Monthly Archives: June 2016

Sony STR-DH540 5.2-channel 4K A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 5.2 channels, 725 watts
• 4 convenient HDMI inputs; 2 HDMI output for video and audio
• 4K resolution pass-through
• Front facing USB port
• HD Digital Cinema Sound
• Digital Cinema Auto Calibration
• 3D pass-through
• iPod/iPhone Music and Video playback

REMOTE: RM-AAU168

RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Sony STR-DH540 5.2-channel 4K A/V Receiver. Sony’s STR-DH540 is an entry-level receiver which lacks WiFi, and bluetooth connectivity but is more than adequate with the amazing sound quality that it delivers. It looks like a typical black box receiver with buttons on the front. The settings are very easy to control and adjust. The feature that automatically calibrates your speakers is effortless and takes only minutes. Simply connect the microphone that comes enclosed, take the microphone to where you will be sitting when watching TV and follow the instructions. It will optimize the sound of each speaker based on the distance, delays and the placement of your speakers. It’s that simple! The USB port is located up front to connect an iPHone/iPad and play music, videos, and charge your device at the same time. The 4 HDMI inputs are located at the back where you can connect a blu-ray, gaming console, cable box and any other HDMI compatible device.

The part# for the remote control that comes with this reciever is RM-AAU168. It is easy to use and navigate.

Once adjustments and calibration have been completed for the speakers, you will be able to enjoy the clarity, richness and depth of the sound quality. The bass will not blow you out of the water since this receiver has limited wattage, but for a small to medium sized room, it is perfect. This receiver has 3D pass-through therefore is compatible with any 3D movie, video game or other 3D content. It is also equipped with 4K pass-through which will give you 4 times the current 1080p resolution, the newest in technology advancements, with 4K compatible TVs and other devices coming out on the market in the near future. Therefore your receiver will already be compatible with the newest technology coming down the pike. For the bargain price, you can’t go wrong with this receiver.

PROS:

• Inexpensive
• High resolution picture quality
• Rich sound with clarity and depth
• 4 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs for all HDMI compatible equipment

CONS:

• No WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity
• No multiroom support

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

Onkyo LS3100 Envision Cinema 2.1-Channel Bluetooth Speaker System

FEATURES:

• Compact digital amplifier
• 20 watts per channel
• 2 full range speakers
• Bluetooth enabled
• Wireless subwoofer
• Curved speakers with twin drivers
• Preset Remote Control Code for Most TV Brands
• Digital amplifier circuitry

REMOTE: RC-858S

RATING: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo LS3100 Envision Cinema 2.1-Channel Bluetooth Speaker System. If you are looking for an entry level speaker system that is compact and easy to setup than this may be the system for you. It is a compact system that will allow you to easily set it up in small spaces. This system was designed for small to medium spaces. The build quality of this system is of a good, solid design. The wireless subwoofer makes for less cable clutter in your room. The speakers come with stands so that you can place them close to your TV or mount them on the wall to give you more floor space.

The remote control that comes with this system is part # RC-858S. It is a fully functioning, preprogrammed learning remote.

The level of bass, via the subwoofer, can be controlled from the included remote where you can set your bass level and sound mode. Being Bluetooth enabled is a great feature that will allow you to stream your favorite tunes from your smartphone, tablet and laptop, and listen to them with a powerful system that delivers clear, crisp sound with rich, deep bass that is not overwhelming. Also, analog and digital connections are included to connect a PC or CD player. This system renders a close to surround sound experience. Overall, this system delivers excellent sound and is a good choice for small spaces.

PROS:
• Compact design
• Excellent sound quality
• Bluetooth enabled

CON:
• Receiver has no display

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

Denon AVR-X2100W 7.2 Channel Full 4K Ultra HD A/V Receiver with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

FEATURES:
• Built-in Bluetooth, built-in Wi-Fi, Airplay and DLNA for wireless music streaming
• Ultra HD 4K 60 Hz video pass-through; 4:4:4 Pure Color pass-through
• 8 HDMI v2.0 inputs / 2 outputs
• 7.2 channel; 95 watts per channel maximum power
• Audyssey Silver advanced DSP audio processing; room acoustic correction
• Eco Mode for reduced power consumption

REMOTE: RC-1192

RATING: 3.7 OUT OF 5 STARS

Welcome to a review of Denon’s AVR-X2100W, a 7.2 Channel Full 4K UHD A/V Receiver with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The AVR-X2100W is equipped with both WiFi and Bluetooth wireless technologies. This A/V receiver lets you listen to your favorite tracks from your portable audio player, smartphone and tablet, as well as from your home network. Choose from a wide range of internet radio stations and listen to your favorite tracks from music streaming services such as Pandora, SiriusXM and Spotify. You can also listen to tracks on your DLNA home PC or Mac, and the AVR-X2100W is equipped with dual RF antennas for maximum Bluetooth and Wi-Fi reception quality.

