Home Theater Wiring - Uses and allowances of HDMI Multimedia Interface Cables
The HDMI 1.3 cable is the newest version of the multiple multimedia interface cable that can be used to connect a number of electronic devices into the same interface. Compared to past models of the cable, which have changed relatively little compared to their predecessors, the 1.3 version has an array of new features that makes it the most adaptable of the bunch. But just what are the real benefits of using the HDMI 1.3 cable compared to the others? You would be surprised, I'm sure, to learn of all the ways that this new version will expand your multimedia interface and make it easier for you to combine your electronics.
To understand how this HDMI cable is going to help you, let's first talk about Digital Visual Interface (DVI). This is an uncompressed digital connection scheme that was actually originally developed for a network of personal computers. It was to be a low-cost, high-bandwidth digital connection between PCs and digital monitors, so that you could view your work on the best of television sets. Now it is the most widely used digital display interface in the computer industry. What does all this mean for your hometheater system? Well, it means that you can include the DVI with it, especially by using DVI connections on projectors, monitors, and advanced DVD players, such as the new HD-DVD players.
HDMI cables come in when you want to hook up a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) system with that of a DVI. HDMI cables can carry video, audio, and inter-component operability commands (remote control signals) on one digital interface that has been built on the success of DVI. When a device is connected to an HDMI 1.3 cable, it gets all the video performance that DVI has to offer, up to and including 1080p.
Compared with your standard A/V interfaces, HDMI interfaces actually have a number of important advantages. The uncompressed format delivers digital HD video, multi-channel audio, and control signals between various HDMI and/or DVI components. By combining all this power into one cable, HDMI offers a convenient connection alternative to the maze of existing analog A/V cables that plague your hometheater.
The HDMI 1.3 cable actually offers six distinct benefits to the HDMI world. The most obvious is the higher data transfer speed that it offers. It also supports a special format type known as Deep Color. This is the brand new color space used in video electronics. It can support 1.8 times as many colors as RGB (Red, green, blue color schemes), which helps it to show all the various colors found in nature. Incorporating automatic audio syncing capability is also a new feature for the HDMI 1.3 cable. This system will automatically adjust for the difference in electronic latency between the processing circuits of the sound and the image. This discrepancy usually comes up as a slight delay in sound and image correspondence, but it will be unnoticeable thanks to this new cable version.
In addition to all of this, the HDMI 1.3 supports the output of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-FD Master Audio streams. These are the lossless audio codec formats used on HD DVDs and Blue-ray discs. The cable is only useful here if the DVD player can't send information in an uncompressed format, though. The HDMI 1.3 can be used with a number of products, including the latest DVD players and the PlayStation 3, which you may be interested to know, is the first product on the market that uses a HDMI 1.3 wire connection.
So if you're looking for the best connectivity possible, look into purchasing the HDMI 1.3 cable. The benefits HDMI 1.3 provides your hometheater wiring set-up can't be beat, and you'll soon find yourself able to transfer data like never before.
~Ben Anton, 2007
Home Theater Wiring - Uses and allowances of HDMI Multimedia Interface Cables
Home Theater
Home Theater Wiring - Uses and allowances of HDMI Multimedia Interface Cables
Home Theater Wiring - Uses and allowances of HDMI Multimedia Interface Cables Home Theater Wiring - Uses and allowances of HDMI Multimedia Interface Cables
Sky Ferreira - Red Lips LIVE HD (2013) Los Angeles Bootleg Theater
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Sky Ferreira - Red Lips LIVE HD (2013) Los Angeles Bootleg Theater
Speaker Wiring - Choosing Home Theater Speaker Wire
If you have a home theatre system or a pair of loudspeakers then you will want to get the best possible sound quality and maximum potential from your speaker system. The good news is that you can get a noticeable sound quality difference from your speakers with a minimal investment in good quality speaker wires. In this article we will show you the benefits and explain, in understandable language, the reasons for you to decide if you want to upgrade to the optimum speaker cable to enhance your audio listening experience and overall system sound quality.
Choosing home theatre speaker wire is not an exact science but there are simple rules that you should follow when selecting speaker wire for your audio and hifi system. Many high street hifi shops are happy to sell you expensive speaker cables which may or may not suit your audio system and it is possible to waste hundreds of pounds or dollars on wiring that is certainly unjustified in making any audible difference on most home hi-fi and home cinema systems.
So what should I look for when choosing hometheater speaker wire - best tips?
Firstly, you should know how to choose the right gauge of speaker wiring and this is easily done by understanding that a thickness of wire is relative to the gauge or size of the copper conductor/s inside the speaker wire. The gauge number, which is available by the standard AWG or American Wire Gauge, identifies the cable thickness. However, you should note that the lower the gauge of the wire the thicker it will be.
The lower the AWG gauge number of a speaker wire indicates the capacity or ability to more better pass the electrical audio signal through the speaker wiring conductor. The general standard or accepted range of wiring is from 12 to 18 gauge.
When selecting the right gauge speaker wiring for your home theatre, cinema system or hifi then you should take into consideration the general reputation of a supplier and cable manufacturer and the level of sound quality you wish to achieve within your own budget. You will also need to work out the length of your speaker cable installation and how much cable is required to connect the speakers. If you are installing a home theatre and require surround sound system at the back of your room then longer cable runs will be required and you should understand that a long wires runs cause their own problems in relation to loss of sound quality due to electrical current loss through the cable.
As a rule of thumb it is advisable to select speaker wire gauge from the following guideline of distance vs cable gauge:
(1) Distance from hi-fi / home cinema system to loudspeaker (Less than 60 feet)=16 gauge.
(2) Distance from hi-fi / home theatre system to loudspeaker (Less than 60 to 180 feet)=14 gauge.
(3) Distance from hi-fi / home audio system to loudspeaker (More than 180 feet)=12 gauge.
With home theatre speaker wire it is worth considering thicker gauge cable as it can really help you achieve good sound quality results and also as thicker wire handles the electrical signal much better it reduces the resistance of the cable and therefore puts less strain on your amplifier or audio visual receiver thus giving longer life of your amplifier component and providing a better quality sound output which is delivered more easily to your speaker / surround sound system.
Thinner speaker wiring, generally less expensive, is obviously easier to work with when installing around skirting boards or under flooring and choosing a good quality 16 gauge speaker wire will still achieve fantastic results for rear surround sound speakers providing that the cables are made from good quality components and this extends also to the correct use of cable terminators on both amplifier and speaker ends.
Speaker Wiring - Choosing Home Theater Speaker Wire
Home Theater
Speaker Wiring - Choosing Home Theater Speaker Wire
Speaker Wiring - Choosing Home Theater Speaker Wire Speaker Wiring - Choosing Home Theater Speaker Wire
Home Theater
Sky Ferreira performs Red Lips in live concert at Bootleg Theater in Los Angeles, California on 04/11/2013.
Would you like to be able to recline in your favorite hometheater recliners at a touch of a button? Would you like to have the ability to literally recline in infinite positions? Hometheater seating with optional power recliners can accomplish this.
Recliners are one of the most comfortable and relaxing chairs. They are a great way to unwind after a long day. The optional power in your theater recliners can complete the cinematic feeling right in your own home providing the ultimate in hometheater experience.
Most manual recliners in sectionals, sofas, or hometheater seating have only two positions. When the recliner handle is pulled, the first reclined position is a 45 degree position. If you push the seat back with your body, it will go to an almost horizontal sleeping position (second position). Manually operated recliners such as this can not stop anywhere between those 2 positions.
Optional power recliners, on the other hand, have an ability to recline at infinite positions. You simply activate the recline switch and stop at any reclined position that you prefer. Unlike manual recliners, the powered ones offer a smoother and more versatile reclining motion because they use electric motors. They fully recline in seconds and close effortlessly. The motorized control basically allows you to reline to your very own favorite position. The powered recliners are also ideal for those who have mobility challenges. Now imagine adding this power option to your theater recliners. It will make your movie viewing experience even more convenient and comfortable.
Home Theater Seating With Power Recliners
Home Theater
Home Theater Seating With Power Recliners
Home Theater Seating With Power Recliners Home Theater Seating With Power Recliners
Joe Bonamassa with Beth Hart - I'll Take Care of You
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Joe Bonamassa with Beth Hart - I'll Take Care of You
Sound Bars - Important Tips to Remember When Buying a Sound Bar System for Your Home Theater
Sound bars are the perfect way to get great hometheater audio without setting up tons of speakers or dealing with messy wiring. If you want unmatched audio quality, you owe it to yourself to find out more about soundbars. Sound bars, or sound projectors as they're also known, consist of a single unit that houses multiple speakers to get the best hometheater sound without multiple speakers and messy wiring.
If you have a plasma flat screen television, sound projectors are the perfect speakers to get great sound. As you probably already know, the little built-in speakers in most flat screen TVs simply don't put out great audio for movies, music or video games. When you add a sound projector to the mix, though, you'll get the best surround sound without cluttering your room up with speakers or tripping over wires all the time.
Sub-woofer Concerns
Some single speaker solutions don't really provide the low end bass that you need to get the best quality audio. In fact, some soundbar systems include a wireless sub-woofer to make sure that you get the best audio experience possible. There are some sound projectors that do include sub-woofers, just make sure that you check before you purchase to know whether or not you'll have to purchase an additional speaker.
SoundBar Types
Some soundbar systems are active and include their own amplification; this means that they simply plug into your television and start putting out great sound. Other models, however, are passive and need to be plugged into a hometheater receiver to produce audio.
You can even add a sound projector into an existing hometheater audio system for the ultimate in dynamic sound quality. Soundbars work great on their own, but when you add them into a full surround sound set up, you'll be amazed at how much better movies, music and games sound. You'll think you stepped into the local theater when you put a sound projector into the mix.
Whether you choose to integrate a sound bar into your existing system, or to simply use one on its own for better sound from your television, make sure that you get the best sound bar for your unique hometheater set up.
