Showing posts with label amplifier. Show all posts
Showing posts with label amplifier. Show all posts

5/22/2012

Wireless Extenders zBoost YX610 Dual Band PCS and Cellular 800/1900 MHz 60db Amplifier Repeater Signal Booster Kit Review

Wireless Extenders zBoost YX610 Dual Band PCS and Cellular 800/1900 MHz 60db Amplifier Repeater Signal Booster Kit
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Installed everything in the attic except the base unit antenna (the small square panel). I had to install an electrical outlet in the attic to power the base, but this extra step kept me from running an extra wire through the wall. The PCS antenna (the large square panel) and the 800Mhz antenna (the one that looks like a TV antenna) are both clamped to a four foot piece of 1-inch PVC pipe. The PVC pipe is mounted vertically in the highest section of the attic directly over where the base unit and the base unit antenna is located. The only thing you will have to provide is the coaxial cable to connect the two attic antennas to the base unit. The base unit antenna is mounted inconspicuously over the bookshelves in the great room and it has boosted my Sprint signal from dropped calls to five bars. It covers the entire house, although the signal drops to two bars in some of the perimeter rooms. There is not a place in my 3000 square foot house that doesn't get a signal. This is a tremendous improvement considering I had to keep my phone near a window so as not to miss or lose calls. Is it expensive? Only if you see it as something you don't really need, but considering how much my family uses their mobile phones at home I consider it a bargain.
My only real complaint is with the instructions. They do not include photographs or drawings that label each component and the order in which they should be connected together. It would have helped me greatly in visualizing how I was going to install everything before I got started.
After two months of service I am very happy with it. I will try and update this review with a report on how it holds up in the summer attic heat later this year.
One more comment: the 800MHz antenna has boosted my digital roam signal even better than the 1900MHz antenna has boosted my Sprint PCS signal. I get four or five bars throughout the entire house. This means vistors with different phone service will not miss calls either.

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5/19/2012

Bazooka MC-HD-AMK 4-Channel Harley Amplifier Kit Review

Bazooka MC-HD-AMK 4-Channel Harley Amplifier Kit
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I installed the AMP myself and tested it. I seems to work great. The sound is so much better. I like my music loud and I can only turn it up to 1/2 volume. I have not really done anything other than test the unit in my garage as it is too cold to ride right now. Will have to see how it performs on the road. I need a year of riding to give a good review.

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5/16/2012

Fatman iTube Valve Dock Mk. II Review

Fatman iTube Valve Dock Mk. II
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Wow, is this amp overpriced!
It is not a valve (or tube) amp, in the strictest sense of the word, but really a hybrid amp -- one that uses tubes in the preamp stage, but for its actual amplification relies on solid state technology.
There's nothing wrong with that, of course, but ads stressing the fact that it uses tubes seem to play on the current infatuation with tubes to lull ill-informed consumers into paying more than they should for this sort of amp.
For $450, please be aware you could get an actual tube amp... one that will sound worlds better, have more power, and be more versatile.
A quick bit of googling for Dared MP5, Sonic Integrity, and the like will reveal that all these hybrids were built in the same place as the Fatman and just rebranded: in Asia, they are all very, very cheap.
With some shopping around, you should be able to find one of these here in the US for around $200 -- still far more than these cost in Asia, but much more in line with what the amp is probably worth in the US marketplace.
I paid less than $200 for a brand new one. I enjoyed it for a brief period of time, but never found its sound particularly engaging, either with speakers or with headphones. It didn't do anything glaringly wrong, but it didn't add the tube sparkle that I had hoped it would, even with high quality NOS tubes substituted for the low-quality stock tubes.
While solid, well-built and quite attractive to look at, this amp is essentially a novelty, because it is not powerful enough to drive most mass market speakers with authority: prospective purchasers should either be prepared to invest in some highly-efficient speakers to do it justice, or plan on just enjoying its adequate headphone output.
The docking station is very, very cheaply made -- lightweight and plasticky (unlike the amp itself) -- and the remote is a joke.
Please do yourself a favor and shop around before considering pressing the "Add To Cart" button. There are many more sonically-satisfying and serious amps out there at its price point.
Happy listening!
PS - The two tubes in the front are the preamp tubes: they can be easily swapped out to upgrade the sound of the amp. The larger one in the back merely provides a visual representation of how hard the amp is being driven/how close it is to clipping. (In other words, it does not influence the sound of the amp at all, so there is no point in trying to upgrade the larger rear tube.)

