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	<title>Hooked Up Installs &#187; Home Theater</title>
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		<title>Awesome TVs Showcased at CES 2012 – and Coming Soon to Your Home Theater</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/awesome-tvs-showcased-at-ces-2012-%e2%80%93-and-coming-soon-to-your-home-theater/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:20:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2012]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[4K]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[CES]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Google TV]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[home entertainment]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[CES 2012, the world’s premier consumer electronics event, was held recently in Las Vegas. As expected there was a marvelous showcase of smartphones, mobile devices, computers (laptops and tablets), cameras, gaming consoles, media devices, software and apps, and all other kinds of cool new technological gadgets. The category that interests us most, of course, is [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.cesweb.org/">CES 2012</a>, the world’s premier consumer electronics event, was held recently in Las Vegas. As expected there was a marvelous showcase of smartphones, mobile devices, computers (laptops and tablets), cameras, gaming consoles, media devices, software and apps, and all other kinds of cool new technological gadgets. The category that interests us most, of course, is <a href="http://hookedupinstalls.com/">home theater</a>.</p>
<p>If you haven’t gotten the chance to follow some of the trends that were set this year, here’s a quick recap of what went down. On this post we’ll focus on TVs, the centerpiece of our home entertainment system.</p>
<h3><strong>LG wins CNET Best of CES</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-1009" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/awesome-tvs-showcased-at-ces-2012-%e2%80%93-and-coming-soon-to-your-home-theater/lg-oled-home-theater-installation/"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1009" title="lg oled home theater installation" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/lg-oled-home-theater-installation.png" alt="" width="629" height="418" /></a></p>
<p>At CES 2012 there was great buzz surrounding LG’s booth – and for good reason. The company’s groundbreaking 55-inch OLED HDTV, the LG 55EM9600, caught the eye of everyone, with its (nearly) borderless frame, vibrant colors, astonishingly bright and sharp screen, a virtually infinite contrast ratio, and superb performance of 4-color (red, green, blue, and white) OLED (organic light emitting diodes) panel. LG’s 55-inch OLED HDTV will likely set in motion the future adoption of OLED technology, which is actually designed to perform at a more cost-efficient level than your usual LEDs, LCDs, and plasmas. CNET awarded the LG 55EM9600 with the <a href="http://www.cesweb.org/awards/bestOfCES.asp">CES Best of Show 2012</a> title. The OLED HDTV is expected to be available by third quarter of this year.</p>
<h3><strong>Samsung not to be outdone</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1010" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/awesome-tvs-showcased-at-ces-2012-%e2%80%93-and-coming-soon-to-your-home-theater/samsung-oled-home-theater-installation/"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1010" title="samsung oled home theater installation" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/samsung-oled-home-theater-installation.png" alt="" width="613" height="336" /></a></p>
<p>Actually, it wasn’t just LG who unveiled a 55-inch OLED HDTV. Samsung announced one, too, and it features the company’s so-called <a href="http://global.samsungtomorrow.com/?p=9422">Super OLED technology</a>. Samsung’s OLED pixel units consist of red, green, and blue sub-pixels, each emitting its own light and offering up to 40 percent improved color accuracy compared to LED. Samsung’s Super OLED TV also boasts of the company’s Smart Hub feature, the Samsung HDTV apps store, plus two microphones and a built-in camera, the combination of which enables users to leverage the company’s voice and motion control and facial recognition technology.</p>
<p>So now there are two brands competing for the world’s thinnest, lightest, and biggest OLED TVs. Certainly the technology promises to be the next big thing in home theater.</p>
<h3><strong>The rise of 4K</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Manufacturers like LG and Sony also showed models of 4K TV sets, which offer four times the resolution of today’s HDTVs. By this, we mean that the displays have 4,000 lines of resolution (counting on the horizontal side of the screen) and about 8 million pixels. This represents a move beyond 1080p, and possibly the introduction soon of 4K Blu-ray disc players, gaming consoles, and, maybe, 4K broadcasting. Sharp even showed off an 85-inch 8K prototype TV (Ultra HDTV, or UHDTV), with over 33 million pixels and roughly the same resolution as IMAX.</p>
<h3><strong>Google TV is back</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-1008" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/awesome-tvs-showcased-at-ces-2012-%e2%80%93-and-coming-soon-to-your-home-theater/google-tv-home-theater-installation/"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1008" title="google tv home theater installation" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/google-tv-home-theater-installation.png" alt="" width="644" height="509" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.google.com/tv/">Google TV</a>, the smart TV platform from the search engine giant, made a sort of comeback this year at CES, after its first-generation digital media system (launched in 2010) flopped in the market. This time, it’s gaining foothold thanks to a new partner: Samsung. (LG, Sony, and Vizio are also set to introduce Google TV sets later this year.) Google TV also has an enhanced set of features, including a new recommendation engine; integration with Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, HBO GO, and other <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/choosing-video-on-demand-vod-service-for-your-home-theater/">VOD services</a>; enhanced integration with DISH Network; streaming videos and audio via YouTube, Redux, Vimeo, Daily Motion, Pandora, Slacker Radio, Napster, and more; built-in Google Chrome browser; and smart TV apps from the Android Market.</p>
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		<title>Top 5 Blu-Ray Movies to Watch In Your Home Theater</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/top-5-blu-ray-movies-to-watch-in-your-home-theater/</link>
		<comments>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/top-5-blu-ray-movies-to-watch-in-your-home-theater/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Dec 2011 16:05:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blu Ray]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blu-ray movies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blu-ray player]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home audio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater audio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater calibration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater setup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[surround sound]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[surround sound setup]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Okay so you’ve got your home theater set up with your nice slick Blu-ray player and you’re ready to have some friends over so you can show off that sweet new home entertainment system of yours. What movie should you watch? Here are the top 5 (one man’s opinion, of course) Blu-ray movies you should [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Okay so you’ve got your home theater set up with your nice slick Blu-ray player and you’re ready to have some friends over so you can show off that sweet new home entertainment system of yours. What movie should you watch? Here are the top 5 (one man’s opinion, of course) Blu-ray movies you should consider. All five fall under the action / thriller / crime / suspense / fantasy / drama genres, but you can bet that each of them will do the job!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-992" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/top-5-blu-ray-movies-to-watch-in-your-home-theater/home-theater-2/"><img class="size-full wp-image-992  aligncenter" title="home theater" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/home-theater.jpg" alt="" width="600" height="400" /></a></p>
