Onkyo TX-NR828 7.2-Ch Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• THX certification
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports
• Instaprevue
• Audyssey Technology for Superior Sound
• Multi-room capability
• Overlaid menus for quick adjustments
• 4K upscaling

REMOTE: RC-840M

RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR828 7.2-Ch Network A/V Receiver. If ever there was a high-end receiver you could count on for all of your music and viewing needs, this is it. Not only is the TX-NR828 loaded with the most desirable features on the market, it is THX certified meaning you get nothing but the very finest in what a home theater system can offer. The user interface is easy to understand and very intuitive. The microphone enclosed with your receiver is used for automatic calibration of your speakers which will optimize the sound quality by calibrating every speaker based on where you will be seated when listening to music or watching movies. The receiver is equipped with a phenomenal amount of HDMI ports, for your convenience, to connect your blu-ray, gaming console, cable/satellite box, PC, TV and more. 4k upscaling is an important feature because it allows your videos and blu-ray movies to be upscaled to 4K resolution with any HDTV or 4K compatible TV.

The remote control that comes with this receiver is part # RC-840M. Some users have expressed disappointment that the buttons do not have backlighting, making it very difficult to navigate at night.

The TX-NR828 is equipped with one of the most sought after features in today’s market, built-in WiFi and Bluetooth. These features make streaming movies and videos a breeze and you will have access to the many music service providers on the internet such as Pandora, Rhapsody, Slacker, Spotify and many more. Instaprevue technology is very helpful as it will allow you to view icons of your devices on the screen to identify what is going on with all your connected devices such as your blu-ray and gaming console. The sound quality that this receiver delivers is exceptional, with crisp, clear mid-tones, to powerful, rich bass. This powerhouse of a receiver, packed with many important features, should be on your list of considerations when looking to put together a top of the line home theater system.

PROS:
• Excellent sound quality
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports
• Automatic calibration of speakers
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth

CONS:
• No backlighting of the buttons on the remote control.
• Onkyo app for iPhones could use some upgrading

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DENON AVR-X4000 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver with Apple AirPlay

FEATURES:
• HT & Audyssey LFC
• DTS Neo:X (9.1 ch), Audyssey Sub E
• Audyssey MultEQ XT32, Audyssey Sub EQ HT & Audyssey LFC
• Three HDMI outputs with multi-zone distribution and InstaPrevue technology
• Networking with AirPlay, Pandora, Spotify, & SiriusXM Internet Radio

REMOTE CONTROL: RC-1185

RATING: 4.2/5.0

Welcome to a review of Denon’s AVR-X4000 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver. It has been stated that Denon makes some of the best affordable home cinema receivers. This is a receiver for serious AV fans, and makes a few more upgrades to the aesthetics than some of Denon’s lower end models. Its front panel has a retractable cover that hides all of the buttons and sockets, leaving just the two knobs and the display visible – a smart look.

This is an easy receiver to setup and with the help of the included remote control, part number RC-1185, you will get through all the menu options and features with ease.

There are a few other features that make the AVR-X4000 standout from the rest. Perhaps most significantly, the AVR-X4000 has three HDMI outputs – entry-level receivers only have one. Two of the outputs have to share a source, letting you, for example, plug in a projector and TV to the same piece of video equipment while the third can take video and audio from a completely different source. This lets the Denon AVR-X4000 become the ‘brain’ of a multi-room setup.

You can set up the AVR-X4000 to enjoy music and video in the main room, while others enjoy music and video in a second room. A second zone HDMI output lets others enjoy a different program in another room, and the Amp Assign function lets you use two of the amplifier channels to drive stereo speakers in the second room. By connecting a stereo amp to the AVR-X4000, you can even have a third audio source playing in another room. This is an excellent feature for families with different tastes.

Consumers are raving about the multiple great features and impressive high quality sound. This receiver may appear a bit pricey by some but it definitely has the power and quality that make it worth the price.

PROS:
• Sound quality
• 3 HDMI output
• Amp Assign

CONS:
• No WiFi
• Not much change from 4520 model

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Emerson LD280EM4 28 inch 720p 60 Hz LED HDTV/DVD Combo

FEATURES:
• 720p High definition resolution
• Built-in DVD player
• Wide vertical and horizontal angles
• 1 HDMI input
• Built-in digital tuner
• Picture and Sound control
• Wall mountable
• Energy star certified

REMOTE: URMT45FNT003

RATING: 2 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Emerson LD280EM4 28 inch 720p 60 Hz LED HDTV/DVD Combo. This TV/DVD combo is priced to fit a tight budget. It does not have any smart TV features but instead is a basic TV with high resolution and a built-in DVD player. It has a relatively small screen therefore intended for smaller rooms such as an office, kitchen or guest bedroom. Weighing in at 13.23 pounds, it is easily mounted on the wall or placed on a stand. Unfortunately this model comes with only 1 HDMI input to connect to your equipment like a cable/satellite box or gaming console. If a PC connection is desired, with the purchase of a cable, the option is available. It is probably best to speak to an Emerson technician about your options.

