Custom Search

Onkyo HTS894 5.1 Channel Complete Home Theater System w/ Single Disc DVD

Sunday, September 21, 2008


Technical Details
  • HT-R640 5.1 Channel A/V Surround Sound Receiver
  • 110 watts per channel minimum into 8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.9%, FTC
  • Wrat - Wide Range Amplifer Technology
  • 2 HDMI input and 1 output
  • HDTV Capable component video
Product Description
From the Manufacturer


Integrating Everything You Need—And Then Some—Into One Complete System

The appeal of a complete home theater system—easy to set up, all-inclusive and ready to go—is obvious to all. The reality can be all too often a deflating experience—weak, lifeless audio with few playback options and integration. The HT-S894 complete 5.1-channel home theater system has a different approach: provide HDTV connectivity through High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) and component video (with upconversion); inspired amplifier design; room acoustic correction; and compatibility with the soon-to-be-released high-definition DVD discs, XM Radio and the iPod®. By blending convenience with functionality, the HT-S894 is a perfect entry point for compelling home entertainment.
 
Special Features
  • HDMI Simple Solution: 2 Input / 1 Output on AVR, 1 output on DVD--No need for myriad of cables!
  • Slim, wall mountable 5.1 speaker system with 230W powerd subwoofer
Key Technology Features

Key technology Features: 192 kHz/24bit AD Converters: Costly, extremely powerful digital-to-analog converters , that not only boast a dynamic range of 120 dB, they process information faster and are virtually resistant to clock jitter, to ensure the best possible performance from DVD-Audio, DVD-Video and audio CD.

CinemaFILTER: The tonal balance of a film soundtrack can be edgy and bright when played back over audio equipment in your home—this is because film soundtracks are designed to be played back in large theaters, using commercial equipment. Onkyo has developed its own solution that restores the correct tonal balance of a movie soundtrack in the smaller environs of your home theater.

Component Video Upconversion: Converts incoming composite & S-Video signals (like a VCR to S-Video equipped TV) all the way to Component on most models. A Time-Base Correction circuit prevents picture distortion due to instabilities in the video source signal.

Dolby Digital EX / Pro-Logic IIx: Home theater realism reaches new heights with the creation of Dolby Digital EX. By adding a matrix-encoded surround back channel derived from the existing discrete left and right surround channels, the lack of rear surround in 5.1 channel is eliminated. The result - a fuller 360ยบ experience is created…even from 5.1-channel DVD releases. Best results are obtained when Dolby Digital EX is used with movie soundtracks recorded with Dolby Digital Surround EX. Pro-Logic IIx is the latest improvement on the original Pro-Logic and subsequent Pro-Logic II standards. Pro-Logic IIx adds post-processing to 5.1 channel and stereo signals, creating a realistic 7.1 channel surround environment from 5.1 channel movies and stereo sources, such as CD, Tape, FM Radio.


DTS-ES 96/24 Neo6: There are two DTS®-ES™ (Extended Surround) formats: DTS®-ES™ Discrete 6.1 and DTS®-ES™ Matrix 6.1. The DTS®-ES™ Discrete 6.1 format is, as the name implies, a 6.1-channel system with a discrete back surround channel, while DTS®-ES™ Matrix 6.1, like Dolby® Digital Surround EX™, provides a matrix-encoded back surround channel. There’s also DTS® Neo:6, which derives a 6-channel surround output from a stereo soundtrack, and regular DTS®, which, like Dolby® Digital, is a discrete 5.1-channel system, but which uses less compression than Dolby® Digital. Receivers carrying the "96/24" designation are able to decode a new high-resolution audio format, DTS-96/24. This breakthrough allows for high quality, 5.1 channel audio encoded at 96kHz/24-bit resolution to be stored on a DVD-Video disc (or the DVD-Video portion of a DVD-Audio disc). This format is compatible with all DVD players, with those able to pass a 96kHz signal providing the highest quality output (DTS-96/24 is also backwards compatible with older 48kHz DVD player models).


XM HD Surround: XM Satellite Radio is America's number one satellite radio service. It offers 160 digital channels, including 68 commercial-free, diverse music channels; more than 40 channels of premier sports, talk, comedy, children's and entertainment programming; and 21 channels of traffic and weather information. Simply plug an XM Passport System into your XM Ready A/V receiver, and activate the service to start receiving uninterrupted radio programming of your choice. Now, in conjunction with Neural Audio, XM Satellite Radio offers XM HD Surround, which provides 5.1-channel surround sound on selected programming.


XM Ready: The XM "Connect-and-Play," is a revolutionary technology platform designed to integrate XM into virtually any home or portable consumer electronics entertainment device. By matching XM Ready® audio systems with a simple, elegant antenna/receiver, getting XM becomes even easier for home audio listeners.


NeuralSurround: Neural Surround™ represents the latest advancement in surround technology developed for music and is adopted by XM Satellite Radio for digital radio broadcast of surround recordings and live events in surround sound. Neural Surround™ employs psychoacoustic frequency domain processing which allows delivery of a more detailed sound stage with superior channel separation and localization of audio elements. System playback is scalable from 5.1 to 7.1 multi channel surround playback.


Audyssey EQ: While the convenience and ease of set-up of a matched home theater package is undeniably attractive, many obstacles stand in the way of high-quality performance. In any home theater space, walls, furniture and other objects reflect and absorb sound creating distortion. Designed to work with systems that include speakers, Audyssey EQ is activated by pressing the dedicated button on the accompanying remote control. This pre-calibrated solution was created in the Audyssey laboratories, and the end user does not need to go through the whole process. And while most systems only address frequency response, Audyssey EQ also focuses on the time domain (where most of the problems lie) in the entire listening area. The results are immediately obvious.


HDMI: HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) This high-bandwidth interface supports not only brilliant digital video, but digital audio as well. Up to 5 Gbps of data—more than twice what’s needed for a high-definition movie with surround sound—can be handled, with room for future requirements. All this data is kept in the digital domain, as there are no D/A or A/D conversions needed, to ensure the highest sound and video quality available.


HDMI is fully backward compatible with PCs,displays and consumer electronics devices incorporating the Digital Visual Interface (DVI) standard. Both HDMI and DVI were pioneered by Silicon Image and are based on TMDS®, Silicon Image's powerful, high-speed, serial link technology. HDMI supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. It transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and supports 8-channel digital audio, and with 5 Gbps of bandwidth, HDMI can accommodate future enhancements and requirements. Because HDMI was designed specifically for consumer electronics applications, it offers an array of additional consumer enhancements. As digital content can manifest itself in a variety of sizes, resolutions and formats, HDMI-enabled systems will automatically configure to display content in the most effective format. In addition, HDMI enables a single remote point and click, allowing manufacturers to deliver home theater systems that automatically configure from a single command from a remote control -- turning on or off the components necessary to view a DVD, listen to a CD, or watch cable or satellite TV.