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4/26/2012

Denon AVR-2808CI 7.1-Channel Multizone Home Theater Receiver Review

Denon AVR-2808CI 7.1-Channel Multizone Home Theater Receiver
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I've owned a few receivers in the past (mostly Sony ES models), but none of them compare to this one. Denon specializes in audio, and it shows! Don't get me wrong, I love and own alot of Sony's products (two TVs, PS3, Vaio computer, DVD player, etc.), but after picking up this Denon and pairing it with a Polk speaker/sub setup, I've never been happier, and the upgrade from the Sony ES it replaced is substantial in many ways.
Denon AVR-2808ci Pros:
-Sound quality is absolutely incredible! Even compressed music from iPod is great ("Restorer" feature really helps!). Highs, mids and lows are all accurately reproduced, and there are tons of custom EQ options!
-Audyssey Auto-Calibration is accurate and thorough.
-Includes decoding of all current and future sound-fields (DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD, as well as Uncompressed PCM and everything else you can imagine, all via HDMI version 1.3a)!
-Display is large and includes alot of necessary info-this thing tells you what it's doing.
-Solid build quality and nice looking!
-Connectivity options (HDMI, toslink, digital coax, component video, s-video, etc.)
-Video upconversion via HDMI using built-in Faroudja DCDi processor, or just passthrough and use as a convenient HDMI switcher (assignable inputs).
-Excellent sound processors, both for movies and music, complement a solid, beefy amplifier.
-Customizable as all heck: 4-stage dimmer, "Quick Select" feature for three sources, learning lcd remote, volume level options, mute level options, default settings per-source, massive amount of EQ/channel level/crossover settings, and more!
-Main remote works great, learns and controls just about all of your gear.
This receiver is truly great for anybody who is serious about their Home Audio/Home Theater. The only drawbacks are that it is very complex, which is fine except that Denon doesn't make it any simpler to understand in the manual. It definitely takes some time to set this thing up and learn its interface. The Sony's I've owned in the past were far more user-friendly from the initial set-up/calibration onward. However, they never delivered results that were even close to this unit, and once you learn it, it does make sense and is relatively user-friendly after setup.
Cons:
-Complex manual and interface takes time to learn.
-On Screen Menu lags a little and blacks out picture rather than a nice overlay. Also, it's not the better looking, more user friendly GUI that more expensive models have (as well as all Sony's).
-Smaller secondary remote only works for other Zones (not a big deal really, but still...)
-Main remote takes forever to program/set up for universal usage. complicated.
-Only two HDMI inputs (could've used at least one more at this price range).
-No HD radio or Sirius support (does have XM).
Overall, minor gripes aside (nothing's ever perfect), I'm incredibly pleased and excited to own this unit and have it as the central hub to my Home Theater. I have Blu-ray now (PS3) and the advantages and options both now and in the future are vast. I'm confident that the Denon AVR-2808ci will allow me to take full advantage of that and other things for years to come. Mostly, though, it just cranks out amazingly good audio from any source, and that is ultimately what receivers are for. Highly recommended!

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4/22/2012

Marantz M-CR603 Network Stereo Receiver with CD Player Review

Marantz M-CR603 Network Stereo Receiver with CD Player
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if you seek a simple, yet sophisticated approach to a secondary audio-room, look no further. it won't play loud and deep, but it will handle most secondary listening needs perfectly. for the price, you can't go wrong.

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2/11/2012

Onkyo A-9555 Integrated Digital Stereo Amplifier (Black) Review

Onkyo A-9555 Integrated Digital Stereo Amplifier (Black)
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I ordered this amp on a whim as a companion for an Onkyo DX-7555 (single disc "audiophile" CD player) since they share a sophistocated remote system. I owned, and still own, a somewhat esoteric AudioLab 8000S which I consider to be sonically flawless and offering great flexibility even though it's almost 15 years old and really didn't expect the Onkyo to be much other than a typical import amp with a lot of bells and whistles but not outstanding performance.....big surprise. This amp is easily the sonic equal of my "British hand crafted" AudioLab, is robustly built and very, very musical. A great bargain at less than $500.
Particularly rewarding is a better than decent MM phono section allowing me to retire a separate head amp for those rare occasions when only vinyl will do. Additionally, while the unit includes bass/treble/and a subtle "loudness contour", the additional circuitry can be bypassed for a "direct" mode which essentially provides a straight wire of gain to your speakers...very clean and powerful. With the companion CD player it's a knockout combination and I recommend it highly.

