Home Theater Integrators

Better Business Bureau

2011-08-11T21:27:00.001-04:00

Home Theater Integrators, Inc. is now accredited by the Better Business Bureau!!!

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Read our Reviews!

2011-03-10T17:23:00.002-05:00

Our customers must love us, we have a five star rating!
Click the link below to be redirected to our FB review page.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Home-Theater-Integrators-Inc/71009265263?sk=app_198627601982

Know your options!

2011-02-21T09:54:00.004-05:00

Is your Home Theater company offering you "custom installation" products?

I am surprised at the equipment selection of some of our competitors. Since when is Yamaha, Polk Audio, Bose, Optoma, Logitech Harmony, Toshiba, Denon, Sharp, and a few other considered a "custom installation" product? Most of these are available at your local big box store and are mainstream products. Custom Installation products are not offered through these large retail stores.

Custom Installers offer electronics which were designed and engineered for robust sound and dynamic color. Not to say that the above mentioned brands don't offer quality products, they are just not geared for multi-use, multi-zone, multi-source, multi-integration use. Let's use Denon from above as an example (Denon is also available at Best Buy, not really considered custom installation), a few things to ask yourself before committing to this mainstream typical AV receiver, what are your options as the end user to make configuration or setup changes after your installer has left? How easy is it for you to get to the setup menu? Can you control your iPod for your Denon remote? Does your Denon have more than three or four HDMI inputs? Will your Denon remote control up to 15 other devices? Are the lower end Denon AV receivers THX certified? Does Denon allow you to plug in your iPod directly to the front USB? Does Denon offer network capability?

Would you like custom installation equipment which does everything above and does not cost more to get it?

Home Theater Integrators, Inc. offers Onkyo THX certified home Theater AV receivers. We have found through many years of sales and installation that Onkyo out performs Denon in every category.

Home Theater Integrators, Inc.
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/home-audio.php

Pioneer Elite AV receivers and Elite Blu-Ray players

2011-02-15T12:08:00.002-05:00

Home Theater Integrators is now an approved retailer of high-end Pioneer Elite AV receivers & Elite Blu-Ray players

Home Theater Integrators, Inc.
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/home-audio.php

Media rooms, game rooms, personal theaters

2011-02-13T18:09:00.005-05:00

Personal Theaters:
Let our professional designers create the perfect Theater Room in your home. Going to the local multiplex theater is a thing of the past. With the ability to have a 125inch HD screen, theater style seating, accent lighting, plush surroundings, 1080p projector, and speakers which would make a sound studio jealous, you'll find yourself at home in your new personal movie theater. Check out our theater pricing page for exclusive pricing. All packages include high quality 16:9 fixed frame screen, top name HD projector, state of the art AV receiver, with an all-in-one remote, Blu-Ray player, equipment training and more!

Top it off with an optional V.O.D. high definition movie player and you won't have to leave the house to get the latest Hollywood releases. Even better you have given the phrase "watching the big game" a new meaning; our Bronze package offers a large 92 inch screen so you can support your favorite team from a view which seems like you are on the field.

Personal Theater packages can also be created to suit. Engineering services are available upon request.

Game Rooms:
Game Rooms can be extravagant or practical, whichever scenario you prefer, we can create both. From basic to outrageous; it is the room you look forward to relaxing in. Perhaps your vision of a Game Room is one where you entertain occasionally during the playoff season and have one large HDTV flat panel, a universal remote, and theater seating for six. Alternatively, some might imagine their Game Room having three large plasma screen HDTV’s (one for each simultaneous game), a gaming console (Xbox, Wii, and a PS3) for each plasma, seating for your twelve best friends, a real time sports ticker, 7.2 surround sound, and a system controller with ESPN web access on the touch screen remote for the ultimate game day experience. Home Theater Integrators has been creating Media Rooms, Game Rooms and Personal Theaters for years, our clients love our work, read our reviews with Customer Lobby. Want a turnkey exclusive? Our team of experts will custom design, custom build, custom wire, and custom install the ultimate Game Room for your home. We sell only top name electronics, our product line consists of only the best affordable AV equipment in the area. We are licensed, bonded, and insured.

These dedicated Game Rooms are always enjoyable and are able to function as home entertainment centers in the off season.

Media Rooms:
Media Rooms are a great way to ensure everyone in the family is able to enjoy your audio / video investment. This is also a good option for those who can't dedicate an entire room for watching only movies. What other room offers the capability of gaming, digital picture viewing, MP3 listening, web surfing, movies and videos, all using the same equipment? Your Home Theater equipment! Unless you have the extra floor space to dedicate your room as a sound room or theater room, a Media Room is a practical approach to having a multi-function room and including home theater equipment in it.

Integrating today's latest technology into your home and using it to its fullest potential is what we do. We can design, build and install a custom Media Room to fit every need and every budget, and the best part is; it is not complicated to use! Some may think that having equipment capable of satisfying the gamer in their family while also pleasing the audiophile in the family will be difficult to operate. With our turnkey solutions it operates with one touch button control.

Media Rooms can deliver family entertainment to all while maintaining individual preferences for those who use it. This is same room where families come together to share their vacation pictures on the large television screen and the same room where you escape to become lost in your favorite sitcom each week. This is the room you enjoy hearing background music while entertaining guests and the same room you surf the web after hours using the large flat screen.
Call 248-841-0072 today!!!