The remote control part number for this TV is URMT45FNT003.

The picture and sound controls are a nice feature. Some picture controls include personal, standard, sports, movie, or game. Sound controls include personal, standard, vivid, sports, movie, music, or news. Playing games with a 60 Hz refresh rate isn’t the best, as a higher refresh rate is best for game playing with fast action and speed. Therefore this model may not be a good fit for a diehard gaming enthusiast. However, this model has 720p high definition resolution whereby you can enjoy vibrant, dynamic images with clarity when watching movies, sporting events or playing games. The built-in DVD player is convenient for users who watch lots of movies. However, some users have reported having difficulties with ejecting the DVD or CD. For those who are energy conservationist, this TV is certified energy efficient. Overall, this model is not top of the line in flat panel TVs but for the budget conscious who desire a simple TV with the basics, this will fit the bill.

PROS:
• Low price tag
• Built-in DVD player
• High definition resolution
• Energy star certified

CONS:
• Some DVD players have problems with ejection of DVD/CD
• Only 1 HDMI input

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Westinghouse H1G1 720p 60hz LED HDTV Series

FEATURES:

• 720p High definition resolution
• 60hz refresh rate
• 2 HDMI inputs
• 3D noise reduction
• Sleek, slim design
• Energy efficient
• Parental control

REMOTE: RMT-17

RATING: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Westinghouse H1G1 LED HDTV Series. This series has 2 models, one with a 32 inch screen and the other a 37 inch screen. While this is not one of the larger screens available on the market, it is a perfect size for spaces that need a smaller screen that still has plenty of screen space for excellent viewing. It is the perfect size for a dorm room, guest room or kids room. Its light weight and sleek design make it effortless to mount and very easy to set-up. This series, though basic, offers excellent picture quality with crisp images and vibrant colors. The parental control feature is a must have for parents wanting to keep “adult only” shows and movies unavailable to their children. The 2 HDMI inputs are available for attaching devices that are most important to you. If you are an avid gamer, this TV will render top notch picture quality that will have you playing for hours.

The remote control for this series is part# RMT-17 and is a standard model remote.

While the picture this TV delivers is of good quality, the sound leaves much to be desired. Comments range from hollow sounding, can hear an echo or a buzz, to it’s great. The majority of flat screen models on the market sacrifice the sound for slim design. If you are looking for high end sound, there is a solution. Simply attach a sound bar, speakers or sound system to the TV and you can achieve the superior sound quality you desire to view movies or play video games. For the low cost, and all the features this TV provides, it is worth every penny.

PROS:
• High resolution, crisp, clear picture quality
• Low cost
• Slim, contemporary design
• Parental control

CON:
• Sound quality is average

MODELS:
• DW32H1G1
• DW37H1G1

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HAIER L50B2180 1080p 60Hz LCD HDTV

FEATURES:
• 1080p Full HD
• Auto Volume Leveler (AVL)
• USB File Playback
• RoHS Compliant
• 3 HDMI inputs
• Attractive design

REMOTE: TV-5620-129

RATING: no ratings listed

Welcome to a review of the Haier L50B2180 1080p 60Hz LCD HDTV. Haier’s 50″ LCD HDTV delivers a sharp, clear picture, combined with dynamic sound. This model is ideal as the center of your home entertainment system, with multiple AV inputs including 3 HDMI and 1 Component input that make it easier than ever to connect a variety of high definition devices, like a cable or satellite box, Blu-ray player, or game console.

The L50B2180 comes with a fully functional standard remote control. The part number is TV-5620-129. This will help you to navigate through all the features and menu options with ease.

This model features an attractive external appearance that gives a nice first impression and for the price range, the sound quality is above average. Overall, the L50B2180 model is proving to be a nice buy for a 50”, with the picture quality being the top priority.