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Onkyo Digital 85 Watt Stereo Receiver

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2/08/2012

Dared SL-2000A Review

Dared SL-2000A
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The Dared SL2000A has gotten plenty of positive reviews, and I can see why.
It is solidly well-built, physically attractive, and -- most importantly -- it sounds really good.
The latest version has two inputs and two outputs, as well as a wooden remote volume control.
This compact, versatile unit is a great way to add some tube warmth and liquidity to your system at a reasonable price. It is often available on the used market for about $300, which is what I paid for mine.
My only minor quibble with the unit is a minor aesthetic one: there's a large unsightly engraving of the Dared logo, model number and -- bizarrely -- a toy-like line drawing of tube etched into one side of the chrome body. IMHO, it is an unfortunate aesthetic blunder on an otherwise classy chassis.
That tiny gripe aside, this little preamp has quickly become one of my favorite pieces of audio gear. I find myself listening to the budget system in which I have it more frequently than some of my more pricey systems.
In short, this little Dared is highly recommended -- especially with some nice NOS tube substitutions!
PS - When I first wrote this review, the retail price was in the low to mid 400's. Now I see it has gone up again to 519. At that price, I'm not sure that it is such a bargain. My advice would be to keep an eye out for a used one in good condition.

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1/26/2012

Onkyo HT-RC260 7.2-Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black) Review

Onkyo HT-RC260 7.2-Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black)
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I want to start off by saying that i'm no audiophile and that i don't have super fantastic speakers so this review won't be commenting on the nuances of sound quality of this receiver. But lets face it, if you are only spending $350.00 on a receiver, you are looking for a good receiver, not one that is going to blow you out of the water. That being said...
The Onkyo was delivered in one day (thanks Amazon Prime) and came well packaged. There was a serious dent in one side of the box, but nothing was harmed inside. The receiver is quite heavy (which i hope indicates decent internals). Set up was VERY easy. The 5 HDMI ports on the rear (plus one on the front) are, of course, the easiest to hook equipment up to. The speaker terminals are clearly indicated and there are two subwoofer pre-outs. Additionally, if you don't want to run a true 7.1 set-up, you can run either an extra pair of fronts or bi-wire your front speakers (if you have that option). This was unexpected at this price point.
I have the following hooked up to the receiver. Sony PS3 slim, Xbox 360 (1st generation / component + toslink cables), WD TV (media player), and a comcast (motorala brand) cable box. Everything, other than the xbox 360, is hooked up via HDMI. The optical and coaxial audio inputs are assignable (once you get into the systems menu which is on-screen). I have everything running via a single 35 foot hdmi cable to my ceiling mounted Epson 8100 projector (which is a 1080p 3-lcd unit). I use a harmony remote, so i can't comment too much on the included onkyo one, but i did use it for setting up the receiver and it's fairly comfortable to hold and seems to have a complete set of function buttons on it.
Just a few random notes:
- the display on the receiver is very bright, but the remote has a dimmer button on it which can dim the display until it is almost off.
- the microphone set-up was VERY easy. Just place it in 3 locations and hit a few buttons. It does the rest of the calibration for you.
- the sound (even through my old sony speakers) is better than what my old sony and denon receivers could produce.
- hdmi pass-through is available, as is on board up-scaling and analog to digital up-converting to 1080p out via HDMI (a very nice feature at this price point)
Keep in mind that I'm no expert, but i have set up a number of systems (from cheap home-theaters-in-a-box up to $50,000 custom home theater rooms) and this product really impresses me on its feature set as well as its ease of set up. If anyone has any questions, please don't hesitate to ask via amazon.