Supported Formates: DVD, MP3, JPG, DivX, WMA.

Product Description


The appeal of a complete home theater system - easy to set up, all-inclusive and ready to go - is obvious to all. The reality can be all too often a deflating experience - weak, lifeless audio with few playback options and integration. The HT-S894 complete 5.1-channel home theater system has a different approach: provide HDTV connectivity through High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) and component video; inspired amplifier design; room acoustic correction; and compatibility with the soon-to-be-released high-definition DVD discs, XM Radio and the iPod. By blending convenience with functionality, the HT-S894 is a perfect entry point for compelling home entertainment.


Customer Reviews
  • By OldAnalogGuy
I'm not an audio snob, but I appreciate good sounds.


This system is just stunning to me. The bass will rattle the room. Mids and highs seem right-on and the DVD player is just terrific.

I guess that one could do better for a higher price, but it is so close to perfect, you would be wasting your money.

All the audio and video forums seem to promote Onkyo over the compitition, and I can see why now. Quality through and through.

There are very few that would shun the performance of this unit. I can almost guarantee that you will love it as I do.
 
.............................................................................................................
 
  • By Christopher Bowden (Dallas, GA United States)

Replaced my 8 year old Onkyo receiver and mismatched JBL / Kenwood / Infinity 5.1 speakers with this bad boy. Let me tell you that I am not one bit disappointed. The setup I had before was really good and blew away most of my friends and family's systems. However, with the addition of my HDTV, an upconvert HDMI DVD player, a component/HDMI DVD recorder, etc... the system just didn't have the connections that I really needed. Started looking at every system out there and found myself coming back to this home theater in the box deal. After looking at it first hand at a local store, I dropped my earlier decision to get a 5.1 JBL speaker system and separate Onkyo receiver and bought this puppy. I now have 2 upconvert DVD players due to the included unit from this system, but I do have to say that I really prefer the Onkyo DVD over my Samsung. It seems to have a lot less hang up's over different types of discs. The receiver puts out a bang and it was a breeze to set up. Still looking for a good set of speaker stands that I like and I'm still toying with replacing the included speaker wire with a better gauge. Other than that, if you're looking for a great system that doesn't require you to take out a second mortgage, you'd be a fool not to grab this system up at the price and quality combo that it has going for it.

...................................................................................................................

  • By Vin Bubba (Toms River, NJ)

I will get my complaints out of the way first and there is only one. Size of the speakers but to be honest it didnt matter for me because I placed them inside the walls. But i could see for a person that needs to mount this unit onto the walls it could be a little of a distraction. Now that we have gotten that out of the way, the system is amazing! It was kept very simple stupid with the directions they color coordinate wires and they make it very clear. But it will take you some time to hook up dont think that you can take it out of the box and 30 minutes later your watching your favorite movie in HD with surround sound. But if you do follow the directions and take your time you will enjoy the finished result

..............................................................................................................................
  • By GIFT Card RECIPIENT "Steve Nguyen" (Pensacola, FL)

I've gotten some serious migraines from all the hdmi issues with compatibility until i got this system to complete my gamers paradise. I started four days ago with a Sony strdg510 receiver to replace my old pioneer 5.1 from 2005. To make it simple after two days of frustration and a new Sony sub in trying to get my ps3 and 360 to work with the digital out i sold the Sony garbage since even with a new sub my gaming didn't have any LFE output. When I got the Onkyo HTS94 home I was really hesitant on the hdmi features of the receiver but after some time spent fiddling with the remote i found the hdmi audio on option located in the hardware setup. For the FIRST time i heard hdmi audio on anything besides my Regza lcd. The first thing i did was i threw in NIN Blu ray to test if i had setup the wiring right and discovered i only had the surround right working and it sounded better than my old Pioneer 5.1 and the Sony put together. Word of advice "Take Your Time" setting up the wiring on the speakers so you get it done right the first time. My only complaints like someone else said was the first time setup guide didn't work on my hdmi so i had to resort to the manual and use the receiver as my display for configuration instead if displaying on the tv but a few days later i found out it works on the component input of the receiver. The ps3 now has many more real sound options with this receiver i mean before i've only known it to do 3 sound options now i have 11 options and don't have to use bitstream for a full surround PCM experience and my 360 is run through hdmi 2 so now i have a free hdmi input on my regza and best of all now i don't have to switch optical cables back forth like i did with the Pioneer due to the hdmi audio actually doing what it's supposed to do. All of my major components were easily setup and it can all be accessed with a click of a button through my Logitech remote. I've never heard the full potential of movies and games from the ps3 or the 360 until now. I couldn't be anymore satisfied with this Onkyo system and would recommend it to any gamer or blu ray fan.
.....................................................................................................
  • By J. Czado "DLPjunkie" (Steel City, PA)

I've been looking/researching home theaters for about 3 months and was actually going for the SR800. I purchased the Samsung 50" DLP in mid September and wanted something that would look good with the TV and also perform at a high level. Samsung HTIB's are junk so I scoured every forum and user review that I could find until one day I stumbled upon the Onkyo HT-S894.

The package is very appealing with the addition of the up-convert DVD player, and it comes with an actual receiver and not some stupid 5 disc changer.

Now for the good part. I was surfing around Amazon this past Sunday and stumble across the 894 for $399.99. SOLD! I have been holding on to a $100 gift certificate for Amazon that I received through a banking points/rewards system. Cashed that bad boy in at checkout and got this system for $299.99 with no tax and free shipping. It arrived last night, and after about 4 hours of cleaning up the old system and putting together the new one I am in surround sound Heaven.

Unbelievable sound, very user friendly, and multiple listening options (PLII, DTS). The DVD player is a fantastic added bonus. The system wasn't the easiest to set up, but I wouldn't expect a product of this caliber to be "easy" to set up. I tried a few different configurations until I was set on the optimal layout of inputs and outputs. Price on Amazon today was $684. I can't believe that I got this system for such a steal.

...................................................................................................
  • By Rafiki (Chicago, IL USA)

This is my first surround sound system, and I couldn't have been more impressed with the ease of set up. The sound is nice, also. Color coded speaker wires came with the system, but I bought 12 gauge speaker wire, since the rear speakers are about 15 or 20 feet away from the receiver.

......................................................................................
  • By S. H. Marchese "Silvestre" (Brazil)

The sound is clear ... the price is honest ... and it's beautiful too !!!

