I download music to my iPod all the time. Can you tell me about downloading movies? Who's providing the service? What should I expect to spend, and what quality will I get?
The serious players: AppleTV, Vudu, DirecTV VOD (Video On Demand), cable
VOD, and the latest and probably the best: VideoGiants.
AppleTV ($250-$350) suits general video users---Mac users benefit from expanded
features for iPod, iPhone and iMac. Vudu ($300 & $1K) offers a general-use,
stand alone unit; you might liken Vudu to Blockbuster or Netflix in a box. Cable
is
cable, always a masses- and price-driven, so-so, average solution---not bad,
not great. DirecTV is the dark horse in beta mode with VOD, and is expected to
really
grow in about 12 months (currently low-res). VideoGiants offers premium music
and video. No one compares in resolution, and is priced very well, for the quality.
Users must have a Windows Media Player 10 or 11 on a computer, or a media server.
With
VideoGiants you get Blu-ray quality at about $15 a movie. That's about $10-20
per-movie savings over a Blu-ray disc. You can also buy MusicGiants’ prepackaged
collections for a reduced package price. They are coming out with new packages
all the time, so check them out if you are a StarTrek or rock concert fan! Consider
the “green” aspects of downloading movies: no plastic, no paper,
no gasoline. It's our guess that this is the future, and the beginning of the
end for disc-based
content and delivery.
We are considering an upgrade from in-wall keypads to touchscreens in the new home we are building. What are my options?
We’d be happy for you to visit our office and see the touchscreens we have
on
display. But if you’d like to try an Omnitouch
demo,
you can get a glimpse of what touchscreens can do for you. If you have enjoyed
your keypads, you’ll be amazed by the capabilities of touchscreens. We
can program the interface graphics to coordinate with the look of your room.
We can match
color schemes, or even repeat fabric or wallpaper patterns for the screen backgrounds.
Do I need a specific-sized room before I can have a home theater?
Not necessarily. Certainly, some room dimensions and proportions are more
desirable than others, mainly due to some acoustical benefits. Today, many
homes are built with media rooms that average 20' x 24'. However, any room
(like an office or spare bedroom) can easily be converted to a cozy theater.
There are many ways we can help you maximize acoustics, and create better-than-theater
quality at home.
Could you tell me the status of DVD vs. Blu-ray?
HD-DVD is completely dead as a format. The players make great SD-DVD players
for up-conversion of video resolution. Blu-ray will be in everything from here
on. Toshiba lost $1 billion on this format war loss. MicroSoft is now going Blu-ray
which is huge.
Tell me about outdoor audio/video.
Well, it's happening all over. Outdoor living is the next big thing in "interior" design.
Many outdoor-lovers are putting flatscreens on their patios. Placing a
plasma or LCD on a covered patio is growing in popularity, and there are
some water-proof
versions. How about the new floating remotes by RTI? We carry them. There
are so many outdoor speakers, we'll have no trouble helping you find something
to blend with your décor: most are typical enclosures, but there
are speakers shaped like rocks, planters or outdoor lights. So go ahead
and build
that outdoor kitchen, and plan to enjoy a home entertainment system outdoors--just
as much as the one you have inside.
What's the status of LPs in the modern
audio world?
While many types of audio media have come and gone (audiocassettes, 8-tracks),
LPs (vinyl records, for you Gen-Xers) are here to stay and are as hot as
ever, in the audiophile world. While new releases don't stay in print for
long, buyers are motivated by 180-gram, extra-think pressings--delivering
less surface noise than 'normal' records. Many classic (Bob Dylan, Tom
Petty) and current (John Mayer, Franz Ferdinand) artists offer a vinyl
option.
How many speakers do I really need in my home theater?