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While we may define it as an entry-level A/V receiver, the HT-RC260 gives you performance and features that leave class-competitors gasping in its wake. Six of the latest HDMI 1.4a inputs provide easy connection for all your high-def sources and compatibility with the eye-popping new 3D video format. Another connectivity highlight is a handy Universal Port that allows you to hook up Onkyo peripherals such as a Dock for iPod/iPhone. Meanwhile, if you want to distribute music to another room, the HT-RC260 provides Zone 2 line-outs and speaker outputs. Regardless of their resolution, all video sources can be upscaled to stunning 1080p via HDMI and Faroudja DCDi Cinema . High-quality Burr-Brown DACs work alongside jitter-cleaning technology and three-stage inverted Darlington circuitry to minimize distortion and deliver extremely realistic audio for movies, music, and games. The HT-RC260 also offers compatibility with lossless Dolby and DTS codecs, as well as the expanded surround formats of Audyssey DSX and Dolby Pro Logic IIz. Quality home theater has never been more affordable.

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12/31/2011

Denon DRA-397 AM/FM Multi Source/Zone Stereo Receiver w/ 80X2 Audiophile Power Review

Denon DRA-397 AM/FM Multi Source/Zone Stereo Receiver w/ 80X2 Audiophile Power
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First of all, I don't know why anyone would say this product is confusing. I'm no tech wiz, and I didn't need to consult the manual for basic operation. Programming in stations wasn't hard either.
But even so, this is a fairly picayune matter considering that a receiver is a device for listening to music (and other audio sources) and should be evaluated as such. What matters most is sound quality, and this receiver sounds excellent. No, it's not an audiophile product, but it's probably the best sounding receiver you'll find in production for this price range.
I've had mine for a few months and I'm very satisfied. I have it driving a pair of JBL HLS-610's which I consider to be about the same grade of product -- mass-market mid-fi producing great sound at an affordable price. Overall the sound is very pleasing; the bass is palpable and detailed, the highs are clear and smooth. The detail at low volumes is impressive, which in my opinion is what distinguishes a good amplifier from one that's just loud.
About the best thing one can say about a stereo component is that it allows them to hear things in their music they hadn't noticed before. This receiver has delivered that consistently. The phono stage is particularly nice; my records have never sounded better.
In contrast to commercial audio companies which deliver "big sound" by manipulating frequency response like crazy, the engineers at Denon have gone to the trouble of designing a stereo that adds very little coloration to your music. In fact, my favorite feature is the "pure direct" function -- basically a tone defeat on steroids -- which allows you to circumvent all the unnecessary circuitry to deliver a signal that's true to the original recording.
If I have any complaint about the product, it's that it's a bit bulky. I understand this is an artifact of the design. Still, it takes up a lot of room on the shelf. Also, the volume knob feels clunky.
I'll repeat that this stereo is not in league with truly high-end integrated amps or separates. You have to be prepared to spend a lot more money to get that level of performance (not to mention the cost of an audiophile inputs and loudspeakers). But if you're on a budget, or just don't want to pay at least twice as much for incremental improvements in sound, don't overlook this stereo. It might be the best value going.

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12/18/2011

Yamaha RX-497 75 watt per channel Natural Sound AM/FM Stereo Receiver Review

Yamaha RX-497 75 watt per channel Natural Sound AM/FM Stereo Receiver
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This Yamaha XR-497 replaces a 15-year old Denon stereo receiver that was too expensive to repair. I have 2-sets of speakers, 3 components to hook-up, including a turntable. Most receivers sold now are surround sound / home theater rather than a straightforward am/fm stereo receiver. Most also do not have a built-in pre-amp for a turntable. The Yamaha XR-497 is perfect and it's easy to set up. I'm not a techie and the reviews previously posted were very helpful. Be careful though to only buy from an authorized Yamaha dealer since the Yamaha warranty specifically excludes coverage from product purchased from any other source. I'm very pleased with my purchase.

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12/12/2011

Yamaha HTR-5990 XM-Ready 7.1-Channel A/V Surround Receiver (Black) Review

Yamaha HTR-5990 XM-Ready 7.1-Channel A/V Surround Receiver (Black)
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We purchased this unit to replace a similar one damaged by UPS in shipping. (Always buy the insurance!)
We're very happy with the sound quality. The XM ready feature was a huge help. The damaged unit didn't have that capability and it made listening to our xm much easier with the plug and play feature.
Hooking up any piece of electronic equipment is a pain, and my only comment is to ask if there's some way to make it simpler?? I'm a fair techno-geek, but it took me most of one day to get everything connected and working.