Check out some sound bar reviews to see which models offer the best sound, and while you're at it, look for the best deals to save some money in the process. You'll be amazed at how much better movies sound when you crank up the volume on a brand new soundbar.<p>
Sound Bars - Important Tips to Remember When Buying a Sound Bar System for Your Home Theater
Home Theater
Sound Bars - Important Tips to Remember When Buying a Sound Bar System for Your Home Theater
Sound Bars - Important Tips to Remember When Buying a Sound Bar System for Your Home Theater Sound Bars - Important Tips to Remember When Buying a Sound Bar System for Your Home Theater
Home Theater
Live at the New York Beacon Theatre. December 5 2011
I'm so happy to be able to post a song by one of my favourite singers. This is Ryan Adams with Neil Finn and Janis Ian on BBC 4's Songwriters' Circle on October 21st 2011 singing Let It Ride. This is also one my favourite songs of his. There will be more....
I'm so happy to be able to post a song by one of my favourite singers. This is Ryan Adams with Neil Finn and Janis Ian on BBC 4's Songwriters' Circle on October 21st 2011 singing Let It Ride. This is also one my favourite songs of his. There will be more....
How To Connect Your Digital Receiver To Your Home Theater Setup
In the not too distant past, stereo receivers were only used for connecting components of your home stereo system and switching between them, but times have changed drastically in the home entertainment field in just the last few years. Today a stereo receiver, or digital receiver as they are sometimes called, is expected to also handle video inputs from any number of devices and be able to route that as well to the TV set. In addition, today's receivers must have the capability to decode surround sound and support up to at least 5 speakers and a subwoofer. That's a lot to ask, and also a lot to connect up, so let's discuss how to connect your digital receiver to your hometheater setup.
If you buy an all-in-one hometheater system package, you probably won't have much problem setting things up because it's all usually laid out for you in the instructions and the components should all match very well. But if you are putting together your own hometheater package made up of different components then you need to plan ahead and buy the right equipment to get the job done.
As far as the receiver is concerned, be sure that you buy one that has the number of connections that you will need to handle all of your system components. For video, almost all receivers give you a connection for a DVD player, a VCR, and a cable or satellite box, but do you also plan to connect up a digital camcorder, a video game system, or digital video recorder? If so, you will need enough inputs for all these pieces of equipment too. And you can expect to pay more for that many extra connections, but if that is what you need, the cost is worth it.
Now you need to be sure that the connection types are what you want too. Almost all video equipment can be connected through a standard composite connection cable, but if you want to improve the video quality you will use an S-video connection instead. Having a good mix of input connections between the two can be a good idea as most camcorder video will not have to be of the highest quality anyway.
On the audio front, many digital receivers are coming with surround sound decoders built into the unit and that is usually the simplest solution. Just make sure that the digital connection for sound from your system components matches the input connection on the receiver. Usually it is either an optical or coaxial connection. Just be sure that whichever it is, they match on both ends.
Then be sure that you have enough speaker connections to drive your speaker setup. If you like to use the newer 6.1 or 7.1 surround sound system format you will need enough speaker connections on your receiver to power all those separate speakers.
Once you have the right equipment with the right connections, actually installing the receiver is a matter of staying organized as you go. It may be a good idea to label each cable set on both ends to remind you what goes where. And be sure to keep the polarity straight when you install the speakers too. Each speaker has a "+" and "-" terminal, so make sure that you match them up correctly with the corresponding terminal on the receiver or your sound quality will suffer.
Following a few well planned guidelines and being as organized as possible can help you to not only buy the right digital receiver equipment for your hometheater setup, but also install it correctly as well.
How To Connect Your Digital Receiver To Your Home Theater Setup
Inception -- Review
Video Clips. Duration : 3.35 Mins.
Inception -- Review
Inception (2010) -- A stimulating thriller with fantastic environments, 9/10. Full episodes of Movie Night, every Friday night at: bit.ly ~~ Movie Night Reviews ~~ Each "Quick Review" is an excerpt from a full episode. Incorporating viewer comments and tweets, your host and film critic Jonathan Paula reviews everything from opening day releases, recent DVDs, upcoming trailers, and classics from years past. Along with your votes, these films are scored on the "Rate-O-Matic" for a 1-10 ranking. A "Five Word Summary" quickly encapsulates each review while "Factor Facts" highlight the the best and worst features of a movie in each of ten key categories. New, full episodes of Movie Night are uploaded to the JPizzle1122 channel every Friday, November through May. Born in February 1986, Jonathan Paula is a professional YouTuber and creator of the hit web series, "Is It A Good Idea To Microwave This?". In April 2006 he founded Jogwheel Productions, a new media production company that specializes in web video. He has been reviewing films since 2003, and professionally since 2009. Jon graduated from Emerson College in 2008 with a degree in Television Production / Radio Broadcasting. He currently lives in Rockingham, NH with his wife Rebecca. ~~ Links ~~ Facebook ---------------- bit.ly Twitter --------------------- bit.ly Main Channel ----------- bit.ly 2nd Channel ------------ bit.ly Movie Night Show ----- bit.ly FAQ Video --------------- bit.ly T-Shirts ------------------- bit.ly ...
Home Audio Amplifiers - 7 Expert Tips to Improve Your Home Entertainment Sound
How would you like to have a home music system that sounds so fantastic you would think the performers are playing in your home right in front of you? Choosing just the right home audio amplifiers can make a dramatic musical difference in how well your hometheater and home music system will sound.
Use these expert home audio tips for selecting your home entertainment and music system components and you'll create an exceptional sounding home audio experience without having to spend a small fortune.
Here's how to get the best value with your home entertainment music system
o Your largest investment after your HDTV should be in your home audio amplifiers, not your speakers
o Specific brands of AV receivers are known for having exceptional music fidelity
o You need a specific minimum power capability to achieve great audio sound
o Why you want a 2 channel stereo music system
o Stereo music and hometheater surround sound need completely different power amplifiers
o AV receiver vs separate audio power amplifier components
o What makes up the heart of your hometheater and music system sound?
The problem is that you have so many choices and there are so many brands available to choose from that it's very difficult to know where to start. If you shop at your local electronics stores these days, you probably won't find an expert in home audio entertainment who is knowledgeable enough to really help you. Most online forums and review sites are largely too biased.
The biggest difference between a good sounding home music system and having a fantastic sounding home entertainment system is the synergy of your components. Basically, how well all the separate pieces sound together like your speakers; your AV receiver, your home audio amplifiers, DVD/ blu-ray players, game consoles, ipod, DAC and so forth.
The heart of your entire music entertainment system will be the home audio amplifiers that you are using. Home audio amplifiers are like the engine of your car. They are a major factor in the musical synergy that you will hear throughout your home entertainment system. Your second biggest investment after your HDTV should be in your home audio amplifiers, not your speakers.
Select your audio amplifiers based on what you are most interested in for your home entertainment. Do you primarily want to listen to stereo music (2 channels) or do you want your music system to be part of your hometheater movie system 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound system?
In general, the most realistic live performance music sound that you can experience in your home will be listening through amplifiers which are 2 channels stereo only.
If you want the best value in stereo music choose a stereo integrated amplifier with a power per channel of at least 75 watts to 150 watts into 8 ohms. If your budget is higher, you will hear the best stereo music using a separate stereo power amplifier or individual mono power amplifiers and a matching stereo preamplifier together. Home audio amplifiers with at least 250 watts per channel will give you the best deep bass and overall warmth and sound stage depth and width from your music listening.
If your main interest is enjoying a hometheater surround sound movie experience or playing video games and not just listening to music, you will need a home audio system with 5.1 or 7.1 multi-channel capabilities to experience fantastic sound in your home.
You will find the best values in hometheater amplifiers by choosing a multi-channel AV (audio/video) receiver. You have many choices in selecting an AV receiver. They all have about the same features today but only a few have the higher level of hi fidelity sound that will create musical synergy for you. Choose an AV receiver that has at least 120 watts per channel for all channels. Marantz makes some of the best sounding AV receivers that you can buy and Marantz quality is first class.
When budget is not a concern, you will hear the most incredible sounding hometheater systems using separate muti-channel high power home audio amplifiers with a matching audio video processor/preamp. You'll want to consider multi-channel home audio amplifiers with at least 150 watts to 350 watts per channel. Some of the top brands in this category are from: Marantz, Krell, Paragon, Lexicon and Mcintosh to name a few. For a significant step up from an AV receiver, separates like the Marantz AV8003 and MM8003 are both affordable and have outstanding musical sound quality making an excellent value for a first class hometheater and home audio system.
Just remember, when putting together your hometheater entertainment system or home audio music system, the heart of your sound system will come from the quality of the home audio amplifiers that you are using.
Home Audio Amplifiers - 7 Expert Tips to Improve Your Home Entertainment Sound
2008 Wrap-up: Home Video
Tube. Duration : 12.03 Mins.
2008 Wrap-up: Home Video
2008 Wrap-up: Home Video - Penn reveals what were the best of best in his home theater.
To Set Up Your Home Karaoke System Here's What You Need to Buy
Nothing beats having a home karaoke system to brush up on your singing skills or to make a party more alive. If you have your own system at home you don't have to go out weekends and spend money to sing.
Further, having your home karaoke system allows you to have fun without necessarily spending cash for drinks if you were at a bar. It is a great way to bond with the whole family by competing with each other and seeing who has the highest score from the machine's scoring system.
To be able to set up your home karaoke system, you need to buy the following components:
1. Multi-format Karaoke Disk Player
This is much better than the CDG Player only, which can only play songs in CDG format. You want to make sure your player can play songs that are in VCD, DVD, and mp3 format as well. The only features that you need though are key controls, play, and a quick and easy to operate song selector. Don't buy models that have feature names you don't even understand because chances are you're never going to use those features.
The technologically inclined can use their laptop or PC as a disk player.
2. Microphones
Make sure that you buy a pair of these for those times you want to sing duets. The choice of buying wireless or wired is up to you however you have to keep in mind the positive as well as negative attributes of each of the two. Many are inclined to use the more expensive wireless mic. The problem this type of microphone is
that it has to have noise canceling filters for you to avoid feedback when the mic loses signal. Also you need to have fresh batteries handy because when the power drains, no more singing.
You don't really need a microphone with out of this world features for simple home use. Any good quality mic whether wired or wireless that has good audio pick up and can handle high and low voice ranges does the job pretty well.
3. Monitor
Any flat screen TV can be used as a monitor and it's better its a bigger screen so you don't miss out reading the lyrics.
