| nytflyt |
There doesn’t seem to be any interest in Tim's audiophile thread I was wondering how many Home Theater enthusiast’s there are here.
Earl |
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| DaleB |
OH yeah!
Still running a nice 36" Wega and 5.1 system
Outlaw 950 pre/pro
Panny CP-72 w/DVD-A
B&K 3220 Ref. amp across 3 front channels
Audiosource Amp One for surrounds.
M&K 750 Select speaker system
Radio Shack Kameleon Remote
BOLTZ CD-DVD rack
4 Seating-Godfather dual recliiners
Dish 500
Subscription to Netflix......... |
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| darkhelmet |
I have a normal DTS/36" TV setup in my family room now but I am getting ready to finish my basement and will be building one in. Not sure what exactly I am going to do.
I'm sure I'll spend alot of time researching the best affordable setup much like I did with the MDX. Can anyone direct me to sites like this one that I can do some research on? |
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| nytflyt |
HI Dale,
Do you have any plans to get a bigger TV set or are you happy with the 36?
Earl |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by darkhelmet
I have a normal DTS/36" TV setup in my family room now but I am getting ready to finish my basement and will be building one in. Not sure what exactly I am going to do.
I'm sure I'll spend alot of time researching the best affordable setup much like I did with the MDX. Can anyone direct me to sites like this one that I can do some research on?
www.hometheaterforum.com
www.hometheaterspot.com
for starters..just do google searches on Home Theater too...tons of stuff |
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| nytflyt |
The sites DaleB recommend are good but I think the best overall site is www.avsforum.com.
Earl |
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| Maik |
Another good link you may want to check out:
http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/
My system consists of:
65 inch Pioneer Elite Projection TV
Bose Lifestyle 35 sound
Direct TV with TIVO via Sony SAT T60 receiver
Panasonic DMR HS2 DVD Player/recorder
2nd DVD - Hacked Apex 1500 w/macrovision disabled
Panasonic VCR |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by nytflyt
HI Dale,
Do you have any plans to get a bigger TV set or are you happy with the 36?
Earl
I am very happy with the Wega. I highly recommend anyone calibrate their set with Video Essentials, Avia, or Sound & Visions test DVDs.
I would like to get a set eventually that will do progressive scan/HD.
My viewing room is of moderate size, doubt I would get anything much over 50". Probably rear projection, Sony, Toshiba, Pioneer, Panasonic or Mits. |
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| RonH |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
I am very happy with the Wega. I highly recommend anyone calibrate their set with Video Essentials, Avia, or Sound & Visions test DVDs.
I'll second this. I have the Avia DVD, and was surprised the difference it made. |
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| Dravic |
I just jumped in, and my wallet is still smoking..
Hitachi 57s500 RPTV
Onkyo 6.1 HTS760
Zenith 520 HD sat reciever
Direct TV with HD pakage
Toshiba 4800 DVD - progressive scan
JVC VCR
retuning a 65" swx hitachi, got a deal on it at a sears outlet, but the grean CRT was bad.. service tech from sears gave me a 10% coupon, so I when and brought the new 57" s500 model, 3 year warranty, and a free dvd for less then the 65", adn only $70 more then the tv itself at CC. 65" was to big anyway, i completely dominated my living room.
I just find it funny that the service call that determined the green CRT was bad, is where i got the coupon to buy the better model cheaper.. It all works out in the end... |
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| nytflyt |
Avia and Video Essentials are both very good for calibration. Joe Kane is finally releasing Digital Video Essentials and I wonder how much better it will be?
Earl |
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| nytflyt |
Dravic
Sounds like a nice system and you got a very good deal. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I enjoy my system.
Earl |
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| JimH |
Have gotten misc. home theater gear over the last 3 years as I upgraded the various components.
Mits. 55" Diamond HDTV
Dish 500 w/ PVR-501
Denon 3802 receiver
Sony S7700 DVD
Polk audio 5.1 speaker set-up.
I am very happy w/ all of the above. I have found the
www.hometheaterspot.com site to be invaluable for learning and discussing the Mitsubishi HDTV's.
I do have a question for anyone who has tried or who currently has a DVDO Iscan Pro scaler hooked up to their system (to convert 480i to 480p mode). I assume it might help a little when using my basic analog cable, and also w/ the Dish signal as to clarity. In addition the Sony S7700 I have is not progressive. Has anyone tried using the Iscan pro model hookup? I do not yet have access to an HDTV signal (over the air or via dish to the major networks)in my rural locality. |
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| Dravic |
quote:
Originally posted by nytflyt
Avia and Video Essentials are both very good for calibration. Joe Kane is finally releasing Digital Video Essentials and I wonder how much better it will be?