Home Theater Integrators, Inc.

http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/home-audio.php

Game Rooms / Theater Rooms

2011-02-02T15:28:00.002-05:00

Game Rooms can be extravagant or practical, whichever scenario you prefer, we can create both. From basic to outrageous; it is the room you look forward to relaxing in. Perhaps your vision of a Game Room is one where you entertain occasionally during the playoff season and have one large HDTV flat panel, a universal remote, and theater seating for six. Alternatively, some might imagine their Game Room having three large plasma screen HDTV’s (one for each simultaneous game), a gaming console (Xbox, Wii, and a PS3) for each plasma, seating for your twelve best friends, a real time sports ticker, 7.2 surround sound, and a system controller with ESPN web access on the touch screen remote for the ultimate game day experience. Home Theater Integrators has been creating Media Rooms, Game Rooms and Personal Theaters for years, our clients love our work, read our reviews with Customer Lobby. Want a turnkey exclusive? Our team of experts will custom design, custom build, custom wire, and custom install the ultimate Game Room for your home. We sell only top name electronics, our product line consists of only the best affordable AV equipment in the area. We are licensed, bonded, and insured.

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/game-rooms

HOME AUDIO

2011-02-02T15:06:00.002-05:00

“Immersive Sound” – a term we use when describing our approach to home audio. Our home audio packages are defined with precision and driven by performance, one listen to any of our numerous home audio projects and you’ll understand why we have the highest return customer ratings in the area, one listen and you’ll understand why our approach is to offer our clients options. Our approach is driven by convenience for the homeowner, and delivered with technology which lasts a lifetime, our select speaker packages come with a lifetime warranty on selected speakers (1). We have separated ourselves from the competition by continuously delivering on our promise, to design simple yet robust audio systems which are intuitive to use while rich and warm in sound. Home audio should be felt not only heard, some of the biggest mistakes others make while designing a theater room is to install a huge 120” screen but rely on small front speakers to deliver the punch. You want a large screen, you should expect large sound! Personal theater rooms are generally larger than your family room or living room; don’t settle for a standard size speaker for your new projector and large projector screen. Another common mistake we often find is the home owner was not asked about the height of the ceiling in the room where the audio system is to be installed; vaulted ceilings or cathedral ceilings must have special considerations when designing a sound system that delivers immersive sound.

(1) ask for details on lifetime warranty!

Diffused rear sound field, this is another key element in having a theater room that is great (instead of OK). A “diffused rear sound field” is merely a matter of selecting an appropriate speaker for your back surround speakers. Simply put, this means the back speakers are wide in sound (not wide in spacing) and the listener will likely notice a larger area of sound from behind them when listening to the back speakers during a movie, this will give the listener the perception of having the action happen slightly further away instead of right on top of them.

Speaker placement, for whole house audio we do recommend using in-ceiling speakers for music distribution, in-ceiling speakers are the logical choice for most whole house audio applications since the ambient background music is heard at equal levels in the room regardless of the listeners location in the room, in other words, having the speakers located in the ceiling means the distance from the ceiling speaker to each listener is the same distance for each person since the speakers are overhead in the ceiling. Having this configuration means the music won’t be too loud for some listeners or too soft for other listeners if the music speakers were located in the wall instead. If they were in the wall then the music might be too loud for those standing near the wall speakers and too soft for anyone standing on the far side from the speakers.

For theater room applications we recommend in-wall or on-wall speakers for front and all surround speakers if possible. In this scenario the listener is stationary and not moving about since they are probably sitting in a theater chair. The in-wall or on-wall speaker configuration for theater rooms provides realism when compared to how people actually hear sound when out in the real world. Ask yourself, when was the last time you heard sound from over your head when you were out doing your regular activities? Then why put surround speakers overhead? If you are looking for realistic surround sound then you need in-wall or on-wall theater room speakers; not overhead in-ceiling speakers.

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/what-we-do

what is HDMI ???

2010-10-16T08:52:00.001-04:00

HDMI is the global standard for connecting high-definition Consumer Electronics and PC products. It’s the uncompressed, all-digital interface that delivers both dazzling quality and unmatched ease of use.

HDMI technology provides the highest possible signal to meet the needs of today’s – and tomorrow’s – HD entertainment systems. With a single cable, it transmits:

•digital video
•multi-channel surround sound
•advanced control data
More than 800 manufacturers have adopted the HDMI standard, including some of the world’s most trusted brands.

•229 million HDMI-enabled devices shipped in 2008 and 300 million 2009.
•Market research from In-Stat projects over a billion HDMI devices in the market by 2010, when every new digital TV will feature at least one HDMI port
HDMI connectivity is already standard on a wide range of products:

•HDTVs
•Blu-ray Disc players
•multimedia PCs
•gaming systems
•digital camcorders, and more.
With HDMI connectivity, you get it all. The convenience of a one-cable solution, plus the power and performance of a high-speed digital link. Now and in the future, it’s the best way to connect HD.

http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/

Benefits of whole house audio

2010-10-03T18:34:00.008-04:00

What is "whole house audio"?

Larger homes (more so than smaller homes) may benefit from having the ability to play music in all rooms throughout or different music simultaneously in a few select rooms.