<p><strong>1. Inception</strong></p>
<p>Aside from the fact that <em>Inception</em> might be the greatest cerebral thriller of all-time, it also has its fair share of digital visual and sound effects that will make your seat shake. The director Christopher Nolan created a masterpiece with this film and main actor Leo DiCaprio is great as always.</p>
<p><strong>2. Avatar</strong></p>
<p>If you’re solely looking for that “wow” factor but don’t really care about the storyline of the film, then this is a great choice. In Blu-ray, this film is flat-out a visual stunner and is what I consider to be one of the best videos for showcasing (or showing off) a home theater. It even makes average home theater setups look good.</p>
<p><strong>3. The Dark Knight</strong></p>
<p>Much like <em>Inception</em> this movie has both an entertaining storyline and a set of visual/sound effects that will knock your socks off.  <em>Batman: The Dark Knight</em> is such a popular home theater watch; many people have created Batman-themed home theaters. Don’t believe me? Just Google search “<a href="http://www.google.com/search?aq=2&amp;oq=batman+themed+h&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;q=batman+themed+home+theater">Batman Themed Home Theater</a>” and see what comes up!</p>
<p><strong>4. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy</strong></p>
<p>I know it’s a trilogy, so if you’re having some company over, then this likely won’t do the job; in which case, just pop in the first (<em>Fellowship of the Ring</em>) or third one (<em>The Return of the King</em>) to get the best visual effects. Everybody loves <em>Lord of the Rings</em> so you really can do no wrong here. I watched <em>The Return of the King</em> recently in a home theater that had <a href="http://screenpainthd.com/home-theater/">Home Theater Screen Paint</a> and I will tell you, Smeagol/ Gollum looked frightening!</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>5. Transformers Trilogy</strong></p>
<p>Many people choose the first <em>Transformers</em> movie as the one they most like out of the three released so far. Honestly, though, all three are pretty incredible to watch in a home theater, especially one with a high-end projector, screen, and 7.1 surround sound setup. If you have a decent setup, <em>Transformers</em> will convince you that staying home for a movie is just as good, if not better than, actually going out to the movies.</p>
<p>Of course there are many other solid movies missing from this list. Both <em>Iron Man</em> movies, both <em>Star Wars</em> trilogies, <em>Back to the Future</em>, the <em>Mission Impossible</em> series of movies would also serve as great additions to the list. For more titles, check out Hooked Up Installs’ “<a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/the-best-movies-for-testing-and-calibrating-your-home-theater/">Best Movies for Testing and Calibrating Your Home Theater</a>”.</p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p><strong>About the Author:</strong> <em>Chase is the main author for the blog at <a href="http://screenpainthd.com/">ScreenPaintHD.com</a> where he does content marketing and social media for projector screen paint. He loves watching the NBA and Christopher Nolan movies in his home theater.</em></p>
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		<title>(More) Valuable Tips for Enhancing Home Theater Sound</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/more-valuable-tips-for-enhancing-home-theater-sound/</link>
		<comments>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/more-valuable-tips-for-enhancing-home-theater-sound/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:05:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[audio system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[audio system tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home audio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home audio installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home audio tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home speaker system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home speaker tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home surround sound]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater audio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater sound]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sound system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[speaker system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[surround sound system]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[You may have a shiny 60-inch LCD television as your new centerpiece, but an equally important component of your home theater system is its sound. Indeed, if you are to maximize the performance of your system, clear, vibrant, and rich audio blasting from your speakers is an absolute must. That’s why here at Hooked Up [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>You may have a shiny 60-inch LCD television as your new centerpiece, but an equally important component of your home theater system is its sound. Indeed, if you are to maximize the performance of your system, clear, vibrant, and rich audio blasting from your speakers is an absolute must. That’s why here at Hooked Up Installs we have come up with a guide that, hopefully, will help you discover a number of neat home theater sound tips and tricks, and enjoy not just cinematic viewing, but also a perfect listening experience.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-982" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/more-valuable-tips-for-enhancing-home-theater-sound/home-theater-audio-3/"><img class="aligncenter" title="home theater audio" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/home-theater-audio1.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="400" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Use the menu. </strong>Your 5.1 or 7.1 channel speaker system likely comes with some sort of calibration menu that you can access to improve the sound of your speakers. Options usually include: listening to test tones, balancing channel volume, enhancing the lower-frequency or bass effects of your subwoofer, and even measuring speaker sizes and distances. Make full use of this menu, adjust each speaker accordingly, and test the system until the sound is as good as you can get it to be.</p>
<p><strong>Optimize placement. </strong>Where you install your speakers is critical in determining how your home theater will sound like. Is audio performance not quite up to par? Don’t buy a new speaker or subwoofer just yet. Instead of spending your way out of your problem, place the speakers right where they should be: center directly in front, and – 45 degrees from it – the left and right speakers, with the left and right surround channels at the back of where you would sit.</p>
<p><strong>Use brackets or speaker stands. </strong>Those speakers in between the books on your shelf or under the coffee table aren’t exactly in the best position to provide you quality sound. Get them out of there and install them in the most ideal locations using a stand or a set of brackets. (Of course, it’s best to contact a team of <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/">home theater installation professionals</a> to do the job.)</p>
<p><strong>Go digital. </strong>Digital decoding technology is widely available today, and it’s made to complement that new flat panel set you just bought. So unless you’re still using a CRT TV, it’s best to integrate digital decoding in your system and enjoy the best today’s audio technologies have to offer.</p>
<p><strong>Leverage Blu-ray. </strong>Your Blu-ray player likely comes with its own built-in decoding feature for high-definition audio (like Dolby True HD or DTS-HD Master Audio). This represents some of the latest surround sound enhancement technologies today, so go ahead and connect your system using an HDMI or audio cable.</p>
<p><strong>Test using high-quality recordings. </strong>We’ve actually come up with a list of awesome movies for calibrating your home theater. But if you’re testing audio, look out specifically for excellently engineered files (albums or soundtracks) with low compression levels.</p>
