Monthly Archives: September 2015

Denon DHT-S514 Home Theater Sound bar System

FEATURES:

• 175 total power
• Wireless subwoofer
• Built-in Bluetooth
• Dolby Digital and DTS decoding
• 1 HDMI in, 1 HDMI out
• Night mode
• 3 separate listening modes
• Wall mountable

REMOTE: RC-1187

RATING: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Denon DHT-S514 Home Theater Sound bar System. As many flat screen TVs get thinner and thinner, the sound quality ultimately suffers. That is where this home theater sound bar takes over. The set-up and installation is easy, especially since the sound bar and wireless subwoofer are lightweight and compact. Either mount on the wall or place on furniture, they are both black and will blend in with the rest of your equipment. This system offers 3 separate listening modes, including surround movie mode, to deliver surround sound with dynamic strength for soundtracks, dialogue enhance mode, to clearly hear the dialog between characters in a movie or show, and music mode, which optimizes the sound of your music.

The remote control part number is RC-1187.

With built-in Bluetooth capability, your options open up as you stream music from your Smartphone or tablet and enjoy music services like Spotify, Pandora, or Internet Radio. The subwoofer has a volume control with a wide range and delivers deep, distortion-free bass. The Dolby Digital and DTS decoding provides you with realistic surround sound. Many who have purchased this home theater sound bar system have remarked at how the sound fills the room, is very smooth, and truly immerses you in surround sound. The DHT-S514 is at mid to high range in price for sound bars but beats many of its higher priced counterparts on sound quality, as expressed by current users. It is an investment in your home entertainment needs that you will enjoy for years to come.

PROS:
• Wireless subwoofer
• Bluetooth
• Dolby Digital and DTS decoding
• 3 listening modes

CONS:
• Not enough HDMI inputs
• Sound bar gets hot when in use

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Westinghouse VR-4090 1080p 60Hz LCD HDTV

FEATURES:

• 1080p high resolution
• 3D noise reduction
• 178 degree vertical and horizontal angles
• 3 HDMI inputs
• PC connection
• Sleep timer
• Parental control
• Energy efficient

REMOTE: RMT-18

RATING: 4.2 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Westinghouse VR-4090 40” Class 1080p 60Hz LCD HDTV.
If you are looking to purchase a large screen TV with standard features but high resolution picture quality at a bargain price, then the VR-4090 is for you. The set-up is easy and mounting on the wall can be done by one person due to its light weight and slim design. When you watch movies, sporting events or play games, you will be very satisfied with the depth of colors and clarity that this model delivers.

Some great menu options on the remote control are parental control for parents wanting to monitor what their children are watching and the sleep timer function. This is an important feature for those of us who like to watch TV but sometimes fall asleep. All you do is set the amount of time you want and the TV does the rest. You can use all these menu options with the fully functional remote control that comes with the VR-4090. The remote part number is RMT-18 and is easy to use.

Another option on this 40” is that this TV can also be used as a monitor. You can connect your computer using one of the HDMI inputs. For the low price, this TV has all the basic features you need and will deliver an excellent viewing experience you deserve.

The sound quality has been said to be average but if you are an avid TV/movie person, you may want to invest in a soundbar or go all out on a home theater system. The price of the VR-4090 is so great – it leaves room for the extras.

PROS:
• Clarity, depth of color and brilliant picture quality
• 3 hdmi inputs
• Parental control
• Bargain price

CON:
• Average sound quality

MODEL:
VR-4090 – 40″ LCD HDTV

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SANYO DP32242 32″ Class (31.5″ Diagonal) LED 720p 60Hz HDTV

FEATURES:
• Ultra Slim 32″ LED panel
• True 16:9 aspect ratio
• Wide 178-degree vertical and 178-degree horizontal angles
• built-in digital tuner
• 4,000:1 contrast ratio
• 2 HDMI Inputs
• Wall mountable
• USB port

STANDARD REMOTE: CS90283-1T

RATING: 4.7/5.0

Welcome to the review of Sanyo’s DP32242 32” Class 720p 60Hz LED HDTV. One fan feature with the DP32242 is the digital tuner, Digital Clear QAM which is capable of receiving unscrambled digital cable.

In a high gloss black finish it blends into the background when the lights are dimmed for your movies, sports and favorite programs. Having a full array of HDMI, HD Component Audio/Video, Composite Audio/Video and RF inputs, you have plenty of options for DVD, VCR, Cable, Satellite and external antenna hookups. A coaxial digital audio output allows hookup to a home entertainment receiver amplifier system for theater like sound.

The USB input and Photo Viewer feature allows display of your digital camera photos for all to easily see. With a thin space saving design and small footprint, it can be positioned anywhere. The detachable pedestal base stand allows it to be wall mounted with an optional wall mount kit which is not included, but you will receive a fully functional remote control, part number CS90283-1T that will let you navigate through all of your TV functions.