I'm from Brazil and it is playing very well here.

Thank you, Amazon.

...............................................................................................
  • By B. Antczak (Medina, OH)
This Home Theater System is definitely high quality. Sound is excellent with so many different sound processing options you are sure to find one to fit your setup. I use it with my XBOX 360 and the digital output from the Plasma TV with HD over-air, sounds amazing. I watched the All-Star with this on and the digital output of the TV fed into the audio and you could hear every yell, every cuss word the players said. Fortunately with everything great though there comes some setbacks. The digital input selector doesn't automatically switch to the input that is providing an audio stream, as stated in the manual, and the remote doesn't have a button to switch the digital input either so you have to go up to the receiver and press the button on the front. Also the monitor output is through a regular video RCA cable instead of HDMI also it is only HDMI 1.1 so basically it is only a simple pass through to give you one more HDMI input to your TV. The speaker wire is a bit short for the rear speakers. But overall this system has tons of features for changing the frequency range and volume for each speaker and has so many inputs that you should be able to plug in all types of devices. The DVD player that comes with it is a bit confusing at first to setup. Make sure you set the upscaling correctly and the audio output. A.K.A. read both manuals somewhat thoroughly. I am extremely happy with my system, given there is a short pause from when you hit the power button for the DVD player to come on and also if you do not have the TV on, the HDMI input will usually pause once the TV comes on and then start playing once it is ready to accept video. You can't go wrong with this system.


............................................................................................................................

ASUS Eee PC

Tuesday, September 9, 2008
ATOM Processor
Technical Details
  • Easy to learn, work and play
  • Excellent mobile Internet device
  • Exciting multimedia enjoyment
  • Excellent Internet Experience
  • Unique design to fit your individual personality
Product Description
The Asus Eee PC 1000H provides the power of a full-sized laptop in a compact body with an extra-large 10.2-inch screen, and is now powered by the latest Intel mobile processor. Designed specifically for mobile devices, the 1.6 GHz Intel Atom processor uses a brand new design structure new hafnium-infused circuitry--which reduces electrical current leakage in transistors--to conserve energy, giving you more time away from the wall outlet. Coupled with the ASUS exclusive Super Hybrid Engine, you'll also enjoy up to 7 hours of battery life with this Windows-powered laptop.
Much more compact than a standard-sized notebook and weighing just over 3 pounds, the Eee PC 1000H is perfect for students toting to school or road warriors packing away to Wi-Fi hotspots. The Eee PC 1000H also features an 80 GB hard disk drive (HDD), 1 GB of RAM, 1.3-megapixel webcam integrated into the bezel above the LCD, tri-mode Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g/n), integrated Bluetooth connectivity, Secure Digital memory card slot, multiple USB ports, a VGA output for connecting to a monitor.
It comes preinstalled with the Microsoft Windows XP Home operating system, which offers more experienced users an enhanced and innovative experience that incorporates Windows Live features like Windows Live Messenger for instant messaging and Windows Live Mail for consolidated email accounts on your desktop. Complementing this is Microsoft Works, which equips the user with numerous office applications to work efficiently.
The new Eee PC 1000H has a customized Infusion casing technology in Fine Ebony. Inlaid within the chassis itself, the motifs are an integral part of the entire cover and will not fade with time. The Infusion surface also provides a new level of resilience, providing scratch resistance and a beautiful style while out and about.
It's also equipped with the ASUS Super Hybrid Engine for automatic detection and adjustments of CPU frequency, voltage, and LCD brightness to minimize system noise and power consumption to save up to 15 percent power consumption, or to maximize system performance according to individual needs.
For journalists, photographers and other professionals who need to use a computer in the field to create, to communicate and to collaborate with other colleagues, the Eee PC's combination of power, extreme portability and rugged build makes it the ideal computing solution. The keyboard is 95 percent the size of standard notebooks, making it more comfortable to type for larger hands.
It's also a great choice for young students, with a built-in Dictionary that's great for homework, and it includes two modes of intuitive graphic user interface design to accommodate both experienced and inexperienced PC users. The Eee PC also handles your digital images, movies, and music as well as Internet radio.
Be ready for the next platform in wireless connectivity with the integrated Intel Wireless Wi-Fi Link 4965 AGN LAN chip. Based on the draft 802.11n Wi-Fi specification, it offers up to five times the performance and twice the wireless range as existing 802.11g wireless. It's also backward compatible with 802.11b/g networks (commonly found in home routers and Wi-Fi hotspots). With the Bluetooth connectivity, you can communicate and synchronize with Bluetooth-enabled peripherals such as PDAs and cell phones
Nicely light at just 51 ounces, the Eee PC 1000H has a 10.2-inch wide TFT LCD with a 1024 x 600-pixel resolution (WXGA)--making it more comfortable on eyes than its predecessor. In addition to its wireless LAN, it also offers wired Fast Ethernet connectivity and a 56K modem. You get three USB 2.0 ports, a VGA output for connecting to external monitors, headphone and microphone jacks, and a Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot (compatible with MMC memory cards). It's equipped with a 1.3-megapixel webcam (placed in the bezel above the LCD) and integrated microphone, allowing you to snap still photos of yourself while on the go for sending via email or join video chats with friends and family.
Battery-Sipping Processor
The Intel Atom processor uses a brand new design structure that packs in 47 million transistors into a single chip sized at just 22mm (0.87 inches), and it uses just 2.5 watts of power--less than 1/10 of the 35 watts used by an Intel Core 2 Duo processor--for excellent battery management. This 1.6 GHz Atom processor also includes a power-optimized front side bus of 533 MHz for faster data transfer on demanding mobile applications and a 512 KB L2 cache (which temporarily stores data).
Together with the exclusive ASUS Super Hybrid Engine, you'll enjoy a longer battery lifespan of up to 7 hours, allowing you to stay in touch and be connected for a longer period of time while on-the-go. It offers a choice of performance and power consumption modes for easy adjustments according to your computing needs.
 
Online Storage from ASUS
With this Eee PC, ASUS also provides 20 GB of online storage (easily accessible via a desktop icon), which enables you to download up to 5 GB of data per day. It also provides secure file encryption and accessibility from both Windows and Linux platforms. Whether you want to share images with friends and family or store big business presentations, you can now access your data with ease and not worry about space constraints.
 