Earl
I just pre ordered DVE from amazon today. They have an availablity date of sept 2nd(or 3rd). Should be waiting for me when i get back from the CEDIA boot camp! |
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| dbuono |
My home theater is comprised of the following:
19x19 room over garage
57" pioneer RPTV
Onkyo THX dolby receiver
Outboard Marantz Dolby Digital decoder
Sony DVD player
NHT home theater speakers
and the best tweak of all -- couch shakers (it makes the bass work that much better in the movies)
I plan on eventually upgrading the TV to a high quality DLP projector. |
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| JTM |
This is the configuration in my family room.
TV : SONY WEGA 36 XBR
DVD Player : SONY DVP-NS715P
VHS Player : SONY SLV-N77 (Does not remember exact model number)
AUDIO : JVC receiver, cassette and cd player, along with 5 BOSE speakers : Center, 2 front (Acoustimass 5), and 2 rear (101) |
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| nytflyt |
If anyone is interested you can click here to see some pictrues of my H/T.
Earl |
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| Paul's MDX |
Still have my:
1. Sony 65" Widescreen XBR Projection
2. Sony 36" XBR Tube with built in subwooofer in stand.
Looking to upgrade to the LCD's or possibly Plasma as the prices decline.
I love the Sony XBR line, they are excellent Televisions with amazing pictures. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by Paul's MDX
Still have my:
1. Sony 65" Widescreen XBR Projection
2. Sony 36" XBR Tube with built in subwooofer in stand.
Looking to upgrade to the LCD's or possibly Plasma as the prices decline.
I love the Sony XBR line, they are excellent Televisions with amazing pictures.
They are, and I think it is wise to wait. They not only get cheaper but better. |
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| crmsnidol |
Sony DB-930 (receiver)
Sony DVP-S330 (DVD)
Apex AD-1500 (region and MV-free DVD)
Cambridge Soundworks MovieWorks 308 speaker package
32" Samsung TV (only size that fits the wall unit)
Sony PS2 (7-series board with Magic 3.1 chip)
The room is 17' x 24'
When/if I ever get my basement done I plan on getting a DLP w/ 100" screen and building a home theater PC (HTPC). |
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| Skewbeedeaux |
About to order a 42" Panasonic TH-42PWD6UY Brochure (PDF). Up until today, I was leaning towards the HD model, but changed due to lack of HD programming and my receiver's limited output.
<---- Current Setup ---->
35" Mitsubishi Diamondvision CRT
Sony DirecTV/TIVO
Bose Lifestyle 35 AV system (integrated DVD/CD/AM/FM). Got this to shrink number of AV units and wiring clutter. Sounds good, but Sub performance is a bit weak compared to my Infinity sub. (Hmmm... where have that before?) |
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| Paul's MDX |
quote:
Originally posted by Skewbeedeaux
About to order a 42" Panasonic TH-42PWD6UY Brochure (PDF). Up until today, I was leaning towards the HD model, but changed due to lack of HD programming and my receiver's limited output
Like the look of that 42" Panasonic!! What the going price for that Plama??? |
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| slackass |
Here is my list:
Mitsubishi 65" w/integrated HDTV
Mitsubishi DVD player
Mitsubishi S-VHS VCR
Yamaha Dolby Digital Receiver
C-Band Satellite with 4DTV receiver
HD-200 Hi-Defenition decoder for 4DTV
Antennae mounted in attic for OTA HDTV reception
Eosone sub/sat speaker system |
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| Big Gorilla |
I was considering a high Def. Sony 42 Plasma screen but someoen told me that if you compare the picture to a LCD screen you won`t buy a plasma. He said plasmas are the " in thing" now but the LCD is where to invest your $. I saw none at Best Buy but he said they don`t sell them look at Good Guys or Circuit City here in So Cal. Do any of you have a LCD and what is your experience. I have always thought of LCD monitors for PC`s applcations and the pic is obviously great. Are the LCDs` more $ than plasma and do they come in the larger screens like plasmas?
Thanks |
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| JTM |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
They are, and I think it is wise to wait. They not only get cheaper but better.
Agree!!!!
I am waiting for one (plasma, when price is right :p) for the master bedroom. Right now still watching a small 13 inch TV. |
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| DaleB |
In general, Plasmas and LCDs have the problem of not the having the blackest of blacks in the projected image. Especially when compared to direct view and rear projection sets (CRT based). This is probably the greatest problem for the video purists but it is one that is surely to be overcome as they improve.
Plasmas have steadily improved and the prices keep dropping. LCDs are more recent on the scene, have some distinct advantages in color fidelity, but are quite pricey.
