Harman Kardon AVR330 7.1-Channel A/V Receiver (Gray/Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I have this paired with athena s5s and a 300 sub. the sound is sweet for everything: PSX. movies -- dialogue & sfx, and of course music -- bright, crystal clear, wonderful range and musicality. night mode is great feature if listening late and worried about neighbors.
only gripe: unit needs an illuminated remote that is more easily programmable.
I got mine from HK online - refurbished for 420. w shipping and same warranty.

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The AVR330 brings you high-performance, theater-quality sound with enough power to bring home all the excitement and detail of the most demanding soundtracks and every nuance of your music. It is capable of 7.1- or 5.1-channel output and offers coaxial and optical digital inputs as well as six- or eight-channel analog inputs for output from DVD-audio players or other devices that use their own built-in surround processing. The AVR330 boasts an array of processing features, including Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, and various types of DTS decoding (DTS, DTS-ES Discrete and Matrix, and DTS Neo:6) for digital sources.
For sources such as CD, VCR, TV broadcasts, and the AVR330's own FM/AM tuner, a choice of several matrix surround-encoded or stereo surround modes are available, including Dolby 3 stereo, hall, and theater modes. To maximize use of your listening environment, the AVR330 offers Harman Kardon's exclusive Logic 7 processing in both 5.1- and 7.1-channel versions to create a wider, more enveloping field environment and more defined fly-overs and pans. In addition, VMAx surround-like simulation uses proprietary processing to create an open, spacious sound field even when only two front speakers are available. The receiver also includes complete digital bass management. Its onboard AM/FM receiver includes both AM and FM antennas and gives you 30 presets for storing your favorite stations. The remote control features EZSet, which automatically sets output levels for optimum performance, and the package includes connections for setting up a second listening environment, complete with a second ("Zone II") remote control.
For video management, the AVR330 gives you component video, S-video, and composite video inputs and outputs, as well as a host of audio connections. The receiver allows you not only to pass digital signals through to compatible devices for recording, but also to convert analog signals to a PCM digital signal for recording to a digital device such as a MiniDisc or CD recorder. It features coaxial and optical digital audio inputs and outputs and a host of analog inputs and outputs, including front-panel digital and A/V inputs for easy connection to portable digital devices and video game consoles. In all, it gives you three coaxial digital inputs, three optical digital inputs, coaxial and optical digital outputs, five A/V audio inputs, tape inputs, CD audio inputs, and 6- or 8-channel direct inputs for use with DVD-audio or SACD players and any other products with internal surround decoders. It also gives you subwoofer and preamp outputs. All input, output, and speaker terminals are color-coded and comply with CEA standards for easy installation.
What's in the Box AVR3300 receiver, owner's manual, remote control with batteries, second remote control for Zone II, AM loop antenna, indoor FM antenna, 300-ohm-to-75-ohm adapter, warranty information.

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Supersonic 22-Inch Widescreen LCD HDTV with Digital Tuner & DVD Player Review

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(More customer reviews)The picture is good but the remote won't work. The manufacturer sent another remote but that one dose not work either. I have to turn the TV on with the remote then turn it off at the TV set and then back on with the remote to get some of the buttons on the remote to work, the large volume up, down and channel up down buttons will not work at all.

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Absolute DD900BT 7" Double DIN Touch Screen Multimedia Player with Bluetooth Review

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(More customer reviews)This radio only worked for two days then the graphics displayed started getting grainy and disappered. The DVD/cd player would never accept any disc. Now only the radio works but with no graphics there's only the one channel it was on at failure. Overall this unit is a huge waist of money. The quality of absolute products is an epic fail. When I tried to return it they said it was a bad install. Do not buy this product.

