HDTVs, projectors, and surround sound systems.
Home Theater
How can I watch the Oscars without cable or satellite?
Episode 1062
Jim just got a new LCD TV but doesn't get the cable service until Tuesday. He'd like to watch the Oscars. Leo says that ABC is going to stream the Oscars live, but only for those who subscribe to cable or satellite. He would have to log in to watch it over the Internet.
Can I use plasma TVs at high altitudes?
Episode 1061
Roland is moving to Denver Colorado and he's concerned about how his plasma TVs will handle the change in altitude. The chatroom has come up with an article on how high Plasma TVs can go, and it may be a problem. It largely depends on what plasma TV Roland has and how old it is. Leo advises checking with the manufacturer. LCD TVs don't have that issue.
Scott Wilkinson Back Stage at the Oscars
Episode 1061
Scott Wilkinson went back stage at the Oscars this week to interview the audio guys for the Academy Awards. He said that the security was incredibly tight, but the technology being used to mix the audio for the show is incredible. The audio goes from the Dolby Theater to Capitol Records for remixing and back to the theater for the broadcast in 2.7 milliseconds! Since all the Oscar nominated songs are being performed live, it's even more impressive.
Why does my refurbished Vizio TV smell like burnt marshmallows?
Episode 1060
David from
David bought a refurbished Vizio HDTV and after a few hours of using it, it started to smell. Leo says that really shouldn't happen to the degree that David smells it. His fear is that it will start smoking. Leo's advice is to never buy refurbished devices from a third party. Only buy refurbished from the manufacturer directly. The capacitors may be leaking oil and when heated, could cause the smell. If that's leaking, then it's definitely going to fail. David should try taking it back.
When will Chromecast get more apps?
Episode 1059
Brett from
Brett bought a Google Chromecast and he loves it, but it needs more apps. Leo says that the SDK has opened up and he expects apps supporting Chromecast within six months. Patience, It's coming. But even as it is now, for $35, it's a bargain.
Scott Wilkinson
Episode 1059
Scott is back with questions about how 4K will affect 3D and what glasses would be best. Sony uses both, but Samsung and LG both use passive technology. Vizio went with the passive glasses in 2013, but this year they dumped 3D altogether. Scott says he likes passive glasses because they're lighter and the TVs are more affordable. Passive is brighter, but even then it only lets in 50% of the light. Active glasses lets in only 30% of the light, and you have to recharge them or change the batteries. Scott also says the one good thing is that 4K offers 1080p in each eye for 3D.
What HDTV should I get?
Episode 1059
Asher from
Asher's parents are getting a new TV and he gets to choose what he wants. There's not a lot of TVs to choose from, however. He's looking at the LG 55" 120Hz 3D LED Smart TV for $1200. Leo says that's a good TV. He also adds that the 120Hz isn't all that important: in fact, it can create a "plastic" look. It's still a good choice, though.
What ports do I use to connect my smart TV?
Episode 1058
Bob is retired and bought a Vizio TV, but he's a bit confused by all the ports in the back. Leo says that there's an Internet port for accessing the smart functionality, but he can also connect via Wi-Fi. The HDMI port is the port he'll want to use to connect the TV to his cable box. That's really all he needs!
What's the best budget wireless home theater option?
Episode 1058
Mark from
Mark just bought a Vizio SmartTV and he wants to get an inexpensive home theater system to go with it. Leo says the best thing to do is buy an A/V receiver that can drive up to 5 speakers plus a sub woofer. A lot of people opt for the Sound Bar option because they don't have to deal with wires. He should get one with a subwoofer to go with it.
What LED TV should I buy for the bedroom?
Episode 1057
Scott from
Peter wants to buy a 55" Vizio LED TV as a secondary TV for the bedroom. Leo says that he likes Vizio and they are high quality for the money. Vizio has an exellent internet and smartTV capability. It's an ideal option for the bedroom. Scott Wilkinson says the Vizio E series is excellent.