Again, improvements are almost a daily occurence, and patience will reap it's rewards. |
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| psychguru |
| Should I buy an HDTV or one that is HDTV capable? Money is not an issue but I am told that there is not much HDTV programming available at this time. I do not enjoy sit-com shows, mainly sports and movies and cable channels. I do not watch much network TV. Also one advantage of a separate turner (according to CR) is that it's possible to upgrade the receiver alone should technology advance in the future. Please have patience with me as I am new to this hobby and might be somewhat misinformed. I have a satellite dish with DirecTV. I look forward to your informed opinions. |
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| Emerald01 |
quote:
Should I buy an HDTV or one that is HDTV capable?
I'd buy a HDTV.
I (also) have a Sony 36" WEGA XBR that is HDTV capable. At the time, that's pretty much the way most TV were -capable unless you wanted to pay a premium. Now that want to get a HD picture, looking at the HD decoders, they are quite pricey. Don’t worry about the number of HD channels available, there will only be more in time. Depending on where you live, you could buy a HDTV and an antenna and be watching HDTV in no time.
I rarely regret getting something that is more capable or has more options than needed.
Plus you said money is not an issue. Sorry to say, money always appears to be the limiting factor for me. :( That's why my home theater is not complete. The stuff I want, I can't afford. So, I just have to wait a little longer.
BTW-nytflyt -Awesome HT room. How much do you charger per movie :D |
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| Skewbeedeaux |
quote:
Originally posted by Paul's MDX
Like the look of that 42" Panasonic!! What the going price for that Plama???
The street price is around $3000. Cheapest I've seen is $2795.
Note: This is the industrial model designed for commercial use. No stand, no tuner, no speakers, and BNCs for component. Panasonic also sells a consumer model (TH-42PA20) which has a dual tuner, Sleep, Speakers and stand. It runs about $500 more. But since I have DirecTV, Bose audio and want a wallmount... the integrated tuner, speakers and stand are excess baggage in my scenario.
Here's a couple links.
TH-42PWD6UY
TH42PA20UP |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by Skewbeedeaux
The street price is around $3000. Cheapest I've seen is $2795.
Note: This is the industrial model designed for commercial use. No stand, no tuner, no speakers, and BNCs for component. Panasonic also sells a consumer model (TH-42PA20) which has a dual tuner, Sleep, Speakers and stand. It runs about $500 more. But since I have DirecTV, Bose audio and want a wallmount... the integrated tuner, speakers and stand are excess baggage in my scenario.
Here's a couple links.
TH-42PWD6UY
TH42PA20UP
Great price for a well reviewed display. I believe Bettercables.com among others, has a nice component cable set with BNCs. |
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| Skewbeedeaux |
quote:
Originally posted by psychguru
Should I buy an HDTV or one that is HDTV capable? Money is not an issue but I am told that there is not much HDTV programming available at this time. I do not enjoy sit-com shows, mainly sports and movies and cable channels. I do not watch much network TV. Also one advantage of a separate turner (according to CR) is that it's possible to upgrade the receiver alone should technology advance in the future. Please have patience with me as I am new to this hobby and might be somewhat misinformed. I have a satellite dish with DirecTV. I look forward to your informed opinions.
I was on the HD train until a couple days ago when I switched to EDTV. Here's why I changed my mind...
We all know that the current offering of HD programming is quite slim. My understanding is that about 95% of all programming is NOT HD. Also, a HD set can be twice as costly as a comparable ED set. So my belief is that the marginal picture quality gain of HD over ED with today's programming does not warrant the cost difference.
But what about buying HD now so we can be ready for the future? Even if we see a major crossover to HD programming in the next 2-3 years, that $5000 HD you bought today will likely be $2500 or less then. Please note that the brand new HD version (TH-42PHD6UY) of the Panasonic I spoke about above dropped $700 in the last 1-1.5 months ($5000 -> $4300). As HD programming becomes more prevalent, HD sales volume will increase and prices will drop.
My point is this...
Plasma Buyer 1 who buys a $5000 HD will surely get an ego boost, but not much else for now.
Plasma Buyer 2 who buys a $2700 ED now may very well be able to buy another set similar to or better than that of Buyer 1 in a couple years for the other $2300.
Too many times have I've purchased cutting edge toys only to see prices plummet. $1500 for first DirecTV system w/install; now they're giving free system and install. $400 for MD recorder 4 years ago; now they're under $100.
CAVEAT...
The one scenario were it might warrant a HD purchase is if you will be using it with a computer. Even budget graphic cards will output at least 1024x768.
I'm sure there are other reasons for one over the other, but I offer these for thought. |
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| nytflyt |
How do you guy’s like to watch your movies, in the original aspect ratio, or so-called full screen? I’m an OAR guy myself, I prefer wide screen in its original format and prefer to watch 4:3 without stretching it out to fill a wide screen.
Earl |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by nytflyt
How do you guy’s like to watch your movies, in the original aspect ratio, or so-called full screen? I’m an OAR guy myself, I prefer wide screen in its original format and prefer to watch 4:3 without stretching it out to fill a wide screen.