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Take the next step in home theater performance with the Yamaha HTR-5990 digital surround receiver, which boasts 7.1 channels (140 watts x 7) of amplification and a ton of high-end features. The receiver is built around Yamaha's digital ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) design concept, which maximizes digital signal quality and minimizes analog circuitry to ensure the best possible sound. ToP-ART receivers include such defining attributes as ultra-high-current amplification, high-performance 192 kHz/24-bit digital-to-analog converters, an upgraded Pure Direct listening mode that provides terrific signal purity, and an impressively wide frequency range of 10 Hz to 100 kHz that helps digital audio sources like DVD-Audio and Super Audio CD reach their full potential.
Movie buffs will dig the HTR-5990's Tri-Field/Quad-Field Cinema Digital Sound Processing (DSP), Yamaha's means of simulating the acoustics of a stadium, concert hall, or intimate club in the comfort of your own home. The Tri-Field system projects three sound fields into the home theater--a "presence" field in the front and two "surround" fields in the left and right rear speakers, resulting in a powerfully realistic 3-D soundscape. To amp it up even further, listeners can select the Quad-Field function, which adds an additional rear surround field. Quad-Field is ideal for newer 6.1 and 7.1-channel formats.
The Cinema DSP's 19 surround programs include two-channel video modes such as Spectacle, Sci-Fi, Adventure, and General, each of which creates an optimum sound field for a specific movie genre; multichannel modes for Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, DTS, DTS ES, DTS 96/24, DTS 96/24 ES, and Dolby Pro Logic IIx formats; and a host of other options for movies, music, and video games, including five THX Select 2 programs custom designed for small- to medium-sized home theaters. Also featured is Silent Cinema, Yamaha's exclusive technology that lets you enjoy multichannel music or movie sound through ordinary headphones without sacrificing surround-like sound.
As with the best home theater receivers, the HTR-5990 is capable of HDMI and component video up-conversion. This function takes S-video and composite signals and converts them into HDMI/component signals to ensure the highest-quality picture on your HD monitor from any source. No more switching inputs according to which source you're using--rather, they can all go through the same HDMI/component connection. The receiver also offers the ultra-convenient Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer (YPAO), which employs an optimizer microphone at the listening position to pick up test tones from your speakers. The HTR-5990 then analyzes the test tones to let you know which speaker configuration is best. It's like having a professional audio engineer tweak your system.
What really makes the HTR-5990 special, however, is its number of high-end functions, such as the 480i to 480p de-interlacing, the superior multi-zone control for listeners with multi-room speaker systems, the assignable amplifiers for users who want to create bi-amped speaker connections, and the pair of HDMI inputs for high-quality digital audio and video data handling. Plus, the HTR-5990 not only includes a standard AM/FM tuner, but it's also XM satellite radio ready, making it fully compatible with any separately sold XM antenna.
Additional features include an accurate touch-volume control, an enhanced dialogue mode for movies, a selectable nine-band subwoofer crossover, a night listening mode that helps you clearly hear all the surround programs at low volumes, and a full-function learning remote control.
With a bevy of digital and analog inputs, the HTR-5990 can accommodate a ton of digital sources such as DVD players, CD players, video game consoles, digital satellite systems, and much more. The rear panel options include the aforementioned pair of HDMI inputs and one output, four optical digital audio inputs and two outputs, two coaxial digital inputs and one output, three component video inputs and one output, five S-video inputs and three outputs (two assignable), five composite video inputs and three outputs (two assignable), and four analog audio inputs and two outputs. Also present are a 5.1 multichannel input, a full 7.1 surround pre-out, and a set of front-panel A/V inputs for quick connections.
The HTR-5990 measures 17.1 by 6.7 by 16.7 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a two-year warranty.
What's in the Box HTR-5990 receiver, remote control, four AAA batteries, power cable, speaker terminal wrench, optimizer microphone, AM loop antenna, indoor FM antenna, user's manual.

