GuideReviews Index
Accell UltraAV HDMI 1.3 4x4 Matrix Audio/Video Switch
Accell UltraAV™ HDMI 1.3 4x4 Matrix Audio/Video Switch can be a great addition to your home theater, especially if you have more than one HDTV or an HDTV and Video Projector. The Accell UltraAV 4x4 HDMI Switch you connect up to four HDMI sources (Blu-ray Disc Player, DVD Player, HD Cable/Satellite Box, etc...) and either view one source on up to four different HDMI-equipped TVs and/or video projectors, or send up to four separate sources to as many as four different TVs and/or video projectors.
Seagate FreeAgent Theater HD Media Player
Seagate is a familiar name in the PC world as makers of hard drives that are used in PCs, DVRs, and DVD Recorder/Hard Drive Combos. Now, Seagate is offering its own media playback solution: the FreeAgent Theater. The FreeAgent Theater is a hard-drive based media player that allows you to play back audio, video, and still image files stored on specially designed portable hard drive and also from USB flash drives and many Digital Still cameras. For more details, check out my review.
IOGEAR Wireless USB Audio/Video Kit - GUWAVKIT
The IOGEAR Wireless USB Audio/Video Kit allows the wireless connection of a Desktop or Laptop PC to an HDTV, HD Monitor, or video projector, and home theater theater audio system. The software provided enables a USB port to output both the PC's video monitor and audio output signals. For a closer look at this device, check out my product review.
GE 22730 Digital Converter Box For Analog Televisions
With the end of analog broadcast television having taken effect on June 12, 2009, those consumers that still own analog television and receive their programming over-the-air, via an antenna, need a converter box to continue to view their favorite television shows. For a look at one of these converters, check out my review of the GE 22730 Digital Converter Box for analog televisions.
Atlona AT-HDPIX USB to HDMI Converter
The Atlona AT-HDPIX USB to HDMI Converter allows the connection of a Desktop or Laptop PC or MAC to an HDTV, HD Monitor, or video projector. The software provided enables a USB port to output the PC's video monitor signal. By connecting a USB cable, as well as an audio cable to the AT-HDPIX box, and then connecting an HDMI cable from the box to an HDMI-equipped HDTV, HD-monitor, or Video projector, you can view your Desktop or Laptop on a "big" screen. For more details, read my review.
Verismo VuNow HD1000 Network Media Extender
The Verismo VuNow HD1000 Network Media Extender is a great way to integrate your audio and video entertainment direct from the internet and PC (although a PC is not required) via home netwrok. The VuNow HD1000 is a small set-top box that connects directly to your TV, or through a video-enabled home theater receiver, via HDMI. Using the Verismo VuNow HD1000, you can access a host of internet audio/video content via either by wired or wireless network connection. For more details, read my review.
Optoma HD806 1080p DLP Video Projector
At a price of $2,599, the Optoma HD806 DLP Projector is a good value. With its native 1920x1080 (1080p) native pixel resolution and it 2,000 lumen output capability, the video quality is very good. Flesh tones and color saturation produce a natural looking image. Another bonus is that the HD806 has both HDMI and DVI inputs. I found the Optoma HD806 to be a good performing and easy-to-use video projector. To find if it is right for you, check out my review.
Pioneer Elite HTS-LX70 Flat Panel Home Theater System - Product Review
I get asked by readers often how they can get started in home theater without spending a fortune and having to buy lots of components. One popular solution is with a home theater-in-a-box system. A new entry in this exciting product category is the Pioneer Elite HTS-LX70. This system is designed specifically to be a partner with Flat Panel Televisions and Pioneer Blu-ray disc players, with its built-in Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoders and HDMI 1080p pass through connectivity.
Samsung BD-P1500 Blu-ray Disc Player - Product Review
The Samsung BD-P1500 plays Blu-ray Discs at full 1080p resolution, provides bitstream output for both Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD via HDMI 1.3a output, and is fully playback compatible with standard DVDs, most recordable DVD formats, standard music CDs, and CD-Rs/RWs. Another bonus is that standard DVDs are upscaled up to 1080p via the HDMI output. The BD-P1500 adheres to Profile 1.1 (Bonus View) specifications, and is firmware upgradable via internet download. To find out more check out my review.