4. Heavy Duty Stereo Speakers
Not all speakers are designed for a home karaoke system. Karaoke speakers must be able to make you sound like a pro and allows you to eliminate feedback. You have to choose your speakers carefully because not all speakers sound great when you crank up the volume..
5. Mixer / Amplifier
No I'm not referring to the mixing boards that have sliders because they are of more use to a recording studio. What you need is a high quality mixer/amplifier that has controls for channels as well as it has a graphic equalizer.
6. Music
What's the use of a karaoke system without of course, music? Days before the party, you have to acquire karaoke music stored in discs. If it's party for the kids, you can stock up on nursery rhymes and songs for kids and the adults can collect songs from their favorite artists then its fun time.
To Set Up Your Home Karaoke System Here's What You Need to Buy
Shawshank Redemption -- Review
Tube. Duration : 1.15 Mins.
Shawshank Redemption -- Review
** Re-posted because Warner Bros. doesn't understand fair-use ** The Shawshank Redemption (1994), 10/10. Full episodes of Movie Night, every Friday night at: bit.ly ~~ Movie Night ~~ This "Quick Review" is an excerpt from a full episode. Incorporating viewer comments and tweets, your host and film critic Jonathan Paula reviews everything from opening day releases, recent DVDs, and classics from years past. Along with your votes, these films are scored on the "Rate-O-Matic" for a 1-10 ranking. A "Five Word Summary" quickly encapsulates each review while "Factor Facts" highlight the the best and worst features of a movie in each of ten key categories. New episodes every Friday (November through May) on the JPizzle1122 channel. Born in February 1986, Jonathan Paula is a professional YouTuber and creator of the hit web series, "Is It A Good Idea To Microwave This?". In April 2006 he founded Jogwheel Productions, a new media production company that specializes in web video. He has been reviewing films since 2003, and professionally since 2009. Jon graduated from Emerson College in 2008 with a degree in Television Production / Radio Broadcasting. He currently lives in Rockingham, NH with his wife Rebecca. ~~ Links ~~ Facebook ---------------- bit.ly Twitter --------------------- bit.ly Main Channel ----------- bit.ly 2nd Channel ------------ bit.ly Movie Night Show ----- bit.ly FAQ Video --------------- bit.ly T-Shirts ------------------- bit.ly ~~ Technical ~~ Created by ...
If you are looking for a new hometheater then you definitely need to get the wireless surround sound home theatre. This new type of audio electronic innovation from Chinese engineers is currently one of the best selling on audio market, because it gives a new feature which leads it in front of other hometheater systems. The new main feature is wireless speakers, the speakers of theater system that are connected to the main station with wireless, so forget about cables and wires which make your home look a mess, now you will have a clean floor home without cables which will also look more stylish. Here you will see which are currently the top 5 products selling on the net.
Like any other wireless products wireless surround sound home theatre does not need any cables or wires to be connected. I suggest you buy the system not only the speakers because then you will have problems with connection. You have many different system types from 5.1 surround system, 6.1 to 7.1 surround system. Currently one of the best and top selling are 5.1 and if you read on you will see which are the top ones to purchase. There are many quality brand products like: Sony, Panasonic, Creative Labs, Samsung, Bose and others. Choice is yours! In the pack of 5.1 surround theater system you will get 4 satellites, 2 front wireless speakers and 2 rear wireless speakers, then 1 center speaker and 1 sub woofer, with a station where you can play CD, DVDs and USB.
Price for such audio electronics are really cheap. With the sound quality and wireless feature that they provide the price range from 200$ up to 1990$, but the 300$ ones are quality enough as they are the currently top selling ones. If you want a quality sound then paying 300$ is enough!
Here is the list of best wireless surround sound home theatre:
James Taylor music: www.amazon.com Watch the full show: thesixtiesarchive.blogspot.com "With a Little Help from My Friends" originally titled "A Little Help from My Friends") is a song written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, released on The Beatles album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band in 1967. The song was written for and sung by The Beatles' drummer Ringo Starr as the character "Billy Shears"; it is ranked #304 on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. McCartney and Starr performed this song for the first time together at the David Lynch Foundation Benefit Concert in the Radio City Music Hall, New York on 4 April 2009. James Vernon Taylor (born March 12, 1948) is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist born in Boston, Massachusetts, and raised in Carrboro, North Carolina. He owns a house in the Berkshire County town of Washington, Massachusetts. A five-time Grammy Award winner, Taylor was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. Taylor achieved his major breakthrough in 1970 with the #3 single "Fire and Rain" and had his first #1 hit the following year with "You've Got a Friend", a recording of Carole King's classic song. His 1976 Greatest Hits album was certified Diamond and has sold 12 million US copies. Following his 1977 album, JT, he has retained a large audience over the decades. His commercial achievements declined slightly until a big resurgence during the late 1990s and 2000s, when some of his best-selling and most ...
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James Taylor - With a Little Help from My Friends
The Biggest Oversight When Hanging Your Flat Screen TV On The Wall
So you've saved up your money and now going to buy a flat screen TV. Perhaps you have settled on a LCD or Plasma.
I hope you didn't spend all of your money on the TV because there a few things you may want to budget for if you are not particularly handy around the house.
Where are you going to install your Flat Screen?
If you are going to mount your TV on the wall there is something very important for you to consider
Do you have a TV outlet installed at the height you want your TV? Even if you said yes...I am sorry it will not be enough. Allow me to explain.
Can you picture where your existing TV is set up? Maybe it's in an entertainment center. Now close your eyes and see all of those wires that connect between your Television & your satellite box, DVD player and receiver.
Why do I bring this up?
If you hang your TV on the wall with a standard TV jack installed there-
What about all of those wires that we just talked about? How do you plan on connecting all of those wires that are needed to work all of your electronic equipment?
I told you that no one thinks about this.
Unfortunately, with a single cable TV jack over the fireplace...your ONLY option is to stack your:
· Satellite receiver
· Cable TV box
· Surround sound receiver
· DVD player
All on top of your beautiful fireplace!
Or have a bunch of ugly wires draped all over the place serving as a serious tripping hazard
Can you imagine moving into a beautiful new home and seeing all of those pieces of equipment balancing on your mantel?
You would be surprised how many new homes are built this way. They install just a simple TV jack over the fireplace. The homebuilders are totally clueless. Unfortunately, its up to you, the homeowner to foot the bill to wire this correctly.
So what can we do about it?
If you want the best signal possible, Then HDMI cables are the way to go. One HDMI cable run through the walls will do the work of all of those other wires we spoke of moments ago. To have this professionally done I would budget from 5- 5 for HDMI cables, depending on how long they need to be.
You can probably save two hundred dollars if you do this yourself.
Remember that buying the flat screen TV is just the beginning of your investment to have HD TV in your home.
The Biggest Oversight When Hanging Your Flat Screen TV On The Wall
Transatlantic - Stranger in Your Soul Pt.1(Live From Shepherd's Bush Empire, London)
Video Clips. Duration : 14.75 Mins.
Transatlantic - Stranger in Your Soul Pt.1(Live From Shepherd's Bush Empire, London)
Taken from "Transatlantic - Whirld Tour 2010 DVD(Live From Shepherd's Bush Empire, London)" Neal Morse - lead vocals, keyboard, guitar Mike Portnoy - drums, backing vocals Roine Stolt - guitar, backing vocals Pete Trewavas - bass guitar, backing vocals Daniel Gildenlöw - guitar, backing vocals, keyboards All rights are reserved to respective copyright owner.
Transatlantic - Stranger in Your Soul Pt.1(Live From Shepherd's Bush Empire, London)
Transatlantic - Stranger in Your Soul Pt.1(Live From Shepherd's Bush Empire, London)
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Transatlantic - Stranger in Your Soul Pt.1(Live From Shepherd's Bush Empire, London)
How to Make Your Own Puppet Theater for Sunday School
Most of us remember the beautiful and elaborate puppet theater used in The Sound of Music, where a dozen or more marionettes appeared on tri level stages. However, for most of us, such a magnificent piece will have to remain on our wish list. And that's okay! We're providing tips herein on various ways to make puppet theaters out of cardboard boxes and household items. They're easy to create, will fit any budget, and will further your journey to providing great puppet shows for your Sunday school classes. Below are three styles of puppet stages that can be done on a shoe string-well, maybe a piece of clothes line!
The Curtain Stage Puppet Theater
This stage is simple a piece of clothes line with a bed sheet draped over it. Puppeteers use the edge of the clothes line as the stage, and puppets appear immediately above it. Puppeteers sit or stand behind the sheet and play the puppets over their heads. You can do this by running a clothes line from one wall of your class room to another. The stage is the area covered by the sheet.
While this is certainly the easiest stage to make, it is challenging to use for a couple of reasons:
First entrances and exits of puppets are awkward. Kids are distracted from the story when puppets merely drop out of site for an exit or pop up suddenly. It isn't realistic for them. We recommend that if you use this type of stage, have puppets act like they're going downstairs to exit and coming upstairs to enter.
Second, there is no shelf to put props, which means your puppets will have to hold any props. Having their little arms wrapped around something limits their movement and hence their responses. One solution to this is to line their hands with Velcro and also put Velcro on the prop. Have the puppet act using one hand with the prop secured in the other.
The Folding Stage Puppet Theater
This can be made from a large cardboard box. The front is the largest piece of cardboard, which should be five to six feet tall and at least four feet wide. The sides are equally tall but perhaps only two feet wide. They can be attached to the front piece with strips of gaffer's tape, so that they fold in after the production and fold out halfway for the production, to give the stage area the ability to stand.
A hole should be cut in the front pieces, which will be your stage. The hold should be at least four feet wide (remember, you may need three people backstage, and all should fit behind). You can use the gaffer's tape to hold a curtain in place or hang a curtain rod on stick-hooks such as those for a college dorm room. Puppets will appear in front of the curtain.
Most puppet theaters need a "shelf" or "flat" stage to hold props. This can be made by cutting a strip of cardboard that is three inches wide and six inches longer than the hole for your stage. In each end, cut one slit and fit the flat piece across the bottom of the hole with the slits holding it in place. You can secure it with triangular shelf supports from your local hardware store. They will stick to the cardboard if you use hot glue, gaffer's tape, or even nuts and bolts. The securing pieces will prevent the stage from tilting and dropping props onto the floor.