Benefits of having whole house audio:
*Everyone in your house has different music tastes and you don't enjoy listening to their music
*You are having a party (and don't want the one room with speakers to be really loud)
*You want the big game to be heard everywhere because you are not staying in just one room
*You can fast forward through track lists or songs you don't like
*Can have different volume levels in each room
*Adds value to your home
*Enjoy different audio sources simultaneously (iTunes, FM, Sirius radio, Cable TV music, CD) *Speakers are not seen unless you are looking for them

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com

Architectural Audio (in-wall speakers)

2010-08-13T18:08:00.003-04:00

Advantages of: architectural audio (in-wall or in-ceiling speakers)

flush mounted speakers are attractive by being inconspicuous and can be painted to match the ceiling or wall color
no visible wires or connections
music can be in every room without cluttering the environment
creates a whole-house musical environment
multi-channel home theater systems do not detract from the decor
ceiling speakers can be omni-directional allowing the listener to be anywhere in the room
infinite baffle design drives all sound energy into the listening area
sound quality rivals the best cabinet speakers because the money is spent on drivers and crossovers, not the cabinet
enhances SAF (spouse acceptance factor) [for real]
adds value to your home

For more information please call (248) 841-0072 or visit our website

http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com

Apple TV - look mom, no iPod dock!

2010-08-10T20:04:00.003-04:00

Apple TV gives you access to an easy-to-navigate world of entertainment. Rent HD movies. Buy HD movies and get iTunes Extras. Buy HD TV shows. Listen to your iTunes music and Internet radio. Even show off your photos. Connect one HDMI cable and, just like that, your TV becomes more than just a TV.

Play your music through your home theater system
With Apple TV, iTunes syncs wirelessly to your TV, so your entire music collection can now be played on the best speakers in your house. Use the Genius feature to create new playlists or Genius Mixes, or check out thousands of Internet radio stations that play every genre imaginable. You can also browse and buy music videos on the iTunes Store. And sync songs and videos purchased on Apple TV to your computer and iPod or iPhone.

Put more HD on your HDTV
Hi-Definition movies, Hi-Definition TV shows, Hi-Definition podcasts, and Hi-Definition YouTube videos; with Apple TV, they’re all available on demand. You get instant access to newly released Hollywood hits and popular classic and library titles, including a large selection of on-demand HD movies. And now you can also purchase and watch your favorite TV shows in brilliant HD one day after they air. Or enjoy thousands of free HD podcasts or YouTube videos from around the world.

Now appearing on HDTV: Your photos and YouTube videos
Your photos deserve a bigger stage. Apple TV puts them on your widescreen TV, where everybody can see them in stunning HD. Select My Photos to browse photos from your Mac or PC. If you use iPhoto, you can find photos organized by Events or Faces. You can also access your Flickr photos or MobileMe Gallery. And you no longer have to huddle around a computer screen to see YouTube videos and podcasts, even in HD — Apple TV plays them big and bold on your TV’s spectacular screen.

Interested in more? Please contact us at:
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Home Theater retrofit

2010-07-23T07:04:00.002-04:00

We take great pride in delivering a simple yet functional approach for all of our home media entertainment systems. Home Theater Integrators is a licensed, approved retailer of hundreds of audio / video components and accessories. Want something not found here, call our office and ask how we can help, or visit our frequently asked questions section. We are a full service hi-definition and surround sound specialist. Additionally, we provide un-matched sales and service to all video and home audio, multi-room entertainment systems. Home Theater Integrators can retrofit any existing home theater into a state of the art media room with large screen gaming, big screen sporting events, and even large screen web browsing. Our AV systems are designed based on: ease of use, quality, functionality, and budget in mind. We are bonded, and insured.

http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com

Green home theater / energy star compliant

2010-07-09T11:37:00.002-04:00

Most electronics and home theater installation services are far from having a light carbon footprint. In today's world, if we can lessen our impact to our environment when selling and installing home theater equipment, then alternate installation methods and green products should be considered. One method of reducing the impact to the environment is to use structured wiring, this wiring has the ability to perform many connections and services using one bundled strand therefore reducing the overall amount of required wires (less use, equals less impact).

For more information regarding green installation methods and green home theater products, visit us on the web at www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Professional / Custom home theater

2010-06-11T16:31:00.003-04:00

Let our professional designers create the perfect Theater Room in your home. Going to the local multiplex theater is a thing of the past. With the ability to have a 125 inch HD screen, theater style seating, accent lighting, plush surroundings, 1080p projector, and speakers which would make a sound studio jealous, you'll find yourself at home in your new personal movie theater. Check out our theater pricing page for exclusive pricing. All packages include high quality 16:9 fixed frame screen, top name HD projector, state of the art AV receiver, with an all-in-one remote, Blu-Ray player, equipment training and more!

Top it off with the optional Vudu VBX1000 high definition movie player and you won't have to leave the house to get the latest Hollywood releases. Even better you have given the phrase "watching the big game" a new meaning; our Bronze package offers a large 84 inch screen so you can support your favorite team from a view which seems like you are on the field.

www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Home Theater Integrators remains busy inspite of Detroit area economic slump

2010-06-10T11:50:00.004-04:00

Home Theater Integrators is dedicated to providing our Detroit Michigan area customers with professional home theater design, sales, and installation services. We specialize in custom surround sound, multi-zone audio, and HD projector sales & installation. We service Oakland County and Macomb County in SE (south east) Michigan. We are your specialty audio / video alternative, we offer simple solutions for LCD, Plasma, LED, and projector installations for media rooms & personal theaters. Our turnkey home theaters and media rooms are designed and built with ease of use, quality, and functionality in mind. Every aspect and detail from the pre-wire to the custom remote control programming is handled with great care by our qualified low voltage technicians. Call today for your in-home consultation.