Earl
If widescreen is a DVD option, as with most newer movies and several classics of the Ben Hur variety, definitely widescreen.
I don't care for 'stretching' 4:3 to meet widescreen dimensions. Too much distortion. For regular TV veiwing it's not that important to me. |
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| greatscot |
quote:
Originally posted by DaleB
If widescreen is a DVD option, as with most newer movies and several classics of the Ben Hur variety, definitely widescreen.
I don't care for 'stretching' 4:3 to meet widescreen dimensions. Too much distortion. For regular TV veiwing it's not that important to me.
Ditto :29:
Hi Dale,
Like your new avatar, is that the lake down the street from you? Nice shot. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by greatscot
Ditto :29:
Hi Dale,
Like your new avatar, is that the lake down the street from you? Nice shot.
That it is! An empty lot with a SOLD sign on it. I was trespassing during off hours. Wish I had the extra $ to buy it at the time. It has a frame up on it now..... |
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| nytflyt |
Psychguru,
I was hoping someone else would answer and give you some advice on your purchase but I will offer my $.02. I would definitely get the HD version of whichever set you are considering. You say you are interested in sports programming. With Direct TV, you can get an HD capable receiver and receive their HD package with ESPN HD and HD Net. If you haven’t had the chance to view HD in a home environment you can’t imagine what a difference it makes.
Earl |
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| DaleB |
I will tell you ladies and germs, I witnessed a fine display at BestBuy yesterday. They had a Samsung 50" LCD projection and a 51" Sony standard rear projection both setup for HDTV on an ESPN Forumula One race. The salesperson claimed all the sets had been set up with a calibration disk. Which I find hard to believe, but there is no reason they can not be. And they were under a tent for shading from ambient glare.
Both were excellent. The Samsung had a very slight edge in picture depth. The Sony had a more 'film' like texture to it. But both were like state of the art. I mean like a big "Wow!"....
I have read many many reviews though, and the blackest blacks are still only available on CRT displays (projection or direct-view).
Factoring all that in, plus the Sony costing $1800 vs. $3500 for the Samsung, the Sony takes the cake. Of course your have to add the price of an HD tuner to that, if not using a cable or Sat. one.
I am not saying there are other brands not directly competitive of equal quality when properly set up. |
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| Warzau |
| Just some FYI, INHD and INHD2 launched this past monday,these two channels are totally dedicated to transmiting in HD, check you local cable line up. |
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| JimH |
I went on a Home Show tour this past weekend where the homes
were in the $ 500,000 - $ 1,000,000 price range (10 homes set up by the local home building trade associations). For this part of Oregon, these are truly expensive and beautiful homes in the 3000 - 5000 square ft. category. What really surprsised me about the homes (all from 1 - 5 years of age) was the projection TV's of choice.
9 of the 10 homes had the 55", 65", or 72" Mitsubishi Widescreen HDTV's. 1 home had a Toshiba widescreen. These folks were definitely on the same page as to the brand they chose. Not sure if they were chosen based on the price, or if they really researched what they deemed to be the best Widescreen HDTV out there? |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by JimH
I went on a Home Show tour this past weekend where the homes
were in the $ 500,000 - $ 1,000,000 price range (10 homes set up by the local home building trade associations). For this part of Oregon, these are truly expensive and beautiful homes in the 3000 - 5000 square ft. category. What really surprsised me about the homes (all from 1 - 5 years of age) was the projection TV's of choice.
9 of the 10 homes had the 55", 65", or 72" Mitsubishi Widescreen HDTV's. 1 home had a Toshiba widescreen. These folks were definitely on the same page as to the brand they chose. Not sure if they were chosen based on the price, or if they really researched what they deemed to be the best Widescreen HDTV out there?
That must have been impressive as all getout. I don't think the Brand is that important anymore. They all have the same technology available to them, with their own unique twists thrown in. It's like well designed speakers, you still have to listen to what suits you and your environment. There are enough choices. |
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| nytflyt |
JimH,
Sounds like you had a fun time. Just my opinion, but it always surprises me what people put in their home theaters. Most people have never seen how good a front projection setup looks. You would be amazed what you can get in a front projector compared to the HDTV rear projection sets. The people that are lucky enough to be able to afford anything they want still don’t take the time to find out what is available. There are tradeoffs with both types but for the real theater experience, you can’t beat a front projector setup.
Earl |
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| JimH |
| Earl; Yes, I thought of that when I viewed the homes, where a few had an entire home theater dedicated room setup w/ the HDTV's instead of the Projector setup for which they obviously could have purchased. A number had the state-of-the-art home theater accessories , but no projectors. It was nice to view homes where $ was not a problem for the home owner to purchase whatever furnishings he/she wanted. |
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| bef |
Although there isn't much HD programming, there are as many DTV stations as there are analog in Southern California. This alone makes it worthwhile to invest in a home theater system.
