap hookers and snowcones but still want to impress your friends when they come over to drool over your new gaming console?? If so this is the setup for you.
Display
Sanyo 28" HT28745
Audio
Onkyo HT-S580 ($275)
Yamaha YHT-160 ($275)
DVD
Cyber home 300 ($35)
Extras
Generic Cabling ($20)
Monster Entry Level "Basic" Powerstrip ($20)
Generic (Home Depot) 16 Gauge Speaker Wire ($10)
APPROXIMATE TOTAL
$860
[hl=#009999]THE SPACE SAVER[/hl]
Caught between a rock and a hard place?? Don't want to spend a fortune and don't have any extra room to spare?? If that sounds like you then you can't go wrong with a flat panel.
Display
Sceptre 27" X27SV-NAGA ($650)
Audio
Onkyo HT-S580 ($275)
Yamaha YHT-160 ($275)
DVD
Cyberhome 300 ($35)
Extras
Generic Cabling ($20)
Monster Entry Level "Basic" Powerstrip ($20)
Generic (Home Depot) Speaker Wire ($10)
APPROXIMATE TOTAL
$1010
[hl=#009999]THE PC-CENTRIC[/hl]
Want your Home Theater setup to pull double duty as both a place to showcase your PC and your gaming consoles??
Display
Dell Ultrasharp 2005FPW 20.1" Wide Aspect ($475)
Audio
Logitech Z-5500 ($250)
DVD
PC ($0)
Extras
VDigi VD-Z3 ($75)
*if needed
APPROXIMATE TOTAL
$725 ~ $800
[hl=#009999]THE DORM ROOM[/hl]
Looking to be the envy of your dorm?? Want an excellent set that won't force you to run up that new credit card Mom and Dad sent you for emergencies??
Display
Sharp Aquos 26" LCG5C26U ($1000)
Audio
Onkyo HT-S580 ($275)
Yamaha YHT-160 ($275)
DVD
Sony DVP-NS50P ($75)
Extras
Entry Level Acoustic Research/ Monster/Phoenix Gold Cabling ($50)
Monster Entry Level "Basic" Powerstrip ($20)
Generic (Home Depot) Speaker Wire ($10)
APPROXIMATE TOTAL
$1430
[hl=#009999]THE ENTHUSIAST[/hl]
So your gaming habit hasn't completely drained your wallet and you've decided it's time for an upgrade but aren't quite ready to mortgage the house in the name of having the coolest setup on the block?? Then you can't go wrong with The Enthusiast package.
Display
Sony 34" KD-34XS955 ($1600)
Sony 30" KD-30XS955 ($900)
Audio
Onkyo HT-S780 ($475)
Yamaha YHT-450 ($475)
DVD
Oppo 971 ($200)
Panasonic S77 ($200)
Extras
Entry Level Acoustic Research/ Monster/Phoenix Gold Cabling ($100)
Panamax M8DBS-EX Line Conditioner/Surge Protector ($100)
APC AV H-Type Power Conditioner/Surge Protector ($300)
Generic (Home Depot) Speaker Wire ($10)
Audio Authority 1154A Component Switch ($150)*
*if needed
APPROXIMATE TOTAL
$1785 ~ $2835
[hl=#009999]THE THEATER EXPERIENCE[/hl]
Want that real movie theater feeling without leaving your home or leaving yourself in too much debt??
Display
Infocus 4805 ($900)
Optoma H31 ($900)
Screen
DIY White Paint/Blackout Cloth/Screen Goo (~$100)
Audio
Receiver ~ Panasonic XR55 ($200/Amazon)
Speakers ~ Ascend CBM170 (2 Pair/ Front and Surrounds) / Ascend CMT340 (Center) ($1000)
Subwoofer ~ HSU STF-1 ($300)
DVD
Pioneer DV588 ($200)
APPROXIMATE TOTAL
$2830 (Cabling/Wiring not included)
[hl=#009999]THE HARDCORE GAMER[/hl]
Do you live and breath gaming?? Would you take it as a compliment if someone called the cops and reported they heard shots fired during your last Call of Duty play session?? If you're looking for the ultimate setup that won't require the sale of any vital organs then this is for you.
Display
Samsung 61" HLR6167W ($2800)
Toshiba 62" 62HM95 ($2600)
Mitsubishi 62" WD62327 ($2500)
JVC 61" HD61Z886 ($2500)
Samsung 56" HL5667W ($2400)
Toshiba 52" 52HM95 ($2100)
Sony 50" KDFE50A10 ($2100)
Mitsubishi 52" WD52327 ($1900)
Toshiba 46" 46HM95 ($1800)
Sony 42" KDFE42A10 ($1600)
Audio
Receiver ~ Denon 3805 ($1000)
Speakers ~ Paradigm Package ($1500)
Subwoofer ~ Velodyne VRP-1200 ($350)
DVD
Denon 3910 ($1500)
Oppo 971 ($200)
Extras
Entry Level Acoustic Research/ Monster/Phoenix Gold Cabling ($150)
Panamax 4300-EX Line Conditioner/Surge Protector ($250)
APC AV H-Type Power Conditioner/Surge Protector ($300)
Generic (Home Depot) Speaker Wire ($30)
Audio Authority 1154A Component Switch ($150)*
*if needed
APPROXIMATE TOTAL
$5080 ~ $7780
[hl=#009999]THE ELITE[/hl]
If you're planning on spending $15K ~ $20K on your setup then why the hell did you even bother to click on a beginners guide?? You should already have an excellent idea of exactly what you want. However if you fall in to that .0000001% category of people who won the lottery or decided who needs life insurance and while you now have the money you can't make up your mind what setup would be right for you then look no further.
Display
Samsung 71" HLR7178W ($6000)
Toshiba 72" 72MX195 ($5000)
Sony 60" KDSR60XBR1 ($5000)
Hewlett Packard 65" MD6580N ($5000)
Audio
Receiver ~ Denon AVR-4806 ($3500)
Speakers ~ Paradigm Package ($4000)
Subwoofer ~SVS PB-12 Ultra ($1300)
DVD
Denon 5910 ($3500)
Denon 3910 ($1500)
Extras
Acoustic Research/Monster/Phoenix Gold Cabling ($250)
Panamax 5100-EX Line Conditioner/Surge Protector ($350)
APC AV S-Type Power Conditioner/Surge Protector with Battery Backup ($1500)
Generic (Home Depot) Speaker Wire ($50)
Zektor HDS4 ($300)*
*if needed
APPROXIMATE TOTAL
$15950 ~ $20500