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11/30/2011

Onkyo TX-8555 Stereo Receiver Review

Onkyo TX-8555 Stereo Receiver
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I purchased this amplifier recently. I own a few older, well-regarded amplifiers (tube and solid state) that cost a lot more money when new, so my expectations were not high for this Onkyo. That said, I am stunned by how nice this amplifier sounds. I run the amplifier in Pure Audio mode (press the Pure Audio button on the front panel twice, then the blue LED comes on indicating Pure Audio mode). If I didn't know better, I'd swear this was a high-end tube amplifier. There is absolutely no background noise. No hiss. No hum. Nothing but dead silence. It makes music with silent passages jump to life. Whether I use this amplifier to drive Paradigm Titan speakers or Grado headphones, the quality of the sound reproduction and the dynamic range is absolutely remarkable, especially bass reproduction. Using a quality CD audio source, I can clearly hear every cymbal, with all the timber, every bass note, with all the string vibration from every finger pluck. For what this amplifier costs, I can't imagine looking elsewhere unless you need to drive large reference monitors. This amplifier is more than capable of driving anything up to full-sized floor speakers at reasonable volume. The amplifier includes an AM/FM tuner that works well enough. FM channels come in loud and clear using the included wire antenna. AM reception is a bit more difficult using the included loop antenna and its short wires, so at a minimum expect to add four to eight feet of wire to the AM antenna to get the loop well clear of any power cords. But that's really of little consequence if what you're looking for first and foremost is a high-quality stereo amplifier. I've listened to high-end amplifiers costing many times as much and few sound this pure and clean. The overall look and feel of the unit is professional grade, with just the right amount of heft. All controls have positive feedback and none feel flimsy. The volume knob is particularly nice, with a heavy, smooth action that is slow to respond, resulting in very fine, analog-like volume control. In brief summary, I doubt anyone with reasonable expectations will be disappointed. This stereo amplifier provides performance and quality well beyond its price level.

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Whether it's channelling your iPod®, SIRIUS™ satellite Radio, XM® Satellite Radio, CDs, or other traditional audio sources, the Onkyo TX-8555 Stereo Receiver translates your music with effortless power and finesse. It even offers Zone 2 capability, so you can simultaneously play a separate audio source in a second room.

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9/04/2011

Power Acoustik PTID-8310NRB Single-DIN 8.3-Inch Flip-Up Nav-Ready TFT-LCD Touchscreen A/V Source Unit with Bluetooth Review

Power Acoustik PTID-8310NRB Single-DIN 8.3-Inch Flip-Up Nav-Ready TFT-LCD Touchscreen A/V Source Unit with Bluetooth
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So i bought this deck awhile back, like last year, anyway its a great deck, you can hook RCA's up or wires for your speakers right out the back of the deck. anyway, its a really great deck, everything worked, and everything is very impressive, screen is huge, and fits perfectly in my car. Now ive read some other reviews and people are complaining that the DVD player and SD card reader dont work. TO THOSE PEOPLE< READ THIS !!!!!!!!!!!!. If you want that to work you have to go into the harness of the radio and install and ground the BLACK WIRE, to the ground, this wire is suppose to be installed to the handbreak so when it is pulled you can watch movies (its a safety option) you can by pass it by grounding it out. i really hate that this deck is very impressive but is getting horrible reveiws becuase of the dvd option, i will assure that the deck will work and be a perfect addition to your car. Message me with any questions, i could install these things for a living haha.

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Power Acoustik's going huge with this receiver--the single-DIN unit boasts an 8.3-inch flip-up screen. Yes, you read that right: The company developed a new ultra-slim transport (only half an inch) and rotational mechanism to give you the big picture. It comes with two cages that will allow for hooded dash installs or a flusher install where no hooded dash exists. Enjoy a superb picture with 800 x 480 resolution, playback of your favorite media, AM/FM radio, Bluetooth technology, and then some. You can also add the optional NaviBox-1 for full NAVTEQ navigation.