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Yamaha HTR-5760 7.1-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)Oh Boy ! Prices have come down on quality receivers. Not only do you get more ... but you pay less than the previous version. This one has everything a picky home theater enthusiast is look for:
1 - 7.1 ch amplification
2 - 7.1 preouts (to connect a robust poweramp)
3 - Dolby ProLogic IIx (don't watch movies without it)
4 - Microphone Calibration (not parametric as the name suggests) ... better than an SPL since this measures spkr delays etc.
5 - Adjustable SUB Crossover (down to 40hz)
5 - Construction and overall quality
For Home Theater and Movies ? 5 STARS (Audio in a movie disc is not audiophile grade, so this receiver is just fine for that)
As an audiophile 2-channel receiver ? 3 STARS (get a external good quality poweramp for this)
Suggestions to Yamaha:
1 - Upgrade firmware to allow receiver to use a specific setting as te default for all signals. For instance, if you have a 7 speaker setup ... you should be able to make the player default to Dolby Prologic IIx for any and all signals.
2 - Remove the TUNER and reduce the cost. If you want to listen to the radio ... use that clock radio ! or go out for a drive in your car.
3 - Give us a lighted remote. Any Home Theater component ought to have a lighted remote. I am sure you know why. Right ?
Overall a very good receiver. Good work Yamaha. Bye Bye overpriced Denon.

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For incredible quality and setup flexibility at an amazingly affordable price, it's hard to top Yamaha's high-current HTR-5760 audio/video receiver. With the HTR-5760 you get the convenience of DVD-Audio/SACD-ready eight-channel analog inputs alongside the latest 6.1- and 7.1-channel surround processing, multiroom control, and premium Yamaha sound technologies.When hooked up with the digital-audio output from a DVD-Video player or digital satellite receiver, the 95-watts-per-channel HTR-5760 handles 5.1-channel surround decoding for both major formats, Dolby Digital and DTS. In addition, the receiver processes Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, DTS Neo:6, and DTS 96/24. The extended-surround formats create even more expansive soundfields through a center-rear surround channel, for which THX suggests using two separate speakers. The result is seven discrete full-range channels in addition to the LFE (low-frequency effects) channel: front left/right, surround left/right, front center channel, and a pair of rear-center channels.A key benefit from a Yamaha receiver, of course, is Yamaha's proprietary signal processing, including Cinema DSP (digital soundfield processing), which creates aural "imaging" that not only makes your home sound like a theater, but also sounds better than most movie theaters. Based on a wealth of measured data in real studios and halls, Cinema DSP is designed to bring out the full potential of movie sound mixes, reproducing them the way directors and sound engineers intended.And, when you're listening to multichannel presentations late at night, you'll appreciate Silent Cinema, which simulates 5.1-channel listening through a pair of ordinary 2-channel headphones (not included). Silent Cinema uses unique parameters for each soundfield to ensure accurate headphone representations of each soundfield.The receiver comes with YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer) and a dedicated microphone to help you establish the best possible sound at your primary listening position. The optimizer uses the microphone to "listen" to the sound from the speakers and determine, based on its test-signals, how best to equalize the sound for your room. Corrections include speaker/subwoofer phase relationships, speaker/subwoofer distance measurements (corrects for differences down to 5 cm), frequency response (measures and optimizes each speaker's response using a parametric equalizer), and speaker level (measures and aligns the relative volume levels of all speakers).Then there's the eight-channel DVD-Audio/SACD-ready inputs mentioned above. Due to anti-piracy measures, DVD-Audio and SACD players perform their own digital-to-analog conversion, passing high-resolution analog signals on to your amplifier. (And analog, after all, is what your amp feeds your speakers.)DVD-Audio and SACD can each deliver up to six channels of discrete, full-frequency sound at greater-than-CD resolution (in the case of DVD-A, that means 24 bits, 96 kHz sampling rate versus 16 bits, 44.1 kHz for CD). In stereo or surround, the sound from DVD-Audio and SACD is packed with detail, yet smoother and sweeter from than the sound from even the best standard CD players. The HTR-5760 accommodates decoded DVD-A/SACD signals and routes them to the appropriate speakers in your surround system.The receiver offers five audio/video input connections (all with composite-/S-video, two with component-video), eight fixed and assignable digital-audio inputs (great for DSS, CD, laserdisc, gaming consoles, or minidisc), and front-panel input connections with digital-audio jacks for your camcorder or other spontaneous hookup. The receiver's video circuitry is high-definition ready, too (60 MHz bandwidth), and it will upconvert composite-video to an S-video signal to simplify TV hookup.Last, but certainly not least, the HTR-5760 benefits from Yamaha's Digital ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) build philosophy. The culmination of the best digital engineering and design possible, it brings together several key elements to create the best-sounding, easiest-to-use A/V components available.What's in the Box Receiver, remote control, four AAA batteries, microphone for YPAO, an AM loop antenna, an indoor FM antenna, a warranty card, and a user's manual.

