Surround Sound Speaker Systems

By Owen Jones

The generations alive now, particularly in the West, are all au fait with speaker technology to a certain degree. Most individuals began buying music centres in the Seventies if they were old enough and that trend has continued and the technology has just got better and better.

Acoustic reproduction has come on in leaps and bounds since the Fifties and Sixties when most people were content with a mono Dansette record player. My father was still listening to his favourite 78's on a wind-up record player with a pin for a needle and a trumpet for a loudspeaker in the early Sixties. Then he bought a Dansette later in the Sixties.

I bought a Sanyo music centre in the Seventies and he followed suit. The quality of audio reproduction on those systems was laughable in comparison with what is in the shops these days.

The latest development is surround sound, which was just available in the cinema twenty years ago, but surround sound speakers are a lot better now than they were then and you can install them at home without needing a bank loan.

Usually surround sound speakers are connected with film scores, so a surround sound speaker system could be fitted to the outline jacks on your television or home theatre system.

Home theatres are very much in vogue now that lots of people are having to stay in more frequently to save money. A small family that likes to go to the pictures once a week can recoup the costs of a good home theatre system within a year.

While looking around for surround sound speakers, you may think that the cost is high, but do not forget that it is the surround sound speakers that transform a motion picture into a cinematographic experience. They also last forever if not abused.

Two bits of advice: buy the best that you can afford and get speakers that will stand on the floor or can be hung on the wall.

Purchase quality rather than quantity. If you can just afford two speakers of fantastic quality, so be it, You can buy another one later. With surround sound, the rule is: the more speakers the better.

Three is the absolute minimum, seven is fine, but eight is much better. The more speakers that you have, the less volume you will have to drive through them so the longer they will last.

The above configurations will be stated as: 2:1 (stereo plus a sub-woofer); 6:1 (front and back stereo speakers, a front central channel and a rear sub-woofer); 7:1 will add a rear central channel.

The good thing about this type of surround speaker system is that you can easily upgrade it, but you have to start properly by buying a recognized marque that will allow you to add speakers throughout the years.

One of the best speaker systems you can buy is Bose, but they are costly, but they are also the envy of any sound enthusiast as well. If you would like the best, but do not have the capital take your time creating a system of Bose surround sound speakers.

About the Author:

Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on numerous topics, but is now involved with Bose IE2 Headphones. If you would like to know more, just visit our website at Bose Digital Radio.

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Taking A Closer Look At The Motorola MH230R 23-Mile Range 22-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radio

By Alexa Lie

There will come a time when you need to have a way to keep in touch with a group of people that are spread out in all different directions. To put it in simple terms, two way radios can actually help you keep in touch with a group of people when you need to.

I would like to share with you how the Motorola MH230R 23-Mile Range 22-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radio helps us on our Lake Champlain yearly fishing jaunts. We rent an 8-bedroom home and we normally have between 6 and 10 boats that we bring with us, we can have up to 20 people going on this trip each year. Getting everyone to come in for lunch or dinner was nearly impossible because of the size of the lake and also because people didn't like brining their mobile phone in the boats, (that's another story). At times we would be searching for people for hours, and never be able to find them.

Then a few years ago, I purchased two sets of these radios and placed them in 4 boats. I kick myself for not getting more radios to start with since they worked really well. These radios have a range of 23 miles and no individual was ever out of touch with any of the group. Then the next year I bought more of these so every last boat had one. And naturally wouldn't you know it the succeeding year my uncle's boat wouldn't start out on the lake, and he was a few miles away. My uncle notified us on the radio and the first thing he did was thank me for buying the radios and then told me that his boat wouldn't start. So we went out and towed him and his boat back to the house. Without the two-way radios he would have had to use a single oar to get his sort of huge bass boat back to camp.

This really was a great investment. Also, you don't have to worry about replacing the batteries in these Motorola radios all the time as they are rechargeable and come with a mounting station. Another fantastic feature of these two-way radios is that they come equipped with a weather receiver so you can keep up with the weather when you're out.

And you can utilize these Motorola radios for a lot more than merely a fishing trip. Last year, my mother took all her grandkids to Disney and asked to borrow the two-way radios. She clipped a two-way radio on all the kids just in case they got separated. While no one got lost, that was truly a great idea she had.

