Audio Video
June 27th, 2009 at 05:34pm
Under Audio Video+ Televisions
Samsung is one of the leading brands of high definition televisions, whether it’s LCD or Plasma HDTVs. Samsung even makes good rear-projection HDTVs. If you’re thinking about replacing your old television with a great HDTV, then, it is a good idea to consider a Samsung HDTV, like one of these top Samsung HDTV models.
Samsung UN55B8000
UN55B8000
This LED-lit Samsung HDTV is one of the latest offered by Samsung, as well as one of the slimmest. Indeed, the UN55B8000 is razor-thin at 1.2 inches, although its picture quality is more eye-catching, with popping colors and blacks that are amazingly pure for an LCD television. Unlike many LCD TVs, it offers fluid frame transition, as well, because of its Auto Motion Plus 240Hz technology. It also carries a bunch of cool features, such as a sidebar for internet widgets, DLNA connectivity and an extensive Content Library while offering four HDMI inputs and a USB interface for you to share your digital pictures and videos with ease.
Samsung UN46B7000
Like the UN55B8000, the Samsung UN46B7000 has an LED backlight, which contributes to the fact that it is light,
UN46B7000
cool and extremely energy-efficient. It also has accurate colors and deep black levels, while its dejudder processing and 120Hz refresh rate combine to create sharp and clear pictures all throughout, even during fast motion sequences. In terms of connectivity, it offers four HDMI inputs, a PC input so you can use the screen as a computer monitor, two USB slots for sharing your photos and an ethernet port to connect to your network.
Samsung LN46A950
The Samsung LN46A950 is also a good choice for an LCD HDTV. With its LED backlight, it reproduces black levels that are amazingly deep for an LCD television, as well as extremely accurate colors. Other features include solid video processing, a lot of pre-loaded interactive content, four HDMI inputs, a PC input and an ethernet connection to stream photos and videos from your network. It also has a lot of picture controls, which allows you to calibrate the picture quality of this HDTV to perfection.
Samsung LN52B750
The LN52B750 may lack an S-video input and more importantly, an LED backlight but it still is a great choice for an
LN52B750
LCD HDTV. In fact, its black levels are impressively deep for an LCD TV. Its motion sequences are clear, too, due to its very good dejudder processing. Like other Samsung HDTVs, it offers built-in content and Yahoo widgets, and still provides solid connectivity with four HDMI inputs and a PC input.
Samsung PN50B850
If you would rather own a Plasma HDTV, this Samsung HDTV is a great choice, with many innovative features of its own. It has a FilterBright panel to minimize glare and reflections, a Real Movie Mode for playing 24p signals and a 600Hz Subfield Motion drive for clear fast-moving scenes. The best thing about the PN50B850, though, is that it is Wi-Fi ready. All you have to do is buy the Samsung Linstick and you’re all set to receive wireless signals. You can also wire it to your network via an ethernet connection or connect your computer to its PC input. It also offers four HDMI inputs and two USB slots.
Samsung PN50A760
This Samsung HDTV is also a good choice for a Plasma HDTV. Like the PN50B850, it also has a FilterBright panel to
PN50A760
reduce distractions, as well as DLNA connectivity for network streaming. It has its own great features, though, such as advanced contour distortion reduction, which delivers sharp images on curvy surfaces even during fast moving scenes; day and night settings for optimal picture quality all the time, and InfoLink feature, which allows you to access the latest news, weather and other important information with the push of a button.
Samsung HL61A750
Finally, if you would rather get a rear-projection HDTV, you might want to keep an eye out for this Samsung HDTV,
HL61A750
which delivers outstandingly accurate color temperatures and infinite black levels for superior picture quality. It has a good range of connectivity options, too, such as three HDMI inputs and a PC input, although it lacks a USB interface, an ethernet port or an SD card slot. It is comparatively inexpensive, too.
Edward McKellen is an electronics expert who writes HDTV reviews. To read the latest Samsung HDTV reviews, go to HdtvReviewLab.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edward_McKellen
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By omni
March 9th, 2009 at 12:34pm
Under Audio Video
So far, every DTV converter box we’ve tested has been able to convert broadcast digital signals pulled in by our rooftop antenna into analog signals that an older TV can accept. We didn’t find huge differences in performance among models. When supplied with a strong signal, all produced picture quality that was at least as good as a typical analog broadcast. Many of the models were better, with some approaching DVD quality. Audio quality was generally fine.
There’s seemingly little relationship between price and picture quality. Some low-priced models were among the best for picture quality, while some higher-priced models produced images a step or two below that. But even boxes deemed to have picture quality that is only acceptable should satisfy many viewers, especially compared to analog broadcasts, which tend to be less crisp than digital broadcasts. With a lower-quality TV set, it might be hard to notice the differences in picture quality.
All the boxes we’ve tested also performed comparably in their ability to pull in digital stations to our Yonkers, NY, location and in lab tests designed to see how well they performed with progressively weaker signals. But the number of digital channels that will be available to you depends on several factors: the number of stations broadcasting digitally in your area and your ability to actually receive such channels at home. Reception is affected by the local terrain (mountains, trees, and tall buildings can obstruct signals) and the type of antenna you use. Given those variables, it would be very difficult for any set of lab tests to accurately predict what you’ll experience at home. Some readers have reported difficulty in getting stations, but our tests suggest that it is likely to be more related to their location, antenna, or setup than the specific converter box they’re using.
All things being equal, we suggest that you first choose among models with better-than-acceptable picture quality, and then find one with the features you want at a price you like. While all government-approved DTV converter boxes must have a standard set of basic features, some offer more, which could influence your choice.
When you go shopping, you’ll find that most retailers have only a few models in stock, which limits your choice. You can also use your coupon to shop online at many Web sites. (You can find a list of approved online retailers and consumer electronic stores in your ZIP code at this official Web site: www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx) Note that you won’t get your coupon back if you return a box, although the retailer might allow you to apply it toward another box. Check the retailer’s policy before you make a purchase.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to connect your box to an antenna designed to receive UHF and VHF signals. Rabbit ears with only two “arms” won’t do the job because they’re designed for VHF only, and the majority of digital stations operate in the UHF band. You don’t have to spend a lot for an antenna. Indoor UHF/VHF antennas start at $20 or less. If you have no luck pulling in certain stations, try adjusting the antenna in various directions and moving it closer to a window. Use the signal-strength meter (found on many DTV boxes) to adjust the antenna to the optimal position. You may have to adjust it whenever you change channels if the stations’ transmitters are in different locations. Still no luck? Try an amplified antenna or a signal booster. Last resort: a rooftop antenna. Again, don’t think that you have to spend a bundle for a special “digital” or “HD” antenna. In our tests, we use a standard residential rooftop antenna that we’ve had in place for years.