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Kenwood VR-9070-S 7.1-Channel THX-Certified Home Theater Receiver (Silver) Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased the VR-9070 nine months ago after finally deciding to upgrade from my ten year old Kenwood KR-V6070. Desire for Digital sound had finally crested enough for me to plunk down the dough even though my old receiver was still in great working order.
I looked at a few Sony models before settling on this Kenwood due to its price and how well my 10 year old Kenwood receiver had faired. For the price I was surprised to find a THX certified receiver that matched all my other criteria (Dolby/DTS digital decoder, adequate wattage, subwoofer connection & silver casing).
The 9070 sounds great in Digital & Pro Logic settings. I did notice a significant drop off of deep bass compared to my other receiver and I ended up purchasing a JBL sub sooner than I anticipated in order to rectify my bass needs. DVDs sound great in big action scenes, and there is good separation between channels.
The menu is rather unintuitive and difficult at first when attempting to change settings. I am rather disappointed there isn't a simple bass/treble feature. Instead, there are several different settings to navigate through in order to tweak your set-up.
I had some difficulty getting the Digital audio signal from my DVD player to work at first, but finally figured out that if your DVD player has a digital decoder built in as most do these days, then it has to be turned off for the 9070 to recognize and output a digital signal.
The aluminum case is heavy-duty and looks sleek. The flip down cover on the front keeps it looking nice and clean. The blue led display is just the right brightness and looks slick with the silver case. I only wish the connections on the front were also covered.
It does run rather hot, especially in Digital mode. I have about two inches clearance above the receiver and have had no problems with overheating even when running it over 4-5 hours. It does exude quite a bit of heat though so good ventilation is needed.
The only downfall to the 9070 I have experienced so far is the remote. Its small type is hard to read, impossible in the dark, and has almost no contrast to the color of the remote. The LCD screen might as well not be there, its only function is to display what mode the remote is in, and even then it only stays on for a few seconds. Not to mention that the screen, nor any of the buttons is backlit. The remote feels cheap in comparison, and should have a more user friendly appeal. Luckily my universal remote covers the basic volume functions so once my settings were locked in I rarely have use for the remote.
Overall a great receiver for the price.

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Enjoy the very best in surround sound performance with the Kenwood VR-9070-S home theater receiver, which not only delivers 100 watts of power to each of its seven channels, but also meets the demanding standards of LucasFilm's THX Select certification. Internally, the receiver is equipped with a 32-bit floating SHARC digital signal processor, a K-STAT discrete audio amplifier, and a 24-bit/96 kHz audio digital-to-analog converter that combine to deliver remarkably accurate, explosive sound whether you're watching the latest Hollywood spectacle or listening to your favorite tunes on CD. The audio experience is enhanced by the five DSP modes--arena, theater, jazz club, stadium, and disco--that simulate the acoustics of the most common live venues.
As with the best surround receivers, the VR-9070-S offers decoding for a variety of formats, including THX Select, THX Surround EX, THX Cinema, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Surround EX, DTS, DTS-ES, DTS 96/24, and Dolby Pro Logic IIx. The first several formats play 5.1-, 6.1-, and 7.1-channel soundtracks from the latest DVDs, while Pro Logic IIx converts two-channel audio sources such as CDs, VHS tapes, and even LPs into full multichannel splendor to create a surround-like effect. The receiver also boasts an active equalizer function that adapts to the type of speakers you own (full range, satellite, etc.) and the type of program you're listening to (movies, music, or TV). The resulting sound can meet all types of expectations, whether you like your audio tight and crisp or full of booming echoes.
The THX Select certification signifies that the VR-9070-S meets the manufacturing standards established by LucasFilm for audio accuracy and performance. Every THX Select-certified component boasts a variety of valuable features, including: re-equalization, which removes the edgy brightness of cinema sound and accurately adapts it for home playback; timbre matching, which ensures a tonal match between the front and surround speakers; adaptive decorrelation, which gives monaural surround signals a true stereo sound; bass management, which directs the bass signals to the subwoofer to ensure cinema-quality bass; peak level management, which protects subwoofers from overload in bass-heavy soundtracks; and loudspeaker synchronization, which allows you to fine tune your system for optimal "sweet spot" listening in any room. To put it simply, THX Select receivers are as close as you can come to true movie-theater sound in your own home.
Additional audio functions unique to the VR-9070-S include automatic signal detection for both analog and digital sources (instinctively switches between CD player, DVD player, or satellite receiver depending on which unit is playing); individual bass and treble controls; and a Midnight Theater mode that softens loud passages of movies so that people in other rooms won't be disturbed. And, of course, the receiver includes a quartz PLL-synthesized AM/FM tuner with 40 station presets.
Adding to the VR-9070-S's value is the receiver's ability to serve as an A/V component switcher (it's HD-compatible), which is ideal for TVs with a limited number of inputs; the HD component pass-through function; and its S-video up-conversion, which converts composite signals to S-video to improve picture quality and minimize signal loss.
For the ultimate in flexibility, the VR-9070-S offers three component video inputs for such items as DVD players and HD receivers, five S-video inputs, and five composite inputs. It also comes with five video outputs (one component, two S-video, and two composite), along with eight audio inputs (including a front-panel auxiliary and a 6-channel input) and four digital audio inputs (two coaxial and two optical). Listeners can even use the receiver to control speakers and components in other rooms thanks to the multiroom A/V and IR control outputs. The VR-9070-S, which measures 17.31 by 6.56 by 15.62 inches (W x H x D), comes with a comprehensive learning remote control and is covered by a two-year warranty on parts and labor.
What's in the Box VR-9070-S receiver, remote control, user's manual.