Puppeteers sit or stand behind the stage, depending on how tall they are and how tall the cardboard piece is.
A folding stage can be made from a box that contained a garden bench or other piece of furniture. Sometimes you can secure a box this size by calling a furniture store or a large-volume supplier such as Sam's Club. While harder to find, some Sunday school teachers opt for this stage because it folds up and can be stored easily.
The Table Stage Puppet Theater
This is a puppet theater made of a cardboard box that sits on top of a table. The box still needs to be sizeable-perhaps four feet tall and at least four feet wide, but Sunday school teachers often opt for this theater for several reasons:
First, this size box is easier to find; a large air conditioning unit might come in such a box or a large vacuum cleaner.
Second, the table means that there is a place to put a script and extra puppets and props. Puppeteers sit behind it, putting a table cloth over the table first so that their legs don't distract children.
Finally, it is smaller and therefore easier to decorate. While it can't be folded and stored as easily, you can leave it in the room and allow children to create their own Christian puppet shows during free time.
The table stage follows the instructions for the tri-fold puppet theater above in how you make the shelf and attach the curtain.
How to Make Your Own Puppet Theater for Sunday School
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생방송 톡톡 보니하니 - Tok!Tok! Boni, Hani_20120307_사회가 쏙쏙_EP2152_#002
Hook Up A Receiver For Your Home Theater
What is a Receiver?
A receiver is that big, heavy thing that you plug your speakers and other components into (like a DVD player, TV, CD player, Xbox, PlayStation, iPod, and etc.). Its the "brain" of the show, really. The idea of connecting all your components to a receiver is the concept of audio/video switching, allowing you to switch to different video sources (like TV, DVD, camcorder) on your TV
and thus changing the audio source accordingly - all without touching anything but the receiver.
Of course, the main purpose behind audio/video switching with a receiver is to drive audio to external speakers, like surround sound or stereo speakers.
Most receivers have a plethora of inputs; up to 8 speakers and a subwoofer (more commonly, 5.1, or five speakers and a subwoofer), several video inputs, and even HDMI inputs. You could plug your Xbox, Plasma, and DVD player into the receiver and use one remote to switch between all the different video sources (games, TV, DVD video) and have your speakers pump out surround-sound. Let's start with inputs and outputs. If you don't understand something, read through the entire How-To as most of it will be explained in detail.
Keep in mind that a receiver is the hub of your entire home theatre, so this How-To will actually guide you through the basics of connecting your complete hometheater.
So what the heck is all this 'stuff' on the back of your receiver?
I'm going to go over just about anything that you would find on the back of your receiver. The one I'm basing this guide off of is a Harman Kardon AVR-247 I'm going to start from the top left of the unit and work my way to the right, then I'll start at the left of the next row and so on.
The first three inputs are for antennas. An FM antenna cable would slide on to the first jack while two speaker wires would plug into the remaining slots for AM. Of course, you don't have to plug your antennas in, but if you'd like AM/FM reception through your speakers, you'll want to go ahead and do that. These are standard connections, so if you lose one of your antennas, just go buy another for a few bucks.
You've probably heard of composite video. Its a very basic video connection used by most any component (TV, DVD, VCR especially). Its common and its cheap. As such, its very low quality.
Composite uses an RCA cable for video (yellow) and two more RCA cables for audio (red and white, stereo). The problem is that a composite video cable combines luminance and chrominance in the same cable, reducing the quality of the picture. You lose a lot of sharpness, and the color begins to degrade from the original source. Its useful when you need the extra input or the device you're connecting only has composite video. Otherwise, use something else, like component video. Sounds similar; very different.
S-Video is next in line after composite. It uses a different type of connector (five pins in a circle) and gives you marginally better video quality. It is also a video-only cable, so you'll need to plug in audio separately. In this case, you'll probably use a pair of red and white RCA cables for your audio inputs.
Next up: a ton of composite audio inputs. These inputs use left channel and right channel RCA cables, typically red and white. They look just like the yellow composite video cable, and you could even use them for video and the yellow for audio, but let's keep the color scheme how it is ;) Composite audio is the bottom-of-the-barrel in audio. Its perfectly fine for most use, but if you're looking for high quality surround sound, you don't want composite. Game systems, like the Wii or Xbox, and very basic DVD players are a perfect match for composite audio.
The same goes to VCRs, CD players, and anything that only has a composite audio output. Plus, if you don't have surround sound, or your receiver is only two channels (2.1, stereo sound), you won't be able to use anything but composite audio. Note that there is a composite audio input under each composite video input so that it is easy to match them up. Plug them in the wrong inputs and you won't get sound when you're on that particular video input.
Here we have one of the least-used features of a modern receiver: 6 (or 8) channel direct input. This is only used for two purposes: SACD or DVD Audio. SACD is an acronym for Super Audio CD. It is a proprietary audio format developed by Sony for special CDs that are recorded in 5.1 surround sound. That means you need a CD or DVD/CD player that supports SACDs, a receiver with SACD support (as in the picture), and of course Super Audio CD's. DVD Audio is the same idea, different brand, different media (its a DVD, not a CD!).
DVD Audio discs are special DVDs that are recorded in 5.1 surround sound and can only be played by devices with support for them. These CDs go all the way up to 7.1 surround sound, meaning you would need to have two front, two rear, two side speakers and a subwoofer to enjoy full 7.1 surround sound. Most receivers support up to 7.1 now but you won't find DVDs with that kind of capability for movies. 5.1 surround is still the defacto standard, so don't run out and buy more speakers any time soon.
You could skip this next little item because it is unique to this brand of receiver (Harman Kardon). The Bridge" is a proprietary connection they developed for you to connect
an iPod. You need to buy a separate component that includes a docking station and special cables to connect the iPod. It fully integrates with the receiver, displaying
menus and songs on the front LCD screen of the receiver. This allows you to easily pump your tunes through your speakers, whether it be stereo sound or full surround sound.
Of course, the music on your iPod is stereo sound, so the best you can get is simulated surround sound or stereo surround; the same music playing in the front two channels
is put through the rear and center channels. Some receivers do this more intelligently than others, but more on that later.
Here we have our high-end sound inputs/outputs. Basically the same performance wise, you have fiber optic connections (with the square shape) and digital coaxial (just like an RCA cable).
Both of these are 100% digital, whereas composite is analog. The only way you can get true surround sound from any source is by using one of these connections (or the SACD/DVD Audio option)
Almost all DVD players these days have either optical or digital coaxial outputs (sometimes, both). Many high definition cable and satellite boxes also come with these
connections so you can enjoy 5.1 surround sound on high definition channels. Choosing between the two, there's really no different in audio quality, so feel free to use
what you'd like (or what you're forced to).
I don't think I need an image for the next plug. Its a pair of power inputs. One is for powering the receiver, the other for whatever you'd like. This way, when you turn
on the receiver, you give power to the other device (be it a DVD player, CD player, cable box, whatever). I don't necessarily recommend this unless it specifically suits
your needs. It is useful if you're running low on outlets, of course.
Something else you'll never use: D-bus RC-5 input/output. This is used for infrared remote controls to take over your hometheater system. Honestly, its not something any of us will ever use. Some of the real high-end junkies might be using something for it, but I've never even come across a device that uses this technology. Stick to the remote that came with your unit, or buy a quality universal remote control. There's no need for this option. An alternate use for this may be a bit more common: if your receiver's front panel is blocked (like inside a cabinet), you could get an infrared transmitter to latch on to the front of it. This transmitter would hook up to another device somewhere in your room that will accept signals from your remote control. The receiving device then transmits the remote's commands to your receiver (via the transmitter you've attached to the front over the regular infrared transmitter).
Pre-outs , located right under the Remote in/out. Pre-outs are used when you'd like to add an amplifier to your system to boost the power (and hence volume/audio quality). Average
users will not use this for anything but the subwoofer preout. You'll want to run a subwoofer cable from your subwoofer to the subwoofer pre-out to provide it with
the right frequencies. This is the proper way to connect your subwoofer to your surround sound system. The other inputs won't be used unless you plan on adding
an amplifier. This is highly unnecessary for home use. You might add an amp if you're trying to fill a room the size of a small house with enough sound, but you're not, right?
Here we finally get to the meat of the system: the speaker inputs! Harman Kardon receivers use bind posts for connecting speakers, as seen in the picture. They
work by being loosened up as your turn them counter-clockwise, then you sneak the speaker wire in underneath the caps and tighten them back up by turning clockwise. This'll
give your speaker wire a nice tug fit that probably won't loosen up on itself over time. Other brands may use other types of connectors, but bind posts are very common.
You might have been able to tell this is a 7.1 channel receiver because of the speaker inputs.
You've got room for 2 front left and right speakers, 2 rear left and right speakers,
a center channel, and two left and right "surround" channels which are placed somewhere in between your front and rear speakers ("side surround", or 7.1). If you have enough
speakers, you can go ahead and plug in those extra 2 side ones, but they won't play any sound at all on a 5.1 DVD. You would need a DVD that supports 7.1
surround sound, and at this time, there just isn't a market for it. CDs will gladly blast stereo surround through all 7 speakers, though, so for some larger rooms, that's an
advantage.
Our final set of connectors for this receiver: component video . The best video you can get next to composite or s-video. You'll notice its a set of three cables (all for video),
usually Red, Green and Blue. Don't think that's what the cable does, though - it separates the video signal by luminance and two separate color channels. In the past, component
did it in fact represent R, G, B (splitting the primary colors in transmit and recombining them at the destination device), but that is not used in current component video
connections. Component video can carry high definition signals, all the way up to 1080p, so it is the most cost effective and readily available high definition input.
Not seen on this receiver are DVI and HDMI, the two all-digital video connections.
HDMI is the newest, fastest, sharpest video and audio connection available today. Its the only cable that can carry audio and video in one - not to mention, in high definition.
HDMI must be supported by the source and the display you're connecting it to to use all of its features. Not all DVD players, cable boxes, or receivers support both
audio and video in HDMI. Its becoming more and more of a standard now to support both. The advantage is clear: less cable clutter, higher quality audio and video. You can get up
to 1080p high definition video and 7.1 surround sound through an HDMI cable. Newer cable and satellite boxes, DVD players, high definition DVD players, and more expensive receivers
support the full capability of HDMI. Its the best you can get as all-digital goes.