<p><strong>Tame the sound crashers. </strong>The windows and mirrors that wall your home theater are likely to adversely affect the acoustics in the room. Tame these sound crashers by covering the windows with thick drapes or curtains, and the tiled floors with a carpet. Fluffy or foamy items like throw pillows, cushions, mattress pads, and thickly upholstered sofas also act as tools for enhancing the quality of your home theater sound system.</p>
<p><strong>Use a sound level meter. </strong>Sound level meters are originally designed for industrial purposes (for measuring sound levels in, say, construction sites, aircraft facilities, etc.). That doesn’t mean you can’t use them at home. By having your own digital sound level meter, you can conduct high-precision sound measurement, adjust the sensitivity range of your home audio system, and tweak and tweak until you get your home theater sound as perfect as possible.</p>
<p><strong>Upgrade your speaker wires. </strong>You may think that a bunch of cables won’t have anything to do with how your system sounds like. But they do. By using sturdier, higher-quality, commercial-grade speaker cables / wires, you’re optimizing the delivery of sound across your home theater system. (For recommendations on thickness, length, material, and connector types, please don’t hesitate to give <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/about-us/">our friendly team</a> a call.)</p>
<p><strong>Keep your speakers clean and well-maintained. </strong>Even the most sophisticated speaker systems in the world will need a bit of proper care and maintenance. So avoid installing them in places where they might be affected by moisture, dust, or sunlight, and spend some time every month or so to clean this and other components of your home theater system.</p>
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		<title>7 Awesome Bedroom Home Theater Setups</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/</link>
		<comments>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:05:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bedroom home theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bedroom theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flat panel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flat panel installation]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[plasma installation]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[TVs are getting flatter. Sound systems and speakers are getting sleeker. Syncing your media is becoming easier. All of this means that it’s now possible to turn your bedroom into a top-of-the-line entertainment suite with its own home theater system.
Yes, we perfectly understand that some homeowners don’t need to have separate rooms for sleeping and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>TVs are getting flatter. Sound systems and speakers are getting sleeker. Syncing your media is becoming easier. All of this means that it’s now possible to turn your bedroom into a top-of-the-line entertainment suite with its own home theater system.</p>
<p>Yes, we perfectly understand that some homeowners don’t need to have separate rooms for sleeping <em>and </em>for movie-watching. Or that some – and we’re talking here of the bachelors and apartment city dwellers – may not have enough real estate to have separate rooms in the first place. Whatever the case may be, we do advise you to take a good look at your bedroom: a place, after all, that’s just perfect for creating an excellent home theater environment.</p>
<p>Need some ideas and inspirations? Check out this list of seven awesome bedroom home theaters.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="size-full wp-image-957  aligncenter" title="pic 1" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic-1.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="287" /></p>
<p>Why get out of bed if you have a bedroom similar to that of this Houston home? The cozy fireplace should be enough to keep you warm, while the wall-mounted plasma should keep you always entertained. (<a href="http://www.electronichouse.com/slideshow/category/430/80">Source</a>)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-958" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/pic2a/"><img class="size-full wp-image-958  aligncenter" title="pic2a" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic2a.jpg" alt="" width="576" height="390" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-959" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/pic2b/"><img class="size-full wp-image-959  aligncenter" title="pic2b" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic2b.jpg" alt="" width="576" height="382" /></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-960" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/pic2c/"><img class="size-full wp-image-960  aligncenter" title="pic2c" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic2c.jpg" alt="" width="576" height="382" /></a></p>
<p>This Filipino bachelor didn’t have another room to house a home theater. So he renovated and turned his own bedroom studio into a sleek entertainment destination. The system includes speakers that feature floorstanders and a center channel. (<a href="http://www.pinoydvd.com/index.php?topic=87345.0">Source</a>)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="size-full wp-image-961  aligncenter" title="pic3" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic3.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="372" /></p>
<p>A bedroom theater doesn’t have to look too geeky, offbeat, or control-room-of-a-space-ship-crazy. Check out this elegant setup, which features a flat-panel installation, ceiling-mounted speakers, a surround sound processor, and a (hidden) multimedia player. (<a href="http://www.electronichouse.com/slideshow/category/432/80">Source</a>)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-962" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/pic4/"><img class="size-full wp-image-962  aligncenter" title="pic4" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic4.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>This vacation rental in Gatlinburg, Tennessee features an awesome bedroom home theater, with a setup that includes an impressive 102-inch screen, a PS3, an Xbox 360, and a Nintendo Wii. (<a href="http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p224497">Source</a>)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-963" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/pic5/"><img class="size-full wp-image-963  aligncenter" title="pic5" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic5.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="320" /></a></p>
<p>At first sight this home theater doesn’t look like it’s housed in a bedroom. But it is. This multifunctional space also serves as a library and a guest suite (complete with a sleeper couch and full bath). As a bedroom theater, it has a ceiling-mounted projector, a 103-inch screen, a set of built-in wall speakers, and theater-style seating for two. (<a href="http://www.elledecor.com/image/tid/4582?page=7&amp;pause=1">Source</a>)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-964" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/pic6/"><img class="size-full wp-image-964  aligncenter" title="pic6" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic6.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="526" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-965" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/pic6b/"><img class="size-full wp-image-965  aligncenter" title="pic6b" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic6b.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="509" /></a></p>
<p>Here’s another elegant bedroom theater setup found in a Laguna   Beach, California home. If lounging in those recliner love seats doesn’t sound romantic enough, just hop onto the bed! A custom soffit holds the 123-inch screen and speakers, while a portable touch panel enables easy access to AV components and multimedia. The setup also includes a video projector, seven speakers, three subwoofers, and a TiVo receiver. (<a href="http://www.electronichouse.com/slideshow/category/150/36">Source</a>)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-966" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/7-awesome-bedroom-home-theater-setups/pic7/"><img class="size-full wp-image-966  aligncenter" title="pic7" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pic7.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="439" /></a></p>