The only issue mentioned by consumers was that the speakers are on the back and bottom of the model which muffles the sound quality. Other than that, consumers feel they are getting a great TV at an affordable price.

PROS:
• Price
• Style
• USB port

CON:
• Speaker locations

MODEL:
DP32242 – LED-LCD 720p/60Hz HDTV W/Digital Clear Tuner

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YAMAHA RX-V575 7.2 CH NETWORK AV RECEIVER

FEATURES:
• 7-channel powerful surround sound
• 115 W per channel (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.9% THD, 1 ch driven)
• 80 W per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.09% THD, 2 ch driven)
• HD Audio format decoding: Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™
• Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio™
• Full discrete amp configuration
• Burr-Brown 192 kHz / 24-bit DACs for all channels
• Direct Mode for high quality sound reproduction
• Low jitter PLL circuitry helps optimize sound imaging
• Assignable amplifiers for front speaker bi-amp, surround back or Zone B connection
• FLAC or WAV 192 kHz / 24-bit audio playback

REMOTE: ZF303500

RATING: 4.5/5.0

Welcome to a review of Yamaha’s RX-V575, 7.2 CH Network AV Receiver. Seven discrete amplifiers provide versatile speaker options. This includes 7.2 channel surround, bi-amp to double power to main speakers, or Zone B for extended audio coverage. The Yamaha AV Controller App works with Apple® and Android™ devices and provides simple yet powerful network control. Enjoy your new receiver with CINEMA DSP 3D, which offers an enveloping home theater experience. Expand connectivity with MHL® (Mobile High-Definition Link), AirPlay® and music streaming services, and versatile USB input for iPad® compatibility. With included futuristic technologies like Ultra HD (4K) pass-through and ECO mode, the RX-V575 puts the power in your hands.

This AV receiver provides advanced HDMI features including Ultra HD (4K) pass-through. Ultra HD (4K) refers to four times the resolution of a 1080p display. While not yet available, Ultra HD (4K) displays and sources are sure to become popular in the future. This receiver is capable of passing the Ultra HD (4K) data from the source to the display for image clarity far beyond present standards. You will also be able to adjust the settings with the easy to use remote control, part number ZF303500.

The RX-V575 lets you use the Yamaha AV Controller App that is downloadable from the iTunes App Store or Google Play to control power on/off and volume, select input and DSP modes and operate other functions from an iPhone® or Android device. You can also use in as many as 23* different languages and customize the interface by hiding unused icons and renaming functions. A tablet version is also available.

The simplified Zone A, Zone B speaker switching makes listening to either or both simpler than more sophisticated Zone 1, Zone 2 receivers. In addition, Zone A Zone B speaker switching allows for digital sources such a s CD player or Roku for the music which standard Zone 1 Zone 2 approaches do not. This is another great feature that has consumers happy with their choice.

PROS:
• Simple Zone A Zone B speaker switching DLNA networking capability
• Sound quality
• Easy setup

CON:
• NET music menus are too basic in their format

MODEL:
RX-V575 – 7.2 CH NETWORK AV RECEIVER

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Samsung Plasma PN51F5500 Series Smart TV

FEATURES:
• 1080p Plasma HDTV: Best picture quality
• 600Hz Refresh Rate: Best for general viewing, video games, action movies, and sports
• Smart TV with Voice Controls: Interact with streaming content and the web
• TV without stand (Width x Height x Depth): 46.9” x 27.9” x 2.2”, TV with stand (Width x Height x Depth): 46.9” x 31.4” x 12.1”
• Power: ENERGY STAR Compliant

SMART TOUCH REMOTE: AA59-00772A

RATING: 4.4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of this Samsung Plasma F5500 Series Smart TV. This smart TV comes with built in Wi-Fi so that you can browse the web and access apps such as Netflix, Amazon, Youtube, and more! With a dual-core processor built in for faster web browsing and much more app multitasking, using the Smart Touch remote control that comes with this series, the AA59-00772A. The remote control has a touchpad that operates similar to that of a four arrow and select button layout. While some say that the touchpad overcomplicates it, others have liked the idea of being able to scroll with their remote so it is reviewed as a great feature for this series.

The stand for the TV is on a swivel so that it can adjust to your needs. The stand however looks relatively flimsy compared to the size of the TV. A lot of the market consumer reviews are wowing the great picture and sound quality. Pricing is comparative to other like type models but reviews overall are stating this series is a great buy!