The last connection for this article is DVI. DVI is also all digital like HDMI, but it cannot process audio signals. HDMI may provide a technically superior image,
but I don't think anyone could tell the difference. DVI supports high definition video all the way up to 1080p, just like HDMI. Its being used less frequently now,
but if you've bought a new computer or video card for your PC recently, it probably has a DVI (or two) port on it. Most computer monitors use DVI now and video cards
have followed suit. HDMI is edging its way into the PC market, but its dominance is seen in the hometheater arena.
Now that you've familiarized yourself with common connections, let's plug it all together.
This part of the receiver How-To is going to guide you through hooking a 5.1 surround sound system(5 speakers and a subwoofer) with a high-definition TV, a high-definition cable or satellite box, a DVD player, and a 5.1 receiver.
Your TV & Components
Where you put your TV is dependent on how large it is, how large your room is, and where you will be sitting. If its 50 inches, don't sit more than 10-15 feet away; but no less, either.
A 60" set is perfect for 12-20 feet. If you have a 32 inch set, try to sit no farther than 8-12 feet away. Your receiver, DVD player, cable box, and other components should obviously be close together, but don't place them physically on top of each other. They all get hot, especially your receiver. If you have no other choice, slide a thin piece of plywood between the components to help dispense the heat.
Lay Out of Speakers
The first step is to lay out your setup. Different rooms call for different locations for your speakers and subwoofer. If your room is a typical rectangle, go ahead and place your two front left and right speakers somewhere flush with the television on that side of the room. Your left speaker goes toward the left corner, right speaker toward the right corner. Don't bother with speaker wire yet (unless your speakers come with speaker wire attached already; in that case, just let them dangle for now). Note that which speaker is left or right is solely dependent on how you connect them to your receiver. Your speakers aren't actually designated "left" or "right".
Depending on how you acquired your speakers, your front speakers could be larger than your rear speakers. That's how you know they're for the front. Otherwise, all your speakers are the same shape and size, and you can use each for any purpose.
One exception: the center channel. Usually, a center channel is much shorter and wider than your other speakers. It should only be used for the center channel. Sometimes, all 5 of your speakers could be the same, usually on a very inexpensive setup. You can use any of these speakers for any purpose.
Your center channel should always go either directly on top or under your television set. However you have to do this, get it done! It's not called the center channel for nothing, you know. Any movie will pump out almost 90% of the voices you hear and a majority of the rest of the sounds through the center channel. It is a vitally important component to your surround sound setup.
Your subwoofer should always be on the floor. If it is impossible to place it on the floor, get it as close to the floor as possible. Placing it behind objections or in closets will diminish its effects. In a perfect setup, the subwoofer would be on the floor close to the TV (perhaps off to the left or right) in your line of sight. Nothing should block the side of the subwoofer that air will come out of (usually covered by a grill protecting the subwoofer speaker itself).
When it comes to finding a good spot for your speakers, you might want to mount them. You can usually buy compatible speaker mounts online or in stores. You can also
use existing shelving, buy some shelving, or place them on tables or other objects. No matter how you do it, try to keep the speakers as close to ear level as possible. A speaker mounted at the ceiling of your room isn't going to give you the optimal aural experience.
The last thing to keep in mind about layout is speaker wire. You'll probably need at least 100ft of speaker wire, but you'll often find yourself using much more if you
try running wire through your ceiling, under carpeting, up through the basement, or around objects to conceal it. Take measurements and buy at least 10% more wire than
you think you need. You'll probably use it!
Cabling
You need to know the different kind of speaker wire available to you before setting up your home theatre. If you bought an HTIB (hometheater in a box), it probably came with 100ft of horribly cheap speaker wire. You don't want that! Do yourself a favor: buy some high-quality, 14-gauge speaker wire. Anything higher than 14-gauge is just to thin and will be susceptible to interence, quality loss, and poor quality over longer distances. Fourteen gauge is a good thickness and suitable for most home theatres. Make sure its also not too thick - some speaker wire simply will not fit in to the speaker wire jacks on some receivers.
Some receivers use proprietary speaker inputs. Sony is one example. Many Sony receivers have special connectors for speaker wire and will not accept a standard speaker wire. You'll need to use either the Sony-provided speaker wire, take the ends off of Sony speaker wire and put it on your own, or buy some of these special connectors from Sony directly to place on your speaker wire. My recommendation? Avoid any receivers with non-standard speaker wire posts/jacks/connectors. Look for bind posts or other jacks that allow you to slide in and clamp down on a typical speaker wire.
Once you've got your speaker wire sorted out, you'll have to do some cutting and stripping if you opted to purchase your own. This is way easier than it sounds, so don't worry!
Measure out each length one at a time, cutting the speaker wire with either really great scissors or a sharp blade. Now you need to strip the ends of the wire. Use either a stripping tool or plain old scissors. You can place the scissors on the cable and gently apply some pressure as you twist the scissors around the cable, carefully slicing into the plastic coating. Eventually, it'll get weak enough that you can just slide it off by tugging on it with your fingers. You need at least 1/4" of exposed wire.
Now you can connect your speakers. Note on your speaker wire the difference between the two ends. You'll need to use one as your positive and one as your negative. Sometimes the coating is a different color between the two or there is text on one and not on the other. Keep track of this - whichever side you use for positive on your speaker, use it for positive on your receiver. Crossing the two can cause damage, either immediately or sometime in the future. It might work this way but you don't want it to!
Connecting the speakers is easy enough. Front left to front left on your receiver, center speaker to center on your receiver, etc... Your rear speakers may be referred to as "Surround" or "Rear Surround" instead of just "Rear", but keep in mind, if you have a 7.1 or 8.1 channel receiver, "Surround" may indicate side surround speakers, not rear speakers.
Subwoofers
Your subwoofer is going to be a little more complicated. There are a few different ways to do it and many variations of inputs/ouputs on the back side of subwoofers. I'm going to go with the most standard and efficient method first.
You will need a subwoofer cable for connecting your sub. If you don't have one or don't want to buy one, you can substitute it for a standard red or white RCA cable (or a pair, since they are usually connected; just let the other cable dangle). It will work, but its really not the best way to do it. You'll also need whats called a Y adapter. On the back of your sub, there should be a left/right input (red and white). You plug the Y adapter in to these connections and then your subwoofer cable (or RCA cable) in the other end of the Y (note: if you don't have a Y adapter, just choose the left or right input to plug into).
Now, take the other end of your cable and plug it into your receiver's
subwoofer preout. Hopefully you have a powered sub, meaning it gets plugged into an AC power outlet. All you need to do now is plug that in and your subwoofer is good to.
If you don't have RCA jacks on your subwoofer, or it only has speaker wire jacks (and its most likely not powered), you'll need to connect it the old fashioned way. Your front left and right speakers will plug into your subwoofer's ouput jacks instead of your receiver. You'll then run speaker wire from the left and right inputs on the subwoofer to your left and right speaker outputs on your receiver. This way, the subwoofer is powered by the receiver and will not work as well as a powered sub. You also take some power away from your front speakers with this method. A good idea is to buy a new, powered subwoofer with line in RCA jacks.
Connecting the Dots
You've got the hard stuff out of the way. Now finish it up by connecting your TV, DVD, and cable/satellite box. Always try using the best options first. If your DVD
has HDMI and so does your receiver, use it. If your DVD only has composite, s-video, and component, use component video cable. When it comes to audio, you absolutely need
to use digital coaxial (jacks are usually orange) or fiber optic (usually the jack is recessed into the unit and has a door on it; when the door is open, a red light is visible). If you do not use either of these two, you won't get true surround sound! When all else fails, resort to composite (red and white) audio connectors.
Note: Look closely at the connections on your receiver. Everything is labeled, like the first set of red, green, and blue component video inputs might be labeled "Comp 1". If you're using composite audio cablesfor your sound, you'll need to plug them into the jacks that coordinate with "Comp 1". This might not be clear by looking at the receiver, so refer to your receiver's manual to figure out which video inputs use which audio inputs. Most often, you'll be able to configure them from the receiver's internal menu using the remote control.
On some receivers, all the component video inputs, for example, are linked to a single composite audio input (usually "DVD"), so if you connect more than one of the component inputs, you will be competing for sound when more than one device is active. This is why you'd want to configure the component inputs to use different audio inputs.
Your manual is the only way to figure out how to go about it. Composite video will usually match up to composite audio inputs with naming conventions like Video 1 -> Video 1, Video 2 -> Video 2, etc., but cables like component and DVI may not. You should also configure digital audio inputs to match up with the video inputs you're planning on using. For example, if you're using a digital coaxial input (possibly "Digital 1"), and you use component video, you'll want to match "Digital 1" with "Comp 1". Again, refer to your users manual for how to do this.
www.euronews.com At the 65th Cannes Festival, Iranian film director Asghar Farhadi was, once again, the centre of attention, this time for his next film project. The European Commission has selected Farhadi's next movie for its 60000 euro 'Prix MEDIA' award. The film is due to be set in Paris with European casting. Earlier this year, Farhadi's 'Separation' won two Oscar nominations and took the award for Best Foreign Language film, the first Iranian movie to win the honour. In an interview with euronews in Cannes, Asghar Farhadi talks about his next project, the reaction in Iran, his cinematic style and the current restraints on Iranian film-makers. *euronews:* "You've just won the "Prix MEDIA" a European award which recognises cultural diversity, what does this award mean for you as an Iranian Film maker?" *Asghar Farhadi:* "The meaning it has for me is the same as all the encouragement I have received through these years. The other meaning is that I'm a writer who has always composed in the Persian language and whose dialogues have always been in the Persian language. Now some of the cast will be speaking another language. Finally, it means that those who have read the script for my next film have been able to connect with it and did not find it an unfamiliar story despite not knowing Persian, and that means a lot to me." *euronews:* "You won many international awards for your last movie 'A Separation' amongst them an Oscar for best foreign language movie - but ...