PROS:
• Resolution
• Brightness and contrast
• High definition

CON:
• No apps

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Sony STR-DH740 7.2-channel 4K A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 7.2 channels, 1015 watts
• 4 convenient HDMI inputs; 1 HDMI output
• 4K resolution pass-through
• Front facing USB port
• 3D pass-through
• HD Digital Cinema Sound
• Digital Cinema Auto Calibration
• Intuitive on-screen graphical user interface
• 2 year warranty

REMOTE: RM-AAU168

RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Sony STR-DH740 7.2-channel 4K A/V Receiver. The STR-DH740 is considered an entry level receiver since it lacks some connectivity features that more expensive models have. However, it does come with, what many users consider, the most important features. The set-up is easy and the receiver is contemporary and visually appealing. The picture quality of your movies will be spectacular, with vivid, bright colors and crystal clear images that only high definition resolution can deliver. This receiver has 3D pass-through, meaning it is compatible with any movie or game you want to watch in 3D. It is also equipped with 4k pass-through, the technology of the future. Any content you have in 4K can be passed through this receiver to a 4K capable TV, meaning Sony, with this receiver, has prepared you for the future of 4k technology.

The part # for the remote control that accompanies this receiver is RM-AAU168.

A microphone is one of the accessories you get with your package and is provided to help you calibrate your speakers to equalize the sound coming from each speaker. Once calibration is complete, you will be happy with the well balanced bass, clarity, detail, surround sound, and power that this receiver will deliver. A USB port is located on the front panel, but is only compatible with apple or Sony devices, one major drawback, as noted by many users. With 4 HDMI inputs, you can easily connect your blu-ray, cable box, gaming console and still have another slot left over for an HDMI compatible device. For the best sound possible, it is recommended that high-speed HDMI cables be purchased since they do not come with this receiver. Overall, for the low price, you get your money’s worth with this receiver and then some.

PROS:
• Inexpensive
• High resolution picture quality
• Rich sound with clarity and depth
• 4 HDMI inputs for all your equipment

CONS:
• No WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity
• Limited input/output options
• No multiroom support

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Onkyo CS-345 Hi-Fi CD Mini System with iPod/iPhone Dock

FEATURES:

• Built-in dock for iPhone/iPod
• FM/AM tuner with 30 station presets
• Tone controls for bass and treble
• Two-way bass-reflex speakers
• High-quality cone woofer and balanced-dome tweeter
• Program and sleep timer
• CD player
• Full function remote control

REMOTE: RC-823S

RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo CS-345 Hi-Fi CD Mini System with iPod/iPhone Dock. Don’t let the small size fool you, Onkyo’s CS-345 Hi-Fi mini-system packs a powerful punch. Enclosed in the compact cabinets are a high quality cone woofer and balanced dome tweeter to give you a more balanced sound and disperse the high and low tones more evenly to create more clarity. This system is equipped with an active bass control which enhances the performance and automatically adjusts bass levels to prevent fading when the volume is low. The easy access dock located at the top of the receiver will play your music through an iPhone/Ipod. An AM/FM tuner is part of the system, with 30 presets for your convenience.

The part # for the remote control that comes with this system is RC-823S.

Another great feature is the video line-out for iPod/iPhone playback on a TV. Any videos stored on your iPod or iPhone, you can now watch on your TV and control with the included remote. The CD tray on the front plays audio compact discs, MP3 compilations, and CD-R/CD-RW discs. Some users have commented that the speaker cables that come in the box are too short and have used alternative cables that are a bit longer. Overall however, this compact mini-system, made for smaller spaces, does what it is designed to do, deliver high quality sound with clarity and depth.

PROS:
• Inexpensive
• Built-in dock for iPhone/iPod
• Rich, clear sound quality
• AM/FM tuner

CONS:
• Speaker cables to short
• No bluetooth connectivity or USB port

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DENON DHT-S514 HOME THEATER SOUNDBAR SYSTEM

FEATURES:

• 175 total power
• Wireless subwoofer
• Built-in Bluetooth
• Dolby Digital and DTS decoding
• 1 HDMI in, 1 HDMI out
• Night mode
• 3 separate listening modes
• Wall mountable

REMOTE: RC-1187

RATING: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Denon DHT-S514 Home Theater Soundbar System. As many flat screen TVs get thinner and thinner, the sound quality ultimately suffers. That is where this home theater soundbar takes over. The set-up and installation is easy, especially since the soundbar and wireless subwoofer are lightweight and compact. Either mount on the wall or place on furniture, they are both black and will blend in with the rest of your equipment. This system offers 3 separate listening modes, including surround movie mode, to deliver surround sound with dynamic strength for soundtracks, dialogue enhance mode, to clearly hear the dialog between characters in a movie or show, and music mode, which optimizes the sound of your music.