http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/

Outside audio, or zone 2 audio

2010-04-03T07:21:00.002-04:00

Most new AV receivers have the capability of supporting a second zone while still playing surround sound in the main or primary room. This is different than a speaker A/B switch on your amp or receiver since the A/B speaker switch on your amp or receiver is actually just sharing the wattage between all of the speakers and also is only capable of playing the same audio as the first room or zone 1. A zone 2 capable receiver will have discrete wattage for the main primary zone and discrete wattage also in the second zone 2, therefore resulting in increased overall power and performance. Additionally, the second zone can play a different audio source than the main room or zone one. This allows the homeowner to watch a movie in surround sound in the TV room while also listening to music (FM, CD, satellite radio) heck you can even listen to your iTunes library wirelessly from your PC or Mac throughout the rest of the house. Some installers will set it up using volume control knobs for each room. I prefer to set it up using an RF remote so the listener can fast forward through songs if needed and also adjust volume from the RF remote (can also "power on" and "power off" the system without getting out of your chair). Once you decide to invest in outdoor speakers, don't make the mistake of buying those ROX style speakers. Most will agree, the rox speakers can only be heard clearly if the listener is within 8 or 10 feet of the rox speaker. After all, these speakers aren't know for quality, but rather known for the ability to blend in with the outdoor environment. If you are seeking quality in an outdoor speaker, consider a wall mount, weather resistant, all climate speaker. These will deliver quality and performance the rox speakers are incapable of delivering.
For more info please visit our website.

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/

3D television???

2010-02-23T19:28:00.002-05:00

Vendors have lined up to roll out 3-D televisions, hoping to become the leader in a market proponents say will change the way the world watches TV as much as the switch from black-and-white to color.
More cautious observers have concerns about whether the technology for a quality experience exists yet, whether the price will be right and whether there will be enough content to make the TVs worthwhile.
But the success of movies like "Avatar" and "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs" has viewers hankering for more.
And they're getting it.
Manufacturers like Sony, Samsung, LG and Panasonic have either rolled out 3-D products or are expected to in the next couple of days.
Content providers like ESPN, DreamWorks, Direct TV and Discovery have said they're ready to send images jumping off TV screens in the coming year.
So, just where does this leave you if you're hoping for a "comin' at ya" experience from the tube?
How much will it cost?
Specifics so far are sketchy, but logic suggests it will cost a lot, at least at first.

That said, some manufacturers are promising they can get 3-D televisions on the market for roughly the price of high-end high-definition TVs.
Phillips had a no-glasses 3-D television on the market until March, when it was pulled amid an economy unfriendly to its price. It ranged from $3,000-$12,000 depending on the model.
One seller online has a 42-inch model of the TV still listed at $8,999.
The manufacturers who so far have rolled out 3-D offerings at CES have done so without including a price. But several suggest the Phillips price may be high.
Richard LaBerge, of Sensio Technologies, which has developed a form of 3-D, suggested to CNN that the TV prices would be near or slightly above current top-end prices.
"The target is to have it at the same price as a normal 2-D TV, or with a little bit of premium, but something acceptable to add this immersive effect into your home that people would be able to accept," he said.
When can I get it?
Almost every company touting a 3-D television this week has said they plan to be on the market sometime in 2010.
In a way, the content is driving the technology. By going ahead and announcing that they'll be on the air, folks like ESPN, Discovery and Direct TV have dangled a carrot in front of viewers -- and lit a fuse under TV manufacturers to get their products out before the content starts airing.
ESPN plans to be up in June. You can bet every manufacturer with a product ready to sell will try to be in stores before avid sports fans start sniffing around.
How does it work?
All 3-D technology relies on the idea that if separate images are presented to the left and right eyes, the human brain will combine them and create the illusion of a third dimension.
With technology that uses 3-D glasses, two images -- one for the right eye and one for the left eye -- alternate quickly on the TV. Shutters on the 3-D glasses swap the viewer's vision from right eye to left eye at the same rate.
The TV connects with the glasses through a sensor that's placed between the lenses on the glasses.
The effect moves so quickly that it tricks the brain into merging the images and creates the perspective needed to see images in 3-D.
What could go wrong?
Some analysts are concerned that 3-D broadcasts, which require twice the data, will gobble up an unworkable amount of television bandwidth.
Some also worry that 3-D glasses and graphics won't make a smooth transition to American living rooms.
Shane Sturgeon, publisher of HDTV Magazine, said recently that some of the glasses give him a headache and could dissuade some people from buying the new technology.

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Hooking up an iPod to your stereo is NOT the best way to listen to your MP3 library

2010-01-17T12:03:00.003-05:00

Many custom installation companies are pushing iPod docks as a way to listen to an MP3 library through loud speakers. Although this is a simple and cost effective solution as a way to avoid the earbuds, it is not the preferred method. The first problem is, you'll have two repositories for your music files, one on your computer's hard drive and the second on the iPod itself. The issue is, unless you sync your iPod regularly, you will not have access to the latest music downloads through your stereo like you would if you play the music on your stereo directly from the computer hard drive itself. This method is setting up the computer as a media server and the stereo as a media player. The next problem you'll likely encounter is, using the iPod as a media player will compress the music file where high-fidelity is not available. The minimum recommended digital stream bit-rate is 192 Kbps (kilo bits per second). The iPod stream rate is much lower than 192Kbps. You will miss the hi-highs and the lo-lows. Just not recommended for the audiophile. So, back to the solution as mentioned earlier. By playing the music files directly from the computer hard drive, you are hearing the music as intended by the artist, the sound engineer, and the producer. The reason for this is, this method presents the music in an un-compressed format. So ditch the iPod dock and trade it in for a stereo media player. We can setup your computer as a media player and and you'll never need to sync you iPod again.

