Gadgets Blog » Home Theaters

Gadget of the Week: Epson PowerLite 700 Home Cinema Projector

Dan Evans — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 18:26:04 +0000

In the world of televisions, bigger doesn’t always mean better. As the dimensions on a high-definition screen increase, the price tag can become enormous, making many larger models unaffordable for most consumers. Larger television screens also are bulky and hard to transport, and their size can make arranging a watching area around a screen more difficult. It’s too bad, really, because it becomes all-too-costly to imitate a movie-theater type experience in a living room, without using some ingenuity. That’s where the Epson PowerLite 700 Home Cinema Projector comes in. It’s a powerful unit, capable of transforming any room into a full-fledged theater.

The PowerLite projector may come as a surprise to those who have been skeptical of projector units in the past. The specifications on the unit are impressive, and situating it to work in your house is far easier than you might think. Sporting a 3LCD, three chip optical engine, the colors are bright and clear, provided you have a proper viewing space. This is the toughest part of using a projector like the PowerLite 700, finding a proper surface for viewing use, but this projector unit is highly portable and has easy-to-use focus controls. Whether you’re looking for a permanent watching area or wanting to get some travel use out of the projector, you’ll be able to use the PowerLite 700 with few focus issues.

A major concern for projectors is how they look in a lighted room, but the PowerLite 700 performs better than more expensive projectors in this category. While optimal viewing is still achieved by cutting out some of the light in the room, the colors still remain bright even under less-than-ideal conditions. Capable of projecting in 720p, the unit can spit out high definition images that are impressive for a projector in this price range. In fact, price is one of the greatest assets for this Epson projector. At only $689.88 through Smarter, it’s a great deal, costing less than most mid-sized televisions and far less than high-end projector models.

There are, however, some tradeoffs to going with a projector instead of a traditional television unit. The most noticeable sacrifice you’ll make is in the contrast. Darker colors oftentimes blend and bleed into each other, and black colors especially look below average. When there are other sources of light in the room, this problem only becomes magnified. It can be frustrating at times, as the brighter colors on the Epson PowerLite 700 still remain clear and vibrant. This projector, overall, is a great deal, enabling a bit of the magic of the silver screen to come into your living room. You’d be best off to look into the return policy of where you buy it, however, as it might not be a proper match for your entertainment accommodations. If it works out, though, you’ll get a great gadget at an affordable price.

Gadget of the Week: Bose Lifestyle 48 Home Entertainment System

Dan Evans — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:44:14 +0000

Building a strong brand image can be both a blessing and a curse to an electronics company. Consumers see the brand name and immediately expect a heightened level of quality, with features that are both familiar and innovative. In the world of computers, Apple is a prime example: their forays into the realms of music devices and telephones brought some innovative features to consumers that resulted in a great amount of brand loyalty. At the same time, future Apple devices (I’m looking at you, planned Apple Tablet Computer) must desperately avoid a lower standard of quality so that the brand name does not slowly degrade. Fortunately for consumers, companies with such brand loyalty are keenly aware of this high standard and ensure their products meet the stringent demands of their customer base.

In the realm of consumer audio, I would argue that no brand captures the imagination as keenly as Bose. The high-end speaker company produces some of the best audio equipment in the world, with models ranging from portable speakers (ideal for laptops) to the commanding Lifestyle 48 Home Entertainment System, which bundles speakers with a progressive-scan DVD player into one of the best sound systems available on the market.

The specifications for the system are impressive, consisting of virtually every trick Bose has crammed into their systems. The speakers, which Bose bills as its “Premium Jewel Cube” series, look stylish and are small models, easily blending into any living room. The five speakers can be placed anywhere in the room for high-definition 5.1 surround sound. The placement of these speakers is less important than in other models, as one of Bose’s most innovative features comes into play on the Lifestyle 48. The ADAPTiQ audio calibration system finds the optimal acoustic settings for any room and speaker placement. The media center analyzes the dimensions and other variables in the room, giving the best sound quality imaginable.

The other great feature of the system is the musical storage offered on the Lifestyle 48. The uMusic intelligent playback system offers up to 340 hours of music storage on the media player, and playback can be tailored much in the same way the Genius feature works in Apple’s iTunes. Finally, the VS2 video enhancer enables synchronization with other video and audio sources, including HDMI. This is great for the versatility of the unity, which also comes equipped with Bose-link, allowing for playback in up to 14 rooms in the house, or even outside.

Of course, all these features do come at a steep price; the unit retails for $3,399.95, which can be an immense price tag for an average consumer. Nonetheless, for those looking for a top of the line model, look no further than this magnificent Bose system. For those looking for for something more reasonably priced, check out Smarter’s home entertainment systems. With a great variety of systems from Panasonic, Sony, and Samsung, a home entertainment system can make great improvements to any living room.