It really wouldn't be theater without at least six, which is known as "5.1:" left-center-right
fronts, left and right surrounds, and last, the ".1" which is
the LFE (low frequency effects) otherwise know as the subwoofer. The whole
point
of having a theater is the ability to enjoy heart-thumping base and the
delicate sound of a pin drop--where it makes sense in the room. Speaker
quantity and
placement is all about putting the sound where it belongs, in relation
to what you're seeing on the screen. In our showroom, we wouldn't be without
7.2 surround. That is: two rears, two sides, two fronts, one center, and
two subs. Pat says, "Audio as it was intended by the studio is literally
what makes the image move from the screen, and into the room." You
just can't take short cuts on audio, and be in love with your system.
How
much do I need to spend to get a decent home theater?
I risk getting myself in trouble here. Before I throw out some numbers,
let me qualify my answer by saying that this analogy reflects a system
installed
(labor included), with owner-provided interior and furniture, working from
one remote and a screen of a minimum 44." That said, installing a true
media room/home theater can be likened to buying a car. The technology-end
of an entry-level theater can run as little as $5,000 for a Hyundai-type
system (don't get me wrong, there's plenty of "good" in "practical
and efficient"). A step up would be Chevy or Chrysler for around $12,500
for the technology. Of course you can go up from there with a BMW or Audi
at around $17,000 worth of gear. And we love the Porches and Ferraris,
which come in around--well--the sky's the limit.
My neighborhood homeowners’ association says I can’t
mount a satellite dish or antenna on my roof or chimney. What can I do?
Let us install them for you! Check out the Federal
Telecommunications Act of 1996. Section 207 Restrictions on Over-the-Air
Reception Devices reads:
“Within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commission shall, pursuant to section 303 of the Communications Act of 1934, promulgate regulations to prohibit restrictions that impair a viewer's ability to receive video programming services through devices designed for over-the-air reception of television broadcast signals, multichannel multipoint distribution service, or direct broadcast satellite services.”
For more information, visit www.fcc.gov.
What is structured wiring?
In technical terms, it is centralized hub and spoke topology for the connection
and distribution of low-voltage analog and digital signals throughout
the home. In non-technical terms, structured wiring is the most efficient
way to wire your home for even the most basic technology. Instead of
phone, cable, satellite and internet being routed from your alley to
each room, the services are first routed to a centrally located distribution
panel. From there the services are distributed to each room. The greatest
advantage is the unlimited flexibility this offers (listen to classical
in the kitchen, and reggae by the pool), and share sources throughout
your home (access the same satellite receiver from any room). A second
advantage is ease of service. With all of the connections inside the
panel, changes and repairs are done quickly and easily. Please see the
FutureSmart link on our Products List page, for more technical information.
In searching for an AV company, I’ve noticed that some are “CEDIA
Certified” and some aren’t. What is CEDIA?
The Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association is a global
trade association of companies specializing in design and installation
of home electronic systems. CEDIA members are established, insured businesses
with bona fide qualifications and experience in this specialized field.
Consumers can rely on CEDIA referrals to find qualified, contractors to
counsel them and work in their homes.
In addition to membership, reputable AV companies pursue rigorous training and testing to attain escalating levels of certification in both design and installation tracks. Consumers, builders, architects, and interior designers, recognize CEDIA-certified companies as a professional resource.
What is the difference between RG59, RG6 and RG11?
The ‘RG’ acronyms have historically referred to ‘Radio
Grade’ coaxial cabling, and today are referred to as ‘Series
59,’ ‘Series 6,’ and ‘Series 11.’ Each of
these coaxial cables has a characteristic impedance of 75 ohms. Series
59 coaxial cable has a smaller diameter center conductor than Series 6
(RG6), resulting in higher attenuation (signal loss). Series 59 cables
are typically specified for use as equipment patch cords because of their
smaller bend radius and enhanced flexibility. Since Series 6 cables exhibit
less attenuation than Series 59, they are more commonly used for distributed
cabling and are recommended for use up to 90m (295 ft.). Series 11 cables
support even less attenuation than Series 6 or Series 59 because the center
conductor diameter is almost twice that of Series 59. Series 11 cables
are recommended for lengths up to 112m (400ft.).