For the best-quality picture and sound, we recommend that you use the composite-video connection, provided that your TV has one (older sets might not). Our tests indicate that you’ll generally get a slightly better picture than if you use the single-cable antenna RF output. You will also get stereo audio by using the left/right audio jacks. We found that the RF output usually does not provide stereo audio and is slightly less clear then the stereo outputs. Some readers have complained about low volume, and we note a few models on which we found that the volume from the RF output was very muted. (source)
By omni
March 8th, 2009 at 06:37pm
Under Audio Video+ Televisions
Our new Regza ZV series of Full HD Ready 1080P LCD televisions combine superb picture processing performance and audio quality and are the first models to include Resolution+ technology. Resolution+ technology displays images at near HD quality with enhanced edge detail. Available in 42″ and 46″.
3 x HDMI
High-Definition Multimedia Interface is an all-digital audio/video interface capable of transmitting uncompressed streams. HDMI provides an interface between any compatible digital audio/video source and video monitor.
Active Vision M100 HD
This system doubles the number of pictures projected on screen per second compared to 50Hz by simply repeating each frame. This process eliminates the flicker naturally occurring at a lower scanning speed.
Dynamic Contrast
Automatically adjusts brightness required by the signal. This system allows fine detail to be reproduced, without compromising the rendering of colourful, high-bright scenes, by dimming the backlight. Conversely, for bright scenes the backlight can be brightened to give images a new intensity.
Freeview
Freeview+ benefits and features: Up to 48 digital TV channels Up to 24 digital radio stations No Subscription, no contract, no fuss No installation, easy set up Interactive services Check coverage in your area. Text your postcode, followed by your house number or name to 83331*. Or visit www.freeview.co.uk *e.g. NW9 6NY 1 (Costs no more than a normal text) The FREEVIEW service is subject to coverage. An aerial upgrade may be required. The FREEVIEW and FREVIEW+ words are trade marks of DTV Services LTD. DTV Services Ltd 2002, 2008.
Full Power Down
Your Toshiba LCD TV can now be fully turned off when you do not want to leave it on stand by mode.
Game Mode
A dedicated setting for Gaming enthusiasts. Select “Game Mode” when connecting your HDMI games console, the picture will automatically adjust to offer a more natural gaming picture. Offering the online gamer a distinct advantage over your rivals who don’t have a dedicated Game Mode.
HD Ready 1080p
The highest definition signal currently available carries which 1080 horizontal lines of information progressivvely scanned to create a high definition image (1920 x 1080).
Regza Link
Product is compatible with all other products within the Regza range.
Resolution Plus
Resolution+ allows your LCD TV to display standard definition images at near high definition, with improved edge detail and better textural content of the final image.
SRS WOW
Enhanced 3-dimensional sound from stereo speakers
3 x HDMI
High-Definition Multimedia Interface is an all-digital audio/video interface capable of transmitting uncompressed streams. HDMI provides an interface between any compatible digital audio/video source and video monitor.
Active Vision M100 HD
This system doubles the number of pictures projected on screen per second compared to 50Hz by simply repeating each frame. This process eliminates the flicker naturally occurring at a lower scanning speed.
Dynamic Contrast
Automatically adjusts brightness required by the signal. This system allows fine detail to be reproduced, without compromising the rendering of colourful, high-bright scenes, by dimming the backlight. Conversely, for bright scenes the backlight can be brightened to give images a new intensity.
Freeview
Freeview+ benefits and features: Up to 48 digital TV channels Up to 24 digital radio stations No Subscription, no contract, no fuss No installation, easy set up Interactive services Check coverage in your area. Text your postcode, followed by your house number or name to 83331*. Or visit www.freeview.co.uk *e.g. NW9 6NY 1 (Costs no more than a normal text) The FREEVIEW service is subject to coverage. An aerial upgrade may be required. The FREEVIEW and FREVIEW+ words are trade marks of DTV Services LTD. DTV Services Ltd 2002, 2008.
Full Power Down
Your Toshiba LCD TV can now be fully turned off when you do not want to leave it on stand by mode.
Game Mode
A dedicated setting for Gaming enthusiasts. Select “Game Mode” when connecting your HDMI games console, the picture will automatically adjust to offer a more natural gaming picture. Offering the online gamer a distinct advantage over your rivals who don’t have a dedicated Game Mode.
HD Ready 1080p
The highest definition signal currently available carries which 1080 horizontal lines of information progressivvely scanned to create a high definition image (1920 x 1080).
Regza Link
Product is compatible with all other products within the Regza range.
Resolution Plus
Resolution+ allows your LCD TV to display standard definition images at near high definition, with improved edge detail and better textural content of the final image.
SRS WOW
Enhanced 3-dimensional sound from stereo speakers
|
tributes
|
| 10 Bit Panel |
Yes |
| 100Hz |
Yes |
| 24 fps (5:5 pulldown) |
Yes |
| 3D Digital Comb Filter |
Yes |
| Active Vision M100 HD |
Yes |
| Auto Contrast (Light Sensor) |
Yes |
| Brightness (cd/m2) |
500 |
| Dymanic Contrast Ratio |
17000:1 |
| Dynamic Gamma Curve Correction |
Yes |
| Exact Scan Mode |
Yes |
| Full Power Down Option |
Yes |
| Game Mode |
Yes |
| HD Ready 1080p |
Yes |
| MPEG Noise Reduction |
Yes |
| PC Fine Mode |
Yes |
| Resolution |
1920 x 1080p |
| Resolution Plus |
Yes |
| Screen Format |
16:9 |
| Screen Size |
40″ - 49″ |
| Selectable Picture Format |
Yes |
| Viewing Angle |
178 |
| Visible Screen Size |
106 CM |
| Wide Colour Gumut |
Yes |
| xvYCC Colour Space |
Yes |
|
Audio
|
| Bass Boost |
Yes |
| Internal Speakers ON/OFF |
Yes |
| Sound Output (RMS)W |
20 |
| SRS WOW® |
Yes |
| Stable Sound |
Yes |
|
Connections
|
| Analogue Audio Input |
Yes |
| Component Video |
Yes |
| Composite Video |
Yes |
| DVB Common Interface |
Yes |
| HDMI |
3 |
| Headphone |
Yes |
| Optical Digital Audio Output |
Yes |
| PC input - WXGA |
Yes |
| RGB (via Scart) |
Yes |
| Side AV Input |
Yes |
| Sub-woofer Audio Output |
Yes |
| S-video |
Yes |
|
Dimensions
|
| Depth - Pedestal Stand |
94 mm |
| Depth + Pedestal Stand |
319 mm |
| Height - Pedestal Stand |
649 mm |
| Height + Pedestal Stand |
701 mm |
| Power Consumption |
226 w |
| Power Consumption (Stand-by) |
0.8 w |
| Weight - Pedestal Stand |
20.8 Kg |
| Weight + Pedestal Stand |
23.5 Kg |
| Width |
1009 mm |
|
Interactive Features
|
| Digital Text |
Yes |
| Electronic Programme Guide |
8 days |
| Fastext |
Yes |
| Favourite Channel Memory |
Yes |
| Now and Next Information |
Yes |
| Text Page Memory |
Yes |
|
Other Features
|
| Integrated Signal Amplifier |
Yes |
| Off Timer |
Yes |
| Panel Lock |
Yes |
| Swival Stand |
Yes |
| Wall Mountable |
Yes |
|
Tuning
|
| Analogue Tuner |
Yes |
| Auto Set-up |
Yes |
| Digital Ready |
Yes |
Press Releases
The TV Market is Revolutionised by Toshiba’s First Resolution (Plus) + Upscaling TV
10/11/2008
Toshiba launches the first ever upscaling TV, the new REGZA ZV series.