Special Sales and Clearances: LCD Televisions

colleen — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 14:28:08 +0000

Smarter.com’s comparison shopping tool is here to help you save money on purchases big and small. It’s after Christmas savings time, I know you’re resting up from the holidays but maybe you were thinking about late-gifting a family member or friend, or you just want to celebrate the end of the holidays and treat yourself to a little something extra. The old broken down television is the corner is looking a little sad, maybe it’s time for a facelift.

Before scouring the Internet for hours looking for the best prices on quality items, you have to come to Smarter.com to see the savings you could be overlooking! Smarter.com is here to help, this week, on such exciting gadgets at binoculars, game consoles, and LCD televisions. Let’s take a look at some of the top LCD television screens on the market, and the after-Christmas savings you could be making–so act now! A lot of these savings are only going to last until the New Year at best!

Panasonic TC-L37S1 37-inch VIERA 1080p LCD HDTV: $5.89

Panasonic VIERA 26″ with iPod Dock from Dell.com: $299.00, on sale from $499.00

Find more deals on LCD televisions at Smarter.com.

Affordable Home Theater System by Sony

gadgets — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:16:21 +0000

Sony DAVHDX576WF Home Theater System: $376.75

For a great basic home theater system that won’t break the bank, the Sony DAV-HDX576WF BRAVIA Theatre System is a great choice. With S-AIR receiver/speaker system, multi-room listening is made easy. This system includes an iPod Cradle (TDM-iP10) and an integrated 5 disc DVD/CD changer with the capability to upscale your DVDs to a full 1080p output using the HDMI connection when combined with a BRAVIA Theatre Sync-ready TV.

Adjustable standing floor speakers add stylish function and the included S-AIR wireless surround receiver/speaker system eliminates messy wires and provides simple sound capability for the rear surround speakers or multi-room music streaming. One person can watch a movie in one room, while another listens to music via the additional wireless speaker in another room. Sony’s auto calibration technology makes it easy to set up and start enjoying your home theater.

More specs: 1000W RMS, surround sound, built in Dolby Pro Logic II, Dolby Digital, DTS decoder, progressive scan, S-master digital amplifier, equalizer has bass boost function (dynamic bass on RM) portable audio enhancer, universal remote control, optical digital input, coaxial digital input, headphone jack, digital tuner technology, AM/FM tuner with 10 AM presets 20 FM station presets.

Buy it at Crutchfield.com get Free Shipping on most orders over $249 (no code required), or take $20 off your order of $100 or more (use code 3A825 – Exp: 05/31/09).

Find at Smarter.com: Shop for more cheap home theater systems.

Sources: Crutchfield, Vann’s, Amazon

Flat Screen TV Stand Buying Guide

gadgets — Fri, 08 May 2009 18:26:58 +0000

So you’ve got your new flat screen TV and are anxiously awaiting the moment when you can sit on the couch, pop in a favorite Blu-ray disc, and immerse yourself in the home theater experience. Hopefully you’ve remembered to purchase a TV stand and your new flat screen isn’t still in its box on the floor mocking you from across the room. No? That’s okay. We’ve got your back. Here’s a few guidelines for your search:

Size — Obvious, right? You want to look at how big your TV is and get a stand that’s appropriate. Something within a few inches of the TV size is probably sufficient. If you choose a larger stand, then there’s room for accessories, home décor, speakers, etc. If you choose a smaller stand, the TV will hold its own as the room’s focal point. Check the weight of your TV and make sure the stand can support it. There’s little worse than propping your new flat screen on a makeshift cardboard box TV stand and then watching it tumble forward because that was a dumb idea… no matter how temporary it was supposed to be when you just barely moved in and had no furniture but blew a wad of cash on a flat screen because it was a killer deal. (Not that we’ve done that…)

Color — Probably the easiest consideration. This stand will be a focal fixture in the room, and as part of the furniture it should complement the look. Light wood, dark wood, black finish, metal, glass… there’s a lot to choose from so look around your room, evaluate your options and shop around.

Style — I have to say, I was never a big fan of the huge TV/entertainment centers that took up an entire wall. I think they may have had their time as far as home furnishings go, but their bulk seemed to dwarf whatever room they were in. Personally, I’m a fan of cleaner lines, minimal design and open space, but this is your TV stand so decide what options you want. You gotta look at it, right? Cabinets have the added bonus of storage space and nooks can provide display places for room accents like books and flower vases and Xbox accessories. Corner styles can maximize an awkward space and swivel styles can be adjusted (swiveled) for multiple angle viewing enjoyment. You could also go with a flat screen TV mount, which takes a lot of these considerations on color and style out of the game and really maximizes space.

Features — I really wouldn’t recommend getting a stand with wheels for your flat screen. Man, that just tenses me up thinking about the multitude of things that could go wrong pushing it from room to room. Don’t do it. In fact, stands are specifically made wider for flat screens. But things like cabinet and drawer space, adjustable shelves, glass doors, hardwood, veneer, metal, glass, etc., are things to look at when making your decision. You may want to place your Blu-ray or gaming system underneath or nearby so the shelf spacing, arrangement and cable access are definitely things to look at.