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euronews account - Farhadi - self-censorship 'real danger' for Iranian filmmakers
Wireless Surround Sound Home Theatre - Top 5
If you are looking for a new hometheater then you definitely need to get the wireless surround sound home theatre. This new type of audio electronic innovation from Chinese engineers is currently one of the best selling on audio market, because it gives a new feature which leads it in front of other hometheater systems. The new main feature is wireless speakers, the speakers of theater system that are connected to the main station with wireless, so forget about cables and wires which make your home look a mess, now you will have a clean floor home without cables which will also look more stylish. Here you will see which are currently the top 5 products selling on the net.
Like any other wireless products wireless surround sound home theatre does not need any cables or wires to be connected. I suggest you buy the system not only the speakers because then you will have problems with connection. You have many different system types from 5.1 surround system, 6.1 to 7.1 surround system. Currently one of the best and top selling are 5.1 and if you read on you will see which are the top ones to purchase. There are many quality brand products like: Sony, Panasonic, Creative Labs, Samsung, Bose and others. Choice is yours! In the pack of 5.1 surround theater system you will get 4 satellites, 2 front wireless speakers and 2 rear wireless speakers, then 1 center speaker and 1 sub woofer, with a station where you can play CD, DVDs and USB.
Price for such audio electronics are really cheap. With the sound quality and wireless feature that they provide the price range from 200$ up to 1990$, but the 300$ ones are quality enough as they are the currently top selling ones. If you want a quality sound then paying 300$ is enough!
Here is the list of best wireless surround sound home theatre:
Insane Bridge Collapse! -- Final Destination 5 Review
Video Clips. Duration : 11.92 Mins.
Insane Bridge Collapse! -- Final Destination 5 Review
Watch my review of "The Final Destination" -- bit.ly Rate Next Week's Films: • 2001: A Space Odyssey -- micropoll.com • The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy -- micropoll.com * Tweet a review with the #JPMN hashtag, and have it featured on the show! * Tonight's Films: • Final Destination 5 -- Inventive, gruesome, scary and satisfying, 6/10. • 30 Minutes Or Less -- Shamefully unfunny trainwreck that disappoints, 3/10. • The Poseidon Adventure -- Fantastic premise and entertaining execution, 8/10. ~~ Movie Night ~~ Incorporating viewer comments, your host, and film critic Jonathan Paula reviews everything from opening day releases, recent DVDs, and classics from years past. Along with your votes, these films are scored on the "Rate-O-Matic" for a 1-10 ranking. New episodes every Friday (Nov through May). Born in February 1986, Jonathan Paula is a professional YouTuber and creator of the hit web series, "Is It A Good Idea To Microwave This?". In April 2006 he founded Jogwheel Productions, a new media production company that specializes in web video. Jon graduated from Emerson College in 2008 with a degree in Television Production / Radio Broadcasting. He currently lives in Rockingham, NH with his wife Rebecca. ~~ Links ~~ Facebook ---------------- bit.ly Twitter --------------------- bit.ly 2nd Channel ------------ bit.ly Movie Night Archive -- bit.ly FAQ Video -------------- bit.ly T-Shirts ------------------- bit.ly ~~ Technical ~~ Created by ------ Jonathan Paula Camera ...
Insane Bridge Collapse! -- Final Destination 5 Review
Insane Bridge Collapse! -- Final Destination 5 Review
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Insane Bridge Collapse! -- Final Destination 5 Review
Wireless Surround Sound Home Theatre - Top 5
If you are looking for a new hometheater then you definitely need to get the wireless surround sound home theatre. This new type of audio electronic innovation from Chinese engineers is currently one of the best selling on audio market, because it gives a new feature which leads it in front of other hometheater systems. The new main feature is wireless speakers, the speakers of theater system that are connected to the main station with wireless, so forget about cables and wires which make your home look a mess, now you will have a clean floor home without cables which will also look more stylish. Here you will see which are currently the top 5 products selling on the net.
Like any other wireless products wireless surround sound home theatre does not need any cables or wires to be connected. I suggest you buy the system not only the speakers because then you will have problems with connection. You have many different system types from 5.1 surround system, 6.1 to 7.1 surround system. Currently one of the best and top selling are 5.1 and if you read on you will see which are the top ones to purchase. There are many quality brand products like: Sony, Panasonic, Creative Labs, Samsung, Bose and others. Choice is yours! In the pack of 5.1 surround theater system you will get 4 satellites, 2 front wireless speakers and 2 rear wireless speakers, then 1 center speaker and 1 sub woofer, with a station where you can play CD, DVDs and USB.
Price for such audio electronics are really cheap. With the sound quality and wireless feature that they provide the price range from 200$ up to 1990$, but the 300$ ones are quality enough as they are the currently top selling ones. If you want a quality sound then paying 300$ is enough!
Here is the list of best wireless surround sound home theatre:
Just Dance - Glee Christmas, Justin Bieber Santa Clause, Chanukah Dance, Lysistrata Jones, Peter Pan
Video Clips. Duration : 4.93 Mins.
Just Dance - Glee Christmas, Justin Bieber Santa Clause, Chanukah Dance, Lysistrata Jones, Peter Pan
Justin Bieber's "Santa Clause is Coming to Town" video break dances its way to the holidays. Aish.com returns with Chanukah Jewish Rock of Ages. Glee celebrates the holidays in style on "Extraordinary Christmas" with Chewbacca. Alvin and Chipmucks Chip-wrecked opens in theaters with choreography by NappyTabs. The new musical Lysistrata Jones opens on Broadway and Cathy Rigby flies to New York in Peter Pan 20 years later. Justin Bieber - "Santa Clause is Coming to Town" itunes.apple.com Full Video - www.youtube.com Chanukah Jewish Rock of Ages - www.youtube.com Featured Music - Hazel - "3am" hazelbeats.bandcamp.com The Exchange - "Close" http Lenno - "Streets" listn.to itunes.apple.com Follow Us on Twitter - www.twitter.com
Just Dance - Glee Christmas, Justin Bieber Santa Clause, Chanukah Dance, Lysistrata Jones, Peter Pan
Just Dance - Glee Christmas, Justin Bieber Santa Clause, Chanukah Dance, Lysistrata Jones, Peter Pan
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Just Dance - Glee Christmas, Justin Bieber Santa Clause, Chanukah Dance, Lysistrata Jones, Peter Pan
Home Audio Amplifiers - 7 Expert Tips to Improve Your Home Entertainment Sound
How would you like to have a home music system that sounds so fantastic you would think the performers are playing in your home right in front of you? Choosing just the right home audio amplifiers can make a dramatic musical difference in how well your hometheater and home music system will sound.
Use these expert home audio tips for selecting your home entertainment and music system components and you'll create an exceptional sounding home audio experience without having to spend a small fortune.
Here's how to get the best value with your home entertainment music system
o Your largest investment after your HDTV should be in your home audio amplifiers, not your speakers
o Specific brands of AV receivers are known for having exceptional music fidelity
o You need a specific minimum power capability to achieve great audio sound
o Why you want a 2 channel stereo music system
o Stereo music and hometheater surround sound need completely different power amplifiers
o AV receiver vs separate audio power amplifier components
o What makes up the heart of your hometheater and music system sound?
The problem is that you have so many choices and there are so many brands available to choose from that it's very difficult to know where to start. If you shop at your local electronics stores these days, you probably won't find an expert in home audio entertainment who is knowledgeable enough to really help you. Most online forums and review sites are largely too biased.
The biggest difference between a good sounding home music system and having a fantastic sounding home entertainment system is the synergy of your components. Basically, how well all the separate pieces sound together like your speakers; your AV receiver, your home audio amplifiers, DVD/ blu-ray players, game consoles, ipod, DAC and so forth.
The heart of your entire music entertainment system will be the home audio amplifiers that you are using. Home audio amplifiers are like the engine of your car. They are a major factor in the musical synergy that you will hear throughout your home entertainment system. Your second biggest investment after your HDTV should be in your home audio amplifiers, not your speakers.
Select your audio amplifiers based on what you are most interested in for your home entertainment. Do you primarily want to listen to stereo music (2 channels) or do you want your music system to be part of your hometheater movie system 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound system?
In general, the most realistic live performance music sound that you can experience in your home will be listening through amplifiers which are 2 channels stereo only.
If you want the best value in stereo music choose a stereo integrated amplifier with a power per channel of at least 75 watts to 150 watts into 8 ohms. If your budget is higher, you will hear the best stereo music using a separate stereo power amplifier or individual mono power amplifiers and a matching stereo preamplifier together. Home audio amplifiers with at least 250 watts per channel will give you the best deep bass and overall warmth and sound stage depth and width from your music listening.
If your main interest is enjoying a hometheater surround sound movie experience or playing video games and not just listening to music, you will need a home audio system with 5.1 or 7.1 multi-channel capabilities to experience fantastic sound in your home.
You will find the best values in hometheater amplifiers by choosing a multi-channel AV (audio/video) receiver. You have many choices in selecting an AV receiver. They all have about the same features today but only a few have the higher level of hi fidelity sound that will create musical synergy for you. Choose an AV receiver that has at least 120 watts per channel for all channels. Marantz makes some of the best sounding AV receivers that you can buy and Marantz quality is first class.
When budget is not a concern, you will hear the most incredible sounding hometheater systems using separate muti-channel high power home audio amplifiers with a matching audio video processor/preamp. You'll want to consider multi-channel home audio amplifiers with at least 150 watts to 350 watts per channel. Some of the top brands in this category are from: Marantz, Krell, Paragon, Lexicon and Mcintosh to name a few. For a significant step up from an AV receiver, separates like the Marantz AV8003 and MM8003 are both affordable and have outstanding musical sound quality making an excellent value for a first class hometheater and home audio system.
Just remember, when putting together your hometheater entertainment system or home audio music system, the heart of your sound system will come from the quality of the home audio amplifiers that you are using.
Home Audio Amplifiers - 7 Expert Tips to Improve Your Home Entertainment Sound
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euronews le mag - Bosch's Romeo & Juliet premieres at Burgtheater
www.euronews.net A new interpretation of Romeo and Juliet has premiered at the prestigious Vienna Burgtheater in Austria.