Specifications
  •  Internal memory: 80 GB hard disk drive (HDD)
  • RAM: 1 GB DDR2
  • Processor: 1.6 GHz Intel Atom
  • Memory expansion: Slot for MMC/SD(SDHC) cards
  • Operating system: Windows XP Home
  • Networking: Tri-mode Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n), 10/100 Fast Ethernet
  • LCD: 10.2 inches, 1024 x 600 pixels
  • Peripheral connectivity: Three USB 2.0
  • External video: One VGA
  • External audio: One headphone and one microphone port
  • Webcamera: Yes, 1.3 megapixels
  • Battery: 6 cells, up to 7 hours
  • Weight: 3.19 pounds (51 ounces)
  • Dimensions: 10.5 × 7.5 × 1.5 inches
What's in the Box

ASUS Eee PC 1000, AC adapter, printed operating instructions. It's backed by a 1-year warranty on parts and labor.
 
Product Description

This Eee PC 1000H offers even more options to users for unique user experiences. Featuring up to 7.5 hours of battery life, built in high speed 802.11n connectivity and exclusive 20GB file-encrypted Eee Storage with 5 GB worth of downloads per day for easy accessibility makes it the ideal traveling companion for outdoor activities. The large 10" display provides comfortable viewing, and a large keyboard makes for easier typing and relaxing usage. Large storage space. Content includes Eee PC, battery, AC Adapter, Sleeve Case, Manual and Recovery CD.your unique personality.



................................................................................................

Archos 5 250 GB Internet Media Tablet

Monday, September 8, 2008

Technical Details

  • 250 GB capacity for up to 300 movies, 2.5 million photos, or 145,000 songs
  • Up to 12 hours music and 4 hours video playback time on a single charge
  • 4.8-inch TFT LCD touchscreen; 800 x 480 pixel resolution; 16 million colors
  • Video support: MPEG-4, WMV, and M-JPEG; Audio support: MP3, WMA, Protected WMA, WMA pro 5.1, WAV; plug-ins available for further video and audio format support
Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description -- Posted August 19, 2008Archos, award-winning for its constant technology innovation and leadership in portable media players now introduces a new concept: the Internet Media Tablet (IMT). The Archos 5 is the flagship product of this new line, bringing you a new way to enjoy the Internet, your media, and TV--all in a handheld device. The Archos 5 250 GB IMT is a high-end portable device with an ultra-thin design, a black stainless steel body, a high-resolution 5-inch touchscreen, and the horsepower of a laptop.
Uncompromised Web Surfing in the Palm of Your Hand
With an 800-pixels-wide resolution and a 5-inch screen, you can browse the Web just as you would on your PC. No need to zoom in and out, as web pages are fully displayed on the Archos screen. Plus, with Adobe Flash 9 video support, you can natively browse video-sharing websites, such as Dailymotion or YouTube. The Archos IMTs boast enough processing power to surf the Web on the go, just like you were doing it with your laptop. No more endless waiting for the page to load; just grab your Archos 5 and check the latest news right away. Your PC wouldn't have finished booting up by the time you've put the Archos back in your pocket. Once connected to a Wi-Fi or 3.5G network, the included email software allows you to check your email accounts (compatible with POP/IMAP) whenever you want. See the number of awaiting emails right on the Archos 5 home screen, answer back, or share attachments with anyone (only compatible formats). Stay in touch while on the go.
Download hundreds of useful and fun widget applications and then put your favorite ones on the Archos home screen. Check the weather before leaving for work, or see the latest sports results without having to start a new application. In less than three clicks, you can access nearly 1,000 Web TV channels, more than 10,000 Web radio stations, and 100,000-plus podcasts. There's no downloading wait time. Radio and TV start streaming right away from a worldwide list of traditional and independent radio and TV stations.
Your Digital Library in a Thin Handheld TabletThe Archos Media Club remains the easiest way to get video and music content on the go. With an even richer library featuring new partners and the biggest industry players, the Media Club lets you discover a large library of movies, documentaries, music, and games. Buy or rent your entertainment in a couple of clicks and start watching it on your Archos 5. Enjoy a great multimedia experience on the go with a high-resolution 5-inch touchscreen right in your hands. Enjoy your favorite videos, browse through your photos with a simple flick of your finger, or play a slideshow of your last vacation.
Plus, you can store your entire CD collection comfortably on your Archos device--there's plenty of room. Rediscover songs left aside for months, or show your friends your latest discoveries. The unique Archos music browsing system allows you to create your playlists without using a PC, and the displayed album covers complete the experience.
Don't get bored on your commute. For a little fun before getting to work or whenever you have a little time to kill, grab your Archos and enjoy some poker, Sudoku, or a round of golf. Premium games can be purchased directly from the tablet or at www.archos.com, or find Flash-based games downloadable for free on the Web.
When you're at home and want to watch a movie or listen to music stored on your PC, just browse the device's hard drive wirelessly and play it without transferring the file. Just stream it via your Wi-Fi network and enjoy it on your
Archos.
Your Digital Library in a Thin Handheld Tablet
The Archos Media Club remains the easiest way to get video and music content on the go. With an even richer library featuring new partners and the biggest industry players, the Media Club lets you discover a large library of movies, documentaries, music, and games. Buy or rent your entertainment in a couple of clicks and start watching it on your Archos 5. Enjoy a great multimedia experience on the go with a high-resolution 5-inch touchscreen right in your hands. Enjoy your favorite videos, browse through your photos with a simple flick of your finger, or play a slideshow of your last vacation.
Plus, you can store your entire CD collection comfortably on your Archos device--there's plenty of room. Rediscover songs left aside for months, or show your friends your latest discoveries. The unique
Archos music browsing system allows you to create your playlists without using a PC, and the displayed album covers complete the experience.
Don't get bored on your commute. For a little fun before getting to work or whenever you have a little time to kill, grab your Archos and enjoy some poker, Sudoku, or a round of golf. Premium games can be purchased directly from the tablet or at www.archos.com, or find Flash-based games downloadable for free on the Web.
When you're at home and want to watch a movie or listen to music stored on your PC, just browse the device's hard drive wirelessly and play it without transferring the file. Just stream it via your Wi-Fi network and enjoy it on your
Archos.
Experience the Best TV at Home or on the Go
With the optional DVR Station, you have the perfect match for your Archos 5 at home and on the go. Schedule and record TV shows and movies in one step with the included remote control. Just locate the TV show on the program guide grid, and you'll have a recording to enjoy at home on your widescreen TV or in the palm of your hand. The DVR Station also will turn your TV into a real multimedia platform connected to the Web. Enjoy all the Archos functions on the big screen in your living room. Watch your movies in HD, listen to your music, share your high-resolution pictures, play games or surf the Web
Technology Meets Design
The Archos 5 features a comfortable, clear widescreen that'll earn a few looks over your shoulder. The touchscreen technology ensures the most instinctive and direct way to access your movies, view your pictures, listen to your music, or browse the Web. The new graphical interface has been designed for total touch control. Reach the main functions with a tap, return at any moment to the home screen, and use the search function to access your files right away. Add shortcuts to your favorite files and display them directly on the Archos home screen for quick access. You also can bring your home screen to life with the new animated wallpapers.
This Archos 5 gives you 250 GB of storage for up to 300 movies, 2.5 million photos, or 145,000 songs--and the processing power to handle them. Enjoy blazing speed with the ARM Cortex superscalar microprocessor.