Reviews
Pocket Lint.co.uk - 42″ ZV Series
19/12/2008
Pocket Lint.co.uk reviews the 42″ ZV
Tech Radar - 42″ ZV Series
23/01/2009
Tech Radar looks at the 42ZV555D
What Video & High Definition TV - 42″ ZV Series
23/01/2009
What Video & High Definition TV reviews the 42ZV555D
Trusted Reviews - 42″ ZV Series
03/02/2009
Trusted Reviews examines the 42ZV555D
iGizmo - 42″ ZV Series
23/02/2009
iGizmo reviews the 42ZV555D
HDTV - 42″ ZV Series
03/03/2009
HDTV reviews the 42ZV555D
PlayStation World - 42″ ZV Series
03/03/2009
Playstation World tests the 42ZV555D
PSM3 - 42″ ZV Series
03/03/2009
PSM3 reviews the 42ZV555D
Awards
Home Cinema Choice - 42″ ZV Series
14/01/2009
Home Cinema Choice reviews the 42ZV555D
|
Key specifications:
|
| Resolution: |
1920 x 1080p |
| Resolution Plus: |
Yes |
| HDMI: |
3 |
| Digital Ready: |
Yes |
By omni
February 21st, 2009 at 10:12am
Under Audio Video
Now a status symbol among the rich and wealthy, a plasma TV is a high-definition (HDTV) alternative to the standard cathode-ray televisions sold today. It gives viewers sharp
images and vibrant colors, particularly when used in conjunction with high-definition broadcasts. A quality plasma TV, however, does not come cheap. Its price ranges from $4,000 to $15,000 plus.
One of the main attractions of a plasma TV is a flat screen,whichcan be mounted directly on a wall. Manufacturers often employ surround-sound theater speakers and high-end receivers to complete the feeling of luxury. No wonder plasma TVs are such a craze these days.
In terms of science, ‘plasma’ refers to inert gases like neon and xenon that glow when in contact with an electrical field. Televisions usually rely on thousands of small ‘picture
elements’, abbreviated as pixels. A bundle of three distinct colors, usually red,green and yellow, constitute one pixel in a color TV. Properly controlling the level of each color, all of the other colors of the spectrum can be produced in each pixel. The distance between the viewer and the screen is usually such that the individual pixels blur into each other
and the illusion of motion is created as they change color.Plasma or not, this holds true for any television system.
The individual pixels in a plasma TV are made from three tiny containers of an inert gas like neon or xenon. There are thousands of these tiny tubes on an average plasma TV screen.
All of them are sandwiched between two electrically charged plates. And plasma glows when exposed to an electrical current.A cable or broadcast antenna dispatches signals to a
computer-processing unit.The antenna instructs the unit how to reassemble the entire picture hundreds of times per second.
A plasma TV screen contains more pixels than a standard television, so the image is noticeably sharper. If light conditions are ambient, a plasma TV will perform at its best. As flat screens have a viewing angle of 160 degrees, one can watch TV from almost any position in a room.
Article written by Jason Gluckman.
By omni
February 12th, 2009 at 10:49pm
Under Audio Video
With over 50 ready-to-use plug-ins, the Quantum FX Factory Effects collection equips you with an instant professional audio toolkit.
essential effects • serious studio tools
original creative effects
Save your time and your money. Quantum FX packs a comprehensive set of effects for musicians and sound engineers into one convenient bundle. Operates seamlessly with your favourite audio or multimedia software supporting VST or Audio Units.
The ultimate modular effects system. Quantum FX is two great packages in one: it’s an instant pro audio toolkit and the workbench to build the plug-ins of your dreams.
unbeatable sound
unlimited creativity
At every stage of the creative process, Quantum FX gives you the tools and effects you need to achieve great sounds and produce great music.
Ready-To-Use Or Custom-Built
If you need the job done fast or just want an easy life, then the Quantum FX Factory Effects collection is for you. You get over 50 ready-to-use plug-ins for every purpose, including essential effects, serious studio tools and original creative effects.
When you can’t find the right effect to do the job, that’s when you need the Quantum FX Workbench. You don’t have to be an expert programmer to build custom plug-ins with confidence. Simply drag, drop and connect audio modules on screen; you can audition your design with live or recorded audio as you go.
Either way, Quantum FX gives you immediate access to db audioware’s renowned audio DSP technology, proved in demanding professional applications over many years.
Features
- 57 ready-to-use effects plug-ins
- easy to use effects building environment
- huge library of high quality audio DSP building blocks
- oscilloscope and spectrum analyser for in-depth visualisation of plug-in operation
- VST and Audio Units versions of all plug-ins, with automation
- fully customisable graphics for plug-in GUIs with support for animated controls/meters and realistic shadowing
- sidechain operation independent of host software capability
- full MIDI control, with easy to use MIDI Learn
- cross-platform: PC Windows and Mac OS X Universal
- online Effects Library to share plug-in designs
Universal Sidechains
In multi-track audio applications, side-chaining is a powerful technique for controlling effects in one track using audio from a different track. Quantum FX incorporates db audioware’s Universal Sidechains functionality that lets you side-chain in most multi-track hosts, even if the host software itself does not have that native capability.
Quantum FX is supplied with two side-chaining factory effects: SideDyn (a compressor/gate combo) and ChainSaw (a dual channel resonant filter). You can also build side-chaining into your own plug-in designs using dedicated DSP building block modules in the Quantum FX Workbench.