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/

HDMI v1.4

2010-01-15T07:53:00.002-05:00

What's new in the HDMI 1.4 specification?

HDMI Ethernet Channel
The HDMI 1.4 specification adds a data channel to the HDMI connection, enabling high-speed, bi-directional communication. Connected devices that include this feature can send and receive data via 100 Mb/sec Ethernet, making them instantly ready for any IP-based application. The HDMI Ethernet Channel allows internet-enabled HDMI devices to share an internet connection via the HDMI link, with no need for a separate Ethernet cable. It also provides the connection platform that will allow HDMI-enabled components to share content between devices.

Audio Return Channel
The new specification adds an audio channel that will reduce the number of cables required to deliver audio "upstream" from a TV to an A/V receiver for processing and playback. In cases where a TV features an internal content source, such as a built-in tuner or DVD player, the Audio Return Channel allows the TV to send audio data upstream to the A/V receiver via the HDMI cable, eliminating the need for an extra cable.

3D
The 1.4 version of the specification defines common 3D formats and resolutions for HDMI-enabled devices, enabling 3D gaming and other 3D video applications. The specification standardizes the input/output portion of the home 3D system, facilitating 3D resolutions up to dual-stream 1080p.

4K Resolution Support
The new specification enables HDMI devices to support extremely high HD resolutions, effectively four times the resolution of a 1080p device. Support for 4K allows the HDMI interface to transmit digital content at the same resolution as the state-of-the-art Digital Cinema systems used in many movie theaters.

Expanded Support For Color Spaces
HDMI now supports color spaces designed specifically for digital still cameras, enabling more accurate color rendering when viewing digital photos. By supporting sYCC601, Adobe®RGB, and Adobe®YCC601, HDMI display devices are capable of displaying more accurate, life-like colors when connected to a digital camera.

HDMI Micro Connector (Type D)
The HDMI Micro Connector is a significantly smaller 19-pin HDMI connector supporting up to 1080p resolutions for portable devices such as cell phones, portable media players, and digital cameras. This new connector is approximately 50% smaller than the size of the existing HDMI Mini connector.

Automotive Connection System (Type E)
The Automotive Connection System is a cabling specification designed to be used for in-vehicle HD content distribution. The HDMI 1.4 specification provides a solution designed to meet the rigors and environmental issues commonly found in automobiles, such as heat, vibration and noise. Using the Automotive Connection System, car manufacturers now have a viable solution for HD distribution within a vehicle.

When should we expect to see products with some of these new features?
While the HDMI Licensing authority has no special insight into manufacturers' product plans, prior experience tells us that when a new version of the specification is released, products featuring the new capabilities typically start to reach the market within six to nine months. A number of products featuring HDMI 1.4 functionality are likely to be introduced at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Are manufacturers required to implement all of the new HDMI 1.4 features?
No. HDMI technology is designed to enable a wide variety of manufacturers in different markets to implement the feature sets that work best for their customers.
How will I know which HDMI 1.4 features are implemented in a device?
Shop for the specific features that interest you, rather than shopping for an HDMI version number and assuming that a certain feature is supported. Since many of the capabilities detailed in the HDMI 1.4 specification are optional implementations, it's the responsibility of the manufacturer to tell you what features are supported in any given device.

Will any of the new HDMI 1.4 features require a new cable?
The HDMI Ethernet Channel feature will require a new cable that supports this functionality, either a Standard HDMI Cable with Ethernet or a High Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet, depending on the maximum resolution to be supported. The Automotive Connection System will also employ a new class of cable, the Standard Automotive HDMI cable, which is designed specifically for automotive use. All of the other new HDMI 1.4 features will be compatible with the existing categories of cables.
Are HDMI 1.4 devices going to be backwards-compatible with older HDMI (v.1.0 - 1.3) devices?
Yes, devices built to the HDMI 1.4 specification will be fully backwards-compatible with existing HDMI devices and their features.
Can older HDMI (v.1.0 - 1.3) devices be firmware-upgraded to take advantage of the new features introduced in HDMI 1.4?
Probably not. Most of the new features introduced in HDMI 1.4 will require a new HDMI chip to enable, and cannot be upgraded via firmware.

Miscellaneous
Where can I find more information about HDMI 1.4?
For general questions about HDMI, please visit www.hdmi.org. For complete details on the HDMI 1.4 specification, please go to http://www.hdmi.org/manufacturer/hdmi_1_4.aspx.

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Is dirty electricity in your home preventing you from fully enjoying the HD experience?

2009-11-26T16:10:00.005-05:00

You may think your HD picture looks great, and you may think your surround sound is spectacular...???

Many may not know, but the AC 120 volt household electrical is creating unwanted (and unknown) interference in your HD entertainment system. More than just spike protection or surge protection, a line conditioner will trim and filter the 60Hz AC before it has a chance to shorten the life expectancy of your AV equipment. The electrical in your home is filled with "noise". This noise cascades itself into your audio and video equipment. When this happens, it is actually shortening the life of your devices. That is only half of it. By cleaning the AC current, you will also notice an increased AV experience. This added benifit will be more noticable on 1080p video and digital audio.

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/

Is your home theater future proof?

2009-11-26T15:34:00.005-05:00

Is your home theater future proof?

Although technology is constantly advancing, there are certain things you can do to your low voltage infrastructure to stay ahead of the curve. Currently, 1080p is the highest screen resolution available. It is said and predicted, that within the next few years, 1440p will soon be the next full HD screen resolution. Even though 1440p display resolution is not currently available, some HDMI manufacturers do currently support the higher 1440p data transfer rates. Additionally, all newer devices are Internet capable. By connecting your devices via Cat5E or Cat6, you will save headache and time later by including these Ethernet wire connections now.