The remote is fully functional straight out of the box – just add new batteries. The part number for the remote control is RC-1187.

With built-in Bluetooth capability, your options open up as you stream music from your Smartphone or tablet and enjoy music services like Spotify, Pandora, or Internet Radio. The subwoofer has a volume control with a wide range and delivers deep, distortion-free bass. The Dolby Digital and DTS decoding provides you with realistic surround sound. Many who have purchased this home theater soundbar system have remarked at how the sound fills the room, is very smooth, and truly immerses you in surround sound. The DHT-S514 is at mid to high range in price for soundbars but beats many of its higher priced counterparts on sound quality, as expressed by current users. It is an investment in your home entertainment needs that you will enjoy for years to come.

PROS:
• Wireless subwoofer
• Bluetooth
• Dolby digital and DTS decoding
• 3 listening modes

CONS:
• Not enough HDMI inputs
• Soundbar gets hot when in use

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EMERSON EM2F SERIES 60Hz LCD HDTV

FEATURES:
• Full HD resolution 1080p 40” Class, 720p 32” Class
• Available in a 40″ and 32” Class size screen
• Built-in digital tuner
• HDMI Inputs: (3) 40” & (2) 32”
• Child Lock
• One-touch play via HDMI CEC link
• Wall mountable

REMOTE CONTROL: NH001UD

RATING: 4.0/5.0

Welcome to a review of Emerson’s EM2F Series 60Hz LCD HDTV. Emerson’s EM2F Series will provide you with a great viewing experience. This series comes in two popular sizes, a 32” Class that has 720p with 60Hz refresh rate and 2 HDMI Inputs and a 40” Class size that has 1080p with 60Hz refresh rate and 3 HDMI inputs.

Thanks to its HD resolution, this Emerson series provides eye-catching, vivid images. With the integrated TV tuner, you can conveniently view your favorite aired channels, without the need for a separate tuner. The child lock mechanism in this Emerson television prevents your child from watching unsuitable content which is a plus feature for parents.

This LCD HDTV has speakers with a power of 10 watts, giving you an immersive audio experience. With that said, only having 10 watts will only going to give you a standard level of sound. Maybe even adequate, depending on the size of the room it is in. For a more effective sound experience, a home theater system or a sound bar might be the answer to give you the sound power you are accustomed to.

The EM2F series comes with a fully functional remote control, part number NH001UD. This remote is simple and easy to use as you surf through the channels. What’s more, the Emerson EM2F contributes its bit to the environment by having an Eco Button on its remote control, which when utilized, consumes less power.

Overall this TV is basic, but has nice features and is affordable.

PROS:
• Value
• Eco-button
• Easy setup

CONS:
• Adequate sound
• No smart tv features

MODELS:
LCD EM2F SERIES LCD 720p/60Hz HDTV
• LC320EM2F
• LC401EM2F

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HAIER L32F1120 720P 60Hz LCD HDTV

FEATURES:
• Full 720p HD resolution; 60 Hz refresh rate
• Sleep timer function
• Dynamic contrast ratio 7800:1
• Response time 8.5 ms
• Horizontal Viewing Angle-176°: Vertical Viewing Angle-176°
• 2x HDMI, 1x USB, VGA, Headphones, Component, Composite, Audio inputs

REMOTE: TV-5620-125

RATING: 3.3 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Haier F1120 LCD HDTV series. This series is a gamble- a lot of reviewers enjoy the TV and its features but there are some that have experienced issues where the TV stopped working or was slow to respond. Those who purchase a television without any technical difficulties have been most satisfied with its picture quality which is in full 720p HD resolution and has a 60 Hz refresh rate. Sound quality is only average, as is the case with most flat panel televisions.

The remote control part number that comes with this television is TV-5620-125. This TV remote control is simple, easy to use, and only requires batteries out of the packaging. This is a standard remote control that will operate basic commands to navigate channel to channel.

There are multiple options for you to connect your other devices to your television. The inputs and ports for this TV series include 2x HDMI, 1x USB, VGA, Headphones, Component, Composite, and Audio inputs. Overall, it can be a gamble to purchase this TV- you will either end up with a decent television for watching shows and movies or a 20 lb. paper weight.

PROS:
• HDTV
• Wide viewing angle
• Multiple Connections

CONS:
• Model has experienced issues
• Sound quality

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