MIDI Control
On-screen controls are very flexible, but there are times when hardware knobs, sliders and keys are a far more natural interface. Quantum FX lets you control plug-ins using your favourite external MIDI control surface, keyboard or pedals. And thanks to db audioware’s easy-to-use MIDI Learn functionality, it’s simple to associate any on-screen control with the optimum hardware control.
Effects Library
If you don’t want to use the factory effects or build your own using the workbench, you can download new ones from our online effects library. The library is open to all registered Quantum FX owners, so when you buy Quantum FX, you continue to get great new effects for free!(source :audioware)
By omni
January 31st, 2009 at 02:15am
Under Audio Video
Toshiba Expands Electronics Recycling Program with Drop Off Sites in 50 States and adds New Energy Efficient Products and Environmentally-Conscious Efforts Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. (”Toshiba”) reaffirmed its commitment to the sustainability of the environment by announcing new initiatives including more energy efficient products and new recycling programs in 2009. By dedicating additional resources to create environmentally-conscious products (ECPs), Toshiba is able to meet established criteria such as ENERGY STAR® qualifications, as well as minimize the environmental impact of its products with a nationwide recycling program. “Consumers are thinking more and more about their impact on the planet, and as a result they are looking for brands and products that are committed to the environment,” said Maria Repole, AVP Corporate Communications at Toshiba. “This year, Toshiba is putting even more emphasis on improving its environmental practices and demonstrating its commitment to sustainability.” Environmentally Conscious Products Throughout the product design phase, Toshiba evaluates numerous items, such as resource conservation, energy savings, reduction in use of toxic substances and end of life reuse and recycling. Incorporating this design concept during the planning stage decisively helps reduce the environmental impact throughout the product life cycle. In 2008, Toshibas 42XV540U was recognized by PC Magazine for exhibiting low power consumption and solid energy efficiency and won its first-ever GreenTech Approved HDTV award. In 2009, Toshiba will continue to focus on these areas as exemplified by its full 2009 line of flat panel LCD TVs, which will meet ENERGY STAR 3.0 certifications. All of Toshibas new LCD TV combination models and DVD players will also meet ENERGY STAR certifications. Additionally, Toshiba is developing and incorporating new technologies into its products that will ultimately save energy. Toshibas XV, ZV and SV TV lines incorporate AutoView™, a feature that activates an automatic brightness sensor that adjusts picture settings based on ambient light conditions. Not only does AutoView make life simpler and the picture better, but it can potentially lower power consumption, providing energy savings for the home. Green Procurement Toshiba is making huge strides in the reduction of chemical substances and hazardous materials, which reflects Toshibas increased efforts to reduce the environmental impacts of its products in cooperation with its suppliers. A key element in Toshibas efforts to create ECPs is the evaluation of the procurement of its products, parts and components, processed materials and raw materials. Toshiba also revised its green procurement guidelines to meet and exceed the stringent European Unions RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) Directive which bans the use of certain chemical substances in products. These initiatives place Toshiba at the forefront of efforts to hasten the emergence of a sustainable society. Expanded Recycling Efforts Furthering its commitment to the environment, Toshiba also announced that it has expanded its recycling program to include televisions and other consumer electronics with drop-off locations in all 50 states. Toshiba will utilize Electronic Manufacturers Recycling Management Company, L.L.C. (MRM), a joint venture between Toshiba, Panasonic Corporation of North America and Sharp Electronics Corporation, to implement the program. Furthering the goal to increase recycling efforts across the industry, consumers can drop off Toshiba, Panasonic and Sharp branded consumer electronics products at any of the 280 locations nationwide, providing more convenience for the consumer. Toshibas recycling program will involve a number of different collection opportunities, including existing municipal recycling centers, private recycling centers and non-profit organizations. The goal is to leverage consumer behavior by maximizing convenience and ultimately creating an efficient and effective recycling program. For more information and a list of the locations where Toshiba, Panasonic and Sharp branded electronics can be dropped off for recycling, please visit www.mrmrecycling.com. Expanding its recycling program, working with other manufactures that are committed to an environmentally sustainable future and dedicating more resources to green procurement and ECPs are just some of the many ways that Toshiba is reaffirming its commitment to the environment. In 2009 and the years to follow, Toshiba will continue to look for new ways to expand its environmental efforts. About Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is owned by Toshiba America, Inc., a subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation, a world leader in high technology products with subsidiaries worldwide. Toshiba is a leading manufacturer of a full line of home entertainment products, including flat panel TV, combination products and portable devices. Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey. For additional information, please visit www.tacp.toshiba.com. About Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is owned by Toshiba America, Inc., a subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation, a world leader in high technology products with subsidiaries worldwide. Toshiba is a pioneer in DVD technology and a leading manufacturer of a full line of home entertainment products, including flat panel TVs, combination products and portable devices. Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey. For additional information please visit www.tacp.toshiba.com. ENERGY STAR is a registered mark owned by the U.S. government.(source)
By omni
January 26th, 2009 at 05:57pm
Under Audio Video
Reviewer: Paul Doran (source
) Regular readers of LCD TV Buying Guide reviews will notice that our display reviews often contain lengthy sections detailing the various picture adjustments available on a particular LCD television. Why? Because in order to get the best detail and most accurate picture from your TV, you’ll need to do some adjusting with these controls. Factory settings on TVs are almost always tweaked to maximum brightness and contrast and are enabled with image “edge enhancement” features as well. Manufacturers do this so that the TV picture will “pop” on the retail store floor compared to other models. However, this is not how the director of the programming you are viewing intended for you to see the film, or sports or sitcom that you see. It’s not natural to the eye and a lot of the “enhancement” settings on a plasma or LCD TV these days are just the opposite of that. Setting the proper color, brightness, and and operating levels on an LCD TV can make a huge difference in your viewing pleasure. WHY CALIBRATE? If you’re interested in getting the best possible picture from your flat panel or rear projection TV–or even a CRT tube TV–you can’t assume that it comes straight out of the box with it’s picture adjustments set properly. The next time you’re in one of the “discount” home electronics stores, step back and take a look at the array of plasma, LCD, and projections TVs. Notice how they all look different? Since they’re all displaying the same signal, shouldn’t they all look the same? The fact is, each manufacturer has a different idea about what “looks best,” and they usually adjust their sets to show off their particular strengths–and hide their weaknesses. Also, pay attention to the lighting of the