Yamaha BD-S2900 Blu-ray Disc Player - Review
The BD-S2900 is Yamaha's first Blu-ray Disc player. This player features 1080p/60 or 1080p/24 resolution for Blu-ray Discs, provides bitstream output for both Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD via its HDMI 1.3a output, and is compatible with standard DVDs, CDs, and CD-Rs/RWs. The BD-S2900 upscales standard DVDs up to 1080p. The BD-S2900 adheres to Profile 1.1 (Bonus View), and is not upgradable to Profile 2.0 (BD Live). To find out if this Blu-ray Disc player is right for you, check out my review.
Sherwood BDP-5003 Blu-ray Disc Player
The BDP-5003 is Sherwood's first venture into Blu-ray Disc player territory. Features include playback of Blu-ray Discs at full 1080p resolution, bitstream output for Dolby TrueHD/DTS-HD via HDMI 1.3a output, and compatibility with standard DVDs, most recordable DVD formats, CDs, and CD-Rs/RWs. Another bonus is that standard DVDs are upscaled up to 1080p via the HDMI output. The BDP-5003 adheres to Profile 1.1 (Bonus View) specifications. For more about the BDP-5003, check out my review.
Yamaha RX-V863 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver with HDMI - Product Review
The Yamaha RX-V863 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver has power, up-to-date features, and an abundance of connectivity options. This receiver is rated to deliver 105 wpc, and features Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD processing. On the video side, the RX-V863 has three HDMI inputs with 1080p pass-through and analog to HDMI video conversion and upscaling. Extra bonuses include iPOD and Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio access, as well as two subwoofer outputs. To find out more check out my product review.
Pioneer Elite BDP-95FD Blu-ray Disc Player - Product Review
The Pioneer Elite BDP-95FD plays Blu-ray Discs at full 1080p resolution, and provides bitstream output for both Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD via HDMI 1.3a output. The BDP-95FD is also playback compatible with standard DVDs and most recordable DVD formats, as well as music CDs and CD-Rs/RWs. Another bonus is that standard DVDs are upscaled via the HDMI output. The 95FD features direct firmware update capability and home network connectivity via Ethernet Port. To find out more, check out my review.
Onkyo TX-SR875 7.1 Channel THX Home Theater Receiver With HQV Video Processing
The Onkyo TX-SR875 is a next-generation receiver that incorporates onboard decoding of the latest surround sound formats, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD. In addition, this receiver offers upscaling of all analog video signals, extensive connection options that are easily accessible, power to spare, and excellent audio performance. If you are looking for a receiver that integrates both audio and video, without cutting corners on either, then check out the Onkyo TX-SR875. For details, read my review.
Insignia NS-2BRDVD Blu-ray Disc Player
The Insignia NS-2BRDVD plays Blu-ray Discs at full 1080p/60 or 1080p/24 resolution, provides bitstream output for both Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD via its HDMI 1.3a output, and is fully playback compatible with standard DVDs, most recordable DVD formats, standard music CDs, and CD-Rs/RWs. Another bonus is that standard DVDs are upscaled up to 1080p via the HDMI output. The NS-2BRDVD adheres to Profile 1.1 (Bonus View) specifications. To find out if this player is right for you, check out my review.
Yamaha RX-V3900 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver
The Yamaha RX-V3900 is designed to be a complete centerpiece for your home theater system. With features such as extensive audio decoding options, HDMI upscaling and switching, iPod connectivity and control, XM Satellite and Internet radio, and also built-in Networking and Bluetooth capability, this receiver can perform any audio or video task required now, and in the forseeable future. For more details, check out my RX-V3900 product review.
Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver
The Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver brings high-end audio and video performance, as well as flexibility, down to an extremely affordable price. This receiver delivers a strong, sustained, power output, and features Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD audio processing. This receiver also has 3 HDMI inputs, and up to 1080p video upscaling. Extra bonuses include iPOD connectivity via USB port, and both Sirius Satellite/XM Radio Compatibility. To find out more, check out my review.
OPPO Digital BDP-83 Blu-ray Disc Player
The OPPO BDP-83 is a feature-packed Blu-ray Disc player that really delivers. Blu-ray playback is excellent, and utilizing Anchor Bay VRS technology, the BDP-83 also delivers excellent upscaling for standard DVD playback. Also, other features, such as SACD and DVD-Audio playback, as well as 2 USB ports for importing images and sound from flash drives, add great audio and video flexibility. The OPPO BDP-83 takes Blu-ray Disc player flexibility and performance to the highest level.
Panamax M5400-PM Home Theater Power Management System
You've spent a lot of money and collected a lot home theater components over the years. With each upgrade or addition you have another power cord to plug in, eventually resulting in cord clutter. One way to reduce clutter is with a centralized power managment system that provides all the outlets you need, voltage regulation and monitoring, and aids in clearing up power interference. One product to consider is the Panamax M5400-PM. For a close-up look, check out my review.
Vivitek D326WX DLP Video Projector
At an MSRP of $1,199, the Vivitek D326WX DLP Video Projector is a great value. With its extremely compact design, this projector can be placed just about anywhere, and with an included carrying case, can be taken to the office or grandma's house. The native 1280x800 native pixel resolution and impressive 2,600 lumen output capability provide very good image quality. The D326WX has a quick turn-on and shut off time. For more details, check out my review.
SVS SB12-Plus 12-Inch Front Firing Powered Subwoofer
The SVS SB12-Plus Powered Subwoofer is not just a powerful subwoofer, but also delivers clarity, tightness, and undistorted deep bass response, that you find on more expensive subs. In addition, the SB12-Plus offers and extensive array of controls that allow the user to tweak performance parameters to specific room environments and listening tastes. For more details, check out my review.
ION Audio VCR 2 PC - VHS Videotape Player with USB Output
The VCR 2 PC from ION Audio allows transfer of home recorded VHS videos to your PC and copy them onto DVD, iPod, or compatible mobile phones. The VCR 2 PC is actually a VHS tape player that has a USB interface connection. To make the transfer and copying process easier, ION provides software. Another convenient feature is the auxiliary AV inputs for connection of a camcorder, thus using the VCR to PC as an analog-to-USB converter for your camcorder or other external video source.
ION Audio LP2CD - USB Turntable and CD Recorder Combination
The LP2CD combines a vinyl record turntable with a CD-Burner in a single device. To make recording to CD easy, the LP2CD includes an onboard 700MB flash drive that allows you to review your recording before doing a final burn to CD. In addition, the LP2CD also has audio inputs that allow recording from external sources, such as cassette deck, and also has provisions for more editing options on a PC/MAC via its built-in USB port. For more details on this unique product, read my product review.
Vizio VSB210WS 2.1 Channel Home Theater System with Wireless Subwoofer
Vizio isn't a brand you think of when considering a home theater system, but with the VSB210WS, it offers a self-contained, easy-to-use system that complements a flat panel television for an intimate, satisfying home theater viewing and listening experience. The VSB210WS combines a 2 channel speaker/amplifier, with a wireless subwoofer. The sub receives audio signals from the main unit without an unsightly audio cable. To find out whether the VSB210WS is right for you, check out my review.
Sonoro Cubo Model AU-1300 Compact CD Player and Clock Radio
Do you have a great home theater system in your home, but listen to a cheap clock radio in your bedroom or kitchen? If you would like a compact CD player/Clock radio that actually delivers great sound, you might consider the Sonoro Cubo AU-1300. The Cubo features a built-in slot loading CD player that is CD/CD-R/RW, CD-MP3, and CD-WMA compatible. This compact unit also has a rear audio input for iPods, and FM tuner, Clock, and is available in ten different colors. For more, read my review.