Likewise, we have started to take these two-way radios hunting with us since the land we hunt on is large and we want to know when people leave. Which can be a real time saver when somebody leaves so you're not walking through the woods looking for someone who is not there.

There are a number of different headsets that can be used with these two-way radios which we purchased after the fact for our hunting trips. With 121 privacy codes and 22 different channels that can be used, you need not worry about other Motorola radios interfering.

Amazon.com has these radios for $39.95 for a set of two, and that is really a fantastic bargain. I am positive that there are probably hundreds of different ways that you can use these Motorola radios and these Motorola radios are actually a good quality unit.

About the Author:

Tired of the clearly bogus statements about wireless surround sound system? The key element to knowing the distinction rests on wireless surround sound system which you may have heard. We honor your decision if you think it's unimportant.

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Satellite Radio - Does It Offer Superior Content And Quality?

By Edward French

Leading to the rise of the satellite radio's popularity is the fact that it offers a better sound quality than terrestrial radio broadcasts. There are distinct advantages to satellite radio even though the content may not include everything you would like to hear.

To deliver radio programs to subscribers, satellite radio uses satellites. The radio signal which is broadcasted from Earth will be based on stations to communicational satellites and to satellite radio receivers are where the signal will be redirected to. Unlike traditional terrestrial radio antennas, the radio signal is broadcasted to a much larger area.

You can compare the sound quality of satellite radio to that of a CD. Just like cable TV, satellite radio has to be paid for but it is affordable enough for it to be considered a worthwhile expense. The superior broadcast quality is the reason why many people have switched to satellite radio.

Because a satellite radio is digital, there will be no hissing, sound interferences, or other such disturbances. Crystal clear is one way to describe the sound on satellite radio and for bass lovers, they will be appreciate the stronger accurate bass. More robust mid range sounds and crystal clear high range sounds is what they are coupled with and according to most satellite radio subscribers, the quality is extremely close to that of a CD. Also not susceptible to sound problems by poor weather is a satellite radio.

The second factor is the content and it converts people to satellite radio. Originally, it is considered quite extraordinary in which case exclusivity for some transmissions is what major players in satellite radio search for, elevating them above analog radio sought exclusivity that often share content such as sports broadcasts. Satellite radio services provide the subscriber with more than 100 programs that vary in content from rock and jazz to rap and classical music. Other things being offered by satellite radio include news and talk-show, educational and cultural shows, and exclusive sports programs.

Very few of their channels retransmitting terrestrial programming is another benefit that is being offered by satellite radio. Most of their music channels are created in house, and best of all, satellite radio has no advertising. This lack of interruption from endless commercials appeals to many subscribers.

If you want a satellite radio at home or in the car, then you will need to subscribe to one of the satellite radio broadcasts and buy a receiver as well. Receivers can cost $300 to $500, and monthly subscriptions are usually under $20 a month. While this is not out of reach for many, it does mean that subscribers expect a certain level of content and broadcast quality. Unlike the terrestrial radio stations, many would feel that paying for radio service would mean that the broadcasters will be likely to maintain and improve those standards. Paying a little for a better service is something most people would do.

About the Author:

Good travel insurance Singapore protects you whether you've lot your luggage or your trip is cancelled.

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FM Car Modulator Alternatives

By James M. Boersma

Many people without auxiliary options in their cars use an FM modulator to play their favorite songs of their MP3 player. They do so because they believe that the FM modulator provides CD quality sound. Unfortunately, for those users that is simply not true. FM modulators actually convert the audio from your MP3 player into RF signals, which are then sent to the car's FM radio. So instead of CD quality sound, one ends up with FM radio quality sound.

FM car modulators also have the disadvantage of being permanently installed into your vehicle. This means that if you are unhappy with the product or if it breaks, then you'll have to go through the hassle of uninstalling the modulator. A modulator may also not be the ideal choice if you are leasing a vehicle or plan to sell an older vehicle. So if you're looking for an alternative to an FM car modulator, it is important to know what your options are.

So let's take a look at the other options you have.