Why is it recommended to run two category 5 UTP cables and two
75 ohm RG6 cables to each room?
The Residential Telecommunications Cabling Standard Committee ANSI/TIA/EIA
570-A developed this requirement to accommodate multi-line phone systems
on one category 5 UTP, data applications on the second category 5 UTP,
external RF signals (CATV) on one RG6 coaxial cable and internally generated
modulated signals on the second RG6 cable. This cabling scheme provides
flexibility for homeowners to select service providers that use different
types of media to deliver their service.
How may times can a single coaxial cable be split before signal
amplification is required?
In most cases, six. Cable TV companies typically deliver 15dB of signal
strength. A quality six-way splitter has a typical loss of –10dB.
Since the typical attenuation of 30.5m (100 ft.) of Series 6 coaxial cable
is –4dB, then the result is 1dB of signal strength to each TV. Optimal
signal strength for a TV is 0 dB plus/minus 10dB (a TV will deliver good
picture quality from -10dB to 10dB).
Can I receive my local TV channels in high definition?
Yes, most programming providers like DirecTV, Dish Network, and almost all
of the cable companies offer some of the local TV stations in high definition.
They
typically will offer the local ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox stations in high definition
for an additional monthly fee, usually somewhere around $5-$6. But if you’re
lucky enough to live in or near the DFW area, almost all of the local stations,
including the independents, are broadcasting in the digital domain and in HD.
And all of these stations can be received for FREE, if you have the right equipment.
All of the newer HDTVs are required by law to have a tuner that will receive
over-the-air high definition signals. All that is required, then, is an over-the-air
HD antenna. These come in all shapes and sizes, but the most effective ones look
like the kind that people had on their roofs in the 60s and 70s. Ideally they’d
be placed on the roof for best reception, but, in some cases, you can put these
in the attic so they are out of sight. Antennas range in price from $200 - $500
installed, depending on your physical location in relation to the broadcast towers
and any specific needs and/or requirements that may be contained in homeowners’ association
guidelines.
Which is the better technology? DLP, plasma or LCD?
That’s not an easy question to answer, because they all have clean, crisp
images with vibrant colors. So it really all depends on your application. In
order to answer the “Which is better?” question, you have to know
the answers to these questions first.
- Where will the display be used? Is depth a concern? DLPs are still 8” to 20” deep, flat-screens are 2.5” to 5” deep.
- What are the lighting conditions of the room in which you plan on using the display? If there windows in the room then a DLP projector may not be a good choice.
- What are the viewing requirements of that room? Does the room need a really large screen for a theater or a small one for the kitchen or master bath?
- Who will use the display? Plasmas are not a good choice if you know the kids will be playing games on it.
- How will the display be used? Or what will be displayed? A static image on a plasma from a game, or a news banner across the bottom of the screen has the potential to ruin a plasma screen.
- Where will the display be mounted? Can your wall support 70-130 pound plasma? Plasmas and LCDs will go over the fireplace but a DLP won’t, yet.
- Where will the source gear be located? In other words, where will the satellite or cable box, DVD player and TIVO be located and how will the signal get to the display? The new HDMI digital video has specific needs in order to work.
- How will you listen to your TV shows or movies? Do you want to use the TV’s speakers or use separate speakers?
Once you’ve answered these questions, the ‘Which is better?’ question will be much easier to determine.
What is the timeframe for HDTV?
After 50 years, analog TV is going the way of phones and cameras: digital.
As of fall 2006, stations in most markets converted their over-the-air broadcasts
to digital. HDTV is available nationwide via satellite by providers like
DirecTV and Dish Network. The most important date is February 17, 2009, when
all analog TV broadcasting will go dark. This deadline creates incentive
for content creators to put more energy into supporting digital broadcasts,
and encourages manufacturers to create better and more affordable TVs. You
may have made the leap and not even known it; every TV over 20” sold
as of March 2006 has a digital tuner for over-the-air broadcasts.