PROS:
• Excellent picture and sound quality
• 3-D
• Apps and Web Browsing
CON:
• Flimsy stand

MODELS:
PLASMA F5500 SERIES SMART TV
PN51F5500
PN60F5500
PN64F5500

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Onkyo TX-NR818 7.2-Ch THX Certified Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 7 channel amplifier
• 135 watts per channel
• THX Select2 Plus certification
• Front-panel USB input
• Multi-room audio
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports
• 40 AM/FM presets
• Wifi and bluetooth ready (requires purchase of adapter)

REMOTE: RC-840M

RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR818 7.2-Ch THX Certified Network A/V Receiver. For a mid-range receiver, the Onkyo TX-NR818 performs like a higher-end model. The power and clarity of sound and picture it delivers is top of the line. It has THX Select2 Plus certification, meaning it has been tested thoroughly to provide you with nothing but the finest in a home theater product. With 8 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, there is plenty of room to connect all of your devices including a blu-ray player, gaming console, TV, Cable/Satellite box and more. With the front panel USB port you can connect your iPhone/iPod or flash drive to stream music or videos. If you are looking for a wireless connection, with the purchase of an adapter, you’ll be ready to stream your music, watch youtube videos, or listen to the many online music services available including Pandora, Slacker, Rhapsody and many others. The TX-NR818 is equipped with InstaPrevue which provides a live video thumbnail of the available content on your devices connected via HDMI.

The part number for the remote control is RC-840M. The biggest gripe about the remote control from users is that it is not back-lit therefore the lights must be turned on to use.

Onkyo uses Qdeo technology which will upscale full HD to an amazing 4k resolution, the wave of the future. Audyssey technology is also used to enhance the quality of sound and its room correction suite equalizes the sound to adapt to the unique acoustics of your listening space, providing you with true surround sound and an awesome cinematic experience. Multi-room audio is a nice feature to listen to music in up to 3 different rooms in your house. 40 preset memory for FM/AM radio gives you plenty of room to set your favorite channels. By far, the TX-NR-818 is a powerful receiver, ready to provide you with excellent video performance, powerful, clean sound and plenty of inputs to personalize your home theater system.

PROS:
• Powerful, clean sound quality
• High resolution upscaling
• THX Select2 Plus certification
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports

CONS:
• Lacks built-in AirPlay Support, wi-fi and bluetooth
• Could use better quality GUI
• Remote control is not back-lit

MODEL:
TX-NR818 – 7.2-Ch THX Certified Network A/V Receiver

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Westinghouse VR-6090Z 60” Class 1080P 120 HZ LCD HDTV

FEATURES:
• 60″ LCD panel with Full HD resolution
• Wide 176-degree vertical and horizontal angles
• Built-in digital tuner
• 3 HDMI Inputs
• 3D noise reduction
• Wall mountable

REMOTE: RMT-15

RATING: 3.9/5.0

Welcome to a review of the Westinghouse VR-6090Z 60” Class LCD HDTV. The Westinghouse VR-6090Z guarantees to deliver a bright, crisp picture with 1920 X 1980 maximum resolution, from anywhere in the room, due to its wide vertical and horizontal angles. Because of its 120Hz screen refresh rate, you will experience less image buffers and enjoy watching your favorite movies, shows and sports. Although this model is said to be wall mountable, some consumers have expressed difficulty in mounting the TV.

The VR-6090Z model comes with a fully functional standard remote, part number RMT-15.

This model comes with 3 HDMI inputs to upgrade your viewing experience. The sound quality is excellent and has not garnered any negative reviews thus far. The sound quality, together with the clear HD picture that this TV provides, make this an affordable and high quality item to add to your shopping list.

PROS:
• Excellent value
• Crisp, bright picture
• Excellent sound quality
• 3 HDMI inputs
• 3D noise reduction

CON:
• Difficulty with mounting on wall

MODEL:
VR-6090Z – 60″ LCD HDTV

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SHARP HT-SB30 2.0 CH SOUND BAR HOME THEATER SYSTEM

FEATURES:
• 2.0 Channel Sound Bar Home Theater System
• Bluetooth® Wireless Compatibility
• Designed for use with 40″ Class TV Models and Larger
• Sound Bar with High-End Speaker Design
• Audio-Speaker Configuration-2.0
• Audio-RMS Output Power-40 W

REMOTE: RRMCGA322AWSA

RATING: 1.5/5.0

Welcome to a review of Sharp’s HT-SB30, 2.0 CH Sound Bar Home Theater System. Enhance your entertainment experience with the all-in-one Sound Bar System from Sharp. The HT-SB30 Sound Bar’s 2.0 channel system offers a powerful sound that is generated by 2 speakers with a total 40 Watts RMS.