I don't have time to confirm all the model numbers but here is most of what I have:
Sony VPL-HS10 Projector
Stewart Firehawk screen (16:9 about 108")
Energy Front & Center Speakers
RSL Magnificent rear/side speakers
Yamaha 9?? 5.1 Receiver (S-Video to Projector)
Samsung 165? DTV Tuner (DVI connection to Projector)
Sony ??? 5 disc DVD Player (Component to Projector)
Sony S-Video VHS VCR (S-Video to Receiver)
Sony Hi-8 VCR (S-Video to Receiver)
I'll probably replace the receiver with a 6.1 or 7.1 and replace all the speakers with something smaller from M&K. For a Sub it will probably be an M&K or a Hsu.
I also want to replace the DVD player with one that has progressive scan. Although DVDs such as Monsters Inc. look incredible, I think I can do better. |
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| DaleB |
I am very happy with the M&K 750THX which I believe has been replaced with a newer model.
It ran just over 2K with the sub.
I have a fairly modest area dedicated to HT. And it works just fine.
I went with an Outlaw pre/pro and dedicated amps. Great improvement over a receiver IMHO plus much flexibility.
But you are planning a rather big screen, sounds like a big room. you may want the larger M&Ks...might want to look at SVS subs too. |
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| bef |
I'm thinking about the M&K 850 series.
Do you think it is overkill to use LCR-850s for surrounds instead of the suggested LCR-650s?
I have some cabinetry work that needs to be finished (actually started) before I go out and buy more equipment. On the other hand, if I encounter a good deal, I'll certainly buy more stuff.
In the meantime, I've got some termites in the attic that I need to track down and kill. :3: |
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| kuroyama |
quote:
I was hoping someone else would answer and give you some advice on your purchase but I will offer my $.02. I would definitely get the HD version of whichever set you are considering. You say you are interested in sports programming. With Direct TV, you can get an HD capable receiver and receive their HD package with ESPN HD and HD Net. If you haven’t had the chance to view HD in a home environment you can’t imagine what a difference it makes.
I agree. I had been waiting for the last few years to upgrade to HD, and that happened to me early this year. The DirecTV HD package gives you about 5 HD channels to view regularly, and if you get the NFL Sunday Ticket, there are usually about 5 games in HD each week (I'm including the Monday Night game). I think all of CBS prime time is in HD, and there are several on ABC, and a few more on NBC. The local PBS broadcasts (separate programming) in HD each night also.
BTW, I am using a Samsung 50" DLP RPTV and HD and DVD's look absolutely amazing on it. Another nice benefit is that there's no burn-in problem, so you can watch everything in it's intended format (no need to stretch 4:3 programming). FWIW, I have never seen the rainbow problem on it, and neither has anyone else that's watched it.
I'm using a Samsung 160 to receive both ota and DirecTv HD. And I'm expecting to replace my Sony DirecTivo SAT-T60 with a HD-capable DirecTivo when it's released early next year. Most of the prime-time tv I watch "live" is in HD (maybe around 80%). Unfortunately, I watch a lot of TV via Tivo, so I'm forced to watch the SD version. Hopefully, that will change early next year.
Ultimately, it all comes down to what shows you're watching, and whether HD makes a difference to you on the set you're watching it on. |
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| bef |
I just sent you an email.
HD is the way to go so long as the equipment will support the standards for 2006.
Original aspect ratio is also the best way to view programs.
I've heard lots of good things about the newer RPs but if you have the space, FP is the way to go. For about $5K you can get a pretty good projector and screen.
My screen is 100" diagonal which allows me to actually read the words on the weather forecast from the kitchen (about 40' away). |
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| kuroyama |
I would love to have a huge front projection system, but I don't really have a room I can dedicate to a HT system.
The rest of the family watches a lot of TV also, and they need to be able to watch it with a minimum of fuss (i.e., not needing to close all the blinds and turning the lights off - or lowering the screen.)
I'm sure there will be a FP somewhere in my future; the prices on them are dropping really fast. |
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| nytflyt |
Kuroyama,
One thing you might consider is a combination setup. You could keep your current RPTV, for normal viewing and ease of use, and then add a pull down screen and ceiling mounted front projector for watching movies and special events. I think this setup is the ideal way to enjoy the big screen experience if a dedicated room is not a practical option.
Earl |
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| dbuono |
| I am in the market to purchase a front DLP projector and screen. Does anyone have any suggestions? I would definitely like to keep the total cost between $3,000 and $6,000. |
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| BLACK-BLING-MDX |
I have a question for you all.
