Soundbars are a simple-looking device. They hang from your flat-panel TV, blending in and delivering audio from the display. But there’s a lot that this skinny speaker can do than perform as your TV’s audio sidekick. Yamaha proves this with the introduction of its MusicCast BAR 400 sound bar. Retailing for $499.95, this soundbar do […]
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New Yamaha Receiver Supports Wireless Surround Speakers
Entertainment enthusiasts know that the best way to build a reliable, versatile and great-sounding home theater surround system is to use an AV receiver with wired speakers. For many, this is still a go-to solution that works seamlessly. For others, it presents a dilemma: How to get wires to the back of the room for […]
Get the GuideHEOS Soundbar Controlled by Amazon Alexa Voice Commands
Adding to its selection of wireless multiroom audio products, the new Denon HEOS HomeCinema HS2 Soundbar provides users with a host of features for both home theaters and whole-house audio setups. One of the most exciting capabilities of the soundbar is its compatibility with Amazon Alexa. This gives users the ability to use voice commands […]
Get the Guide10 Top Notch Outdoor Speakers for the Ultimate Backyard Bash
Homeowners want to party outside… using technology… according to the Houzz 2018 Landscaping Survey, which found that over half of homeowners (51 percent) spend more time entertaining outside after completing landscaping projects. The Houzz survey of 750 consumers also shows technology plays a role in making the yard entertainment-ready. Of the nearly one in five […]
Get the GuideDouble the Fun: Twin Home Theater Systems
This project—two theaters from two clients who live right next door to each other—started three years ago. Both clients are friends and movie lovers, watching flicks several times a week. While the two theaters look different—one has a grey and black interior, the other uses an orange and red color scheme—the core technology is nearly […]
Get the GuidePioneer Elite A/V Receiver Delivers Immersive Audio on a Budget
You want Dolby Atmos or DTS:X surround-sound for your media room. You also want to be able to distribute music to speakers throughout the house. You might be tempted to buy two different products to handle these tasks. But before you pull out your checkbook, know that there are products that can deliver both features […]
Get the GuideMotorized Kitchen Cabinets Lift to Reveal Appliances in New Smart Home
When you’re willing to get creative with the smart systems in your house, some really great things can happen. The owners of this 4,000+ square foot penthouse apartment in Sarasota, Fla., were ready to think outside of the box when they hired local home systems integration firm Wicked Smart Homes to rig their digs with […]
Get the GuideLeon Horizon Interactive FIT Soundbar Offers Storage for Amazon Alexa Device
Designed to blend into a home entertainment space, the Leon Horizon Interactive FIT soundbar combines audio fidelity, contemporary looks, and built-in storage to serve a wealth of applications. The Horizon Interactive FIT soundbar incorporates a storage area for the placement of devices such as Alexa and Google Home smart speakers. The storage space is concealed […]
Get the GuideGame of Thrones Home Theater Combines Medieval Design with Powerful A/V
By Erin Phillips Photography by Joe Hilliard You have your Game of Thrones fans who watch the show religiously. Then there are the super fans who want to be transported directly into the world of Westeros — to be completely consumed by the atmosphere — every sound, every visual, and every emotion. Jacob Abbott, president […]
Get the Guide3 Valentines Day Smart Homes
Celebrating Valentines Day is all about setting the mood. You want wherever you’re spending time with your sweetie to look at feel romantic and alluring. That might mean dimming the lights or choosing a color like light pink to shine from a smart Philips Hue bulb. Music is another effective mood-setter, and these days you […]
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