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A/V Solutions for Small Spaces
Five tips for anyone struggling to integrate A/V equipment into an apartment, condo or tight space.
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July 15, 2008 | by Natalie Hope McDonald

Consider Hidden Potential
In the same way that flat-screen televisions can take advantage of wall space, so can speaker systems. Rather than investing in bulky black boxes that take up space in your living or family room, make better use of in-wall speakers that require simple installation. Not only will you save space, but you’ll also create a better sound system without all of the unnecessary hardware.

Phase Technology’s dARTS IW-Series in-wall speakers are ultimately a very high-end approach to audio. The sophisticated in-wall speaker system connects with most major receivers and audio players, as well as home theater systems. The compact speakers can be easily installed into a wall discreetly, leaving plenty of space for additional components.

Other in-wall speakers for smaller budgets include Insignia’s pair of 6.5-inch in-ceiling speakers, JBL’s two-way in-walls and MartinLogan Passage, Helos and Fresco speakers, most of which can be installed on a wall surface to save on additional construction costs. Smaller, less expensive flat-panel and on-wall speakers also work for renters who don’t have the option of making major cosmetic changes to their properties.

Table Your Options
iPod not only introduced the world to digital music on the go, it also spurred a whole new market of sexy table-top audio players, like the Chestnut Hill Sound George iPod player (www.chillsound.com). The ultra-modern table-top player not only streams digital music from your iPod, but it features an AM/FM player.

If you want to tap into more than just the music on your iPod, then Meridian-Ferrari’s F80 is a table-top system that doubles as a music server. It stores and plays music conveniently (no custom installation is required). It also operates with most products from speaker manufacturers if you want to take advantage of even bigger sound in style.

Suggested Reading:
Home Theaters for Condos and Apartments
Home Theater for Small Rooms
The Perfect TV for Your Room
Tabletop Radios - Not Dead Yet
The Book on Bookshelf Speakers
How to Wire Tricky Rooms



Natalie Hope McDonald - Contributing Writer
McDonald is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia. Her work has been published in magazines and newspapers including Real Simple, Essence, New Jersey Monthly, Boston Home, Philadelphia Style and many others. Check her out at www.nataliehopemcdonald.com.



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Comments (4) Most recent displayed first.
Posted by Chuck McKenney  on  07/16/08  at  07:35 AM

You are correct Leo. The system is not wireless. In Bose’ marketing copy, it touts the fact the speakers replicate surround sound, thereby eliminating the need for rear speakers and wires.

The correction has been made to the copy.

Posted by Leo  on  07/16/08  at  07:17 AM

Your article states that the Bose 3-2-1 GSX DVD system:

“...stores digital content, but also eliminates cords for surround sound audio placement. With an all-in-one wireless system like the GSX, you can place small speakers anywhere in a room without worrying about installation and wires (no-prewiring necessary, which is ideal for renters). “

In what way does the Bose 3-2-1 GSX System have wireless capabilities?  I have one and it is space saving, but it isn’t wireless.  Maybe I’m missing something about it’s capabilites?

Posted by Paul  on  07/15/08  at  03:55 PM

I agree with John about the Bose crap.

Posted by John  on  07/15/08  at  08:46 AM

Id rather move out of my condo and buy a house then purchase any Bose crap.



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