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/

Structured Wiring

2009-09-20T09:08:00.013-04:00

By now you have read many of my posts regarding home theater setup, home theater control, and home theater optimizing.

The structured wiring topic is a conversation you'll need to have with your builder or installer before you finalize your home theater design. Structured wiring applies to the entire home, media rooms and home theaters being part of that. Having a robust structured wiring infrastructure will allow you to have more control over your media room and home theater or even more control within your home... Structured wiring is much more than multiple audio and video cables although those are included. Structured wiring is mainly a means of future proofing your home for updates not considered yet. Data lines, the type used for networking are used for carrying video from room to room, voice from room to room, or music streams including metadata from room to room. Structured wiring serves as the hub of your low voltage nervous system. With proper structured wiring design and installation you will have complete control over all audio sources, video sources, data, voice, CCTV, networking, printers, file sharing, and televisions. Imagine listening to your library of MP3 files in your bedroom through ceiling mounted speakers by using your remote control instead of dropping your iPod into a local dock. Imagine having one Blu-Ray player which can send HD video to every room in your home via Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet wire. Imagine using a wall keypad to play your favorite artist or genre throughout your entire home during a party. Even control your AV receiver located in another room via an IR remote, not RF remote. The possibilities are endless!

For more exciting info on this topic please visit our web page below!!!

http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/whole-distribution.php

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/

Complete control with your universal remote

2009-08-02T15:59:00.002-04:00

What's the point of having a universal remote if you need to press more than one button to perform a task? Once someone decides to ditch their numerous remotes in favor of a single universal remote, the next logical step is to setup the macros which make the operation of the equipment easier and simpler. Sure, accessing all of your equipment from one hand held device is great, but that is only half of it! Implementing a macro allows integrators to offer turn-key solutions to their clients. How impressive is it when, upon pressing a single button on your universal remote, the system not only turns on but goes directly to your favorite radio station? Or how about this scenario, a house guest easily comprehends how to access your media server leaving you to entertain your guests (instead of fumbling through discrete commands to access your media files). Perhaps the biggest advantage of having a universal remote is the ability to relocate the equipment and electronic devices to another room or at least out of sight. With the latest RF technology, integrators are capable of keeping your AV equipment away from curious fingers which otherwise would change your preferences and preselected settings. Some high end model universal remotes allow two way communication with other household wi fi devices. Universal remotes can now allow users to view their security cameras right on the remote color screen. You don't need a monitor for your security cameras anymore, just watch the cameras from the 3.5 inch color remote screen. Some universal remotes are enabled with web browsing, some can turn on and off lights, most can adjust the thermostat too.

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Outside audio and multi-zone receivers

2009-06-28T14:55:00.005-04:00

This is perhaps my favorite part of any installation. In years past we were forced to settle for a boom box or a stand alone system for listening to our music outdoors. A stand alone system will certainly give us quality sound outdoors, but is not as versatile as today's multi-zone receivers. If setup correctly a multi-zone receiver can access your computer's MP3 files eliminating the need to create "party discs" to play while entertaining. The sound quality for today's outdoor speakers has improved over the past few years as well. Many manufacturers now have weather resistant speakers which can successfully withstand the elements. Some are shaped like rocks but I prefer the more traditional look of a wall mounted speaker located under the eaves if possible.
Back to multi-zone receivers, if setup correctly, the user can watch / listen to a movie indoors while listening to FM radio or otherwise outdoors all using the same AV receiver. Each will have independent volume control too! Some multi-zone receivers support two room video.

One important consideration when planning a multi-room installation using one receiver is to carefully plan the operation of the equipment with a universal remote. Some universal remotes do not allow the user to select a "change location" option. By using a remote capable of recognizing different locations, the user can use one remote for two or more rooms (locations).

Check out my other blogs regarding multi-room video distribution.

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

How many paychecks are invested in your home theater?

2009-05-12T20:13:00.000-04:00

That is actually a rhetorical question... the point I am trying to make here is; you have probably spent a lot of hard earned money building the personal theater (or media room) of your dreams. I hope you are not relying on a $99 surge protector as your AV insurance policy! A power conditioner should have been the FIRST item listed on your equipment list, a power conditioner is your first defender of unwanted electrical spikes, over voltage, and noise filtering (yes this includes video noise). The power conditioner will prolong the life expectancy of your AV equipment, please also make sure your HDTV is making use of your power conditioner and not just the Blu-Ray player and surround receiver. Your hi-def TV will surely have a longer life but also have a better picture due to the noise filtering from the power conditioner, a feature surge protectors do not offer. If your AV installer has not recommended a true power conditioner, ask yourself why. Entry level power conditioner models are well within even the lowest media room budgets. For planning purposes, you should expect to pay around $400 for a decent power conditioner, based on a $6000 media room investment, the power conditioner is approximately 7% of your AV budget. Other models are available, even if your budget allows for a $250 power conditioner, do it! It is the wisest decision you will have made. Surge protectors (even high end models) will not prolong the life of the equipment and will not improve the picture quality like a power conditioner will do. The truth is, power fluctuations are the leading cause of AV equipment failures!

