Monthly Archives: August 2016

Onkyo TX-NR929 9.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• Built-in WiFi
• Built-in Bluetooth
• 135 watts per channel
• Powers audio in up to 3 zones
• 9 HDMI inputs
• 2 HDMI outputs
• 4K pass-through and upscaling
• Multi-room playback

REMOTE: RC-840M

RATING: 4.5 out of 5

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR929 9.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver. The Onkyo TX-NR929 receiver is a powerhouse, full of all the features current technology has to offer. Set-up and installation is simple, especially when connected to the TV which displays an overlay on your screen to facilitate installation. With built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, the streaming capabilities are endless with an expanded selection of online media streaming services such as Pandora, Rhapsody, iHeart, and Spotify, just to name a few. To maximize your entertainment experience, this receiver is equipped with an astonishing 9 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs to offer you numerous possibilities to connect all of your devices, including a blu-ray, cable box, gaming console, PC, speakers and any other HDMI compatible device you need. Two HDMI outputs are included for high-definition video in two separate zones. The receiver also has the capability of receiving a large amount of audio files from your smartphone, tablet, PC, and NAS devices using the Onkyo remote app.

The part# for the remote control that comes with this receiver is RC-840M. The remote has a button for every input except for bluetooth, much to the disappointment of many users.

Your movies will truly come alive with 4K upscaling provided you have a 4K compatible TV. Even if you don’t have one now, should you purchase one in the future, this receiver will upscale your blu-rays and videos to 4K resolution to give you the cinematic viewing experience you’re looking for. The TX-NR929 is equipped with Audyssey Technology which not only helps you to calibrate your speakers for optimal sound but provides acoustic correction and will ensure consistent volume levels for the very best sound quality available. Without a doubt, this receiver, although not inexpensive, will fulfill all of your needs with top-notch quality.

PROS:
• Built-in Wifi and bluetooth
• 4K upscaling
• Multi-room function
• Automatic calibration

CON:
• No button for bluetooth on remote control

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com

VIZIO E551I SERIES RAZOR LED SMART TV

FEATURES:

• Built-In Wi-Fi for easy internet access
• 120Hz Refresh Rate with Smooth Motion for stunning detail and clarity in every image
• 1080p Full HD for a crystal-clear picture
• 11 x 49.1 x 31 inches
• Full HD 1080p
• 120Hz Razor LED Backlit
• Thin bezel for larger image
• Plenty of HDMI, USB, component, and PC inputs

REMOTE: XRT112

RATING: 4.2 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Vizio E551i Razor LED Smart TV. This series boasts a thin bezel, sleek design and high-quality HD picture for a smart value.

This model comes with a fully functional smart remote – the XRT112 – that hosts built-in app buttons for crowd favorites like Amazon, Netflix and M-GO. Videos, photos, and apps are resized and scaled to fit the larger TV screen and there is another hot feature, the built-in Wi-Fi for easy internet access.

The E-series E551i LED Smart TV offers you more of what you want and expect from your TV with so many more features, especially the Razor LED backlight technology, and full 1080p resolution at a 120Hz refresh rate with Smooth Motion technology, especially great for viewing sporting events and playing games.

All these features work together perfectly and make this 55-inch LED Razor a great choice overall.

PROS:
• The picture quality is great for the cost
• Built in Wi-Fi.
• Plenty of HDMI, USB, component, and PC inputs

CONS:
• Remote is very particular about being pointed in the lower left hand corner.
• The smart aspect to the TV is not on par with other competitors.

MODELS:
E-SERIES RAZOR LED SMART TV
• E241i-A1
• E291i-A1
• E401i-A2
• E551i-A2

For more reviews like this, please visit www.remotecontrols.com

Westinghouse UW32S3PW 720P 60HZ LED TV

FEATURES:

• 720p high definition resolution
• Ultra thin design
• 100,000:1 Dynamic contrast ratio
• 176 degree vertical and horizontal angles
• Parental control
• Built-in digital tuner
• PC connectivity
• Energy efficient

REMOTE: RMT-22

RATING: 4.2 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Westinghouse UW32S3PW LED TV. This model is modern and sleek with its ultra slim design. Perfect for any wall or stand and easy to mount because of its light weight. The set-up is easy however some consumers are not satisfied that the user manual comes in the form of a CD instead of an actual printed copy. This can be problematic for users with no computer or little knowledge of computers and how to read and navigate a document on CD. The TV comes equipped with only one button on the front, the on/off switch. For those people who often displace or lose their remote control, this can be an annoyance. Although this model’s resolution is only 720p, unless you get up very close can you tell that it is not 1080p. The picture quality is excellent, delivering brilliant clear, crisp images whether you are watching movies, playing a game, or have your PC connected to use as a monitor. Its wide vertical and horizontal angles allow anyone in the room to view with ease, no matter where they are seated.