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euronews le mag - Bosch's Romeo & Juliet premieres at Burgtheater
Wireless Surround Sound Home Theatre - Top 5
If you are looking for a new hometheater then you definitely need to get the wireless surround sound home theatre. This new type of audio electronic innovation from Chinese engineers is currently one of the best selling on audio market, because it gives a new feature which leads it in front of other hometheater systems. The new main feature is wireless speakers, the speakers of theater system that are connected to the main station with wireless, so forget about cables and wires which make your home look a mess, now you will have a clean floor home without cables which will also look more stylish. Here you will see which are currently the top 5 products selling on the net.
Like any other wireless products wireless surround sound home theatre does not need any cables or wires to be connected. I suggest you buy the system not only the speakers because then you will have problems with connection. You have many different system types from 5.1 surround system, 6.1 to 7.1 surround system. Currently one of the best and top selling are 5.1 and if you read on you will see which are the top ones to purchase. There are many quality brand products like: Sony, Panasonic, Creative Labs, Samsung, Bose and others. Choice is yours! In the pack of 5.1 surround theater system you will get 4 satellites, 2 front wireless speakers and 2 rear wireless speakers, then 1 center speaker and 1 sub woofer, with a station where you can play CD, DVDs and USB.
Price for such audio electronics are really cheap. With the sound quality and wireless feature that they provide the price range from 200$ up to 1990$, but the 300$ ones are quality enough as they are the currently top selling ones. If you want a quality sound then paying 300$ is enough!
Here is the list of best wireless surround sound home theatre:
Midnight in Paris (2011) "Earnest romance that exploits nostalgia", 7/10. Full episodes of Movie Night, every Friday night at: bit.ly ~~ Movie Night ~~ This "Quick Review" is an excerpt from a full episode. Incorporating viewer comments and tweets, your host and film critic Jonathan Paula reviews everything from opening day releases, recent DVDs, and classics from years past. Along with your votes, these films are scored on the "Rate-O-Matic" for a 1-10 ranking. A "Five Word Summary" quickly encapsulates each review while "Factor Facts" highlight the the best and worst features of a movie in each of ten key categories. New episodes every Friday (November through May) on the JPizzle1122 channel. Born in February 1986, Jonathan Paula is a professional YouTuber and creator of the hit web series, "Is It A Good Idea To Microwave This?". In April 2006 he founded Jogwheel Productions, a new media production company that specializes in web video. He has been reviewing films since 2003, and professionally since 2009. Jon graduated from Emerson College in 2008 with a degree in Television Production / Radio Broadcasting. He currently lives in Rockingham, NH with his wife Rebecca. ~~ Links ~~ Facebook ---------------- bit.ly Twitter --------------------- bit.ly Main Channel ----------- bit.ly 2nd Channel ------------ bit.ly Movie Night Show ----- bit.ly FAQ Video --------------- bit.ly T-Shirts ------------------- bit.ly ~~ Technical ~~ Created by ------ Jonathan Paula Camera ...
A receiver is that big, heavy thing that you plug your speakers and other components into (like a DVD player, TV, CD player, Xbox, PlayStation, iPod, and etc.). Its the "brain" of the show, really. The idea of connecting all your components to a receiver is the concept of audio/video switching, allowing you to switch to different video sources (like TV, DVD, camcorder) on your TV
and thus changing the audio source accordingly - all without touching anything but the receiver.
Of course, the main purpose behind audio/video switching with a receiver is to drive audio to external speakers, like surround sound or stereo speakers.
Most receivers have a plethora of inputs; up to 8 speakers and a subwoofer (more commonly, 5.1, or five speakers and a subwoofer), several video inputs, and even HDMI inputs. You could plug your Xbox, Plasma, and DVD player into the receiver and use one remote to switch between all the different video sources (games, TV, DVD video) and have your speakers pump out surround-sound. Let's start with inputs and outputs. If you don't understand something, read through the entire How-To as most of it will be explained in detail.
Keep in mind that a receiver is the hub of your entire home theatre, so this How-To will actually guide you through the basics of connecting your complete hometheater.
So what the heck is all this 'stuff' on the back of your receiver?
I'm going to go over just about anything that you would find on the back of your receiver. The one I'm basing this guide off of is a Harman Kardon AVR-247 I'm going to start from the top left of the unit and work my way to the right, then I'll start at the left of the next row and so on.
The first three inputs are for antennas. An FM antenna cable would slide on to the first jack while two speaker wires would plug into the remaining slots for AM. Of course, you don't have to plug your antennas in, but if you'd like AM/FM reception through your speakers, you'll want to go ahead and do that. These are standard connections, so if you lose one of your antennas, just go buy another for a few bucks.
You've probably heard of composite video. Its a very basic video connection used by most any component (TV, DVD, VCR especially). Its common and its cheap. As such, its very low quality.
Composite uses an RCA cable for video (yellow) and two more RCA cables for audio (red and white, stereo). The problem is that a composite video cable combines luminance and chrominance in the same cable, reducing the quality of the picture. You lose a lot of sharpness, and the color begins to degrade from the original source. Its useful when you need the extra input or the device you're connecting only has composite video. Otherwise, use something else, like component video. Sounds similar; very different.
S-Video is next in line after composite. It uses a different type of connector (five pins in a circle) and gives you marginally better video quality. It is also a video-only cable, so you'll need to plug in audio separately. In this case, you'll probably use a pair of red and white RCA cables for your audio inputs.
Next up: a ton of composite audio inputs. These inputs use left channel and right channel RCA cables, typically red and white. They look just like the yellow composite video cable, and you could even use them for video and the yellow for audio, but let's keep the color scheme how it is ;) Composite audio is the bottom-of-the-barrel in audio. Its perfectly fine for most use, but if you're looking for high quality surround sound, you don't want composite. Game systems, like the Wii or Xbox, and very basic DVD players are a perfect match for composite audio.
The same goes to VCRs, CD players, and anything that only has a composite audio output. Plus, if you don't have surround sound, or your receiver is only two channels (2.1, stereo sound), you won't be able to use anything but composite audio. Note that there is a composite audio input under each composite video input so that it is easy to match them up. Plug them in the wrong inputs and you won't get sound when you're on that particular video input.
Here we have one of the least-used features of a modern receiver: 6 (or 8) channel direct input. This is only used for two purposes: SACD or DVD Audio. SACD is an acronym for Super Audio CD. It is a proprietary audio format developed by Sony for special CDs that are recorded in 5.1 surround sound. That means you need a CD or DVD/CD player that supports SACDs, a receiver with SACD support (as in the picture), and of course Super Audio CD's. DVD Audio is the same idea, different brand, different media (its a DVD, not a CD!).
DVD Audio discs are special DVDs that are recorded in 5.1 surround sound and can only be played by devices with support for them. These CDs go all the way up to 7.1 surround sound, meaning you would need to have two front, two rear, two side speakers and a subwoofer to enjoy full 7.1 surround sound. Most receivers support up to 7.1 now but you won't find DVDs with that kind of capability for movies. 5.1 surround is still the defacto standard, so don't run out and buy more speakers any time soon.
You could skip this next little item because it is unique to this brand of receiver (Harman Kardon). The Bridge" is a proprietary connection they developed for you to connect
an iPod. You need to buy a separate component that includes a docking station and special cables to connect the iPod. It fully integrates with the receiver, displaying
menus and songs on the front LCD screen of the receiver. This allows you to easily pump your tunes through your speakers, whether it be stereo sound or full surround sound.
Of course, the music on your iPod is stereo sound, so the best you can get is simulated surround sound or stereo surround; the same music playing in the front two channels
is put through the rear and center channels. Some receivers do this more intelligently than others, but more on that later.
Here we have our high-end sound inputs/outputs. Basically the same performance wise, you have fiber optic connections (with the square shape) and digital coaxial (just like an RCA cable).
Both of these are 100% digital, whereas composite is analog. The only way you can get true surround sound from any source is by using one of these connections (or the SACD/DVD Audio option)
Almost all DVD players these days have either optical or digital coaxial outputs (sometimes, both). Many high definition cable and satellite boxes also come with these
connections so you can enjoy 5.1 surround sound on high definition channels. Choosing between the two, there's really no different in audio quality, so feel free to use
what you'd like (or what you're forced to).
I don't think I need an image for the next plug. Its a pair of power inputs. One is for powering the receiver, the other for whatever you'd like. This way, when you turn
on the receiver, you give power to the other device (be it a DVD player, CD player, cable box, whatever). I don't necessarily recommend this unless it specifically suits
your needs. It is useful if you're running low on outlets, of course.
Something else you'll never use: D-bus RC-5 input/output. This is used for infrared remote controls to take over your hometheater system. Honestly, its not something any of us will ever use. Some of the real high-end junkies might be using something for it, but I've never even come across a device that uses this technology. Stick to the remote that came with your unit, or buy a quality universal remote control. There's no need for this option. An alternate use for this may be a bit more common: if your receiver's front panel is blocked (like inside a cabinet), you could get an infrared transmitter to latch on to the front of it. This transmitter would hook up to another device somewhere in your room that will accept signals from your remote control. The receiving device then transmits the remote's commands to your receiver (via the transmitter you've attached to the front over the regular infrared transmitter).
Pre-outs , located right under the Remote in/out. Pre-outs are used when you'd like to add an amplifier to your system to boost the power (and hence volume/audio quality). Average
users will not use this for anything but the subwoofer preout. You'll want to run a subwoofer cable from your subwoofer to the subwoofer pre-out to provide it with
the right frequencies. This is the proper way to connect your subwoofer to your surround sound system. The other inputs won't be used unless you plan on adding
an amplifier. This is highly unnecessary for home use. You might add an amp if you're trying to fill a room the size of a small house with enough sound, but you're not, right?
Here we finally get to the meat of the system: the speaker inputs! Harman Kardon receivers use bind posts for connecting speakers, as seen in the picture. They
work by being loosened up as your turn them counter-clockwise, then you sneak the speaker wire in underneath the caps and tighten them back up by turning clockwise. This'll
give your speaker wire a nice tug fit that probably won't loosen up on itself over time. Other brands may use other types of connectors, but bind posts are very common.
You might have been able to tell this is a 7.1 channel receiver because of the speaker inputs.