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Yamaha HTR-6060BL 7.1-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)One of the few new A/V receivers that has a truly usable & friendly remote control. On screen GUI makes set up (Auto or Manual) & modificatons a breeze. 9 speaker sound - woosh! A truly musical piece of equipment. Digital & Analogs recordings come alive. You can bring your vinly LP's & tapes new 7.1 channel surround sound. Phono input is a A+ bonus. Replaced Sony's 1997 DAG90ES top of the lne with this new receiver. This one is a much better unit & was 1200.00 cheaper. Movies & music - Fantastic!

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Velodyne VDR-12BV 12-inch 400 Watt Powered Subwoofer with Remote Control Review

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(More customer reviews)I searched for a subwoofer to pair with my front corner sub, an M&K 150THX. I wanted a remote volume control. This limited me to the Velodyne brand. My room is 16.5' by 24' with a cathedral ceiling and is open on one side. I wanted a 12" sub since the M&K is a dual 12" model and since the second sub would be placed close to the listening position, did not want an over powering 15" sub. The DD, DEQ, and Optimum lines are very expensive. That leaves the DLS and VDR. The VDR is identical to the DLS in performance (it lacks a set-up feature that I am not to sure about). The woofer, the amp, and the rear panel inputs, outputs and switches are identical. Per the discussion sites, the VDR series, now discontinued, was created to be sold at mass merchandise stores at a lower price (for those "site" people, they sent a July 2009 build date model). The price here made it an easy choice.
The sub came two days after ordering from HiDef. It came in perfect condition. With the remote, it was easy to integrate into my PSB surround system. More tests to follow, but so far so good. I gave it 5 stars bases on the value, I'm sure there are better more powerful subs, but I didn't need anything more than this one.

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Chrysalis by Velodyne 80-PN8BV Photon-8 8" Powered Subwoofer Review

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(More customer reviews)For the first half hour of listening time it sounded great then a wierd sound and now it sounds like loose sand inside. Totally defective product. Now comes the cost, time, and frustration of getting a replacement. They have not yet even answered my e-mail yet. Wish me luck!

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Apple iMac Aluminum Core 2 Duo E8435 3.06GHz 2GB 500GB DVD±RW DL GeForce 8800 GS 24" AirPort OS X w/Bluetooth Review

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(More customer reviews)It was a simple click of the button and the product arrived a few days later. It was in perfect condition and works like a charm.