showroom itself: does your living room look like that when you watch movies, or even sports on TV? The pictures on the display floor may be “punchy” and bright, but the detail and resolution that gets washed out really takes away from your home theater experience. What’s more, running a TV at these settings can even be damaging to the display technology, overloading pixel cells and projection lamps alike long before their time. GETTING STARTED The first step in calibrating your television lies in paying attention to your surroundings. Sit in the same spot you’d normally sit in to watch your TV. Then, make sure the lighting is at the same level you’ll be using to watch movies: setting your TV to overcompensate for a brightly-lit room may give you distorted results. Watching in complete darkness may cause undue eyestrain, but a dim, diffuse light behind or to the side of your LCD TV is best. Just make sure to avoid any glare or reflection on the screen. Next, be sure your display has “warmed up” for at least a half hour before attempting any calibration; this is to ensure that all the components of the display are at normal operating temperature and best approximate normal viewing conditions. You can take this time to familiarize yourself with the various display controls on your particular TV–get the manual out if you have to. The better you know which controls are available on your LCD TV, the better your end results will be. Though different manufacturers give different names to the controls, these are the levels you’ll be adjusting: Black Level, normally found on the Brightness control White Level, usually called Contrast or Picture Sharpness, or sometimes Detail Color Saturation, usually labeled Color, or maybe Chroma Color Tint, also known as Hue Beyond these basic settings, many modern TVs come packed with so-called “picture enhancements” which in reality do nothing but spoil an otherwise accurate, lifelike picture. Take a moment to dig through your TVs menus and disable any of these “features.” What you’re looking for is anything labeled edge enhancement or detail enhancement, flesh tone or color “correction,” etc. This is a broad generalization, but basically anything not listed in the five controls above can be safely turned off. Another thing to check for is often called a “Picture Mode,” or something similar: in reviews, we often find best results from a Movie or Cinema mode, which usually gives the most accurate picture with the least “enhancement.” A Normal mode is a safe bet when this isn’t available, but definitely avoid anything called Vivid, Dynamic, or Sports mode. Sports mode may make the grass look nice and green, but unless you’re watching The Masters, it’s probably not that green in real life; Sports mode is just ruining the color. On a similar note, have a look at the options available for your LCD TV’s backlight settings. Like many of the settings, the backlight is probably set to its highest brightness, which is probably too bright for comfortable extended viewing, and shortens the lifespan of your LCD TV as well. Drop this setting down at least to it’s “normal” value, or even try out the Low Power or Power Saver option if it’s available (in dimly lit rooms). Finally, a word about Color Temperature. Without getting into the rather complicated science behind it all, Color Temperature basically refers to the peak wavelength of a light source, which affects the color tint given to images which should be “pure” white. Suffice it to say that while most video is produced to what’s called a “6500K Standard,” (6500 degrees Kelvin), not every TV comes out of the box set to display that standard properly. In fact, factory settings are very rarely are set close to 6500K. As an example, sunlight takes on a reddish tinge at sunset, when the sun’s light is around 2000K, while “normal” average sunlight is 6500K. So what appears white in full sun will appear reddish at sunset. Similarly, your TV’s color balance will be off if the color temperature isn’t set properly. Even with professional instruments to measure the color temperature, there are few displays in any price range that can be perfectly calibrated to the 6500K standard, but your TV will have a selection that will be as close as you can get without accessing the professional service menu . The best way to tell is to use an “80% white” test image, and cycle through the Color Temperature settings on your TV until you find the achieve the most neutral gray possible. Again, names for the settings will vary, but Warm or Normal might be the best bet, with the gray tending towards reddish tones on the lower settings, and taking on a bluish or greenish cast on the High or Cool setting (”High” or “Low” refer to the color’s wavelength, not the Color Temp.). If your TV happens to have a 6500K or 6500 setting, use that. CALIBRATION TOOLS Calibrating by sight alone might give you an improved picture from the factory settings, but to get the most detail and accuracy out of your LCD TV calibration, you’re going to need a set of video test patterns. A cheap, easy fix is to use the THX Optimizer included on many DVD releases: just look for a DVD in your collection with the “THX Certified” logo. The THX Optimizer provides a usable set of patterns that will give recent results, but for a more thorough and accurate calibration, a dedicated Home Theater setup disc offers more fine-tuning options and the added benefit of step-by-step instructions that walk you through the entire process. Joe Kane’s Digital Video Essentials disc and the AVIA Guide to Home Theater, published by Ovation Multimedia, are both highly-rated and effective choices. To get closer to D6500K than this, you will need to hire an ISF calibration specialist or use the settings in our reviews (if we’ve done one on your TV). No matter which calibration disc you choose, the test patterns and adjustment process will be similar, following the five steps outlined above: BLACK LEVEL LCD and plasma TV manufacturers are proud of announcing their latest improvements in Contrast Ratio, and rightly so: the contrast of a display–that is, the difference between the “blackest” blacks and the “whitest” whites–is one of the most important factors in achieving a realistic picture that accurately conveys all the information present in a video signal. Half of that equation, the Black Level, will be calibrated using the Brightness control on your TV. Black Level is optimized using a PLUGE pattern (’PLUGE’ stands for Picture Line Up Generation Equipment), which regardless of your calibration disc will consist of a black-and-white screen divided into various shades of grays, running all the way down to black. A crucial step here is to make sure your DVD player itself is configured properly; the PLUGE pattern actually contains some areas which are below black, and you should make sure your DVD player is set up to send “below black” signals by enabling the option in the setup menu of your DVD player. Again, consult your manual if you can’t find the setting: you’re looking for “send below-black signals,” “0 IRE Signals,” or something similar. The PLUGE test and Brightness calibration will basically take the form of lowering the TV’s Brightness control until a black area of the screen (leftmost and rightmost black bars on Digital Video Essentials, dropshadow of the THX logo on the THX Optimizer) disappears from view, then slowly raising the Brightness until it is just visible. This adjustment assures that anything intended to be black on your DVD will be completely black, while still allowing you to see every detail in dark or shadowy scenes. WHITE LEVEL Closely related to the Black Level, but at the other end of the spectrum, is the White Level. Again, it’s common for TVs to come out of the box with the Contrast or Picture control set far too high, which results in whites and bright shades “blooming,” or bleeding together: think of the brightest shades in a scene looking as if they were “colored outside the lines.” To adjust the White Level of your LCD TV, you will use a test pattern that features a pure white area contrasted with a 95% or near white area. The setup will differ according to which calibration disc you use, but the basic idea is the same. There are two things you’re looking for in this adjustment: 1) You want to be able to distinguish the slightly darker box from the pure white box. This will ensure that you get all the fine details in a bright scene–like faint shadows or texture in snow, or the creases in an actor’s white shirt. 