Huge 8.3-Inch Screen The PTID-8310NRB boasts an 8.3-inch in-dash screen, for uncompromising entertainment. The motorized, LED-backlit LCD telescopes forward and backward with preset angles. It offers 800 x 480 pixel resolution with a 400 NIT brightness rating, for a picture to rival anything else out there. It's also a touchscreen, for quick and easy navigation of system features.
When not in use, the screen tucks safely away into the receiver, thanks to Power Acoustik's unique rotating mechanism. A standard DOT display picks up the slack when you're not using it.
Integrated Bluetooth Make hands-free calls or stream music with integrated Bluetooth technology. The PTID-8310NRB works with most Bluetooth-enabled cell phones, and it includes a built-in microphone.
A2DP profile support means you can stream audio from compatible devices directly to your stereo, with no cable needed.
Enjoy Your Media Play back your favorite discs with support for DVD, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, CD, CD-R/RW, and VCD formats. You can also enjoy DivX and MP4 video, along with MP3/WMA audio (from disc, SD card, or USB devices).
Dial in the sound with custom or preset EQ settings, along with audio staging controls.
Prefer the radio? The PTID-8310NRB features an AM/FM radio with 18 FM and 12 AM presets, for instant recall of your favorite stations.
50W x 4 MOSFET Amplifier The built-in 50W x 4 amp provides plenty of output to start with; but for those who want a little more system, three sets of 4V preamp outputs (front, rear, sub) are included. Add some external amps for some chassis-shaking power.
Front-Panel Inputs You get plenty of input options with this receiver. Put your favorite media on SD cards or a USB thumb drive, and plug right into the slot/port on the front of the device.
There's also a standard 3.5-mm auxiliary input, so no matter what your device, chances are you can connect it.
Navigation-Ready Just add the optional NaviBox-1 (sold separately), and you'll have a full-featured NAVTEQ navigation system at your fingertips. Get realistic intersection views, turn-by-turn instructions, 2D and 3D map viewing, and plenty more.
Remote Included Control unit functions with the provided full-featured remote.
What's in the Box PTID-8310NRB receiver, Bluetooth microphone, remote control, wiring harness, and installation hardware.

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Click here for more information about Power Acoustik PTID-8310NRB Single-DIN 8.3-Inch Flip-Up Nav-Ready TFT-LCD Touchscreen A/V Source Unit with Bluetooth

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7/29/2011

Harman Kardon HK 3490 120 Watt X 2 Stereo Receiver with XM Radio-ready Tuner and Dolby Virtual Speaker Review

Harman Kardon HK 3490 120 Watt X 2 Stereo Receiver with XM Radio-ready Tuner and Dolby Virtual Speaker
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I used the HK 3480 (the precursor to this model) for five years and loved it. The 3490 is even better. The sound is more robust and full, not different, but just more refined. It easily powers my Klipsch Synergy speakers and would pair well with any mid-level speakers. With 120w even inefficient speakers will have more than a enough power to move air.
Further, the 3490 has an important new feature: digital inputs. This is a very nice option for those who have made the jump to an all digital music library and use a digital jukeboxes like the Roku Soundbridge or the Squeezebox. Both players have digital outs and pair up nicely with the 3490.
The difference in quality from digital inputs or analog is debatable, but to my ear, going from the 3480 with analog cables, to the 3490 with optical TOSLINK, there was an immediately improvement in clarity. Songs with delicate sound work came alive. Soft details were more apparent. It's been a great upgrade for me.
It's important to note that the 3490 doesn't leave analog fans in the cold either. It has a very nice tape loop and a wonderful gold plated stereo pickup. In short, whether you're library consists of vinyl or mp3s this amp will do it all.
I have always been a fan of Harmon Kardon, and I bought the older 3480 because I'm a strict fan of stereo music listening. The 3490 is a very smart update to the 3480, bringing it into the 21st century with a host of digital options. For those who rely on an iPod for music, there is specific iPod cradle for this amp that allows you to play your iPod's music effortless over the stereo while controlling it with the HK remote. This amp is also XM Radio ready, just plug in your XM receiver and the HK will allow you to control it.
It's very hard to find a subtle, high powered stereo receiver with these features. The market has sadly moved away to the home theater, multi-channel world, but I'm glad Harmon Kardon is still loyal to their stereo listeners.
Build quality is very nice. It's not a flashy amp, it doesn't light up the room with needless LEDs. It's very understated, and handsome. HK even includes two little inserts that hide the front inputs and bass, treble, and balance controls (nice if you don't want people messing with your settings, or you appreciate a clean look.)
Other than the digital options, the tape loop and the phono pickup, the amp does allow video switching and pass through should you want to integrate into your home theater. The other notable detail are the speaker posts. They allow the use of banana clips or allow you to secure naked wire in two different ways to the posts. This is nice if you don't have a lot of clearance behind the amp.
At this price point, there is simply nothing out there that can compete with this amp in terms of quality, performance, or features.

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The HK 3490 is a high current stereo receiver that will give you the best possible audio performance. You can use the optional "Bridge II" to control and navigate your Ipod'. The power rating is 120 watts times two at 8 ohms and 150 watts times 2 at 4 ohms. It has 45 amps of current. It is also XM Ready. It has speaker A/B switching.

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