Use the easy “Set-up Assistance” feature that will get your A/V receiver up and running quickly. Plus you will receive a fully functional remote control, Denon’s RC-1192, that will guide you through the process in no time.

As the first A/V receiver manufacturer to embrace Audyssey’s advanced DSP audio algorithms, Denon has introduced the most Audyssey-equipped products, and the AVR-X2100W features the Audyssey Silver suite of DSP functions, which includes MultEQ XT, Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume.

The AVR-X2100W features multi-room listening where you will enjoy stereo sound from one source in one room, and 5.1 surround sound from another source in the main room. Simply connect a pair of stereo speakers to the multi-room amplified outputs or connect a separate stereo amp and speakers to the Zone 2 pre-outs, and enjoy full 7 channel surround sound in the main room. With the AVR-X2100W’s dual subwoofer outputs, you can connect two subwoofers and place them in different parts of the room to enjoy smoother and more accurate deep bass response.

PROS:
• Sound quality
• Easy setup
• Auto check for firmware updates

CONS:
• Audio freeze up
• Wi-Fi issues

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

Emerson LD280EM4 28 inch 720p 60Hz 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 is fully functional right out of the box – just add new batteries. The part number for this remote 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

VIZIO M-Series (d) Razor Smart LED HDTV with Theater 3D

FEATURES:
• VIZIO Internet Apps Plus
• Theater 3D
• Razor LED™ with Smart Dimming
• 240Hz effective refresh rate with Smooth Motion
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• Includes 8 pairs of Theater 3D Glasses
• 1080p Full HD resolution 240Hz
• 10 million to 1 ultra-high contrast
• Backlit smart remote included
• 4 HDMI ports

SMART REMOTE: XRT510

RATING: 4.0/5.0

Welcome to a review of Vizio’s M-Series (d) Razor Smart LED HDTV with 3D. The new VIZIO M-Series (d) is loaded with advanced technologies that push LCD brilliance to new heights. Innovations like Razor LED™ with Smart Dimming, 1080p Full HD, 10M:1 dynamic contrast ratio and a faster refresh rate bring a state-of-the-art viewing experience to life right on your screen.
State-of-the-art technology pushes beyond the boundaries of conventional 3D TV with a picture up to twice as bright, featuring a wider range of viewing angles that makes it ideal for movie nights, sports viewing and gaming.

Per Vizio, the all-new Internet Apps Plus is now easier to use than ever. Its newly expanded apps library is your gateway to a virtually limitless world of the best streaming content, from hit movies and TV shows to music and more, while an updated user interface features full-screen searching to make the most ingenious Smart TV platform intuitively simple.

You will receive a fully functional remote control for the M-Series (d), part number XRT510. This remote control will guide you through all the fun your model is definitely going to bring you, plus help with all the menu and feature options with ease.

The M-Series (d) is available in a size to please everyone. If you are seeking a Smart TV with all the features, plus 3D – the Vizio M-Series (d) may be a series to check out.

PROS:
• Overall Value
• Dark Room Picture Quality (2D & 3D)
• Aesthetic Design (Screen & Stand)
• Ease of Use/Menus/Setup
• Smart TV Features

CONS:
• Highly Reflective Screen
• Screen Uniformity (Light bleeding/Blooming)
• Set Design / Input Placement
• Lack of External Controls
MODELS:
M-SERIES RAZOR LED SMART TVs W/Theater 3D
• M501d-A2
• M551d-A2
• M651d-A2
• M601d-A3
• M701d-A3
• M801d-A3

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

Westinghouse T6DW Series LCD HDTV

FEATURES:

• 1080p High resolution definition
• Wide vertical and horizontal viewing angles
• 3 HDMI inputs
• 3D noise reduction
• Energy Efficient
• Wall mountable
• Built-in digital tuner
• Sleep timer and parental control

REMOTE: RMT-15

RATING: 4.1 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Westinghouse T6DW Series. This series is a great value and offers many features for the price. Set-up is easy, with its simple menu. Mounting on the wall is trouble-free due to the TV’s light weight. The 3 HDMI ports let you watch movies, play games and connect your computer for high resolution images and easy viewing with the large screen. A couple of convenient features are the sleep timer and parental control, which no parent should be without. This series does have a few drawbacks. The HDMI inputs are located in the rear of the TV making it difficult to attach your cables, especially when the TV is mounted to the wall. In order for the digital tuner to function, some codes need to be activated which requires a phone call. For most this is not an issue, but some consumers find this requirement very annoying. However, considering the vibrant colors and crisp, clear picture this series delivers, it is worth it.

The remote control used for this series is the RMT-15. It is very easy to use however it has been noted that the signal is weak, therefore you must be close to the TV and aim properly for the remote to connect to the TV.

The biggest drawback of this series and many slim, flat screen TVs is the sound quality. The speakers on this series are located at the rear of the TV and are very weak. The sound quality is very poor. However, to compensate for the speakers and achieve great sound quality, any sound system can be attached to the TV. Once you have your desired sound system attached, you can experience all the great features this series has to offer.