<p>One minute, you see it; the next minute, you don’t. That’s because the home theater (which includes a 43-inch plasma) of this master bedroom has been built <em>into </em>the wooden cabinet that you’ll see at the foot of the bed. One press of a remote control button and the TV rises into view. (<a href="http://www.electronichouse.com/slideshow/category/492/80">Source</a>)</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Holiday Shopping Guide: A List of Excellent HDTVs Under $700</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/holiday-shopping-guide-a-list-of-excellent-hdtvs-under-700/</link>
		<comments>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/holiday-shopping-guide-a-list-of-excellent-hdtvs-under-700/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 18 Nov 2011 16:37:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3d]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DLNA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flat panel installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HDTV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HDTV installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home entertainment system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater systems]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IPTV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LCD TV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LCD TV installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LG]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Panasonic Viera]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[plasma]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[plasma installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Samsung]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sony Bravia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[video installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[video on demand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[VOD]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/?p=950</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The holidays are coming up. That’s always a great excuse to refresh some of the components of your home theater system. Or to reward your kid in college for his or her hard work. But times are hard, and we’ll understand if you’re not willing to spend more than a thousand bucks – heck, $700! [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The holidays are coming up. That’s always a great excuse to refresh some of the components of your home theater system. Or to reward your kid in college for his or her hard work. But times are hard, and we’ll understand if you’re not willing to spend more than a thousand bucks – heck, $700! – on a new HDTV.</p>
<p>This is why we came up with this list of excellent HDTVs under $700. In case you do decide to buy any of them, you can thank Hooked Up Installs by having our <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/">professional installation team</a> set up your (or your kid’s) home theater.</p>
<h3><strong><a href="http://shop.panasonic.com/shop/model/TC-P50X3">Panasonic Viera Class X3 Series (50” Plasma)</a></strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-946" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/holiday-shopping-guide-a-list-of-excellent-hdtvs-under-700/panasonic-viera/"><img class="size-full wp-image-946  aligncenter" title="panasonic viera" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/panasonic-viera.png" alt="" width="476" height="320" /></a></p>
<p>If you’re looking for a high-quality and affordable plasma, this Viera HDTV is a great choice. It features 600 Hz Sub Field Driving technology (for full-HD motion and stills), Panasonic’s own image analysis technology, IPTV (Internet Protocol television) capability, and DLNA and Wi-Fi connectivity. It’s environment-friendly, too, with a mercury- and lead-free plasma display panel. The Viera Class X3 retails for about $650, and delivers great value not commonly expected from HDTVs in the same price range and with the same screen size.</p>
<h3><strong><a href="http://www.lg.com/us/tv-audio-video/televisions/LG-plasma-tv-42PW350.jsp">LG 42PW350 (42” 3D-capable Plasma)</a></strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-945" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/holiday-shopping-guide-a-list-of-excellent-hdtvs-under-700/lg/"><img class="size-full wp-image-945  aligncenter" title="lg" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/lg.png" alt="" width="534" height="378" /></a></p>
<p>If you think the sleek and slim frame of this LG plasma HDTV is an eye-catcher, wait until you turn the set on. Like the Viera, the LG 42PW350 boasts of a fast 600 Hz refresh rate designed to eliminate motion blurs and deliver crisp, clear visuals. It’s also 3D-capable (with 2D to 3D conversion), self-calibrating, and energy-saving.</p>
<h3><strong><a href="http://www.samsung.com/ca/consumer/tv-video/tv/lcd/LN46D550K1FXZC/index.idx?pagetype=prd_detail">Samsung LN46D550 (46” LCD)</a></strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-948" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/holiday-shopping-guide-a-list-of-excellent-hdtvs-under-700/samsung/"><img class="size-full wp-image-948  aligncenter" title="samsung" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/samsung.png" alt="" width="346" height="278" /></a></p>
<p>With a budget of $700, you might think it’s impossible to find a stylish, feature-rich LCD HDTV with advanced connectivity. Think again. Part of the Samsung LCD TV Series 5, the entry-level LN46D550 should be able to meet most of your home entertainment needs: a 46” widescreen display, full HD 1080p images, Samsung’s HyperReal Engine, DLNA technology, a Wide Color Enhancer feature, and ENERGY STAR certification.</p>
<h3><strong><a href="http://store.sony.ca/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=100803&amp;storeId=20153&amp;langId=200&amp;productId=8198552921666294433">Sony Bravia KDL46BX420 (46” LCD)</a></strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-949" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/holiday-shopping-guide-a-list-of-excellent-hdtvs-under-700/sony/"><img class="size-full wp-image-949  aligncenter" title="sony" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/sony.png" alt="" width="412" height="264" /></a></p>
<p>Another excellent choice for an entry-level LCD HDTV is the 46” Sony Bravia BX420. Aside from full 1080p picture quality, this baby also features Scene Select settings (for sports, photos, games, movies, and music), CCFL backlighting, Light Sensor technology (which automatically adjusts the picture based on your room lighting), ENERGY STAR certification, and five HD inputs (2 HDMI inputs, 2 component inputs, and a PC input).</p>
<h3><strong><a href="http://shop.panasonic.com/shop/model/TC-P50ST30">Panasonic Viera TC-PST30 Series (3D-capable Plasma)</a></strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-947" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/holiday-shopping-guide-a-list-of-excellent-hdtvs-under-700/pst/"><img class="size-full wp-image-947  aligncenter" title="pst" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/pst.png" alt="" width="457" height="309" /></a></p>
<p>Available in six sizes (from 42 to 65), the Panasonic Viera ST30 Series is loaded with a rich set of value-driven features. These include: full HD 3D capability (with 2D to 3D conversion), 600 Hz Sub Field Drive, wide viewing angles, Infinite Black technology (for deep, rich blacks even when viewed in bright surroundings), DLNA and Wi-Fi connectivity, and Panasonic’s own Viera Connect IPTV service. And, if you know where to look, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that a number of retailers are gearing up for the holidays and selling this series’ models for less than $700.</p>
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		<title>Outdoor Speaker System: Essential Tips on Buying, Installing, and Maintaining Outdoor Speakers</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/outdoor-speaker-system-essential-tips-on-buying-installing-and-maintaining-outdoor-speakers/</link>