The remote control that comes with this model is part number RMT-22. It has been noted that at times the remote control is slow to respond and needs to be positioned directly in front of the TV to work.

The biggest complaint about this model, as is with other ultra slim flat screen models, is the sound quality. Users have said that the sound is often muffled and sounds tinny, as though coming from a tin cup. For many, the sound quality is adequate, but for those who desire a more enhanced and high-end sound there is an easy solution. Simply attach a sound bar, speakers or a good quality sound system and you will be ready to experience a true theater-like experience with sharp, crisp images that are hard to beat for the low price.

PROS:
• Sharp, crisp picture
• Ultra slim, sleek design
• Easy to mount
• Parental control
• PC connection

CONS:
• Average sound quality
• User manual comes in the form of a CD, not a printed copy
• Remote control is slow to respond

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com

Sony BDV-N790W 3D Blu-ray Home Theater System

FEATURES:

• Sleek, compact design
• Wireless rear speakers
• 1000 watts of power
• Built-in WiFi
• USB input
• Dolby TrueHD and dts-HD mode
• 2 HDMI inputs
• Upconvert 2D DVDs to 3D

REMOTE: RM-ADP072

RATING: 4.3 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Sony BDV-N790W 3D Blu-ray Home Theater System. This Sony home theater system is packed full with lots of extras. The sleek, modern design is very attractive and the rear speakers are easy to mount since they are wireless. The system is easy to install and operate. With 1000 watts of power coming from the speakers, you will get stunning, crisp surround sound. Being WiFi enabled makes it very easy for you to connect to the internet and view movies, listen to music or watch your favorite youtube videos. The HDMI inputs also allow you to connect a gaming console, an iphone and other devices important to you. If you own a smartphone, it can be used as a remote control which is a very nice feature since remote controls seem to get lost frequently.

The remote control that comes with this home theater system is part # RM-ADP072. A common disappointment with this remote is that the remote sensor is poor and to make it work you have to point it in just the right direction, at just the right angle.

Though the majority of individuals who have purchased this system are very happy with the sound quality, there are concerns with some of the features offered. As far as design is concerned, some users have commented that the receiver is a bit on the large side for a compact unit. An FM tuner is part of the system, but it does not include AM, which has been duly noted by many. Apparently load time is an issue – the load time to turn the TV on, to load DVDs and to switch between functions. This system does not provide any means of adjusting individual sound levels such as bass, mid and treble and does not give you a way to tweak the front or rear volume levels which can be frustrating for any sound quality enthusiast. Overall, however, with all the features provided in this home theater system and its crisp, clear surround sound, most users are very happy with their purchase.

PROS:
• Good price for a mid-range home theater system
• Excellent sound quality with surround sound
• Lots of features including Internet connectivity
• Easy to set-up and install

CONS:
• No way to adjust sound levels
• No AM tuner
• Slow load time

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com

Onkyo TX-NR828 7.2-Ch Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• THX certification
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports
• Instaprevue
• Audyssey Technology for Superior Sound
• Multi-room capability
• Overlaid menus for quick adjustments
• 4K upscaling

REMOTE: RC-840M

RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR828 7.2-Ch Network A/V Receiver. If ever there was a high-end receiver you could count on for all of your music and viewing needs, this is it. Not only is the TX-NR828 loaded with the most desirable features on the market, it is THX certified meaning you get nothing but the very finest in what a home theater system can offer. The user interface is easy to understand and very intuitive. The microphone enclosed with your receiver is used for automatic calibration of your speakers which will optimize the sound quality by calibrating every speaker based on where you will be seated when listening to music or watching movies. The receiver is equipped with a phenomenal amount of HDMI ports, for your convenience, to connect your blu-ray, gaming console, cable/satellite box, PC, TV and more. 4k upscaling is an important feature because it allows your videos and blu-ray movies to be upscaled to 4K resolution with any HDTV or 4K compatible TV.

The remote control that comes with this receiver is part # RC-840M. Some users have expressed disappointment that the buttons do not have backlighting, making it very difficult to navigate at night.

The TX-NR828 is equipped with one of the most sought after features in today’s market, built-in WiFi and Bluetooth. These features make streaming movies and videos a breeze and you will have access to the many music service providers on the internet such as Pandora, Rhapsody, Slacker, Spotify and many more. Instaprevue technology is very helpful as it will allow you to view icons of your devices on the screen to identify what is going on with all your connected devices such as your blu-ray and gaming console. The sound quality that this receiver delivers is exceptional, with crisp, clear mid-tones, to powerful, rich bass. This powerhouse of a receiver, packed with many important features, should be on your list of considerations when looking to put together a top of the line home theater system.