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Harman Kardon DPR 1001 Digital Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased the dpr 1001 in October and auditioned it for 2 weeks before returning it. Please take note that this is really, for the most part a positive review, and overall I was very impressed with this unit. Although it didn't quite fit my needs, it very well may fit yours.
This reciever is an entirely new technology so you really can't directly compare it to an analog amp. The amplifier section is entirely digital making this one of the first of it's kind. I could easily take pages with this review, but I'll try to sum it up with a pro and con list:
Pro:
Tons of inputs, many assignable. One of the coolest features of this is the ability to map inputs, much the same way as an audio mixing board. For example, you can tell the unit to use the optical 2 input for Video 1, or Video 2, etc, without moving any plugs. You can also tell it to turn the front panel jacks from inputs to outputs to record something to your mp3 or camcorder. Very nice.
Extremely quiet. The noise floor on this thing is about the quietest I ever heard, almost high-end. The amp is very revealing, a solo violin recording sounds startlingly realistic. Also the tiny details in movie soundtracks such as the whizzing bullets in Saving Private Ryan sounded absolutely clearer and more present than on anything else I'd ever heard, including a set of 6,000$ seperates I auditioned recently at a local high-end boutique. That impressed the heck out of me.
The HK Vmax processing is the first "play your cd's through all the speakers faux surround" I ever heard that actually sounded good. This makes the dsp on my old Yamaha sound like a 1950's reverb tank. Awsome.
Very small and light compared to other recievers in it's class. Since the digital amp puts out much less heat than an analog one, it doesn't require big, heavy heatsinks. Picking up this reciever feels like you're holding a cheap vcr rather than an expensive reciever.
Big LED display you can see across the room and a great remote that is easy to set up and use.
Cons:
This unit has only one real con in my opinion, but it was big enough to make me reluctanly pack it up and send it back; and that is the power delivery. The PWM digital amps sound remarkably clean, BUT they seriously lack the dynamic punch of an analog. They had a difficult time driving my PSB bookshelf monitors, and they are pretty efficient. In plain speaking, the amp sounded clean and bright, maybe a bit too bright, but lacked power. Everything sounded a touch brittle and the bass was significantly lacking. I am an longtime audiophile and no matter how feature packed and impressive a receiver is, if it doesn't sound great, it's useless for me. Ultimately it failed my acid test for sound quality, but just by a hair. Keep in mind I am extremely picky, being an audio engineer and someone who owned high-end seperates in his single, pre-child days, and i am sure a great number of people would be pleased as punch with the sound delivered by the 1001, especially classical fans, as the lack of high-current delivery and lower-mid punch isn't as much of an issue.
To sum it up quickly and simply. This is a reciver that does everything you could want it to, and very well. If you are either a fan of quieter music (chamber, folk, etc) or are mostly concerned with the home theatre performance, i recommend this highly. If, however you plan on driving inefficient audiophile speakers, or using it primarily for rock music, you may want to consider the superior current delivery and more potent bass/midbass punch of one of HK's analog models. I think the digital amp technology is in it's infancy, and although it's not quite there yet, in another few years, who knows?

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The 7.1-channel DPR 1001 digital path receiver features a full digital-signal path from input to output, combining high-power output, convenience, and leading-edge performance with a sleek, high-tech appearance. Winner of a CEA Innovations 2003 Design and Engineering Award, the 7.1-channel DPR 1001 delivers 50 watts into each of its seven main channels. It's also compatible with all popular 7.1, 6.1, and 5.1-channel surround decoding formats, as well as with all high-resolution video and audio formats and display devices, thanks to its wide-bandwidth HDTV- and DTV-compatible component-video switching, multichannel analog-audio inputs, and detailed bass management.
The DPR 1001's versatile setup and configuration options include independent multiroom-multisource operation and a comprehensive array of rear-panel and front-panel digital and analog video and audio connections. The receiver comes with Harman Kardon's programmed LCD remote control with EzSet functionality, plus a Zone II remote for control of a second-room audio system. The receiver uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) digital amplifier technology--which keeps digital-audio signals in the digital domain from input to the last stage of output--to achieve significant advantages in performance and physical design.
Harman Kardon's Triple-Crossover Bass Manager is among the most advanced bass-management systems available in any audio-video receiver or DVD player. This system lets you select from three bass-crossover frequencies for the front, center, and surround speakers to perfectly tailor the audio output fed to each set of speakers for optimal frequency response and performance. This compensates for the absence of bass management on many high-resolution optical players (like DVD-Audio or multichannel SACD players), making it easy to enjoy maximal sonic benefits from high-resolution formats. Advanced 24-bit, 192 kHz D/A converters ensure the highest possible resolution, fidelity, and dynamic range. Two proprietary Harman audio technologies, Logic 7 7.1/5.1 and VMAx, deliver heightened sonic realism from surround sound and stereo audio source material. When the unit's connected to a computer or sound card with a compatible coaxial digital-audio output, you can play back MP3-encoded CDs or Internet-delivered streaming media.
The unit's audio-video connections includes composite video, S-Video, and wide-bandwidth component video switching, plus a wide-bandwidth component-video output, which passes the full bandwidth of HDTV signals. Digital and analog front-panel jacks accommodate program sources such as game consoles, VCRs, camcorders, digital still cameras, and portable audio-video products. Exclusive to Harman Kardon products, the front-panel coaxial digital audio and analog audio-video jacks may be switched to function as record outputs for easy connection to portable recording devices.