Your cheapest option is probably a cassette adapter. The adapter looks like your average cassette with a wire that connects to your MP3 player. You then simply insert the cassette end into your tape deck. The problem with these is that they are often very cheaply made and provide low quality sound. They may work fairly well for a month or so, but they will wear down very quickly. It's also very possible that the car you're currently driving doesn't have a tape deck, in which case the cassette adapter is not even an option.

The only other option than is an FM transmitter, which can be purchased for as little as $15 dollars at any retailer. Unfortunately, these cheap FM transmitters provide poor audio quality and pick up strong interference from outside sources.

It's important to note that there are high quality transmitters that vastly outperform most generic transmitters. High quality transmitters produce a very strong signal that will effectively cut out most, if not all, interference. The audio quality of a quality transmitter will be as good, if not better, than an FM car modulator.

An FM transmitter will also provide a consumer with the following benefits:

1. Essentially no installation or setup.

2. Compatibility (it works with almost any audio source).

3. The ability to broadcast on any public FM radio band.

4. Stereo and mono settings, preset frequencies that allow you to easily switch between favorites, microphone compatibility, volume and mute control, manual on/off switch and automatic gain control.

5. The transmitter is able to be powered in several different ways (e.g., USB, batteries, cigarette lighter and wall adapter)

6. Ability to transmit audio approximately 150 feet (near the maximum allowed by the FCC) - allowing for excellent sounding audio and essentially no interference.

When you factor in all of these advantages, an FM Car Modulator just can't compete with an FM transmitter. High quality FM transmitters will enable the user to control their music in a number of situations, without sacrificing their audio quality. In addition, because these devices are portable and so versatile, they provide the user with unlimited options. As a result, a high quality FM transmitter will provide a user with the most bang for their buck, making it an invaluable commodity as use increases.

About the Author:

TAW Global, LLC is a family owned business and has been in operation for over 7 years - based out of Portage, MI. They are the designer of the Whole House FM Transmitter which is a quality wireless FM car modulator that produces clear, static free, audio for use in your car and other locations.

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What XM Radio Like?

By Owen Jones

XM Radio is one of the two largest American satellite radio broadcasters. They transmit over 150 programmes of all kinds like sports, traffic, weather, music of all decades and comedy.

The principal area of their broadcasting activities though is music. After all, that is what most people like to listen to while they are driving or working at home or in the back garden.

The music of XM Radio is wide-ranging, catering for the requirements of every music ever recorded. For example, of the sixty-eight music channels, there are channels that play music from only one decade: from the Forties to the Noughties!

Then, transversing those barriers of time, there are music channels that only play Rock and Roll or only play Bee Bop or only play the Blues. There are also channels that only play new records.

There are others that only transmit film soundtracks. In fact, XM music radio has most bases covered. There are even channels that play the music that is being played live in clubs such as the 'B.B. King Club' in New York City! The 'Blue Note Club' is there as well! In fact, the world of music is your oyster.

Then, on a different level, there are the leisure shows hosted by people like Snoop Dog and comedy shows with artists such as Opie and Anthony. There is family comedy too and Playboy Radio for the adult members of the family, although Playboy Radio films do not have to be censored.

Sports fans will get pleasure from the devoted sports channels. XM Radio's sports channels report on such sports as American football, basketball and baseball on a daily basis, although there are international sports featured for the more out-going too: worldwide, International sports such as soccer, the most popular participation sport in the world.

In fact, there are currently thirty-eight sports channels in XM's repetoire, although by the time you read this, there will probably be three or four times that amount. Many service providers are flocking to Xm's service in order to gain nationwide coverage in the United States.

News channels are there too. Channels like the world-respected BBC World Service, CNBC, Fox, the controversial C-Span, CNN, the Discovery Channel, NASCAR Racing, E-Entertainment and many more.

If you require equipment to receive this interesting new technology, you can easily find it on the Internet or in your local shopping centre. The cost of the apparatus will not break the bank, but it is best if you price it up and then sit back a week or two because new 'special offers' are coming out all the time.

The best way to get XM Satellite Radio for today's best price is to wait and look which way the wind is blowing, in a short while you will get this illustrious satellite broadcaster for a knock-down price.

About the Author:

Owen Jones, the writer of this piece, writes on a range of topics, but is now concerned with Bose Radioss. If you would like to know more, please visit our website at Bose Digital Radio.