Add-ons--Enhance Your Archos 5
  • DVR Station
Record TV, play video back to your TV, and charge your Archos device via the DVR Station. With the included TV Program Guide, scheduling and recording from your satellite receiver, cable box, Digital TV adapter has never been so easy. You also can surf the Web or stream web video to your TV while comfortably laid back on your couch using the included remote control as a keyboard and mouse pointer.
  • DVR Snap-on
Record from most any audio or video analog source on the move with the DVR Snap-on, a small device that's no bigger than a pack of gum.
  • Mini Dock
Transfer your files directly from USB keys, digital cameras, or other portable media players with the Mini Dock. Quickly charge your Archos with the included charger/adapter. Play video out to your TV with video output in high quality S-Video or standard quality composite.
Benefit from all the great features of the Mini Dock and get extended playback with the built-in backup battery.
  • Helmet Cam
Turn your Archos into a hands-free digital camcorder with the Helmet Cam, perfect for sports and family fun.
  • FM Remote
Built-in FM receiver and microphone to listen to radio anywhere or make voice recordings. This item is not yet available at Amazon.com.
  • Protective Cases
Protect your Archos and show your style with one of the many protective cases. This item is not yet available at Amazon.com.
  • GPS Car Holder
Turn your Archos 5 into a high-end GPS with the GPS In-Car Holder.
  • TV Snap-on (Available by end of 2008)
Watch live digital TV right on your Archos, record, and enjoy the time-shifting function.
What's in the Box
Archos 5 250 GB Internet Media Tablet, headphones, Archos USB cable, DVR Station adapter (DVR Station is sold separately), screen cleaning cloth, quick start guide, legal and safety notice.




............................................

Nintendo Wii

Sunday, August 3, 2008


Product Features

Plays two disc formats in a single, self-loading media bay
Features a processing chip from IBM and a graphics chip from ATI
Backwards compatible with all Nintendo GameCube games and most peripherals
Built-in Wi-Fi access for easy connection to Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection gaming service Wii Sports game included

Review By Amazon .
Nintendo's Wii video game system (pronounced "we") brings people of all ages and video game experience together to play. This simple yet ground breaking idea is expressed not only though the system's evocative name, which is easily pronounced in a variety of languages, and suggests two players side by side, but also through its innovative list of features and extensive list of playable titles.

A Little Box With Plenty of Power
As with every console, much of the buzz surrounds the specs. The Wii boasts 512 MB of internal flash memory, two USB 2.0 ports, and a slot for SD memory expansion. The system’s technological heart -- a processing chip developed with IBM and code-named "Broadway" and a graphics chipset from ATI code-named "Hollywood" -- deliver stunning performance. And instead of a tray, Wii uses a single, self-loading media bay that plays both 12-centimeter optical discs used for the new system, as well as Nintendo GameCube discs.

Revolutionary Control

No bigger than a small traditional remote control, the wireless Wii Remote is a truly multi functional device. The magic of the Wii Remote's design lies within; acellerometers inside the controller measure movement in all directions and at all speeds. In a tennis game, it serves as your racket as you swing away. In driving games it serves as a steering wheel, allowing you to swerve to avoid obstacles or pickup power-ups. In first-person shooters, it acts as a firearm that you can point directly at an on-screen enemy. The controller also has a force feedback "Rumble" feature and an expansion port for use with accessories, such as the Nunchuck, which adds an analog thumbstick and trigger buttons. The system allows for up to four controllers to be linked at a time and utilizes standard Bluetooth wireless technology. For those who prefer the feel of a traditional controller an adapter is available that fits over the Wii's remote.

A Channel for Everyone

  • Mii Channel - Miis are cute little caricatures you create to use as characters in a variety of Wii software. Store Miis on your Wii or load them onto your Wii Remote and take them over to a friend’s house to use on their Wii.
  • Everybody Votes Channel * - The Everybody Votes Channel is packed with national and worldwide polls. Answer interesting questions and have your say. Up to six members of your family can vote. Just choose an answer and check in later to see the results.
  • News Channel * - Wii might be great for games, but you can also use it to get updates on the latest news from across the Internet organized into easy-to-browse categories.
  • Forecast Channel * - Your Wii can automatically update you on the weather from around the globe.
  • Wii Shop Channel * - Download the Opera web browser and access games from classic consoles from the past. All you need is a Wii Points account.
  • Virtual Console - Every Virtual Console game you download from the Wii Shop Channel appears in the Wii Menu as a separate Channel ready to select and play any time you like.
  • Internet Channel * - Just download the Opera browser for 500 Wii Points and within minutes, you’ll be a professional sofa surfer, pointing-and-clicking your way around the web with your Wii Remote.
  • Photo Channel - Show off all your digital photos on your TV. Just insert an SD memory card into your Wii and away you go.
  • Disc Channel - The Disc Channel is backwards compatible with Nintendo GameCube, so you can play all your new Wii discs, along with all your classic Nintendo GameCube discs too!
The Depth of the Nintendo Game Catalog
Each Wii comes with a game compilation called "Wii Sports," including tennis, golf, baseball and bowling games, that show off the console's intuitive new controller, but Wii also plays games developed specifically for it as well as fan-favorite games from Nintendo's 20-year-old library. Its drive is compatible with GameCube discs, and select Nintendo titles from the original NES of the 1980s all the way through the Nintendo 64 are available for download through the "Virtual Console" for $5 and $10 respectively. To support this backwards compatibility the Wii includes four ports for classic Nintendo GameCube controllers and two slots for Nintendo GameCube Memory Cards. As if that weren't enough, the Virtual Console will also make available a few titles from SNES console contemporaries, Sega Genesis and TurboGrafx 16.
Also, Wii utilizes Nintendo's newly-announced wireless feature, WiiConnect24. This worldwide feature allows players to receive content such as Wii Message Board messages sent from other Wii consoles, Miis, e-mails, updated channel and game content, and notification of software updates even while the console is on standby, keeping the fun going even when you are not online.