		<comments>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/outdoor-speaker-system-essential-tips-on-buying-installing-and-maintaining-outdoor-speakers/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Nov 2011 12:02:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[audio system installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home audio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home audio installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater components]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoor audio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoor audio installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoor audio system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoor rock speakers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoor speaker system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoor speakers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rock speakers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[surround sound system]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/?p=937</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[An outdoor speaker system is a great way to extend and enhance your home theater experience. Just think about it: instead of being confined to a single room inside the house to listen to your favorite music or watch your favorite movies, you have the option of taking the experience outdoors: in the backyard, at [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>An outdoor speaker system is a great way to extend and enhance your home theater experience. Just think about it: instead of being confined to a single room inside the house to listen to your favorite music or watch your favorite movies, you have the option of taking the experience outdoors: in the backyard, at the patio, by the pool.</p>
<p>Of course, buying, installing, and maintaining an outdoor speaker system will present challenges that are different from the ones you’re normally used to. It will also mean setting up a listening environment that can withstand natural elements (like water / moisture, dirt, heat, and background noise) and perform despite the lack of your usual sound-reinforcing walls.</p>
<p>To help you set up, install, and take care of your outdoor speaker system, we here at Hooked Up Installs have come up with this quick guide on outdoor speakers.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-940" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/outdoor-speaker-system-essential-tips-on-buying-installing-and-maintaining-outdoor-speakers/outdoor-speakers/"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-940" title="outdoor speakers" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/outdoor-speakers.jpg" alt="" width="576" height="432" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Buying Outdoor Speakers</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Choose outdoor speakers that feature a low-frequency response of 60      Hz or below. This should help your system produce a richer, deeper sound,      and enable you to hear the bass of your favorite house tracks or blockbusters      despite the background noises of the outdoors.</li>
<li>If you are willing to shell out extra cash, get a subwoofer, which      will help you reproduce low-pitched audio frequencies for a better and      more consistent listening experience.</li>
<li>If you’re setting up your system in a wide open space, look for      speakers that are specifically designed to withstand elements like rain,      snow, dirt, extreme temperatures, moisture, etc. Good audio systems are      not only great-sounding; they’re also durable.</li>
<li>If the speakers come with mounting brackets, be sure to follow the      manufacturers’ manual or consult <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/">professional installation</a> help.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Installation</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Mount the outdoor speakers high enough so that the sound can be      projected at greater distances. On the other hand, we recommend that you      don’t go higher than ten feet; otherwise, the sound from the speakers will      likely thin out.</li>
<li>Think carefully about the locations where you’ll be doing most of      your listening. This will help you decide how to carefully place your      speakers in such a way that they alternate between the left and right      channels.</li>
<li>To improve the bass output of your outdoor audio, place the outdoor      speakers near a solid surface or a wall.</li>
<li>Unless your speakers are specifically designed for poolside use,      avoid placing them near water features (like your swimming pool, Jacuzzi,      or koi garden).</li>
<li>Add a volume control box to your outdoor audio system, so that you      won’t have to go inside your house to adjust the volume of your outdoor      speakers.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Maintenance</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>If you’re mounting your speakers with a bracket, go for a protected      location (such as under a roof) that allows your system to last longer      while performing at an optimum level.<strong> </strong></li>
<li>If you’re running the speakers underground (a common feature of      outdoor rock speakers), we recommend that you use “direct burial” wires,      which are designed to handle extreme temperatures and moisture conditions.      For added protection, run the wire through a PVC conduit, so that the      gardener doesn’t cut through it one random weekend. Also, make sure (with      silicon or some other protective sealant) that you seal the holes through      which your wiring runs. This will protect your system from insects and      moisture and dirt buildup.<strong> </strong></li>
<li>Save a few feet of wire and coil them up under your outdoor      speakers. Why? So that you will not have to do the underground wiring all      over again in case you need to transfer the speakers to another, more      optimal location.</li>
<li>If you run underground cable to a &#8220;planter&#8221; or &#8220;rock&#8221; speaker, you may want to coil up a few extra feet of wire and place it directly under the speaker. This way, you&#8217;ll have some extra wire if you decide to move the speaker later on, and won&#8217;t need to redo the entire underground run.</li>
</ul>
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		<title>Home Theater Trends 2012: Smarter Smartphones and Tablets for Your Home Theater</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/home-theater-trends-2012-smarter-smartphones-and-tablets-for-your-home-theater/</link>
		<comments>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/home-theater-trends-2012-smarter-smartphones-and-tablets-for-your-home-theater/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:51:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[AirPlay]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Airplay Mirroring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Android]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DLNA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home automation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater PC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater systems]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iPad]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iPhone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[iPod]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[remote control apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[smartphone apps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[smartphones]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tablets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[universal remote]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wireless streaming]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[It’ll be a few more months yet until 2011 turns to 2012, but if you knew what went down at this year’s International CES (Consumer Electronics Show), you’ll have a pretty good idea of what lies ahead in terms of home theater trends. What will the home theater look like? What technology, components, equipment, and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It’ll be a few more months yet until 2011 turns to 2012, but if you knew what went down at this year’s International CES (Consumer Electronics Show), you’ll have a pretty good idea of what lies ahead in terms of home theater trends. What will the <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/">home theater</a> look like? What technology, components, equipment, and accessories will soon be all the rage? What can you expect next from manufacturers and service providers? The show, held every year at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Nevada, is meant to give answers to such questions.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-934" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/home-theater-trends-2012-smarter-smartphones-and-tablets-for-your-home-theater/smartphone-home-theater/"><img class="size-full wp-image-934  aligncenter" title="smartphone home theater" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/smartphone-home-theater.jpg" alt="" width="525" height="305" /></a></p>