2) You also want to ensure that the whites aren’t set so high that the whites “bloom” into surrounding areas; this will greatly reduce the contrast and sharpness of your picture as colors bleed into one another. To make the adjustment, first raise the Contrast control (sometimes called Picture) until the darker white area disappears into the pure white. Then, gradually decrease the Contrast until the box is visible again. One click may make the difference, so take your time and make careful adjustments. Finally, once you have the White Level where you want it, closely examine the edges of the pure white area where it borders the black background. Is it a sharp line, or does the white area blur or smear into the black? If it’s a sharp line, you’re in business. If the white area “blooms” into the black, back off the Contrast a notch or two until the border is sharply-defined. Because the Brightness and Contrast settings are so closely related, you may find in some cases that setting the proper White Level disturbs your setting of the Black Level (Brightness control). After setting the Contrast or Picture properly, go back and have another look at the PLUGE pattern and double-check the Black Level setting. If you’re very picky, or your TV lacks fine adjustments in the Brightness and Contrast controls, you may have to go back and forth a couple of times to be sure everything’s in order. SHARPNESS Sharpness is perhaps the most difficult element of TV calibration to explain, in part because it has more to do with how our eyes perceive an image than with anything that can be physically measured. For starters, it may help to understand what the Sharpness control can and cannot do. It cannot actually increase or decrease the physical resolution of your television: the resolution depends on the actual number of pixels available in the panel’s construction. What it can do, though, is make transitions between colors and shades appear sharper to the eye. You might initially think “the sharper the better,” and set the Sharpness to it’s maximum. The problem is, however, that as your TV increases the visible sharpness of an image, it also introduces unwanted artifacts that detract from accuracy, and even cause eyestrain during prolonged viewing. The THX Optimizer does not include a Sharpness test pattern, but the DVE and AVIA discs include similar ones: a gray background featuring a black circle with lines radiating out towards the edges of the screen. This pattern is designed to give the sharpness of your TV an optimal test, but even without a test pattern you can see the effects of the Sharpness control: when the Sharpness setting exceeds the optimal level, you will see the artifacts of excessive sharpness around any edge between black and white, or between different colors on the screen. This usually appears as a either a dark “ghost” images of the edge, or a bright “halo” around objects in the picture. These artifacts, not present in the DVD signal, serve to highlight the edges and make appear more defined to the eye. What you’re looking for as you adjust the Sharpness is to get the sharpest possible lines and text in the test pattern image, without the appearance of these false edges and the “halo” effect. Start by cranking up the Sharpness control until the halo artifacts are evident, then back down slowly to the point where they just disappear. At first glance, the picture may appear to the eye to be overly “soft,” or slightly blurry. But once your eyes get used to the Sharpness level, you’ll actually begin to see more detail, especially in moving images, because the edge effects won’t be distracting you from the intended image. As with any setting, of course the final choice is up to you: some TVs, even good ones, have a naturally soft picture and you may find you actually like a little “extra” sharpening to get the most enjoyable effect. If nothing else, calibrating the Sharpness by this method will give a good baseline to start from. COLOR SATURATION AND TINT The Color adjustments are where having the proper calibration equipment can make all the difference in the world. Both the AVIA Guide to Home Theater and the Digital Video Essentials discs come packaged with blue, red, and green plastic films that accompany this part of the calibration. THX offers a set of blue filter glasses, which you can order through the THX website. The THX Optimizer combines Color and Tint on the same test, and the more sophisticated discs offer a couple of choices for color and tint tests. Some of the language about Color adjustment, sometimes called Color Saturation, can be a bit hard to follow, but it all boils down to this: there is a level on your TV where the monitor is displaying precisely the color information sent to it by the DVD player, no more no less. That’s the level you’re looking for. Your TV probably comes out of the box set to artificially boost the color levels, which makes for a dramatic appearance on the sales floor, but ultimately is a distorted version of what the movie director intends you to see. Again, make doubly sure that your TV is in the most neutral color “mode” before undertaking this potion of the calibration: Vivid, Sports, or other modes are designed to artificially boost color saturation in different spectra, and may throw off your calibration considerably. To set the Color or Saturation level, you’ll hold the blue-tinted filter in front of your eyes and adjust the Color control on your TV until the appropriate boxes match. Test patterns vary among calibration discs, so make sure you understand the directions for your particular system. Once you have the color saturation set to the most accurate level, you can move on to the Tint. Color Tint, labeled Hue on some TVs, basically controls the balance of Red, Green, and Blue in your TV’s picture. Following the instructions on your test disc, adjust the Tint control appropriately. Also, be aware that, just like the Brightness and Contrast controls, Color and Tint are to some degree dependent upon each other. After setting the Tint appropriately, you may want to go back and check the Color level just to be sure. Once you’re satisfied, you’re ready for one final step in color calibration: do you like what you see? Just like Sharpness, color levels are to some extent largely a matter of taste. Before you call your TV calibration complete, use the scenes provided on your test disc, or a favorite DVD, to double-check your color and hue settings. Of course you’ll want to use a scene where you know beforehand what the colors should look like! Find a standard color you know, like a US Flag or your favorite sports team’s uniform, and fine-tune the Color and Tint settings until it looks “right” to your eye. The ultimate test for color saturation and tint is flesh tones. Complexions vary widely of course, but if everyone looks badly sunburned, or more Martian than human, back off the Color control and/or tweak the Tint accordingly. WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET You might say the main consideration in TV calibration is found in the Black Level and White Level adjustments: setting these properly will make sure you get everything you paid for out of the contrast of your TV, while possibly improving its lifespan by not overdriving it’s pixels or lamps. In terms of pure accuracy, adjusting the color levels and sharpness as recommended will make sure that what you see on your screen is what the move director intended you to see. Of course, surrounding room light conditions will determine a lot about how the LCD looks, and when all is said and done, it’s your TV, and you can watch it how you like it. Think the picture’s too “soft”? Bump up the Sharpness a bit. Not enough detail in dark scenes, Turn up the Brightness. And if you want green, green grass–even at Lambeau Field in mid November–then by all means, crank up that Sports mode and go crazy with the Color control–just don’t be shocked when your friends ask “What’s wrong with your TV?”