Customer Reviews

The Nintendo Wii is the most inexpensive of the current generation of gaming consoles. It provides motion sensing controllers and 480p graphics. We tested the wii before its launch day (I'm a game reviewer), and we had our own unit in our home the morning of launch day. Here are our findings. The Wii is designed around a menu of "channels". There is of course the game-playing channel, where the Wii will play any Wii or GameCube game. Simply load the disc in and go. There is a Mii channel where you set up a profile and avatar to connect to all your game playing. The Photos channel lets you look at photos on your TV. Other channels for news, weather, and online shopping require an interent connection; the news and weather were not actually working at launch time. The system does NOT have a regular network cable port, which both the PS3 and XBox 360 have. Instead, it works with built in wireless or with a USB network adapter. I am a firm proponent of wireless - less clutter! So I am thrilled that they offer wireless automatically. With the PS3, you have to pay extra for the 60 gig unit to get this built in. The XBox 360 requires extra hardware as well. It's hard to generalize gameplay on any console - it really depends on what games you buy. That being said, the comes-with-it software of Sports is really quite fun and is about as basic as you can get. You swing at baseballs, lob tennis balls, bowl, box and play golf. A "fitness" mode puts you through a variety of tasks and then calculates your fitness age, sort of like how Brain Age keeps track of your mental age. If you did both every day, you could aim to be as fit mentally and physically as possible! In a world where video games = couch potato, it really is quite amazing to have a game where it natively expects you to move and be active. You don't lounge back and gain pounds here while playing games. Boxing can be quite strenuous, jabbing, blocking and weaving in real life. Tennis involves quick reflexes and strong arm movements. Bowling might be the most relaxed of the sports, but even there you are standing, moving, swinging. You get your heart going at least a little, and get some exercise. My boyfriend had a sore arm after playing for a number of hours, in a good way, as he would from exercising. The 480p resolution is certainly not high def 1080p like the other two systems. It's something you accept when you're paying such a low price for the console. But really, it's not that big a deal. I still play the old Zeldas and love them for their gameplay, even though you can't see the pores in Link's face. If they are going for the cartooney characters and environments, 480p is DVD quality and is quite good. If you really, really crave high definition super realism in your games, then the Wii might not be the best choice for you. However, if you're fine with playing games with a more impressionist / cartooney look to them, the 480p can show that quite nicely. For example, there aren't fans in the stands for baseball - there are colored blocks. Nintendo has always been known as a "Kid's Console" - but I really do think with the Wii that they have become a "Family Console". It's not just kids who will enjoy this. Seniors can have fun bowling without knowing anything "Tricky" about how to use a video game unit. It's very intuitive. Moms can easily play with their kids, each with their own Wii profile. Adults having parties can have fun passing the controllers around. Family groups can share slideshows on the big screen while hanging out and drinking wine. Every person who has come over - from 8 to adult - has instantly understood and enjoyed the Wii, without much explanation at all. With the price tag being so low, a gaming household that "needs" a higher end system can easily save up their money to get that XBox 360 or PS3 - and still be able to justify to get a Wii for the fun, casual gaming stuff to share with their non-gaming friends. Well recommended! Since I own all three systems, and am playing all three wirelessly, feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.

Update: One year later, and the Wii is still going strong! It's really funny how many people said the Wii would bomb because it wasn't as good as the PS3 or 360 - and here we are a year later and the Wii is still the system that people are really wanting to get. Hospitals are getting Wiis for their patients to play with. Senior centers are getting Wiis for their residents to play games together with. I was just on a cruise ship and they had Wii tournaments going on every day! This is a fantastically fun system that we really enjoy playing with and that literally the whole family can have fun with. There are great games for kids, great games for teenagers, great games for adults. I am really very pleased with how the Wii has held up and the game set available for it. I'm running out of space here, but my nintendo.bellaonline.com site has full articles on exactly what you get in this box, and what else you should buy so you have a full system to play with.

..............................................................................................................

H. Vargas'

Just picked this up during the midnight launch at Wal-mart, so far it's 3:45AM PST and I have to say that I'm totally impressed by Nintendo's latest effort though at first the new control may feel foreign after not more than just a few minutes it feels natural incredibly fun and after a little bit you'll never feel like going back to a regular controller again. I asked my cousin who was w/ me during the launch if he'd get a Wii and he said "no", but that all changed as we hooked it up and started playing Wii sports. All of a sudden it went from "no" to "what games are there" etc. Try this and I guarauntee(*sp) that you will be impressed by this revolutionary new system that places gameplay above nice shiny eye candy which unless you've been living under a rock should know by now that that's not what the Wii's all about. I just also wanted to add that I'm not just some Nintendo fanboy trying to butter this system up as I also own a 360 and also plan on owning a PS3 when the right games come out for it, pure and simple I am a gamer and don't care for one particular system over another as long as it has the games to back it up. For those that are skeptical stop doubting this is the real deal and at a price ($250) that can't be beat by any of Nintendo's competitors this is something that will entertain the entire family regardless of age, gender etc. For about $350 I picked up an extra controller set(wii remote and nunchaku)and a copy of Zelda (try getting anywhere near that much w/ any other system). I'll admit that when Nintendo had finally shared its strategy to the world a while back I was skeptical as well until I saw the videos for it and knew from than on that Nintendo was truly onto something great. Another cool note is that if you have a Gamecube controller lying around you can actually use that for playing the library of old school games that come from the Wii shop (which can be purchased w/ Wii points)instead having to go out and buy the new Wii retro controller (nice touch) some old school games can also simply be played w/ the remote. Also unlike the almighty Microsoft point the Wii points are on equal terms w/ the dollar so 100 Wii points equals $1 etc. You can purchase those online in the Wii shop by 1000 point increments(I believe) up to 5000 points. Prices for NES games are 500 points 800 points for Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo games and 1000 points for N64 games. Right now though the library is fairly limited offering no more than a few titles (no more than 5)for each console. The bottomline though is don't miss out on this revolutionary product it is definately worth at least a try before you dismiss it as a clever gimmick and is truly one of the best systems to come out in years(IMO) and a breath of fresh air to the staleness which are controllers. Additional features include Wi-fi for wireless connection, 4 Gamecube control ports, 2 USB ports, 2 Gamecube memory card slots and extra slots for SD flash cards (doesn't accept anything else like Memorysticks) so you can view your pictures on the Wii for instance.

...................................................................................

GPS.