<h3><strong>Smarter Smartphones and Tablets for your Home Theater</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Smartphones are only getting smarter, and their evolution isn’t just changing the way we communicate; it’s also changing the way we consume multimedia content – movies, music, Internet videos, etc. On this post, we’ll highlight the kind of impact that present (and future) smartphones – as well as tablets – can have on your home theater.</p>
<p><strong>Smartphones / tablets as universal remote controls: </strong>Smartphones and tablets, with their multi-touch screens and built-in wireless connectivity technologies, are also being used increasingly as universal remote controls. There are many ways of doing this: via an external infrared blaster/ receiver / transmitter (usually in dongle form), a Bluetooth-enabled media box, or dedicated apps for specific components (like the <a href="http://xfinity.comcast.net/">Xfinity</a> app for Comcast-based DVRs). Some of our favorite universal remote apps for smartphones and tablets include: <a href="http://thinkflood.com/products/redeye/">Thinkflood’s RedEye</a>, <a href="http://www.newkinetix.com/">NewKinetix Re</a>, <a href="http://www.iruleathome.com/">iRule</a>, <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/vlc-remote-free/id299344206?mt=8">VLC Remote Free</a>, <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/boxee-remote/id305171838?mt=8">Boxee Remote</a>, and <a href="http://www.tivo.com/mytivo/product-features/stay-connected/ipad/index.html">TiVo app</a> for the iPhone / iPad / iPod Touch, <a href="http://thinkflood.com/">RedEye for Android</a>, <a href="http://www.samsung.com/us/article/turn-your-tv-on-to-a-galaxy-of-remote-possibilities">Remote App</a> for Samsung Galaxy Tab, <a href="https://market.android.com/details?id=com.greggreno.rokuremote">Roku Remote</a> for Android, <a href="http://www.gmote.org/">Gmote</a>, the <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/tablet-accessories/for-ipad/devices/harmony-link">Harmony Link</a> and the <a href="http://www.peel.com/peel-app.php">Peel</a> and VLC Remote Control app for multiple platforms.</p>
<p><strong>Use of Language Processing and Voice Recognition Technology: </strong>Apple recently brought <a href="http://www.apple.com/iphone/features/siri.html">Siri</a> – a voice-activated mobile assistant application – to the newly launched iPhone 4S. The app features natural language processing technology to let users send messages, schedule meetings, place phone calls, find all sorts of information, and more. After Siri, you can well expect that Android and other platforms will have their own voice recognition and mobile assistant apps soon – and that developers will find new ways to change the way we operate our home systems. Who knows? It’s not unlikely that soon we’ll be able to lower the shades or turn off the lights in the bedroom using just voice commands given to smartphones and tablets.</p>
<p><strong>Wireless Sharing and Streaming: </strong>Do you have a home network of different media devices (phone, home theater, Internet TV, media servers and streamers, tablet, PC, etc.)? Well, there’s no longer any need for wires to connect all of them. With wireless sharing and streaming technologies like Apple’s <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/how-apple-ios-5%E2%80%99s-airplay-mirroring-can-change-your-home-theater/">AirPlay and AirPlay Mirroring</a>, <a href="http://xbmc.org/">XBMC for Linux / OSX / Windows</a>, or <a href="http://tversity.com/">TVersity</a> for DLNA-compliant devices, you can now put together a wireless streaming setup in your home theater and play your entertainment media (movies, music, games, pictures, etc.) wherever you want. It’s a trend poised to become even more mainstream as more DLNA-enabled smartphones and tablets and enhanced encoding technologies are introduced in the market.</p>
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		<title>Home Theater Trends 2012: 3D Everywhere</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/home-theater-trends-2012-3d-everywhere/</link>
		<comments>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/home-theater-trends-2012-3d-everywhere/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 22 Oct 2011 10:14:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3d]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3d camera]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3D glasses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3d home theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3d projector]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3d tv]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[digital projector]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater projector]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater systems]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/?p=919</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It’ll be a few more months yet until 2011 turns to 2012, but if you knew what went down at this year’s International CES (Consumer Electronics Show), you’ll have a pretty good idea of what lies ahead in terms of home theater trends. What will the home theater look like? What technology, components, equipment, and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It’ll be a few more months yet until 2011 turns to 2012, but if you knew what went down at this year’s International CES (Consumer Electronics Show), you’ll have a pretty good idea of what lies ahead in terms of home theater trends. What will the home theater look like? What technology, components, equipment, and accessories will soon be all the rage? What can you expect next from manufacturers and service providers? The show, held every year at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Nevada, is meant to give answers to such questions.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-920" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/home-theater-trends-2012-3d-everywhere/3d-home-theater/"><img class="size-large wp-image-920  aligncenter" title="3d home theater" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/3d-home-theater-800x480.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="384" /></a></p>
<h3><strong>3D Everywhere</strong></h3>
<p>One of the trends that we noticed in the International CES was the abundance of products and technologies designed to bring 3D to your <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/services/">home theater</a>. That’s right: very soon there will come a time when we won’t have to spend on gas, go to the theaters, wait in line, put on silly-looking 3D glasses, and pay more money for popcorn – just to experience a 3D movie. Very soon 3D movies will come straight to our living room.</p>
<p><strong>3D glasses: </strong>Manufacturers like <a href="http://www.samsung.com/us/video/tvs-accessories/SSG-2200AR/ZA">Samsung</a>, <a href="http://www.lg.com/us/tv-audio-video/accessories/LG-tv-accessories-AG-S100.jsp">LG</a>, <a href="http://store.sony.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&amp;storeId=10151&amp;langId=-1&amp;partNumber=TDGBR100/B">Sony</a>, <a href="http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/Products/TY-EW3D10/Overview/4678875/index.html">Panasonic</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sharp-AN3DG10S-Active-Matrix-Glasses/dp/B0041UBZVS">Sharp</a>, and <a href="http://us.toshiba.com/accessory/FPT-AG01U">Toshiba</a> are already making 3D glasses for 3D TVs. Not only do these 3D active glasses <em>not </em>look silly; they’re also easy-to-wear, adjustable, rechargeable, and conveniently designed for use at home (some are even fit to wear over your prescription glasses).</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-921" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/home-theater-trends-2012-3d-everywhere/3d-glasses/"><img class="size-full wp-image-921  aligncenter" title="3d glasses" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/3d-glasses.jpg" alt="" width="468" height="293" /></a></p>
<p><strong>3D TVs: </strong>Don’t like 3D glasses? Well, how about a 3D-glasses-free 3D TV? Sure, 3D TVs have certainly been happening at CES over the last few years, but this year, the prototypes are taking on a wider variety, such as those that feature passive technology: the industry calls them the “autostereoscopic TVs”.</p>