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What People Need To Know If Considering TV Aerial Installation

By James Sollis

Nowadays, watching television has becoming a necessity that cannot be overlooked. You get to know what is happening around the world and important world events that are taking place. The only hindrance in deriving concentration when you are watching crucial news or programs is the TV aerial. While people near the broadcasting transmission towers experience no signal blockage, those located away from the signal tower are interrupted by trees and building that weakens the signals. This is why you should opt for a TV aerial installation.

If you are in an area that is overly obstructed from the signals, you will need the signal boosters. In most cases, television images are distorted by either the ghost interference or the snow interference. You find that in snow interference, the images are disrupted by the heavy grains occurring as a result of weak transmission of signals. However, this type of interference can also take place if your antenna is of low quality or your TV has some technical problems.

On the other hand ghosting will occur in a situation where your antenna receives two or more signals from different transmission towers or sources. The result is usually seen on the screen as multiple images which overlap each other. The multiple signals occur as a result of disruption in the original signal. It occurs when the main signal bounces on mountains or occasional aircraft.

To eliminate the problems, you should install the antenna on the best spot in your home. You can do this by using a signal meter. Somebody can help you in the house and inform you on which place the antenna receives the best image. Remember to put in safety measures to avoid injuries or accidents.

With more advanced technologies, there are indoor antennas that give clear images. Indoor antennas are not only small in size but they are also easy to adjust and install.

The outside antenna will be large; it is usually mounted on op of the roof or high up into the air above your house. Remember that the higher your antenna is the better reception you will get. Consult a technician who will install the equipment for you. You can get good products of this kind from many retail stores or buy them online.

If your TV does not display good images, consult a technician to find out if it has malfunction. Boosters can also be used to improve the situation. However, you should not forget to place your TV aerial at a high place to avoid interruption and enjoy quality images.

About the Author:

Get complete information on the benefits of installing TV aerial system now. When you want to enjoy digital aerial, you can get the details you will need to achieve your goal today.

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Satellite Radio: What Are Quality, Content And Availability?

By Owen Jones

Satellite radio has certainly taken off. It is very popular for two or three main reasons such as quality, content and availability. In the perspective of satellite radio, quality refers to the quality of sound that is capable of being reproduced by the equipment because of the signal; content refers to the types of programmes being transmitted by the various radio channels or stations and availability refers to the footprint or coverage of the satellite, that is how much area of land receives the signal from the satellite.

All these comparisons are made with terrestrial radio broadcasts naturally. For example, we all know that standard AM or FM stations differ hugely in quality, the content can be heavily interspersed with advertising, jingles and mindless chatter and coverage is usually only on a very localized basis.

The two big players in the American satellite radio market are of course Sirius and XM and each one is attempting to out do the other in these three fields

Normally, satellite radio produces a quality of sound which is comparable to CD quality. This is very high, especially if you use good quality equipment to replay the signal received. If you just replay satellite radio through tinny, ancient, blown speakers, then you will scarcely benefit from this boost in quality at all.

Quality, content and coverage have all played a part in increasing the popularity of satellite radio, but it is probably content which has played the biggest part.

You may be wondering why anyone would want to pay for subscription radio, when there is so much free radio around. It is a fair question, but in fact, similarities can be made with cable TV and broadcast television. Why do people pay for that? Is it the sound quality? Or the content? Or what? A lot of cable TV is drivel too. Sports coverage, perhaps.

At least the preponderance of satellite radio is free of commercials. That has to be worth a few dollars a month and it is in fact a large selling point. Many people cite the lack of commercials as one of their foremost reasons for moving to satellite radio.

It is likely that all big league sports games will move to subscription only over the next few years. This will inevitably be carried out with the use of satellite radio. American football, soccer, baseball, basketball will all either get their own nationwide channels or be bundled with other channels

People are fed up with the amount of advertising on AM and FM radio, but at the end of the day, the main reason whether to get satellite radio or not for most people rests on content not even so much on the quality of the sound. If sport is taken off terrestrial radio and only available on satellite radio, then people, especially men, will switch to satellite radio, which is precisely what happened with cable and satellite television.

About the Author:

Owen Jones, the writer of this article, writes on a variety of subjects, but is currently involved with Bose alarm clocks. If you would like to kcurrently more, please visit our website at Bose Digital Radio.

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