By omni
January 26th, 2009 at 05:21pm
Under Audio Video
Reviewer: Phil Connor
This is the #1 question for me at any dinner party: Which is better, LCD TV or Plasma? This is a much debated topic and a fun one. When choosing between plasma and LCD TVs, you’re actually selecting between two competing technologies, both of which achieve similar features (i.e., ,bright crystal-clear images, super color-filled pictures) and come in similar packages (i.e., 3.5 inch depth flat screen casing). To complicate the decision-making process further, price and size are two previous considerations that are rapidly becoming non-issues as LCD TVs are now being made in larger sizes and at competing prices with plasma. Despite their similarities, the two technologies are very different in the way they deliver the image to the viewer. Plasma technology consists hundreds of thousands of individual pixel cells, which allow electric pulses (stemming from electrodes) to excite rare natural gases-usually xenon and neon-causing them to glow and produce light. This light illuminates the proper balance of red, green, or blue phosphors contained in each cell to display the proper color sequence from the light. Each pixel cell is essentially an individual microscopic florescent light bulb, receiving instruction from software contained on the rear electrostatic silicon board. Look very closely at a plasma TV and you can actually see the individual pixel cell coloration of red, green, and blue bars. You can also see the black ribs which separate each. Whether spread across a flat-panel screen or placed in the heart of a projector, all LCD displays come from the same technological background. A matrix of thin-film transistors (TFTs) supplies voltage to liquid-crystal-filled cells sandwiched between two sheets of glass. When hit with an electrical charge, the crystals untwist to an exact degree to filter white light generated by a lamp behind the screen (for flat-panel TVs) or one projecting through a small LCD chip (for projection TVs). LCD TVs reproduce colors through a process of subtraction: They block out particular color wavelengths from the spectrum of white light until they’re left with just the right color. And, it’s the intensity of light permitted to pass through this liquid-crystal matrix that enables LCD televisions to display images chock-full of colors-or gradations of them. PICTURE CONSIDERATIONS CONTRAST / BLACK LEVELS Plasma technology has certainly achieved quite high contrast ratios, a measure of the blackest black compared to the whitest white. Many plasma display manufacturers boast a contrast ratio of 3000:1 these days though our tests have not proven these numbers out. Panasonic has long been the leader in plasma black levels and we measure contrast of a 42″ HD Panasonic plasma at about ANSI 1450:1 - still impressive. Plasma displays achieve such impressive black levels by using internal algorithms to block the power to particular pixels in order to render a pixel “dark” or black. While this can limit a plasma television’s gray scaling, it does produce exceptionally black blacks - depending on the manufactured plasma display element (i.e. glass). A plasma TV uses the most power when it is producing full white. As a result, some 2nd tier manufactured brands of plasma TVs have an audible buzz or whining sound when displaying white or very light images. LCD (liquid crystal diode) displays, by contrast, utilize electric charges to twist and untwist liquid crystals, which causes them to block light and, hence, emit blacks. The higher the voltage passing through the liquid crystals in a given pixel, the more fully those crystals untwist and effectively block light - all of which makes these pixels darker. As opposed to plasma, LCD TVs use the most power when displaying a very dark or black image. This is a difficult process, and despite recent improvements in LCD black levels, only the best LCD televisions (like those produced by Sharp and Sony) have managed to topple the 1000:1 contrast ratio barrier. Recent improvements have brought LCD displays up to the level of plasma. The one continual drawback here for LCD is off axis viewing, when black levels consistently drop. ADVANTAGE: Closer than a year ago, but still Plasma. LCD TV manufacturers have made great improvements in black levels and in many cases have managed to match the contrast ratio of plasma displays. However, Plasma displays still maintain a clear advantage in this category due to fading blacks when viewing LCDs from off axis. For scenes with a lot of dark and light images shown simultaneously - as with content originating from DVDs, video games, and NTSC TV signals - plasmas still consistently outperform LCD TVs. COLOR ACCURACY In plasma displays, each pixel contains red, green, and blue elements, which work in conjunction to create 16.77 million colors. Insofar as each pixel contains all the elements needed to produce every color in the spectrum, color information was more accurately reproduced with plasma technology than it was with other display technologies. The chromaticity coordinates were more accurate on most plasma displays. Though the color saturation resulting from the pixel design of plasma displays is remarkable, LCD technology has nearly caught plasma in gray scaling color accuracy. Plasma continues to exhibit more richness in color information and more natural coloration. Today, SMPTE color coordinates in top plasma displays still normally outperform those in LCDs, which tend toward oversaturation. LCD TVs reproduce colors by manipulating light waves and subtracting colors from white light. This is an inherently difficult template for maintaining color accuracy and vibrancy - though most LCD displays manage quite well. While color information benefits from the higher-than-average number of pixels per square inch found in LCD televisions (especially when compared to plasmas), LCDs are simply not as impressive as plasmas with similar pixel counts. LCDs however, produce a typically brighter picture. Greens sometimes look over-green and reds can run a bit warm, but in a room with bright outdoor lighting, an LCD TV would be my choice. ADVANTAGE: Preference to plasma but depends upon room light, manufacturer and model. Plasma color richness and naturalness will prevail in rooms with lower to normal lighting. LCDs will be better in very brightly lit rooms due to their inherent anti glare technology and brightness. VIEWING ANGLES Plasma manufacturers have made much of their 160° viewing angles, which is about as good as horizontal and vertical viewing angles get. This owes to the fact that each pixel produces its own light, rather than light being spread across the screen from one central source. Hence, each pixel is more readily visible because its brightness is consistent with every other pixel on the screen. One consistent area of superiority of plasma viewing angles is demonstrated when viewing dark material content, especially DVDs. A Plasma display holds the black levels from off axis, while LCD TVs lose black level intensity more as the angle off axis increases. This usually occurs after around 90 degrees. LCD TV manufacturers have done much to improve their displays’ viewing angles. The substrate material on newer-generation LCD models by Sharp and Sony has helped to expand those units’ viewing angles, though they still have some ground to cover before catching plasma. Expect the best LCD HDTVs to have between 120 and 130 degree viewing angles. ADVANTAGE: Plasma FUNCTIONAL CONSIDERATIONS COMPUTER USE LCD flat screens display static images from computer or VGA sources extremely well, with full color detail, no flicker, and no screen burn-in. Moreover, the number of pixels per square inch on an LCD display is typically higher than other display technologies, so LCD monitors are especially good at displaying large amounts of data - like you would find on an Excel spreadsheet for example - with exceptional clarity and precision. For the same reasons, LCD TVs will also be a slightly better template for video gaming. Plasma technology has increased anti burn in tactics as well as computer and static signal handling. There are still issues with each depending very much on the model and manufacturer. For example, most EDTV plasma displays do not handle a computer input well and product a very jaggy image when viewing static images from same. Users may want to consider a commercial version plasma if their application calls for a lot of computer use. ADVANTAGE: LCD FAST-MOVING VIDEO PLAYBACK Plasma gets