<p><strong>3D Projectors: </strong>New home theater projectors with 3D compatibility are also being introduced. This year’s batch included: the <a href="http://www.sharpusa.com/ForHome/HomeEntertainment/FrontProjectors/XVZ17000.aspx">Sharp XV-Z17000 3D HD Front Projector</a>, the <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2375111,00.asp">Mitsubishi Diamond HD9000</a>, the <a href="http://www.vivitekusa.com/v_vivitek3d.asp">Vivitek 3D-Ready Projectors</a>, and the <a href="http://www.samsung.com/us/news/newsRead.do?news_seq=19776">Samsung SP-A8000 3D Home Theater Projector</a>; other manufacturers are also creating projectors that can transform existing 2D content into 3D. Next year, these projectors are poised to deliver even greater resolutions, come at more affordable price points, and gain more mainstream attention.</p>
<p><strong>3D Cameras: </strong>In 2009, a USB webcam called the <a href="http://www.minoru3d.com/">Minoru 3D</a> – the world&#8217;s first stereoscopic 3D consumer stereo webcam – won the CES “Fans Favorite” Award. Two years later, more cameras with 3D shooting capabilities and modes are appearing on the horizon, enabling consumers (and not just James Cameron) to record content in 3D. (And more 3D content means greater 3D technology adoption, right?) Standouts include the Sony Bloggie 3D, Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX10, Sony Handycam HDR-TD10, and the Panasonic HDC-TM900 , HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 HD 3D cameras.</p>
<p><strong>3D Audio: </strong>Surround sound systems are also getting a 3D upgrade. At the 2011 CES, DTS announced their new <a href="http://www.dts.com/Corporate/Press_Room/Press_Releases/2011/03/NEO_X_at_CeBIT.aspx">Neo:X 11.1 surround sound technology</a>, the world’s  first 11.1 surround system, designed to deliver processor-enhanced 3D audio. It won’t be the last, and you can certainly expect home theater audio technologies to soon move beyond 5.1 and 7.1 setups.</p>
<p><strong>3D Content / 3D VOD / 3D Channels: </strong>Content providers are also working to provide 3D content to your living room. There’s <a href="http://www.3net.com/">3Net</a>, a new 3D channel by Discovery, Sony, and IMAX. Video-on-demand companies like <a href="http://www.vudu.com/">Vudu</a> are offering more 3D movies. And <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/integrating-internet-to-your-home-theater/">media players and streamers</a> like the Boxee Box are partnering with developers to bring 3D apps and menus.</p>
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		<title>Integrating Internet to Your Home Theater</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/integrating-internet-to-your-home-theater/</link>
		<comments>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/integrating-internet-to-your-home-theater/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:56:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Apple TV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blu-ray player]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boxee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[digital media adapter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HDMI]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[internet home theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[internet tv]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[internet-enabled tv]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[media streamer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Netflix]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[network media player]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ps3]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[TiVo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[video on demand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[VOD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Xbox 360]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[xbox live]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[YouTube]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/?p=907</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Internet has changed the way we find, receive, consume, and share content. Instead of consulting TV guides on the newspaper, we’re downloading the shows we want from the Web. Instead of going to the cinemas all the time, we’re getting our movies from online VOD services. And instead of buying physical albums and books [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Internet has changed the way we find, receive, consume, and share content. Instead of consulting TV guides on the newspaper, we’re downloading the shows we want from the Web. Instead of going to the cinemas all the time, we’re getting our movies from online <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/choosing-video-on-demand-vod-service-for-your-home-theater/">VOD services</a>. And instead of buying physical albums and books from physical stores, we’re streaming music from Pandora, watching videos on YouTube, and buying books from Amazon.</p>
<p>It makes sense therefore to view the Internet as an essential component of any modern <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/services/">home theater</a>. But how do you integrate it to your flat-panel TV, to your audio system, to your home storage and media playback devices, to the rest of your home theater system? Here are ways to do just that:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-913" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/integrating-internet-to-your-home-theater/internet-home-theater/"><img class="size-full wp-image-913  aligncenter" title="internet home theater" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/internet-home-theater.png" alt="" width="618" height="335" /></a></p>
<h3><strong>From PC, laptop, tablet, or phone to your HDTV’s VGA</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>No need to buy an extra device or gadget – just a VGA cable. Of course, be sure to check first that your HDTV actually has a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VGA_connector">VGA connector</a>.</p>
<h3><strong>From PC, laptop, tablet, or phone to HDMI TV</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>HDMI is a great way to transmit uncompressed digital data, and it can carry both video and audio. Most new consumer electronic devices now support HDMI, but if your PC, laptop, tablet, or phone doesn’t have a port for it, you can still connect to your TV’s HDMI by getting a USB-to-HDMI or a VGA-to-HDMI converter.</p>
<h3><strong>TiVo</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Digital video recorders have come a long way. TiVo, for example, doesn’t merely free you from fixed TV schedules and time limitations; the DVR solution also gives you a pass to millions of web videos, free music videos and thousands of professional and amateur webcasts brought right to your TV.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-912" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/integrating-internet-to-your-home-theater/boxee-internet-home-theater/"><img class="size-full wp-image-912  aligncenter" title="boxee internet home theater" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/boxee-internet-home-theater.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="342" /></a></p>
<h3><strong>Use a media streamer / network media player / digital media adapter / digital media receiver / media extender / media server</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Thanks to the popularity of services like YouTube, Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon, Pandora, Spotify, and Vudu (among many others), an increasing number of streaming and media playback devices are finding their way into home theater systems. Don’t get confused with all these variations of names; by these we mean the products that can connect to the Internet – either via Ethernet or Wi-Fi – so that you can enjoy online VOD and audio streaming services from the comfort of your home theater. Our favorites include: <a href="http://www.roku.com/roku-products">Roku 2 XS</a>, <a href="http://www.apple.com/appletv/">Apple TV</a>, <a href="http://www.sonos.com/shop/products/connect">Sonos Zoneplayer 90</a> (a wireless music streaming system), <a href="http://www.logitech.com/en-us/speakers-audio/wireless-music-systems">Logitech’s Squeezebox Wi-Fi music players</a>, D-Link’s <a href="http://www.boxee.tv/box">Boxee Box</a>, <a href="http://www.popcornhour.com/onlinestore/index.php?pluginoption=catalog&amp;mainItemId=24">Popcorn Hour C-200</a>, <a href="http://www.sony.co.uk/hub/network-media-player">Sony Network Media Player</a>, and <a href="http://www.wdc.com/en/products/homeentertainment/mediaplayers/">Western Digital TV Media Players</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-914" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/integrating-internet-to-your-home-theater/roku-internet-home-theater/"><img class="size-full wp-image-914  aligncenter" title="roku internet home theater" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/roku-internet-home-theater.png" alt="" width="606" height="365" /></a></p>