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Media Servers for Home Theaters

2009-05-10T20:25:00.000-04:00

Being a proponent of media servers and technology in general, certain requirements and basic fundamentals should be understood before investing in this constantly evolving media vehicle. Aside from the obvious monetary choices, prices ranging from $900 for very basic entry level units, to $7,000 for mid-grade multi-function pieces, you will need to research your own expectations and requirements to ensure you are getting what you expect. To begin, digital media exists in several formats; there are too many audio formats to list here and too many video formats to investigate in one blog. But for starters, you will need to perform an inventory of your own collection to become familiar with what digital file formats you currently own so you don't exclude your favorite audio track or favorite music video after you buy your new media server. What I am saying is you may have some newer file formats which may not play on all entry level units.

Basically there are numerous digital file formats;
Previous audio formats include .wma and .wav while previous video formats include .mov and .mpg
Newer audio formats include .mp3 and .m4a while newer video formats include .m4v and .mp4

The concern here is; if you are like me and many other music enthusiasts, you probably have multiple formats, both older formats and newer formats. Not all entry level media servers will have the capability of playing both older and newer formats. Undoubtedly the high end units will cover all bases but if you are planning the purchase a mid-grade unit, care should be taken in deciding on a model which will play ALL of your media formats (old & new).

Please look for a more in-depth discussion from me in the future on "media servers myths and realities"

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Video source ethernet connectivity

2009-04-14T21:57:00.000-04:00

How many of us have seen the Cat5e Ethernet (RJ45) plug on the back of their AV equipment? This includes televisions, Blu-Ray players, satellite receivers, and some AV receivers. How many of us have taken the time to connect our equipment to our home network? If you have not done this yet YOU ARE MISSING OUT on many added features available to you from your new high tech equipment! There are many uses including any of the following: downloading IP based movies, streaming content from your PC (NAS), web browsing, instant weather, BD Live, RSS feeds to your TV screen, etc... It is the simplest yet the most overlooked enhancement you can do for your home entertainment center. Sure, at first I did not hook up mine upon first seeing the availability, but I will never overlook this simple, value add connection again. It is added to all of our installations no matter how small the job.

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

What could be better than Blu-Ray? (read on for the answer!)

2009-03-24T23:44:00.000-04:00

I am currently not using a Blu-Ray player for my 1080p movie playback. Although I regularly enjoy renting 1080p movies and watching them on my home theater all the time.

The time has come for everyone to stop thinking of blu-ray as the ultimate in hi-def video.

Really!!!

Have you ever stopped your BD-java blu-ray player and tried to resume the movie at the same point where you stopped? What's up with that, why doesn't the resume function work? I think you would have better luck winning the lottery than you would successfully resuming your stopped blu-ray at the same point where you originally halted playback. The explanation for this failure comes from Don Eklund at Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE). He writes, "the reason the resume feature does not work in BD-java Blu-Ray players is because the player gives control to the java program to navigate the content. As such, the player cannot execute its own operation (like resume) without causing problems in running the java program."

Well that's real smart. Perhaps I'll try bookmarking instead to resume playback, except then I'll first have to run through the previews, FBI warning, and other stuff before I will arrive at the menu where I can select that feature (there goes that idea).

OK, this blog is not about the short comings of blu-ray players, it is about ditching your circular, shinny HD disks and start streaming. Why should you do that? So you can say you are on the technologically advanced bandwagon? Is this just another format war? No, because blu-ray is just a "stop gap" measure anyway, it is just a band aide. I can assure you blu-ray is the last disk format we will ever see.

What could be better than renting or buying 1080p movies from the comfort of your sofa? What could be better than choosing from approximately 13,000 SD and HD combined available movie titles? What could be better than not having to return the movie when you are done? What could be better than keeping the rented movie for 30 days before you decide to begin watching it? What could be better than not having to organize and store hundreds of plastic movie cases. Sorry, you get the idea.

So what the heck am I talking about? I am talking about Vudu. http://www.vudu.com/
Vudu offers two basic types of 1080p movie players, the VBX100 and the VBX1000. From here after we will only be discussing the VBX1000 which has a 1TB hard drive for movie storage. This is the only 1080p movie player I have personally used in the past 3 months. The 1TB hard drive allows consumers to save their purchased movies to the hard drive where the purchased movies can be stored indefinitely. One advantage here is that users can travel with their vudu movie player and take up to 50 titles with them on the hard drive (yes, you can buy HD movies too). Users can also enjoy YouTube, Flickr, Pandora, and Picasa from their vudu labs tab on the movie player user interface.

The UI allows users to search for movies by title, actor, and director, etc....
So are all of the latest movies available? Yes, in fact, the day Twilight was released on DVD and blu-ray, Twilight was also available for rent or purchase on Vudu!!!

The retail price for the VBX1000 is $499 and comes with an RF remote and an HDMI cable. This is quite a deal when compared to similar priced blu-ray players which do not include a mass storage device.

One cool feature on the RF remote is the intuitive scroll wheel. During movie playback, users can scroll back to a point in the movie which they wanted to watch again. This also allows to user to navigate the UI without the need to look at the remote for the select button etc...

They offer an IR remote sensor for use with mainstream "all-in-one" remote controls. Additionally they is also a wireless kit, in case you have not figured it out, the vudu box does need to be connected to your broadband cable modem or router. the wireless kit is a matched pair consisting of one transmitter and one receiver. No configuration is needed, it is really plug and play for the wireless kit. Whether you go with the wireless kit or not, 4.0 Mbps is the required bandwidth to enjoy instant HD movies.

More info on the VBX1000 can be found here:
http://hometheater.vudu.com/products_VBX1000.html

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Consumer demand vs. Salesman push

2009-03-05T09:50:00.000-05:00

Jerry Del Colliano of HomeTheaterReview.com wrote a great article about how AV brands look to dealers to "push" their products over creating new consumer demand. A link to the full article is below.