the nod here because of their excellent performance with fast-moving images and high contrast levels. There are still some 2nd tier manufacturers whose plasma product displays some phosphor lag, a drag time in scenes changing from bright to dark. While the “response time” of LCD TVs has markedly improved in the last couple of years, they still suffer from a slight “trailer” effect, where the individual pixels are just slightly out of step with the image on the screen. During fast moving sports scenes, the most discerning eyes can detect this slight motion response lag. ADVANTAGE: Plasma HIGH ALTITUDE There is a reason LCD flat panels are the preferred visual display units for use on airplanes: LCD TVs aren’t affected by increases or decreases in air pressure. Their performance is consistent regardless of the altitude at which they’re utilized. This is not the case for a plasma. The display element in plasma TVs is actually a glass substrate envelope with rare natural gases compressed therein. So, at high altitudes (6,500 feet and above), an air-pressure differential emerges, which causes plasma displays to emit a buzzing sound due to the lower air pressure. This noise can sound rather like the humming of an old neon sign. NEC has been effective in producing several plasma models that are rated to 9,500 feet. ADVANTAGE: LCD, at 6,500 feet and higher. LONGEVITY LCD television manufacturers claim that their displays last, on average, 50,000 to 65,000 hours. In fact, an LCD TV will last as long as its backlight does - and those bulbs can sometimes be replaced! Since this is nothing more than light passing through a prismatic substrate, there is essentially nothing to wear out in an LCD monitor. However, one nasty little known fact about LCD technology is that as the backlight ages it can change colors slightly (think of florescent office lighting). When this occurs the white balance of the entire LCD TV will be thrown for a loop and the user will need to re-calibrate, or worse, try to replace the backlighting or ditch the unit altogether. Some of the early purchasers of larger LCD screens will be learning this tidbit in a couple of years. One thing that I’ve found in this industry, it is not easy to find out whether the backlighting on LCDs can be replaced. Manufacturers are either hesitant to discuss the topic, or they just don’t know. Plasma, on the other hand, utilizes slight electric currents to excite a combination of noble gases (i.e., argon, neon, xenon), which glow red, blue, and/or green. This is an essentially active phenomenon, so the phosphoric elements in plasma displays fade over time. Many manufacturers state a new half life of 60,000 hours. While I am skeptical of this spec, I do believe strides have been made to nearly even the playing field with LCD. At half life, the phosphors in a plasma screen will glow half as brightly as they did when the set was new. There is no way to replace these gases; the display simply continues to grow dimmer with use. ADVANTAGE: Even, depending upon manufacturer quality. SCREEN BURN IN LCD technology is not prone to screen “burn-in” or “ghosting” (premature aging of pixel cells) due to the nature of the technologies “twisting crystals.” With plasma, static images will begin to “burn-in,” or permanently etch the color being displayed into the glass display element. The time it takes for this to occur depends greatly on the anti burn-in technology of the manufacturer. Recent improvements by plasma manufacturers have certainly extended the time it takes to burn in a plasma pixel cell. In the past I was concerned to place a DVD on pause 15 minutes. Now, many of the enhancements such as better green phosphor material, and motion adaptive anti burn-in technology are greatly reducing the risk of burn in. It’s gotten so much better that I don’t even worry about it anymore. In a new model plasma from any top tier manufacturer I would put “ghosting” estimates at an hour or more now (Ghosting can be “washed” out by displaying static gray material). Permanent burn-in I would put at more than 10 hours. ADVANTAGE: LCD, though not as much a concern as it was a year ago. OTEHR CONSIDERATIONS PRODUCTION SIZE AND COST All television measurements are stated in inches and are for diagonal measurement of the screen from corner to corner - not including framing. Both plasma and LCD TVs are becoming more readily available in larger sizes though plasma still leads the size battle by a great margin. Pioneer and LG produce 61″ plasma sizes while Panasonic has a readily available 65″ model. Though it is not being imported into the U.S. yet, Samsung has produced a gigantic plasma of 100 inches. Though such mammoth monitors are expensive, they exhibit none of the “kinks” one might expect with such large displays. In other words, even the largest plasma displays are reliable. Large plasma displays will consume power - try 675 watts for a 65 “display compared to around 330 watts for a 42″ plasma. The substrate material for LCD TVs has proved difficult to produce in large sizes without pixel defects owing to faulty transistors. Sharp produces one of the largest available LCD displays at 45 inches, while Samsung has a 46″ LCD. Sony and NEC currently produce units measuring 40″ diagonally. This will change very soon. These manufacturers will have very large LCD screens here this year if production goes as planned. ADVANTAGE: Plasma, though the playing field is leveling. Even though production costs and retail prices have come down for both technologies, plasma still has the edge as far as production cost and capacity go. POWER CONSUMPTION Because LCDs use florescent backlighting to produce images, they require substantially less power to operate than plasmas do. LCD TVs consume about half the power that plasma displays consume. The reason: Plasmas use a lot of electricity to light each and every pixel you see on a screen - even the dark ones. Though plasma manufacturers have improved voltage consumption requirements a plasma TV will consume around a third more power for the same size display. ADVANTAGE: LCD PRICE AND RESOLUTION LCD HDTV displays will have a higher resolution per same size comparison than plasma. The lowest resolution of a 40 inch LCD will be 1366 X 768 - easily full HD resolution in 1080i or 720p. A 42 inch HD plasma has a resolution of 1024 X 768. While this is not truly an HD resolution, it’s close enough so that it’s difficult to know the difference. A 50 inch plasma TV will have a resolution of 1366 X 768, while a 45 inch LCD displays 1920 X 1080 (1080P) resolution. Those extra pixels and the production process of LCD HDTVs cost more money to produce. Expect to pay a third as much more for a similar size LCD TV than a plasma display. ADVANTAGE: It’s currently a toss-up. Recommended By Size 15″ LCD TV 26″ LCD TV 42″ LCD TV 19″ LCD TV 32″ LCD TV 46″ LCD TV 20″ LCD TV 37″ LCD TV 52″ LCD TV 42″ Plasma TV 50″ Plasma TV 58″+ Plasma TV Discount LCD TV Best LCD TV
By omni
January 24th, 2009 at 11:30am
Under Audio Video
Portable satellite radios are satellite radios for people on the go and the constant traveler who want to follow the same broadcast news, talk show or music program even when they cross states, or continents.
These portable gadgets employ the same process as a standard satellite radio, only, it is more flexible in terms of mobility, and you can take it with you when you travel great distances.
The radio units as well as battery chargers come with the satellite radio subscription, and are equipped with built-in micro antennas that receive the satellite signals. A portable satellite radio look the same and work in the same concept as a digital MP3 player, or a cellular phone.
Because the built-in antennas may be small compared to fixed-location satellite radios, reception problems may occur. Portable radio satellites are best enjoyed in open air for stronger, block-free receptions, like top-down cars or open yacht decks. Static locations also optimize the sound quality of your portable satellite radio.
A good portable satellite radio should be lightweight, has clear display and can be used with wireless FM transmitters to give you more roaming capabilities, especially in dense locations.
In the United States, Sirius and XM are the two leading providers of portable or mobile satellite radio service (the two have recently merged but are not yet fully integrated due to hardware and software incompatibilities), while Worldspace provides this service to Asia, Europe and Africa.
Source : http://www.articlesnatch.com
By omni