<h3><strong>Use your Blu-ray player / PlayStation 3 / Xbox 360</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Why buy an additional box if you’ve got a Blu-ray player with network connectivity? Or a video game console like the PS3 or Xbox 360, both of which can connect to the Web? Xbox 360 in particular has a great home entertainment solution, <a href="http://www.xbox.com/en-US/live">Xbox LIVE</a>, which <a href="http://content.usatoday.com/communities/gamehunters/post/2011/10/microsoft-to-bring-tv-programming-to-xbox-live-service/1">recently got a TV programming</a> boost from deals with major content providers and networks. Meanwhile, if you don’t have any of these, here’s some good news: more <a href="http://reviews.cnet.com/2795-9991_7-386.html">Wi-Fi enabled Blu-ray players</a> are being introduced in the market, and they no longer cost as much as before.</p>
<h3><strong>Get an Internet-enabled TV</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>If you’re willing to invest in a new TV, why not make it a TV that actually connects to the Internet by itself – without the need for an extra box, adapter, cord, DVR, or Blu-ray player? Industry players like Panasonic (Viera Cast), Samsung (Internet TV), LG (Netcast), and Sony now offer Internet-enabled “smart” TVs (sometimes called “iTVs”), which enable you to stream content via Ethernet or your wireless network.</p>
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		<title>Essential Guide to Calibrating Your LCD TV</title>
		<link>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/essential-guide-to-calibrating-your-lcd-tv/</link>
		<comments>http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/essential-guide-to-calibrating-your-lcd-tv/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:58:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hooked Up Installs</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Ask the Expert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[calibrating LCD TV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custom lighting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home entertainment system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater components]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater installation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater lighting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater setup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home theater system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LCD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LCD TV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LCD TV calibration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[video installation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/?p=898</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Congratulations on your awesome new LCD television! We imagine that it’s an important home theater investment for you. One thing, though: don’t be surprised if your new LCD TV, on first use, doesn’t display as great a picture as you may have expected. Either it’s too bright, or the pictures are too sharp, or the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Congratulations on your awesome new LCD television! We imagine that it’s an important home theater investment for you. One thing, though: don’t be surprised if your new LCD TV, on first use, doesn’t display as great a picture as you may have expected. Either it’s too bright, or the pictures are too sharp, or the colors are oversaturated, or they just don’t look right, or all of the above.</p>
<p>Don’t worry. Your LCD TV just needs a little calibration, so that the picture it displays matches the place or room where you have installed it. At the store display, you see, the TVs’ brightness, contrast, and backlight settings have been maximized to catch the eye. In your home theater or living room, however, where no other LCD TVs are competing for your attention, these same settings may hurt your eye (and even shorten the lifespan of your TV set.)</p>
<p>So a calibration is in order. Follow these helpful tips to guide you and make the LCD TV calibration process a lot smoother:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" title="lcd calibration" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/lcd-calibration.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="325" /></p>
<h3><strong>Perfect your room lighting</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong>You probably already have a good idea of your preferred lighting conditions, regardless of where you watch your favorite movies and TV shows or play your video games. So, before you do anything with your LCD TV, adjust the lights of the location – be it your living room, home theater, recreation room, bedroom – in the way you expect they would ideally look like when you’re watching. Don’t keep the room in complete darkness, though; it’s advisable that you keep a dim light (ambient light) on. Also: turn off extremely bright lights and close any curtains through which light may come in and reflect on your LCD TV screen.</p>
<h3><strong>Adjust the backlight</strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong>Unlike CRT (cathode ray tube) TVs, LCD TVs don’t produce light themselves: an internal light source placed behind the panel – the “backlight” – has to provide the raw illumination needed to produce a visible image. When calibrating your LCD TV, the first thing you should do is adjust the intensity or brightness of this light (your television is likely to have its own backlight control setting). Lower the setting. If the backlight brightness of the store display setting is, on a scale of 0 to 100, at 50, then lower it to 35 or even 30. (Here’s a cool tip: block out reflections of light and display a blank black picture on your LCD TV screen. If you see light bleeding on the edges of the black picture, lower the backlight until the bleeding disappears.) It’s only when you’ve properly adjusted the backlight that you can begin to make other tweaks and adjustments, like the brightness, sharpness, hue, and contrast of your LCD TV.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a rel="attachment wp-att-901" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/essential-guide-to-calibrating-your-lcd-tv/lcd-calibration/"></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-902" href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/essential-guide-to-calibrating-your-lcd-tv/lcd-tv-calibration/"><img class="size-full wp-image-902  aligncenter" title="lcd tv calibration" src="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/lcd-tv-calibration.jpg" alt="" width="630" height="420" /></a></p>
<h3><strong>Adjust contrast and brightness</strong></h3>
<p><strong></strong>Brightness and contrast are controls for the brightness levels of black and white, respectively. There’s no fixed value for the correct brightness and contrast settings, but you have to make sure you adjust these until you’re completely comfortable with the picture. Too much brightness will strain your eyes (especially in a dimly lit home theater room); too much contrast, meanwhile, will distort the fine details of whatever you’re seeing on your LCD TV screen. You’ll do well to test these settings using an actual movie, so check out our <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/the-best-movies-for-testing-and-calibrating-your-home-theater/">list of the best movies for calibrating your home theater</a>. From here, you can also begin to correct the colors of your LCD TV by adjusting hue and saturation levels.</p>
<h3>Consult the pros</h3>
<p><strong></strong>If in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask for help from <a href="http://www.hookedupinstalls.com/">home theater installation</a> professionals. Here at Hooked Up Installs, we have an array of services and system design solutions designed to take the guesswork out of your new home theater component or home theater system.</p>
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