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Eclipse AVN2210p CD receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)Let me start off by saying that I value quality reviews ssoooo much and I will not purchase a product without extensive research. That being said, I also will not write a review unless it really "wows" me. This radio went above and beyond my "wow" factor.
I wish there was a button for something higher than 5 stars because that is what it deserves. It is so incredible that it shocks me to come on to amazon.com and not see 100+ reviews for this item.
Let me get the negatives out of the way so I can rave about the positives. There are two negatives and one could partially be due to me configuration in my car, but it was not that easy to install. I had the same issue with another aftermarket radio so I am guessing my 2002 Nissan Altima is a very picky car and not kind to me when I ask it to accept a new unit. The other "negative" is that the TomTom Duo seems to have a cold because there is a glitch that keeps making it reset instead of shut down when I turn off the ignition. I read a lot of info on a forum and figured out that apparently V 6.550 is a good version and the update 6.553 which is what I have has some glitch in the data which sits on the SD card that comes with the TomTom. My recommendation is to STAY WITH v 6.550 if yours comes with it. I am trying to get 6.550 so the glitch goes away. Check out [...] ...tons of information regarding this problem. It honestly is not that big of a deal because all you need to do is remove the SD card from the unit and power off the device so I could careless and don't really consider it a negative.
Now on to the positives. Where to start? The sound quality is incredible. Very clear, no distortions, and you have the option of adjusting the bass, mid, and treble. Obviously your in-car speakers are going to help produce that great quality of sound, but I just switched out my JVC HDR-1 and let me say there is a world of difference between the two (with the same speakers). I do have a Bose system so keep that in mind, but comparing apples with apples I am astonished how much better the Eclipse does with producing perfect clarity. Secondly is the USB. For people adamant like me for wanting a front USB port to plug in a non-iPod device, you know that there is only about 4 or 5 units that come with one in the front. I prefer USB over auxillary because it is a direct connect and you are going to acheive better sound quality from your unit that way. Well Eclipse does it again with the wow factor because it picks up all my songs from the device and displays it on a nice 3.5" TomTom screen. I can choose artist and then see all my music right on there. Oh and btw you have to be very careful with choosing a unit that has a nice touchscreen because I have tried some other units that require me tapping like crazy to move to the next page. The TomTom is very responsive and I can fly through the menus. Next on the list is bluetooth handsfree...if you are looking for a wow factor then you will experience it right here. It is very loud, very clear, and the microphone picks up anyone in the car. Talk about incredible. It syncs so easily and required no effort to dial and talk. Only problem was it said it synced my phonebook but it didn't. This is really surprising because I have a Verizon Wireless EnV and I know Verizon has cripple bluetooth so I am sure the TomTom is going nuts trying to sync it to begin with. In any event the Bluetooth works amazingly and you will wonder why you never had it in your car. Here is a tip to you buyers...the volume control for both the navigation and the Bluetooth calling is on the TomTom itself...not the scroll wheel. If you are on the map screen simply tap the bottom left and the volume control pops up.
This device is when the phrase "different strokes for different folks" comes into play. There are some audiophiles that want a million adjustment options from a Pioneer system so they can fine tune every single decibel. This device was made for the everyday consumer. The reason why iPod is the hottest selling mp3 player is not because of sound quality (because every single website agrees Cowon and Creative win that battle), but because they are just so easy to use with one scroll wheel. Well that is what you can easily tell Eclipse and TomTom tried effortlessly to accomplish. It is INCREDIBLY EASY TO USE! The buttons are self explanatory and big to press quickly, switching between USB, radio, and navigation is extremely simple, and the quality right off that bat is almost perfect so all you need are the bass, mid, and treble controls to fine tune it. This is what I call a design masterpiece. Eclipse and TomTom I bet got together and said "let's make a device that is so easy a caveman could do it." When you are on the road you don't want to squint at the screen or fiddle with the nobs...you want to just enjoy your music and drive safely. Mission accomplished. Also think about how extremely well this was designed that they made it undockable so you can safely take your TomTom with you and not worry about a break-in. You can even take your TomTom to your computer and update it whenver you want. This device should be under anyone's Christmas tree. I could go on forever about this device because I am still shocked and in utter glee, but until you install one for yourself, you won't appreciate it. I never reviewed my JVC HDR-1 because it was "ok" but not thrilling and I had nothing to be excited about. This puppy will be staying with me for as long as I have this car and most likely my next. I finally feel like the $500 I paid for it was worth it! Fantastic work Eclipse/TomTom...you have outdone yourselves.
Ed
P.S. If you need further assistance you can contact me at [...]. Just give me enough time to respond to you, it may take a day or two.