PROS:
• Excellent sound quality
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports
• Automatic calibration of speakers
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth

CONS:
• No backlighting of the buttons on the remote control.
• Onkyo app for iPhones could use some upgrading

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com

DENON AVR-X4000 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver with Apple AirPlay

FEATURES:
• HT & Audyssey LFC
• DTS Neo:X (9.1 ch), Audyssey Sub E
• Audyssey MultEQ XT32, Audyssey Sub EQ HT & Audyssey LFC
• Three HDMI outputs with multi-zone distribution and InstaPrevue technology
• Networking with AirPlay, Pandora, Spotify, & SiriusXM Internet Radio

REMOTE CONTROL: RC-1185

RATING: 4.2/5.0

Welcome to a review of Denon’s AVR-X4000 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver. It has been stated that Denon makes some of the best affordable home cinema receivers. This is a receiver for serious AV fans, and makes a few more upgrades to the aesthetics than some of Denon’s lower end models. Its front panel has a retractable cover that hides all of the buttons and sockets, leaving just the two knobs and the display visible – a smart look.

This is an easy receiver to setup and with the help of the included remote control, part number RC-1185, you will get through all the menu options and features with ease.

There are a few other features that make the AVR-X4000 standout from the rest. Perhaps most significantly, the AVR-X4000 has three HDMI outputs – entry-level receivers only have one. Two of the outputs have to share a source, letting you, for example, plug in a projector and TV to the same piece of video equipment while the third can take video and audio from a completely different source. This lets the Denon AVR-X4000 become the ‘brain’ of a multi-room setup.

You can set up the AVR-X4000 to enjoy music and video in the main room, while others enjoy music and video in a second room. A second zone HDMI output lets others enjoy a different program in another room, and the Amp Assign function lets you use two of the amplifier channels to drive stereo speakers in the second room. By connecting a stereo amp to the AVR-X4000, you can even have a third audio source playing in another room. This is an excellent feature for families with different tastes.

Consumers are raving about the multiple great features and impressive high quality sound. This receiver may appear a bit pricey by some but it definitely has the power and quality that make it worth the price.

PROS:
• Sound quality
• 3 HDMI output
• Amp Assign

CONS:
• No WiFi
• Not much change from 4520 model

For more reviews like this, please visit www.remotecontrols.com

Emerson LD280EM4 28 inch 720p 60 Hz LED HDTV/DVD Combo

FEATURES:
• 720p High definition resolution
• Built-in DVD player
• Wide vertical and horizontal angles
• 1 HDMI input
• Built-in digital tuner
• Picture and Sound control
• Wall mountable
• Energy star certified

REMOTE: URMT45FNT003

RATING: 2 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Emerson LD280EM4 28 inch 720p 60 Hz LED HDTV/DVD Combo. This TV/DVD combo is priced to fit a tight budget. It does not have any smart TV features but instead is a basic TV with high resolution and a built-in DVD player. It has a relatively small screen therefore intended for smaller rooms such as an office, kitchen or guest bedroom. Weighing in at 13.23 pounds, it is easily mounted on the wall or placed on a stand. Unfortunately this model comes with only 1 HDMI input to connect to your equipment like a cable/satellite box or gaming console. If a PC connection is desired, with the purchase of a cable, the option is available. It is probably best to speak to an Emerson technician about your options.

The remote control part number for this TV is URMT45FNT003.

The picture and sound controls are a nice feature. Some picture controls include personal, standard, sports, movie, or game. Sound controls include personal, standard, vivid, sports, movie, music, or news. Playing games with a 60 Hz refresh rate isn’t the best, as a higher refresh rate is best for game playing with fast action and speed. Therefore this model may not be a good fit for a diehard gaming enthusiast. However, this model has 720p high definition resolution whereby you can enjoy vibrant, dynamic images with clarity when watching movies, sporting events or playing games. The built-in DVD player is convenient for users who watch lots of movies. However, some users have reported having difficulties with ejecting the DVD or CD. For those who are energy conservationist, this TV is certified energy efficient. Overall, this model is not top of the line in flat panel TVs but for the budget conscious who desire a simple TV with the basics, this will fit the bill.

PROS:
• Low price tag
• Built-in DVD player
• High definition resolution
• Energy star certified

CONS:
• Some DVD players have problems with ejection of DVD/CD
• Only 1 HDMI input

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com