CABLES FOR GREATER HOME THEATER ENJOYMENT
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HOME THEATER COMPONENT SOURCES
Blu-Ray DVD, Cable /SAT Box, Game System, Computer, Media Server.
Most of today’s sources have HDMI connectivity. Some sources still
utilize
audio interconnects, digital audio, USB.
If you are unsure of the optimal connections for your
components,
please fill out the Home Theater SYSTEM
ANALYSIS - and we will
respond promptly with suggestions and a nearby knowledgeable
AV dealer who can help you make the right choices |
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AV RECEIVER / PROCESSOR
Digital AV receivers offer control switching and processing
functions as well as multichannel power. Processors and AV preamps
require a separate amp(s) and usually offer many advanced
connectivity options,
Digital to Analog conversion, (D to A), upscaling video
signals, multichannel audio, Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and many other
features with great benefits.
For better CD players you have to choose the right INTERCONNECT or DIGITAL AUDIO cable.
Blu-Ray Players HD Cable/SAT boxes and other high definition sources require an HDMI connection. |
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SPEAKERS &
SUBWOOFER
SPEAKER CABLES carry signal and power – they are subject to more distortions than Interconnects which carry just signal. It is important to
consider the length, power, electrical characteristics and other factors in choosing the
right speaker cable.
It is preferable to locate your receiver or amp(s) close to the speakers.
Terminations via gold plated spades, banana plugs and pins are suggested over bare wire to
minimize corrosion. Many Left, Center, Right (LCR) speakers offer 4 post
(bi-wire) connection vs. the standard 2 post.
Most Straight Wire speaker cables
offer internal bi-wire capability. If you are unsure of the best speaker cable solution for your home theater system – please do not
hesitate contact us for answers and a referral to one of our knowledgeable AV
dealers. |
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SUBWOOFER CABLES
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A Home Theater is not complete without at least one SUBWOOFER. Better subwoofer cables will provide tighter, faster,
cleaner bass with more dynamic impact for optimal low frequency reproduction
Most of today’s subwoofers are self powered with a built in
amplifier and require an AC power connection. LFE (low frequency effects) come out via a single RCA
connection from most current AV receivers. Many installers use a basic coax connection which is not optimal
for long runs.
All Straight Wire subwoofer cables are advanced Star Quad designs with
various insulations and conductors. They are
terminated in standard format for low resistance and even shield noise
distribution. They can all be terminated in balanced format (XLR) and in a single ended shield connection upon request.
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VIDEO (ANALOG)
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Advancements in VIDEO components, upscaling,
switching and connection options require upgrade video cables to get the whole picture. Newer
units offer digital HDMI and DVI but
many people still utilize components with advanced analog modes such as RGB
(red,green,blue and syncs) and component video. Some people still have
devices (VCRs, laser disc players, older cameras) and basic cable/SAT boxes
that have “S” video and single composite connections.
Generic video cables (including those that come in
the box) do an injustice to even the casual viewer of older big screen TVs
through the use of inferior materials, design and manufacturing. DVD and Cable/SAT boxes as well as high quality VCRs must be
connected with high quality cables to get the full spectrum of visual benefits.
CONTACT US FOR DETAILS ON ANALOG VIDEO CABLES |
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COMPOSITE
VIDEO:
Basic cable used for
video transmission. Single wire that combines luminance, chrominance and sync
signals in a coaxial design cable. Used to connect VCR’s, TV’s, cable boxes and
other NTSC standard video components. Terminated with F, RCA or BNC connectors. |
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"S"VIDEO: Advanced video cable that delivers a detailed image
by separating the chrominance and luminance signals. Four conductors arrayed
in a twin coaxial design terminated with a four-pin Din plug. S Video gives
is a performance upgrade over Composite cables. Use for HiFi VCR’s, DVD
players and older TV’s |
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COMPONENT VIDEO: A three-channel cable which splits
the video signal into Cr (chrominance minus red), Cb (chrominance minus blue)
and Y (luminance) to provide three discrete 75-Ohm pathways for transmitting
color and brightness. This mode delivers the clearest and most vivid analog
video signal for Progressive Scan DVD players, older projection TV’s and
professional products with component capability. Terminated with RCA’s, BNC’s
or VGA (DB15) plugs. |
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