Here is a direct quote from his article: "Many companies looking for an easy way out of marketing their products to consumers think that salespeople control every element of what a consumer buys and can therefore push the company's products or brands, as opposed to the company itself presenting consumers with a compelling reason for purchasing their products and thus driving them to the retailer"

I couldn't agree with Jerry more! Most consumers want AV equipment which sounds great and looks good at a reasonable price. They perhaps also "expect" the salesperson is going to recommend something which the average consumer will recognize.

As a consumer you may go to your local specialty AV store and are seeking to part with $1200 for a pair of speakers, after all, there is comfort in spending $1200 for a recognizable brand of speakers. Not saying here that a recognizable brand is providing you more bang for your buck. I'm just saying that consumers are more willing to part with their cash if they are comfortable with their purchase. Now an educated salesperson will certainly provide and explain to the consumer why brand xyz is a better and valid investment over what the buyer was originally interested in.... and the salesperson will pitch the logic behind their personal recommendation. Yes, it is up to the salesperson to meet and deliver the individual needs of each consumer, and to provide equipment that meets or exceeds the consumers criteria. But all things being equal (and that is the important part), the final sale will almost certainly lean towards the brand recognition. I am not opposed to pushing a set of SpeakerCraft speakers, I love them, they are very robust in design, sound great and I have never had a complaint. Now try selling them to an average consumer that has never heard of SpeakerCraft. I spec them into almost every proposal because they are a proven source of quality, affordable custom speakers. I take the time to explain their history, market share, and warranty info. Now open any Home Theater magazine, or go to any Home Theater website or domain, you rarely see any mention of SpeakerCraft either online or in print. This creates somewhat of a "burden" on the salesperson, who does think the brands they carry are market proven, quality tested and un-matched in value, this is why they offer them. The salesperson must now (usually in minutes) pitch a marketing campaign equal to the marketing campaign the consumer has been listening to or seeing in magazines for years on competing products.

Good job Jerry, you were right on!
Jerry's full article can be found here

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/

March 2009 Consumer Reports - Best TV's

2009-02-19T15:32:00.000-05:00

So the new Consumer Reports is now on the newsstands. Here is a brief listing of the top televisions in each category from Consumer Reports March 2009. The full story offers advice for the movie lover, budget buyer, sports fan, and techie. The 7 page article proves to be a good resource for those who may not be tech savvy and those who have seen and used many models first hand. It is not too technical but still offers sound advice from people who do know this stuff.

Plasma review:
58"and larger range
#1 Samsung PN58A550 ($3,200 list)
#2 Pioneer PDP-6020FD ($5,500 list)
50" range
#1 Samsung PN50A550 ($1,600 list)
#2 Pioneer Elite PRO-111FD ($5,000 list)

LCD review:
52" and larger range
#1 Samsung LN52A650 ($2,200 list)
#2 Samsung LN52A750 ($2,600 list)
46" range
#1 Samsung LN46A850 ($2,240 list)
#2 Samsung LN46A550 ($1,500 list)
40" range
#1 Samsung LN40A630 ($1,400 list)
#2 Sony Bravia KDL-40XBR7 ($2,700 list)

Informative video offering a basic understanding can be found on the CR website by following the link below: http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine-archive/march-2009/electronics-computers/tvs/overview/tvs-ov.htm

Marc
http://www.hometheaterintegrators.com/

AV receiver froze (locked) up

2009-02-18T23:44:00.000-05:00

This is a new one for me, went on a service call earlier and arrived to find the client's new Yamaha RX-V563 receiver was just completly locked up. I have owned Denon, Yamaha, and Onkyo receivers, all in the $600 - $1000 price range and have never had one freeze up to the point where it would not respond to pressing any of the front panel buttons.

Can this happen from overheating?

BTW, once I un-plugged it and waited about 10 minutes before plugging it back in, it was fine....

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

HDMI signal loss after 40 ft - true or false?

2009-02-17T20:31:00.000-05:00

Everyone has heard the HDMI disclaimer; if your HDMI cable run is longer than 40 ft, you will need a booster to avoid signal loss. If this is entirely true, then why do manufactures even make lengths over 40 ft?

I have not personally seen any data supporting this or disputing this, but I will say I do in fact avoid using HDMI in any length beyond the 40 ft mark.

I am just curious if any one has actually seen any data supporting the 40 ft rule?

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

AV receiver metadata

2009-02-17T00:46:00.000-05:00

I just purchased a new Onkyo TX-SR806 AV receiver. I love the features. However, I was a little disappointed with it not offering to display artist and song title across the front display. My two year old car displays the artist and song title, but not my new $900 receiver. I'm guessing my car radio did not cost $900.

Displaying the artist and song info is actually know as RT (radio text) which is a subcategory of RDS (radio data system). From what I have read in the instruction manual, this technology was developed in the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). It can also be used to categorize the FM station genre. Although not real important to me to have this on the new AV receiver, it seems like a nice feature which was left behind.

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com

Home Theater in-wall speakers, the winner is......

2009-02-17T00:25:00.000-05:00

First blog, I am interested in discussing which in-wall flush mount speakers perform / sound the best to you?

Being an audiophile, I may never install these for my own system, but I realize the in-wall design has a place for those not driven to seek high performance.

For those who have used them, what manufacturer did you like? What manufacturer didn't you like?

Marc
www.HomeTheaterIntegrators.com