The analogue audio input terminal guarantees superb connectivity with your AV-equipment at home. The HT-SB30 includes a 3.5mm auxiliary cord in case you need to use that with one of the 2 available analog inputs. Environmentally friendly, the Sharp HT-SB30 features an auto power on/off function that prevents additional power consumption. Compact in design, you can place the Sharp soundbar easily within your system, with an optional wall mount or inside a rack.

You will also receive an easy to use remote control, part number RRMCGA322AWSA. The remote control is very basic and has 10 keys for easy operation that will allow Bluetooth enabled TV’s to be controlled as well.

Consumer input is not really wowing the HT-SB30. Some have stated that it really didn’t improve the quality of the sound. The biggest issue with this model is the lack of connectivity. There is no HDMI output, no HDMI input and no optical input as well. Even with this knowledge, Sharp’s high reputation and the modest price might be the driving force behind the sales.

PROS:
• Bluetooth
• Easy to use remote control

CONS:
• No connectivity
• Sound quality enhancement

MODEL:
HT-SB30 – 2.0 CH SOUND BAR HOME TH SYSTEM

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SANYO DP32D13 32″ 720p 60Hz LED LCD HDTV

FEATURES:

• 32″ LED LCD panel with a 1366 x 768 pixel HD resolution
• True 16:9 aspect ratio
• Wide 178-degree vertical and 178-degree horizontal angles
• Built-in digital tuner
• 3 HDMI Inputs
• Wall mountable

STANDARD REMOTE: YKF338-001

RATING: n/a

Welcome to a review of Sanyo’s DP32D13, 32” 720p 60Hz LED-LCD HDTV. SANYO DP32D13 720p LED Direct Lit LCD with integrated ATSC Digital and NTSC Analog Tuner by Sanyo is the latest technology for the digital age. The digital tuner is Digital Clear QAM, capable of receiving unscrambled digital cable. This model boasts a very nice quality picture however, from straight on viewing, blacks are deep and sometimes overpower dark information.

With its high gloss black finish, it blends into the background when the lights are dimmed as you watch your favorite program or movie. This is a nice looking model that comes in a 32” class only which is perfect for a bedroom, dorm or kitchen.

Having a full array of HDMI, HD Component Audio/Video, Composite Audio/Video and RF inputs, you have plenty of options for DVD, VCR, Cable, Satellite and external antenna hookups. You will also receive a fully functional remote, Sanyo’s YKF338-001. You will be able to setup and go through all the menu options and features with ease.

This is a simple TV that does not have all the bells and whistles, but with a quality picture and decent sound, at an affordable price, the DP32D13 might be one to consider when purchasing your next TV.

PROS:
• 3 HDMI inputs
• HD 720p resolution
• 60Hz Refresh Rate

CONS:
• No computer input
• No WiFi

MODEL:
DP32D13 – LED-LCD 720p/60Hz HDTV W/Digital Clear Tuner

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Toshiba 32L1300U 32-Inch 720p 120Hz LED HDTV

FEATURES:

• 120Hz refresh rate
• Audyssey EQ and ABX audio technologies
• Dynamic picture mode
• USB port
• 2 HDMI inputs
• Sleek modern design
• Game mode
• 14 watt audio
• 720p resolution

REMOTE: CT-90325

RATING: 4.4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Toshiba 32L1300U 32-Inch 720p 120Hz LED HDTV. Most customers who purchase the Toshiba 32L1300U are drawn by its affordable price. It is not a Smart TV but a simple, basic TV for a bedroom, guestroom or office. It is lightweight and easy to install and set-up. Its sleek modern design makes it attractive in any room. It comes with 2 HDMI inputs and a USB port, where you can connect a USB flash drive and listen to music or view photos. Although it has only 720p resolution, the Dynamic picture mode provides maximum contrast and clarity giving you excellent picture quality, with crisp, vibrant colors.

The remote control that comes with the 32L1300U model is very easy to use and navigate. The part number is CT-90325.

One of the best features of this TV is the 120 HZ refresh rate. For gaming enthusiasts, the 120 HZ refresh rate reduces motion blur for quick, edge of your seat action and will have you playing your favorite games for hours. Audyssey EQ and ABX audio technologies ensure that the sound quality is clear and balanced. There are two notable drawbacks. The first is that this model does not come with a user manual, it must be downloaded from Toshiba’s website. The second drawback, as noted by several customers, is the shortage of HDMI inputs and audio out options. In some cases, additional cables need to be purchased to connect your devices. However, for the low price, this TV delivers excellent picture and sound quality and is well built to give you years of entertainment.

PROS:
• Low price
• 120 Hz refresh rate
• Excellent picture quality
• Easy set-up

CONS:
• No user manual
• Only 2 HDMI inputs and lacks audio out options

MODEL:
32L1300U – 32″ LED HDTV 720P/120hZ

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