Garmin StreetPilot 2720 Portable GPS Navigator

Product Features
  • internal antenna communicates with up to 12 GPS satellites
  • Database of preloaded maps and points-of-interest
  • Automatic route recalculation if you miss a turn
  • Text-to-speech functionality allows the unit to audibly announce the names of upcoming streets and points of interest
  • 454 x 240-pixel touchscreen
Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description
If you're looking for a premium vehicle GPS navigation system, one with text-to-speech and the ability to gather real-time traffic information, the StreetPilot 2720 is the answer. In addition to the turn-by-turn voice-prompted navigation available in earlier StreetPilot models, the 2720's text-to-speech functionality allows the unit to audibly announce the names of upcoming streets and points of interest, letting you keep your eyes on the road while navigating through busy traffic and tricky roadways.
At the heart of the 2720 is a new control system that features a widescreen, automotive-grade touchscreen display that automatically dims and brightens based on ambient light conditions. While the 454 x 240 pixel touchscreen interface is designed for ease of use, the 2720 also ships with a wireless remote control that can be used to operate the device's functions.
and quick release, or you can use the included "bean bag" mount if you don't want to add a mount to your dash. An included speaker attachment that is built into the 12-volt cigarette lighter adapter enables the 2720 to deliver voice prompts. An internal antenna that communicates with up to 12 GPS satellites is provided, as is a USB port for PC connectivity. There's also an MCX-type connector for hooking up an optional external GPS antenna. And if you need waterproofing, the 2720 is up to the challenge; it meets IEC 60529 IPX7 standards, which means it's submersible in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
Finding your way with the 2720 starts with inputting a location on the touchscreen. Next, the unit's text-to-speech feature speaks to you just like a back seat driver, telling you the names of streets and when to turn and in what direction. And if you happen to miss a turn, don't worry--the 2720 automatically calculates a new route to your destination. In addition to point-to-point navigation, the 2720 can calculate the most efficient route between multiple destinations--a real time-saver for realtors, salespeople, and errand-runners. You can also tell the unit to avoid specific areas or road segments when calculating a route. You can also select a three-dimensional mapping perspective, or choose from several 2-D overhead viewing options. What's more, audible and visual navigation instructions and warnings help you navigate more quickly while keeping your eyes on the road.
Another time- and frustration-saving feature of the 2720 is the database of preloaded maps and points of interest. Gone are the days of uploading partial maps from your computer to your GPS device: the 2720 has them all built in. The unit comes preloaded with Garmin's highly detailed MapSource City Navigator NT North America maps of the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Finding points of interest along your route is made easy with the 2720's huge built-in database of nearly six million hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, and attractions. Garmin has also made it easy for users to upload custom points of interest--now you can add school zones or safety cameras to your database. You can even turn on a proximity alert to notify you of upcoming custom points of interest.Garmin really kicks the power of the 2720 up a notch with the addition of real-time traffic information. This optional service will display congested areas on a color-coded map, allowing you to avoid traffic by simply pushing a button that calculates a new route. All this wizardry is made possible by the new Garmin GTM 10 receiver that connects to the 2720 and other select Garmin products. Note that while the GTM 10 receives digital data from specific FM broadcast stations in select major metro areas throughout the United States and Europe, these traffic services are available only in select cities where coverage exists. The service requires the GTM 10 FM TMC traffic receiver and, in some cases, a subscription to enable these traffic capabilities.

What's in the Box
StreetPilot 2720 receiver, MapSource City Navigator NT North America maps, 12-volt power cable with external speaker, alphanumeric remote control, PC/USB interface cable, AC power adapter, beanbag mount, dash mount, protective cover, owner's manual, and a quick-reference setup guide.
Product Description
Find your way more easily with GPS navigation, a top grade TFT display, turn-by-turn directions and optional traffic alerts.
Features:
  • Portable GPS navigator
  • Ready to use right out of the box
  • Preloaded City Navigator® street maps for the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico
  • Nearly 6 million points of interest, including restaurants and landmarks
  • Proximity Alert feature warns of safety cameras and school zones
  • Turn-by-turn automatic routing
  • Articulates names of streets
  • 3.8" automotive-grade, sunlight-readable color TFT display
  • Photo sensor adjusts to light conditions
  • Optional real-time traffic avoidance (GTM 10 Traffic Management Receiver sold separately)
  • Touch-screen interface
  • Built-in patch antenna
  • Arranges multiple destinations to minimize trip distance
  • Multiple map viewing options, including 3-D
  • 3-D or 2-D map perspective
Includes:
  • Alphanumeric remote control
  • External speaker with 12-volt adapter cable
  • USB interface cable
  • AC power adapter
  • Dash mounting system with quick release
  • Protective cover
  • 1-year manufacturer's warranty







Customer Reviews

It's time to buy an in-car navigator

I have been playing around with GPS for 5 years. Until I got this Garmin 2720, it's all just been a waste of money. The 2720 is a great practical tool. I travel all the time, and finally, I've been liberated from MapQuest, Yahoo Maps and Microsoft Streets & Maps. This is a practical tool that really works. My last purchase was a Belkin Bluetooth GPS receiver to connect too my iPaq. A total waste of money, as were my previous GPS toys. The 2720 is the first GPS product I've bought that really makes sense. It's simple, and easy to use, and it's ready to go right out of the box. The screen is readable in all lighting conditions, and the 3D view is easy to read at a glance. The text-to-speech feature really makes it. You really don't have to look at the screen that often. It speaks the names of the streets and tells you where to turn exactly how to get to your destination. You'll want to enable WAAS right away (It's disabled initially in the default settings) because it keeps the system from spontaneously recalculating your route and taking you on wild goose chases. After enabling WAAS, it has been very accurate. The user interface is very intuitive and easy to use, and you really don't need a manual. I really love the ability to find nearby restaurants and shopping places. The beanbag mount is great for all the cars I rent on business trips... Just slap it on the dashboard, plug it in and go. I was considering a Garmin C340 initially, but for the small difference in price, why buy a crippled low-end, hard-to-read-in-sunlight unit? You'll be sorry you didn't go for the 2720 if you buy a C330 or C340. The 2720 has the same easy-to-use interface as the C3xx with a much more readable screen, and far more features. Honestly, I can't find anything wrong with this unit. Buy one.
You'll be glad you did.

...........................................................................................................