PROS:
• Excellent value
• Crisp, Clear picture
• Ample amount of HDMI inputs
• PC connectivity

CONS:
• Weak sound quality
• No internet connectivity
• Digital tuner requires activation

MODELS:

T6DW Series LCD HDTV
• CW37T6DW
• CW40T6DW
• CW46T6DW

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

Sony HT-CT660 2.1ch 330w soundbar with wireless subwoofer

FEATURES:

• 2.1 channels, 330 watts
• 3 HDMI inputs
• Wireless subwoofer
• HD sound with Dolby TrueHD & dts-HD Master Audio
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Compact design
• S-Force PRO Front Surround 3D
• IR Repeater pass-thru

REMOTE: RM-ANP105

RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Sony HT-CT660 soundbar with wireless subwoofer. The design of the soundbar is very sleek, attractive, and compact and will fit in nicely with any decor whether it is mounted on the wall or placed under the TV. The set-up is easy and intuitive. The soundbar is made to fit under a 40 inch or larger TV screen although it can be used with any size screen. Unfortunately, no wall mounting hardware is included, however, the instruction manual does instruct you on what you will need to mount it on the wall. The beauty of this system is that the subwoofer is wireless therefore taking away the clutter of wires when placed in any location. Together, the soundbar and subwoofer deliver deep, rich sound with clarity and definition, with strong, powerful bass from the subwoofer. While it works well at higher volume levels, some users have noticed that at lower volumes the soundbar does not perform as well.

The remote control part # for this sound system is RM-ANP105.

With 3 HDMI inputs, you can connect 3 HDMI devices such as your cable box, blue ray and gaming console. The bluetooth connectivity feature is a very welcome addition. The one touch bluetooth technology, featuring near field communication or NFI, allows you to simply touch your smartphone or tablet to the soundbar and it will start streaming your music. If your devices are not NFI enabled, you can still stream your music with your phone, tablet or computer using the bluetooth technology. With Dolby TrueHD and dts- HD Master Audio modes that reproduce high definition, you will experience cinema-like quality and be immersed in your favorite movies, sporting events or shows. This inexpensive soundbar and wireless subwoofer are certainly worth the investment.

PROS:
• Rich, powerful sound quality
• 3 HDMI inputs
• Bluetooth connectivity with one touch ease
• Wireless subwoofer

CONS:
• Mediocre performance at lower volumes
• Difficult to read menu

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

Onkyo TX-NR717 7.2-Ch THX Certified Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• THX select 2 plus certified
• 110 watts per channel
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports
• Wifi and bluetooth capable with separate purchase of LAN adapters
• 2 USB ports
• 4K upscaling
• Multi-room connectivity
• Instaprevue technology

REMOTE: RC-836M

RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR717 7.2-Ch THX Certified Network A/V Receiver. Onkyo’s TX-NR717 is a powerhouse receiver, sure to create the home theater system of your dreams. The first thing to note is that it has been through much rigorous testing and deemed to deliver the finest in sound and picture quality, as the THX select 2 plus certification can attest to. With 110 watts per channel, the powerful sound that it can deliver is exceptional. It comes with a microphone that gives you the option to automatically calibrate your speakers so the sound is evenly distributed to optimize surround sound. You also have the option of manually calibrating the speakers yourself. The setup screen is very easy to navigate and understand. With the separate purchase of a LAN adapter, you can have access to WiFi or Bluetooth. Internet access can also be obtained connecting your computer, via the USB port. With a 40 preset station capacity, you can easily set your favorite radio channels for easy access. Housing 8 input and 2 output HDMI ports gives you the freedom and capacity to connect many devices that will be part of your system including a blu-ray player, laptop, gaming console, cable/satellite box, etc.

The part number for the remote control is RC-836M. The remote supplied by Onkyo is a multi-brand remote. The remote is pre-programmed to operate Onkyo components, and other popular brands of equipment as well.

The TX-NR717 is a multi-zone receiver, allowing an audio/video system in the main room and a stereo audio only system in 2 other rooms. If you want to have a party, by selecting whole house mode, all zones will play automatically so you can rock the house. You can assign a custom name for each individual input selector and radio preset, making it very easy to identify the different sources available which will appear on the screen. Another nice feature is that you can be using one source, for example playing a game, while at the same time listening to the audio source from the TV. The list of features is long, making this a highly sought after receiver. One drawback noted by a user is that the firmware upgrades take a long time, upwards of 1 hour. However it is time well spent to fix the glitches that sometimes occur with new technology. Overall however, this receiver delivers clear, crisp sound, and deep, rich bass, without distortion, is 4K ready and is surprisingly not overpriced.

PROS:

• Exceptional sound quality
• 4K upscaling
• Wifi and bluetooth capable
• Multi-zone

CONS:

• Firmware updates take a long time
• GUI could be more modern and intuitive

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