Right now, I have four TVs in my house
1. Toshiba 65" Cinema Series Widescreen
2. Toshiba 36" Cinema Series 4:3
3. Panasonic 27" (old! 15 years!)
4. Panasonic 25" in my bedroom
now... my panasonic 27" has well gone kaput...it turns on (well kind of), but displays no picture, i guess the tube is bad. But my question is, would it be cheaper to repair that or buy a new nicer tv? Ihave the Toshiba 65" in my family room and the 36" in my basement. I was thinking of moving my 36" into where i had the 27" (the sunroom). Now, for the basement, I was thinking of getting a projector, but I don't want to spend too much money. Plasma looks nice, but too pricey. So, which way should I go? Can you guys name some really good HD capable TVs for under $800? Thanks! I don't want to spend too much b/c i'm going to be building a bigger house pretty soon. My kids are gettin ansy about not havin their tv in the sunroom where they spend a lot of their time! |
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| bef |
dbuono,
I have a Stewart Luxus Deluxe 49x87 HDTV format FireHawk Screen ($1700)
http://www.avprojector.com/stewluxdel491.html
I also have a Sony VPL-SH10 1366x768 LCD FP (~$2700)
http://www.avprojector.com/sonvpcinlcdp.html
The sales guy was very informative and although supplies were limited, delivery was within a month. The prices were reasonable too.
Use cases:
My wife & I like to watch TV while eating dinner in the nook.
This means the light over the table is on (dimmed).
On weekends during the day, the blinds in the family room are closed (some leakage since these are not drapes), the nook window blinds are closed (wood with some edge leakage) but the light is on, the kitchen blinds are open and the hall skylights let in light and the screen still looks fine.
At night when we watch movies, the lights are off and it is usually dark outside and the picture is spectacular.
Why/how I chose the screen:
I saw it at a couple of CES shows and was impressed.
The gray color works well with rooms with uncontrolled light sources. My temporary screen was white foam-core board which was easily washed out by light.
The size is the largest screen that will cover the brick fireplace in the family room which I don't like.
A fixed screen was chosen so that it would be as flat as possible and also to permanently cover the fireplace.
HDTV format was chosen because that is the native aspect ratio of the projector.
Why/how I chose the projector:
I originally wanted a DLP but they only went up to 1280x720.
I wanted 1366x768 because there is still lots of 3:4 programming.
I wanted a projector that supported DVI, Component, and S-Video.
I wanted a projector with a fairly decent scaler.
After much research I selected the Sony.
At the time the projector was in high demand and some dealers would not discount it even if they had it. Only the Sony store in NYC had it in stock for MSRP, of course.
What I don't like about the Sony is that it defaults to "Memory Stick" as the initial input (they are hoping to brainwash people into buying memory stick products) and there is no easy way to change the input to "Digital" without scolling through most of the input choices. |
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| xcel |
Hi All:
___For those of you that do not have HDTV capability just yet, here is a still capture from one of the HiDef loops playing on our local PBS station. The program as aired on NOVA HD is called “Japan’s Secret Garden”. I had to shrink this pic from its original size of course but the detail has been preserved as it appears on a HiDef display. It is truly beautiful on the big screen.
___The Alaska HiDef program airing on PBS has even more spectacular stills and vistas. I will try and capture one of the better stills the next time I am up and it airs ...
___HW consists of a MyHD card with OTA HiDef and Analog SDTV receive, record, and capture capability via my HTPC. Display is to either the 61” Hitachi HDTV or my 19” Monitor depending on what the family is doing on the big screen.
___Good Luck
___Wayne R. Gerdes
___Hunt Club Farms Landscaping Ltd.
___Waynegerdes@earthlink.net |
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| xcel |
Hi All:
___Just a few minutes after I posted the above, “Over Alaska” began to air ...
___Here is just one still from the stream worth looking at. Again, the pic was shrunk for the attachment but the detail was preserved as well as can be expected ...
___Good Luck
___Wayne R. Gerdes
___Hunt Club Farms Landscaping Ltd.
___Waynegerdes@earthlink.net |
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| bef |
Another thing to consider is even with SD, digital OTA TV has superior colors and almost no noise (there is some occasion jitter/jaggies). In my area, about half the digital channels are SD and the others are HD (720p). With the exception of PBS and some prime time HD shows, the local stations do not use the entire screen because they are truncating the sides when trasmitting analog 3:4 signals (if they used the entire width and then truncated, the 3:4 show would lose too much picture).
In some cases there are more digital channels than there are analog since the stations can choose to transmit up to 4 SD channels, or some mix of HD(720) and SD or 1 HD(1080i I've never seen a station transmit this).