Shop — Just about anywhere; online, furniture stores, electronics stores, and places like your local Ikea, Wal-Mart and Target will have a selection. Like everything else, prices will vary so look at your budget. It will all be worth it once you get to sit down and enjoy your new love.

Here is a great option for up to a 42” plasma TV:

Bello Metallic Silver Stand for Plasmas: $178.75

Find at Smarter.com: Shop for more flat screen TV stands.

Pre-Party with the All Star Tailgating Trailer

nick — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:15:05 +0000

God must be a man.

Who else would instill in mankind the ability to build such great creations.

No, I’m not talking about the Great Wall of China or Taj Mahal. I’m talking about the All Star Tailgating Trailer!

This thing is a tailgater’s dream. It has everything you need for a great party in a parking lot before any big game. And who cares if the thing costs a ridiculous amount of cash. It comes with a 60″ LCD TV! Well worth it in my opinion. Who needs to go into the stadium when you can get a better view and picture from the parking lot.

Check out what this baby comes crammed with:

BBQ/Grill
Two-burner stove.
One-burner stove.
Refrigerator/freezer.
Beer tap.
Soft drink taps
Kegerator.
160 quart ice chest.
2,800-watt power generator.
Three TVs, one the 60″ projection model.
Surround sound.
Gaming system.
Satellite recorder.
Satellite receiver.

I can barely contain myself. It’s like a survival kit on wheels.

Oh yeah, you’re probably wondering how much this costs: $19,995.

Just splurge. No one said Little Annie needed to become a doctor.

Source: Gizmodo via All Star Tailgating

Hi-Def DVR, Wii, Xbox, iPod dock, Apple TV – ALL IN ONE SPOT!

evette — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 22:46:51 +0000

I realize that this looks like the printer they happily destroy in the movie Office Space but don’t let it’s humble appearance fool you, this bad boy is sweeeet with a capital S.

What you are witnessing is the ITC One from the chaps at SE2 labs!

ITC One integrates a variety of the best components out there, including high-definition DVD players, audio components, video components, gaming systems, control devices, cooling systems and more. And the system is even available with displays, speakers and other peripherals for the most complete home entertainment setup available today.

ITC One helps simplify everything you want in a system down to a single, sleek, stylish and compact box. And then, once you have it built, all you need to do is plug it in and start enjoying your custom home theater experience.

What’s Included:

All the following components are included in your custom ITC One:

Yes, you read right, the unit cost $25,000 dollars! How badly do you want everything you love in one spot?

Groundbreaking 3D Home Displays – Where art thou Captain EO?

evette — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 20:31:24 +0000

Don’t front! You know you loved it just as much as I did when that flying muskrat came gunning for your head the first time you watched Caption Eo at Disneyland! I must say I miss the days when Michael Jackson was a solid shade of caramel, had a real nose and could be trusted around children. Plus in all honesty, Captain Eo was one of my favorite attractions at Disneyland, it was a reprieve from the California summer heat and it was very entertaining to boot.

Anyhow I remember stealing my 3D specs only to find they gave me a raging headache when I would stare at my regular television set! But there I sat, hoping and praying that Cheetara from the Thundercats would run right off the screen and into my world.Well 3D technology has come a long way since the days of Captain Eo …

Unlike most 3D displays, HoloVizio uses voxels instead of traditional pixels. Meaning “anyone standing around the monitor will actually see an object from a different perspective, with no need for goggles or other stereoscopic tricks.”

Check out the video:

[There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.]

By the way no your not going deaf, there is no sound. But I chose the video that displays the 3D images the clearest. Pretty nifty stuff.

Take 10% off Everything in the Philips Direct Store

nick — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 15:05:02 +0000

Knock of even more savings off your purchase when you shop at the Philips Direct Store.

By using the coupon code HOLIDAYDIRECT, you can instantly take 10% off any item in the store. From HDTVs to MP3 players and home theater systems, everything is eligible for the discount.

But this offer doesn’t last much longer, so hurry. The coupon expires December 6th.

Click here to go to the Philips Direct Store.

Multi-Media Bed is Heaven and Expensive

nick — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 18:06:52 +0000

She will be mine. Oh yes, she will be mine.

This multi-media bed that is. This thing is everything a slacker needs to sit in bed and just put on the big game or whatever you happen to stumble upon.

Check out what this thing comes with:

A retractable 32-inch Sony Bravia HDTV in its footboard
A five-disc DVD/CD changer
An iPod docking station
Five-speaker surround sound
A subwoofer underneath
A computer-controlled massage mattress

What’s the price tag on this baby you ask? Just a modest $35,000.

Junior doesn’t need his college fund nearly as much as you need R&R so go ahead and splurge.

Source: Engadget via Crave.