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Kogi L9CH Flat-Panel 19" LCD Monitor Review

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(More customer reviews)I was fearful when I bought this monitor. How could anyone expect decent quality at such a low price? I was astounded. The monitor was easy to hook up. It configured itself authomatically. The picture was amazing! Text is crystal clear. Video playback is great (I have a TV tuner card installed in my PC). There was not a single dead pixel--again amazing for such a large LCD screen! I recommend this monitor without reservation. The only thing I can't comment on is the sound of the integrated speakers. I didn't even hook them up. I'm sure their quality could not rival the speakers I am already using.

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The Kogi L9CH is a flat panel LCD with an impressive 19-inch viewable area. This unit delivers key benefits that are unique to LCD monitors like a small footprint, low energy consumption, and flicker-free viewing to reduce eyestrain. Integrated speakers provide a clutter-free multimedia desktop, while the detachable stand and 170-degree viewing angles allow you a variety of display options.
With a combination of 1,280 x 1,024 resolution and a 600:1 contrast ratio, your graphics will have crisp, clear edges and rich colors ideal for applications as diverse as gaming and detailed spreadsheets. Kogi provides a full one-year warranty on parts and labor.
What's in the BoxMonitor with base, AC power supply and cord, 15-pin monitor cable, instructions, warranty information

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Sony 57" Widescreen HDTV Monitor (KP-57WS510) Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought a 2003 model in 2003. It has no HD tuner, and is intended for use with HD cable tv to bring in the HD signal. It does an excellent job of that without having to worry about maintenance of the HD unit. It has a very fine picture, as good as I've seen anywhere. I purchased a 5 year warranty on the unit, and it just expired without ever being used, and with virtually -0- problems with the TV. I just purchased a three year extension to the warranty for $400.00 & I'm happy with that too, it means I have at least another 3 years with no additional maintenance costs. I intend to keep it for as long as it lasts.

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Bose AM10III-BK Home Theater Speaker System Review

