FAQ

What type of flat panel is best for me: plasma or LCD?

Plasma (37"-70")
In general, plasma TVs tend to have far better contrast ratios due to their ability to produce deeper black levels. Blacks are represented as black - not dark gray like some of the LCD panels. Plasma also touts an extremely wide viewing angle. This means that the quality of the image is consistent no matter what height or angle you are viewing from. For the average family room, a plasma TV is the clear answer.

LCD (13"-65")
LCD TVs have a slight edge over plasma TVs in a few areas. LCDs typically support a higher native resolution (720p vs 1080p). However, it is arguable that the difference is not visible at smaller sizes. An LCD TV's picture is also brighter and fares better in very bright rooms with many windows. These sets are also impervious to �burn in." Burn in occurs when an image has been left on the screen for too long. Today�s plasma TVs are susceptible to this phenomenon; however, it will reverse itself over time. LCD TVs are a great choice when your display is used for presentations or for gaming or when placed in a very bright room.

Is 1080p worth it?

With the advent of HD-DVD and Blu-Ray, maximum resolutions have been pushed up from the standard 720p to the new 1080p. The question on every consumer's mind is, "Do I need to pay the big bucks for a 1080p set?" Unfortunately, the answer is not cut and clear, but hopefully I can help lay out the facts.

Essentially, the main difference between 720p and 1080p is the horizontal line count. 1080p has 360 more lines of resolution, which should result a better picture, right? Sort of. There is a limitation to how much detail the human eye can decode. If you scour the internet, you will find a limitless number of articles describing when to use a 1080p display and when not to. The short and sweet is 1080p displays are worth the money when you are watching a large display at a short viewing distance. The pixels are denser; therefore, you see a better picture. The only catch is that to really reap the benefits, your source material must be 1080p, so for now either HD-DVD or Blu-Ray.

What screen size is right for me?

Although this is personal preference, the most widely accepted formula states that your viewing distance should be approx 2.5 times the diagonal measurement of your TV set.

Can I set up a multi-room audio system using my existing stereo receiver?

Most stereo receivers can be outfitted with a speaker selector box that will allow you to hook up to 8 pairs of speakers without causing any damage to your amplifier.

If I buy a new HDTV, will all of my stations be in 1080i?

No. Although cable, satellite, and Fios are constantly adding new HD channels, a large percentage are still standard definition. All major networks have switched to HD; however, not all of the programming offered is actually in HD. Typically, you will find that all prime-time shows as well as major sporting events are HD.

What is the proper speaker placement for a 5.1 surround room?

Ideally, the front left and right speakers should form an equilateral triangle with the primary listening position. The center channel should be located in the center of the front left and right speakers. Rear speakers are a little more forgiving but should be placed behind the primary listening area. Height is a crucial detail that is often overlooked. Speakers should be mounted as close to ear level as possible. Unfortunately, not every room will allow for the speaker placement that has just been mentioned. Luckily, there are many products that can help us tune the listening area even when speakers aren't in the "perfect" location.

I plan on using a wireless network in my home. Do I still need to have hardwired network locations?

Although wireless internet is convenient, it is NOT a replacement for a hardwired network. Hardwired networks provide superior speed and reliability.

How long does a surround sound installation take?

Typically a surround install takes about 12 hours. This would include running all new speaker lines, mounting speakers, hanging a television, and programming a universal remote control.

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