You've got room for 2 front left and right speakers, 2 rear left and right speakers,
a center channel, and two left and right "surround" channels which are placed somewhere in between your front and rear speakers ("side surround", or 7.1). If you have enough
speakers, you can go ahead and plug in those extra 2 side ones, but they won't play any sound at all on a 5.1 DVD. You would need a DVD that supports 7.1
surround sound, and at this time, there just isn't a market for it. CDs will gladly blast stereo surround through all 7 speakers, though, so for some larger rooms, that's an
advantage.
Our final set of connectors for this receiver: component video . The best video you can get next to composite or s-video. You'll notice its a set of three cables (all for video),
usually Red, Green and Blue. Don't think that's what the cable does, though - it separates the video signal by luminance and two separate color channels. In the past, component
did it in fact represent R, G, B (splitting the primary colors in transmit and recombining them at the destination device), but that is not used in current component video
connections. Component video can carry high definition signals, all the way up to 1080p, so it is the most cost effective and readily available high definition input.
Not seen on this receiver are DVI and HDMI, the two all-digital video connections.
HDMI is the newest, fastest, sharpest video and audio connection available today. Its the only cable that can carry audio and video in one - not to mention, in high definition.
HDMI must be supported by the source and the display you're connecting it to to use all of its features. Not all DVD players, cable boxes, or receivers support both
audio and video in HDMI. Its becoming more and more of a standard now to support both. The advantage is clear: less cable clutter, higher quality audio and video. You can get up
to 1080p high definition video and 7.1 surround sound through an HDMI cable. Newer cable and satellite boxes, DVD players, high definition DVD players, and more expensive receivers
support the full capability of HDMI. Its the best you can get as all-digital goes.
The last connection for this article is DVI. DVI is also all digital like HDMI, but it cannot process audio signals. HDMI may provide a technically superior image,
but I don't think anyone could tell the difference. DVI supports high definition video all the way up to 1080p, just like HDMI. Its being used less frequently now,
but if you've bought a new computer or video card for your PC recently, it probably has a DVI (or two) port on it. Most computer monitors use DVI now and video cards
have followed suit. HDMI is edging its way into the PC market, but its dominance is seen in the hometheater arena.
Now that you've familiarized yourself with common connections, let's plug it all together.
This part of the receiver How-To is going to guide you through hooking a 5.1 surround sound system(5 speakers and a subwoofer) with a high-definition TV, a high-definition cable or satellite box, a DVD player, and a 5.1 receiver.
Your TV & Components
Where you put your TV is dependent on how large it is, how large your room is, and where you will be sitting. If its 50 inches, don't sit more than 10-15 feet away; but no less, either.
A 60" set is perfect for 12-20 feet. If you have a 32 inch set, try to sit no farther than 8-12 feet away. Your receiver, DVD player, cable box, and other components should obviously be close together, but don't place them physically on top of each other. They all get hot, especially your receiver. If you have no other choice, slide a thin piece of plywood between the components to help dispense the heat.
Lay Out of Speakers
The first step is to lay out your setup. Different rooms call for different locations for your speakers and subwoofer. If your room is a typical rectangle, go ahead and place your two front left and right speakers somewhere flush with the television on that side of the room. Your left speaker goes toward the left corner, right speaker toward the right corner. Don't bother with speaker wire yet (unless your speakers come with speaker wire attached already; in that case, just let them dangle for now). Note that which speaker is left or right is solely dependent on how you connect them to your receiver. Your speakers aren't actually designated "left" or "right".
Depending on how you acquired your speakers, your front speakers could be larger than your rear speakers. That's how you know they're for the front. Otherwise, all your speakers are the same shape and size, and you can use each for any purpose.
One exception: the center channel. Usually, a center channel is much shorter and wider than your other speakers. It should only be used for the center channel. Sometimes, all 5 of your speakers could be the same, usually on a very inexpensive setup. You can use any of these speakers for any purpose.
Your center channel should always go either directly on top or under your television set. However you have to do this, get it done! It's not called the center channel for nothing, you know. Any movie will pump out almost 90% of the voices you hear and a majority of the rest of the sounds through the center channel. It is a vitally important component to your surround sound setup.
Your subwoofer should always be on the floor. If it is impossible to place it on the floor, get it as close to the floor as possible. Placing it behind objections or in closets will diminish its effects. In a perfect setup, the subwoofer would be on the floor close to the TV (perhaps off to the left or right) in your line of sight. Nothing should block the side of the subwoofer that air will come out of (usually covered by a grill protecting the subwoofer speaker itself).
When it comes to finding a good spot for your speakers, you might want to mount them. You can usually buy compatible speaker mounts online or in stores. You can also
use existing shelving, buy some shelving, or place them on tables or other objects. No matter how you do it, try to keep the speakers as close to ear level as possible. A speaker mounted at the ceiling of your room isn't going to give you the optimal aural experience.
The last thing to keep in mind about layout is speaker wire. You'll probably need at least 100ft of speaker wire, but you'll often find yourself using much more if you
try running wire through your ceiling, under carpeting, up through the basement, or around objects to conceal it. Take measurements and buy at least 10% more wire than
you think you need. You'll probably use it!
Cabling
You need to know the different kind of speaker wire available to you before setting up your home theatre. If you bought an HTIB (hometheater in a box), it probably came with 100ft of horribly cheap speaker wire. You don't want that! Do yourself a favor: buy some high-quality, 14-gauge speaker wire. Anything higher than 14-gauge is just to thin and will be susceptible to interence, quality loss, and poor quality over longer distances. Fourteen gauge is a good thickness and suitable for most home theatres. Make sure its also not too thick - some speaker wire simply will not fit in to the speaker wire jacks on some receivers.
Some receivers use proprietary speaker inputs. Sony is one example. Many Sony receivers have special connectors for speaker wire and will not accept a standard speaker wire. You'll need to use either the Sony-provided speaker wire, take the ends off of Sony speaker wire and put it on your own, or buy some of these special connectors from Sony directly to place on your speaker wire. My recommendation? Avoid any receivers with non-standard speaker wire posts/jacks/connectors. Look for bind posts or other jacks that allow you to slide in and clamp down on a typical speaker wire.
Once you've got your speaker wire sorted out, you'll have to do some cutting and stripping if you opted to purchase your own. This is way easier than it sounds, so don't worry!
Measure out each length one at a time, cutting the speaker wire with either really great scissors or a sharp blade. Now you need to strip the ends of the wire. Use either a stripping tool or plain old scissors. You can place the scissors on the cable and gently apply some pressure as you twist the scissors around the cable, carefully slicing into the plastic coating. Eventually, it'll get weak enough that you can just slide it off by tugging on it with your fingers. You need at least 1/4" of exposed wire.
Now you can connect your speakers. Note on your speaker wire the difference between the two ends. You'll need to use one as your positive and one as your negative. Sometimes the coating is a different color between the two or there is text on one and not on the other. Keep track of this - whichever side you use for positive on your speaker, use it for positive on your receiver. Crossing the two can cause damage, either immediately or sometime in the future. It might work this way but you don't want it to!
Connecting the speakers is easy enough. Front left to front left on your receiver, center speaker to center on your receiver, etc... Your rear speakers may be referred to as "Surround" or "Rear Surround" instead of just "Rear", but keep in mind, if you have a 7.1 or 8.1 channel receiver, "Surround" may indicate side surround speakers, not rear speakers.
Subwoofers
Your subwoofer is going to be a little more complicated. There are a few different ways to do it and many variations of inputs/ouputs on the back side of subwoofers. I'm going to go with the most standard and efficient method first.
You will need a subwoofer cable for connecting your sub. If you don't have one or don't want to buy one, you can substitute it for a standard red or white RCA cable (or a pair, since they are usually connected; just let the other cable dangle). It will work, but its really not the best way to do it. You'll also need whats called a Y adapter. On the back of your sub, there should be a left/right input (red and white). You plug the Y adapter in to these connections and then your subwoofer cable (or RCA cable) in the other end of the Y (note: if you don't have a Y adapter, just choose the left or right input to plug into).
Now, take the other end of your cable and plug it into your receiver's
subwoofer preout. Hopefully you have a powered sub, meaning it gets plugged into an AC power outlet. All you need to do now is plug that in and your subwoofer is good to.
If you don't have RCA jacks on your subwoofer, or it only has speaker wire jacks (and its most likely not powered), you'll need to connect it the old fashioned way. Your front left and right speakers will plug into your subwoofer's ouput jacks instead of your receiver. You'll then run speaker wire from the left and right inputs on the subwoofer to your left and right speaker outputs on your receiver. This way, the subwoofer is powered by the receiver and will not work as well as a powered sub. You also take some power away from your front speakers with this method. A good idea is to buy a new, powered subwoofer with line in RCA jacks.
Connecting the Dots
You've got the hard stuff out of the way. Now finish it up by connecting your TV, DVD, and cable/satellite box. Always try using the best options first. If your DVD
has HDMI and so does your receiver, use it. If your DVD only has composite, s-video, and component, use component video cable. When it comes to audio, you absolutely need
to use digital coaxial (jacks are usually orange) or fiber optic (usually the jack is recessed into the unit and has a door on it; when the door is open, a red light is visible). If you do not use either of these two, you won't get true surround sound! When all else fails, resort to composite (red and white) audio connectors.
Note: Look closely at the connections on your receiver. Everything is labeled, like the first set of red, green, and blue component video inputs might be labeled "Comp 1". If you're using composite audio cablesfor your sound, you'll need to plug them into the jacks that coordinate with "Comp 1". This might not be clear by looking at the receiver, so refer to your receiver's manual to figure out which video inputs use which audio inputs. Most often, you'll be able to configure them from the receiver's internal menu using the remote control.
On some receivers, all the component video inputs, for example, are linked to a single composite audio input (usually "DVD"), so if you connect more than one of the component inputs, you will be competing for sound when more than one device is active. This is why you'd want to configure the component inputs to use different audio inputs.
Your manual is the only way to figure out how to go about it. Composite video will usually match up to composite audio inputs with naming conventions like Video 1 -> Video 1, Video 2 -> Video 2, etc., but cables like component and DVI may not. You should also configure digital audio inputs to match up with the video inputs you're planning on using. For example, if you're using a digital coaxial input (possibly "Digital 1"), and you use component video, you'll want to match "Digital 1" with "Comp 1". Again, refer to your users manual for how to do this.