Note: HDTV refers to the resolution and not the technology displaying it. HDTVs
can be direct-view tubes, LCDs, rear- or front-projection sets, or plasmas.
Please
clear up my “resolution confusion.”
Let’s begin with standard analog TV at 480 interlaced vertical lines.
HDTV resolutions can be 720 progressive vertical lines, 1080 interlaced vertical
lines (1080i), all the way up to 1080 progressive vertical lines (1080p). More
lines mean more detail in your home theater picture. Additionally, digital
signals are 100% free of ghosting or snowy images associated with analog TV.
Some HDTV programs are so clear, it looks like you’re peering through
a window. (Many actors are lamenting the incredible detail—age is more
likely to show.) 1080p is the highest resolution available. But, the only 1080p
content is in HD DVD and Blu-ray disc formats—not from cable or broadcasts.
Is digital cable HDTV?
Good question, and the answer is “no.” This is a common misunderstanding,
often promoted by cable companies. Digital cable is standard-definition that
is broadcast digitally. The video quality is usually superior to analog cable,
but the resolution is still only a maximum of 480i (480 interlaced lines).
I’m
hearing a lot about HD DVDs and Blu-Ray. Please expound.
Gladly. And if you want more tech talk, just call the office. HD DVD and
Blu-ray are the new high-def, next-generation formats. They offer audio and
video improvements
over the now old-fashioned DVDs. Except for a limited number of hybrid discs,
standard DVD players can’t play the new disc formats. In order to get
the most out of an HD DVD or Blu-ray player, you need an HDTV with an HDMI
input. If your HDTV has a DVI input, you can usually use the HDMI from the
player with the use of an adapter; however, some DVI inputs don’t support
the HDCP copy protection protocol, which is required for HD.
I’m building a new home, and the electrician can run A/V wires for less
than my brother-in-law's custom A/V company. I don't want to insult a relative,
but the electrician has made me a sweet offer. What’s the difference.?
New construction offers the perfect opportunity to get the right wire to the
right place before the sheet rock goes up. A CEDIA-certified A/V company like
UltraMedia, Inc. has the experience and credentials to pull low voltage wire for
audio and video.
Low-voltage wiring must follow the local and national code and regulatory requirements, as well as the component manufacturers’ minimum specifications for performance, as it relates to their product. It is usually only the experienced and certified A/V company that is aware of the proper way to run all the various types or wires, and the amount of wire necessary to take advantage of today's technologies.
You will be happiest with a well-planned system. Be sure that the person or company you choose to do your prewire is CEDIA certified, and speaks with you at length about the particular technology you will be utilizing in each room. Don’t be afraid of over wiring—technology changes, and it’s better to plan for future growth than to be disappointed when you later have to spend exponentially more, because you cut corners today.
What is power
conditioning, and do I need it?
Power conditioning on a home entertainment system is a must. The question
becomes “what
kind and how much.” In short, power conditioning helps protect
your audio/video system from electrical imperfections such as power surges
and noise.
Power from your electric company is unstable, in addition to being distorted and “noisy.” Components are at risk of being damaged from exposure to voltage surges, distortions and the familiar "dimming light bulb" or "sag". (At the very least, performance is compromised.) These electrical problems actually cause 90% of component failures. This is where the power conditioner comes in, as it reduces the effects of these instabilities on your system.
In the beginning, there was not much difference between a power conditioner and a power strip. The first power conditioners were power strips with surge protection and a noise filter. A few top-end models now add voltage regulation, and one offers sine wave correction.
Unfortunately, you can have too much of a good thing when it comes to power conditioners: some actually crush the dynamics of your audio system and degrade your audio signal.
So, yes, you do need it power conditioning on your system. We carry a number of different brands that can be specified for your particular situation, as determined by the demands and loads of your system.