In any case getting a digital tuner is really worth it when you see the difference in picture quality between digital and analog broadcasts. |
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| xcel |
Hi All:
___And to go along with Bef’s sub-channel description (the Spanish stations around Chicago were loading them up at the expense of the ones digital capability that could have been transmitted not to long ago), many shows are simply upconverts or 480i broadcasts that are upconverted to a 480p/1080i/720p format. The “Over Alaska” broadcast appears to be a 480i upconvert since when grabbing stills, the quality wasn’t there in comparison to the “Japan’s Secret Garden” which was stunning no matter what still was pulled from the stream.
___HiDef isn’t all that it could be just yet but as Bef mentioned, the sound and clarity of even 480i across the digital airwaves (upconverts) is far above the quality most would ever receive on their SDTV’s ... Our local Fox affiliate has been broadcasting the Cubs in 480p and although the display isn’t as good as ESPN’s true HiDef Cubs/Sports broadcasts, the sound is eye (I mean ear ;)) opening. The crack of the bat against a fastball is distinctly different and far more exact vs. the muffled wooden thud you hear from any SDTV broadcast. The same can be said of the smack of a ball into a mitt. There is a distinct difference there as well.
___Good Luck
___Wayne R. Gerdes
___Hunt Club Farms Landscaping Ltd.
___Waynegerdes@earthlink.net |
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| bef |
Now that xcel has mentioned it (I thought this was a local CA trend), the Foreign/Spanish stations are actually making better use of the subchannels than the national stations.
Channel 62 (KRCA?) has 4 subs and usually 2 are showing a different program.
KSCI (18) usually shows two different shows too.
KCET usually has two different shows (720 & 480).
KABC during the day sometimes has two different shows.
KNBC, KTTV each show the same program but sometimes in English/Spanish.
The quality of some of these broadcasts are so good I find myself watching soccer (in Spanish) and mindless cartoons that I would normally not watch.
Right now not all the subchannels and features are being fully used but as time goes on it just gets better. |
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| rfowkes |
In response to the question posted by the title of this thread -
You might say so.
:D
Check out my HT site HERE .
I'm also a moderator over at the HTF HERE . |
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| nytflyt |
dbuono,
What size screen are you planning to use, what is the size of the room, will you be ceiling mounting the projector?
Earl |
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| dbuono |
| I have not decided on screen size yet, but it will be substantially above my current 57" RPTV. I will likely not go too large since we will use the room often for regular TV viewing. As for the room size, it is 18' x 18'. It is a complete room above the garage with no windows to cause ambient light problems. Finally, I will be mounting it on the ceiling or on the rear wall (if the projector that I purchase has a long enough throw distance). |
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| rfowkes |
| A nice size for a screen in an 18'x18' room is a 110" diagonal 8' x 4.5' 16:9 screen. My HT is 15' x 21' and it works perfectly. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by rfowkes
A nice size for a screen in an 18'x18' room is a 110" diagonal 8' x 4.5' 16:9 screen. My HT is 15' x 21' and it works perfectly.
Do you have a link to the 'formula' for viewing distance vs. screen size? I understand there is some variability with regards to HD viewing vs. a standard interlaced display.
But it seems 'reguar TV' is becoming more and more a secondary category of viewing (for news, sitcoms, etc.) where seeing the scanning lines is less of a concern. |
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| nytflyt |
dbuono,
I agree with RAF on the screen size, maybe even a little smaller. It depends on the quality of the projector and how far from the screen your first row of seating will be. For this setup, several projectors would do a very good job, the NEC HT1000, and Infocus 7200 to name a couple. It would be stretching your budget but I have heard nothing but great reviews on the Virtuoso from Immersive Technology.
DaleB,
Most of the recommendations for a 16x9 screen are 1.5 to 1.75 times the actual screen width for the first row of seating. I wouldn’t like to be much closer than 1.5 but if you like to sit in the front rows at the theater you might like something closer. The problem with closer seating is the screen door effect comes into play with lower quality inputs.
Earl |
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| rfowkes |
nytflyt,
Good advice!
My first row is about 12 feet from the screen (maybe a little less if you don't recline in the front row chairs - although that's what most people do) so I just fit in at the 1.5x mark from my 8 feet wide screen. No problem at all. |
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| nytflyt |
| Have any of you watched the new Indy releases yet? I watched Raiders on my system last night and I think they did a good job with the video and 5.1 sound remix. |
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| Pierre |
| I found that the score was jacked-up too much...takes away from the dialogue. |
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| rfowkes |
| I previewed parts of one and some of the extras. I agree that they are well done considering the age of the movies. |
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| texrb |
quote:
Originally posted by kuroyama
.................
I'm using a Samsung 160 to receive both ota and DirecTv HD. And I'm expecting to replace my Sony DirecTivo SAT-T60 with a HD-capable DirecTivo when it's released early next year. Most of the prime-time tv I watch "live" is in HD (maybe around 80%). Unfortunately, I watch a lot of TV via Tivo, so I'm forced to watch the SD version. Hopefully, that will change early next year...........