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(More customer reviews)I am a former BOSE Acustimass 10 owner. When i got into Home theater, I was a newbie and pretty much bought into the marketing power of BOSE. They had the nice little Demonstration stands at Best Buy and at Fry's Electronics, they have the Soundroom that is tweaked to make the Bose sound incredible. Problem is, that room costs hundreds of thousands of dollars of technology to make the BOSE Accoutimass speakers sound that good. I don't have $$$,$$$.$$ to spend on a room. You need to see the EQ equiptment in that room.
Safe to say, I was slightly dissappointed then these speakers did not sound as good in my house as in the store. Still un-deterred, I figured it was my room (of course, it can't be as good as THAT sound room) and they still sound better then some other satellites speakers (though not by much) is why i justifying paying a much higher price.
Little unknown fact: These little cubes cost BOSE about $35.00 to make each double cube speaker. (5x35 = 175.00 plus probably 75 for the bassmodule = $250. This means on a $1000.00 system,the retailer and BOSE is pocketing $750.00 of your dollars)
You can buy replacement drivers on the web for about $35.00 per pair. They are paper cones and plastic casing. http://layneaudio.hypermart.net/specials.htm
The most important thing is, if you have a decent A/V Receiver, you should be able to select "Source Direct" which means the Reciever acts as a pass through, adding no EQ to the music, and just supplies power to the speakers. When playing anything in "Source Direct" mode, these BOSE speakers were the same as a cheap clock radio or the TV speakers. Actually, the TV speakers on my Sony Vega was better. Only if you use EQ, like Jazz Club, or Stereo or something like that did the speakers a little better. This is for music.
I am glad for 1 thing. I was not duped into getting a Bose Lifestyle system. My AVR and DVD separates are much better then the lifestyle box. I mean.. come on BOSE, can't you put a Progressive Scan DVD player in it?
For HT, the accoustimass is slightly better. since they do play squeakly noises good, you are able to get pretty good glass breaking sounds. This is because BOSE has almost no lower midrange sounds to speak of. This way, the sqeaky highs are of course going to sound more defined. The Bass module is way underpowered. You will never get the feel like a real subwoofer. Thats a little dissappointing with the movies and no "boom" effect during explosions. Almost everyone who keeps the AM system will get 1 or 2 subwoofers. (250 to 500 a piece). At that point, you are already almost in 1500.00 area. That puts you direct against some "reference" lines of Klipsch and Polk Audio.
Still, i was not so upset to return the system. I pretty much decided that all speaker systems sound good at the store, but will lose something at the house. It wasn't until recently when I started to learn more about speakers like Polk Audio and Klipsch did I realize what I was missing out on. I bought a new speaker system and sold this BOSE system on EBAY. I am happy that BOSE has good re-sell value due to their extensive marketing. I have a new klipsch system which forced me to re-listen to every music CD that I had to see what i have been missing all this time. Its truly incredible. I had to re-watch my movies on DVD and they all seem more alive and exciting. Much more like the theater. To say the least, if you only listen to BOSE or the stuff at Best Buy, you have little to compare with. The better audio stuff is only a few dollars more, are more flexible and deliver superior performance for the dollar. I guess BOSE will sound better then those cheap 200.00 systems, but only marginally better. I bought a cheap kenwood 206 system for my mother. It under $250.00 and it was very comparable to this Bose system for $999.99 and it came with a A/V Receiver!!! What are you paying for? I guess the rights to those 4 letters... B-O-S-E. For my money... BOSE is not much different from WOES.

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Energy S-10.3 800-Watt 10-Inch Subwoofer (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased the take 5 speakers, and was debating between the 8" or 10" sub, I decided to go with the 10". I have had a lot of audio equipment over the years, and I really enjoy a nice clean "thumping" bass, and this unit delivers, with plenty to spare.
My only complaint is, this unit has a real nice blue light that comes on when activated, and they are notorious for blowing out, usually in less than a week. This doesn't affect the performance in any way, just no light. Now if you have five minutes to spare, and can use a screwdriver, you can replace this bulb for roughly $1. The catch is, you kill your warranty if you do. Energy customer service wants you to ship the unit back to them, to the tune of between $20-$30, (it is a heavy piece). depending on where you live, where they will replace the bulb,under warranty, and ship the unit back to you, with roughly a 2-3 week wait.
Makes absolutely no sense, and the reason for four stars, but if you don't mind living without the light, (it will blow) it is one nice sub, that can handle just about anything you can throw at it, even at high levels, without breaking up.

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Pioneer VSX-9300TX - AV receiver - 7.1 channel Review

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(More customer reviews)The person send to me the wrong item and never pay me the siping back cost me 75.00 dolars

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GEMINI XPB-1600 1600W Professional Power Amplifer Review

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(More customer reviews)I'd have to say, this amp worked perfectly for my application. Can't find ANYTHING wrong with it. :) Cooling fans are a GREAT FEATURE! :D This thing stays VERY COOL under 2 Ohm loads. Probably the coolest operating amp I've come across. I've got this baby hooked up to 2 Alpine SWR-1242Ds (4 Ohm operation) with a Pyle PYX-3X Crossover to "cross" out them high frequencies. I do not believe it's putting out 1600 Watts below 50 Hz, but I bet it IS somewhere along the lines of 1100-1300. It's all wired in 12 Gauge Wire. Maybe Upgrade? ANYWAY, Great product. CRYSTAL CLEAR. :)

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