By Barara A.Blackburn

What in the world are the people giving one star ratings reviewing? Surely they don't have the same GPS I recieved a few days ago. I'm sure they think their complaints are valid -- I just don't see it. I've been using m[ine for four days and love. RIght out of the box and on my dash in forty minutes. Would have been even quicker but I took time t read the reviews and update the firmware to the latest version as well as the new voice (JILL) from Garmin's site. Perhaps that's what made the difference. No freezes. No unexpected reboots. Been smooth sailing all the way. A few things that weren't documented. The GPS can be tiled forward and backward as well as rotated on it's mount. I was a bit concerned when I first put the unit on my dash because my dash angles back. I was afraid I would be able to get a good angle in sunlight to see the screen. Garmin's mount design is brilliant but I discoverd the tilt feature quite by accident when I grapsed the unit to push down on the self-adhesive gasket. I live near Chicago -- very congested area constantly changing. I was pleasantly surprised the mapset has a lot of recent developments. One thing I thought I would hate is the speaker on the power cable. But it angles back to lie flush with the dash and I LOVE the sound. My old TOM TOM could barely be heard over road noise once I got over 55 mph. The GARMIN speaker is high quality and the female voice isn't drowned out. Very responsive as far as routing and prompting turns. Much faster than my old GPS 60CS in fact. I have a route to a local beach on Lake Michigan which features a series of rapid turns in succession. The 2720 keeps up with amazing speed. And if I miss a turn it seems to detect it much quicker than my 60CS and reroutes almost immediately. I couldn't be more pleased with this purchase. I toyed with the idea of getting the 2730 but XM Radio/XM Traffic just wasn't something I was interested in at this point in time. I highly recommend this device. If you buy it UPDATE the firmware immediately and update the voice. The new firmware features a new interface/map layout than what's shown in the promo pics on Amazon and Garmin. The Turn Arrow icon has been moved of the sidebar and now overlays the map. And the Direction Text is no longer across the top in a greenbar but on the sidebar in a box. Much more pleasing to the eye in my opinon. It's also a much more stable device than it apparently was several months ago. WHich is typical of GPS units. THe bugs get worked out slowly in a series of firmware updates.

................................................................................

Samsung LN52A650.

Saturday, August 2, 2008
Samsung LN52A650 52-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV with Red Touch of Color





Customer Reviews .


Beautiful TV! From the picture to the bezel, just perfect.,

I've had this TV since very early March. I've watched HD, SD and Blu-Ray and can not find a flaw. The 650 handles motion extremely well to where blurring and other artifacts are vitually non-existant. The AMP is a very cool feature that brings a realism to film making it seem more life-like, or as if it were originally shot on HD Video. Some have said this gives off a "soap opera" effect. I can see that description, but to me it makes film based DVD's and movies look more like your watching a real-life play, viewing it through a window. It's a very cool effect! I understand people's concern's with the glossy screens found on plasma and some LCD's. This screen is slightly less reflective than Samsung's 71 series but can still be a problem for some. It would be nice if there was an easy solution for this but there's not. Sony and other makers use a matte type of screen that certainly helps or eliminates the problem but introduces other negatives. I find colors and blacks just don't "pop" on matte screens and tend to wash out more for off-angle viewing. The 650 has a picture with great depth and color from any angle, greatly adding to the immersion effect. Much talk has been about the TOC bezel. I think Samsung has hit it out of the park with this. I absolutely love the red. I think it adds just a touch of class. It sets this tv apart from all others(though the picture quality already does this) while still being very subtle and retaining the ability to blend in with any decor. Most people who've come to my home do not even notice the red until I point it out. I'm a little tired of every set looking the same with either a piano black bezel or flat black. This is a very welcome change. I like many other suffered the shut-off issue. As has been mentioned it appears Samsung has fixed the issue with a firmware update. I've updated the FW and so far so good. It was annoying but not a huge deal to me. Samsung should be commended for how quickly they addressed the issue. I received several calls from upper level officials that were very concerned with my problem. I've never had this level of service from any other manufacturer. Well done Samsung! A side effect of the FW update is that the AMP processing received a boost. Before the FW update I usually had AMP on low at all times and would occasionally put it on High. Now, I still use it at the low setting most times but will put it on Medium occasionaly, and find the High setting a bit much for me. I can put it on High without most of the annoying artifacts people have desribed the 71 series has, which is nice, nut the actual effect is bit much for me. Overall, this is best the LCD on the market. I can't see Sony or any of the other manufactures making a better TV this year. They may match it perhaps, but certainly won't surpass it. For those that were on the fence waiting to buy until the shut-off issue was fixed, your wait is over. Buy with complete confidence and enjoy one of the best TV's out there!



..............................................................................................



ByJCD (UT United States)

When I purchased this TV from Amazon.com I had already decided on this Samsung 52" series and was trying to decide between the 650 and the 750. At the time there was a small price difference between the two on Amazon.com. I ended up choosing the 650 because I was placing the TV inside a nook that had limited space. The 650 has a less bulky frame around the LCD screen and therefore it was only 50.2 inches wide (Amazon has the TV dimensions incorrectly listed as 52" wide) as compared to the 750 which is 52" wide. Both screens have the same display area, just a different width. The other reason I chose the 650 is that it can swivel on the base, whereas the 750 is fixed on its base. Because I have placed the TV in a nook, this swivel feature has come in very handy as I have had to get behind the it several times to plug in cords, etc. I have read a lot about screen reflection and was bracing myself for a potentially unpleasant experience during daytime viewing, especially since the room the TV is in has windows all the way across two walls and is full of sunlight daily. I'm happy to report that screen reflection is absolutely no problem. The TV I was replacing with the Samsung LCD was an older 32" Panasonic Panablack analog TV with the glass screen, which had a lot of reflection. As a point of reference, the Samsung has about 20% of the screen reflection of my old TV (judging from when the TV is off). When the TV is on, the Samsung is about 5% of screen reflection from what I used to have with my old TV, which may be due to the incredible brightness of the display.

.........................................................................................................................

By. Mr. Cool

It's a really nice and stylish looking TV. The red color that is so bright on the product's pictures is only a shade of dark cherry red that is visible only under bright light. This reddish shadow looks incredibly cool! Totally different than the product photos. If you have modern home, this is the set to have. Forget that Sony with that horrible aluminum things around it! The set has not turned itself off yet as other users reported, so maybe it was a bad batch they got. The picture is amazing, best I've seen so far (with 50,000:1 contrast ratio it better be good!). It has RGB input for PC, but also you can configure HDMI input #2 to be a PC input (for DVI equipped video cards). I didn't know about it, and tried to run my PC through other HDMI ports that I didn't set to be PC inputs. The result was .... TV quality picture with PC screen, all clipped, blurry text, etc. Pretty awful. Then I set the HDMI #2 input to be PC input, hooked my PC to it, and suddenly I was starring with my jaw wide open at the most sharp LCD PC screen ever! Text is razor sharp!! Also the color saturation and all got set to the correct PC colors, and not the TV colors. Run a photo slide show (no, not THAT photos, lol) on this and you will start dating that machine, it's so freakin' hot!
Custom Search