I was thinking of buying a HDTV receiver & Tivo - can't you get ota HD with Tivo?
I also am irritated that those of us with Dish have very little options for HDTV receivers - Samsung seems to the only good choice unless you want to pay Dish for their HD receiver for 2 channels & no ota capabilities. Any of you guys know of a better way? I have a Mistsu 42" HDTV receiver that I want to get a HD receiver & Tivo or PVR without buying it thru Dish. I have the promo PVR for a one time $50 fee but Tivo can do so much more.
thanks for any input |
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| rfowkes |
| I'll be adding a 921 when it's released later this year (I'm not willing to bet that November is the actual release date). I currently have a 6000, a 301, a 501 and a 721. When the 921 is released I'll probably use it to replace the 301. While I love the functionality of the 721 and will welcome the 921's ability to time shift HDTV, I wish DISH would offer something with TiVo capabilities. Maybe some day. |
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| nytflyt |
RAF,
With the buyout of DirecTV, TIVO may be in a lot of trouble. Their stock has taken a tumble because of fears that their connection with D. will be severed. It is possible that they might hook up with Dish in the future. Maybe you will get your Dish TIVO yet.
Earl |
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| rfowkes |
quote:
Originally posted by nytflyt
RAF,
With the buyout of DirecTV, TIVO may be in a lot of trouble. Their stock has taken a tumble because of fears that their connection with D. will be severed. It is possible that they might hook up with Dish in the future. Maybe you will get your Dish TIVO yet.
Earl,
I've heard this, too, but I don't want to rely on it. Remember the supposed merger of DISH with DirecTV? I've also heard that TiVo is coming to a DISH product in the future and I would welcome that as well. While the Dish PVR doesn't have the flexibility of TiVo in programming, it (DISH) keeps getting better all the time. They consistently upgrade the software automatically and new features are added all the time (example: Slo-Mo was added a while back). I figure it's just a matter of time before some of the TiVo features are incorporated. And the quality of Dish PVR recordings is identical to the source.
Unfortunately, at that point they will probably add some monthly pricing. My PVRs cost me nothing extra per month (a 721 and a 501) but I hear that there is a monthly PVR fee associated with newer Dish PVRs. If I'm going to have to start paying something extra, I want to get something extra. And I'm hoping that this will be someting "TiVoesque."
:D |
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| Mando |
Hi folks!!
Well, here is a older small video clip (Quicktime) of my Home Theatre setup!! The room colors and other things have changed! (I need to update the video)
My System
A lot of thought and planning went into my system and I LOVE IT!!
Here are the specs...
- Parasound AVC2500 Preamp/Processor
- Parasound 2205 Five Channel Amp (driving 300 WPC)
- M&K 150THX Speaker set and ST-1 stands
- Sony VW10HT Projector (SMART II calibrated, CC30)
- Stewart Communicator 16x9 Grayhawk 100" (hanging on eye hooks from ceiling)
- HTPC with MyHD card (300GB of HD). HTPC is (used to uprez DVDs to 1080i)
- Pioneer CLD-703 LaserDisc Player
- Skyworth 1050P Progressive DVD Player
- TWO ReplayTV 5040 upgraded to 200GB
- XBox with Logitech Wireless Controllers
- TrippLite Line Conditioners and Surge Protectors
- Xantech IR Distribution system
- Acoustic Research Cabling and Wiring
- Phillips Pronto TSU2000 Universal Remote Control
- Custom ceiling projector lift by Magic Motion
I have addressed the ambient light condition in the video. It's amazing what shades will do! :)
Thanks!! |
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| rfowkes |
Mando,
Excellent system, and I love the QT video tour. I'm looking forward to the "new" tour. You should also consider a QT video for your MDX (unless you already have one somewhere else on this board!)
And I love your choice of equipment. I have M&K 150's all around and also had a SONY VW10HT before upgrading to a Runco DLP this year.
Full information about my site can be found by clicking HERE if you want all the details. |
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| Mando |
quote:
Originally posted by rfowkes
Mando,
Excellent system, and I love the QT video tour. I'm looking forward to the "new" tour. You should also consider a QT video for your MDX (unless you already have one somewhere else on this board!)
And I love your choice of equipment. I have M&K 150's all around and also had a SONY VW10HT before upgrading to a Runco DLP this year.
Full information about my site can be found by clicking HERE if you want all the details.
AHHH....the famous RAF!!! I've been a big fan of your site for many of years....I managed to grab a couple of ideas from your site, when setting up mine. You have an AWESOME theater!!! Great minds think alike (with regards to the HT system and MDXs) :)
I'm waiting to see what Sony does with their new SXRD technology before upgrading....1080P sounds sooo good! :)
I'll update the video tonight and send it on it's way.
ttyl |
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