this sanus Woodbrook Furniture line triple has no doors...costs 1200.00 and uses the same wood i do...

https://www.sanus.com/cgi-bin/web_store.cgi?page=products/furniture/woodbrook/WFT3m.html&cart_id=4490512_12182

...and its more substantial then the salamander
What does that mean exactly?

Your unit looks nice but I prefer the look of the one I have on order (from Salamander). Your look and cost isn't too far off the EA piece.

overtime

Originally posted by overtime
What does that mean exactly?

Your unit looks nice but I prefer the look of the one I have on order (from Salamander). Your look and cost isn't too far off the EA piece.

overtime

i have a 21.5" center...with a height of 7 to 8 inches [depending on the isoplatform feet i have under it] i just don't think that any comerical mass made firntiture was going to handle that size speaker...not the salamander

with exception to perhaps the Sanus line I mentioned above. [>$1300 without doors] ..obvisouly salamanders only comptetion...

as for substantial...the back of the unit is the same wood as the top...

for $650 there were no compromises..for my needs...mabye not yours...

check in with me when the doors are installed...

the salamander triple...with glass doors...is about 1300 at best...

I look forward to more pictures.

The Salamander has removable back panels for accessibility. The side panels are very thin though.

In what way can't most mass produced stands hold your speaker? I think the salamander I ordered could accomodate that speaker while partially concealing it (note the following picture). The salamander construction is quite heavy duty. Pic of something similar to what I ordered (got walnut with black trim and glazed glass doors though):

http://www.salamanderdesigns.com/syn/gal_video.jsp?image=gal_334cb_pm2b

I haven't yet decided if I'll put a glass door over the middle shelves or if I'll leave it like what you see in the picture.

overtime

Don't underestimate the Salamander units. They are built like tanks and their Synergy modular line is very well designed. Salamander was the only good available furniture three years ago when I owned my first plasma. Not surprisingly their design is lasting/still contemporary today.

Originally posted by overtime
In what way can't most mass produced stands hold your speaker? I think the salamander I ordered could accomodate that speaker while partially concealing it (note the following picture). The salamander construction is quite heavy duty. Pic of something similar to what I ordered (got walnut with black trim and glazed glass doors though):

http://www.salamanderdesigns.com/syn/gal_video.jsp?image=gal_334cb_pm2b

overtime

i was refering to the fact that my center speaker is in the middle shelf of my custom made triple...

to my knowledge nothing i looked out could accomodate a larger center speaker placed inside a sheld...the salamander is just a little too small in shelf width [21.5" wide required for my center]

[b]but let me be clear...the salamadner triple at 21" inches high...with either perforated steel or glass doors...in the cherry wood with black...is beautiful...fanatastic...and more money then i wanted to pay[b]

so i am just talking about the fact that there are other creative options for dealing with PDP credenzzas...like the stuff you see in audio video interiors...

in fact my comparrisons are with the Sanus woodbrook...or the JSP jazzy line at tweeter which is so much money...with glass doors...probably <1500...not the salamander which is in a class of its own...

my whole point here is that i found a guy on craigslist...who mounted my plasma and concealed the wires in a PVC pipe...for $195.00... then when i could not find a credenza to serve all my needs for less then a $1000...he built me one custom...and now he is going to run my rear speaker wires behind the walls and ceilings...

so to everyone that freaks out at what Tweeter charges for installation and furniture for your new PDP...there are always options...

Originally posted by jaybrubin
to my knowledge nothing i looked out could accomodate a larger center speaker placed inside a shel[f]...the salamander is just a little too small in shelf width [21.5" wide required for my center]


You are absolutely correct about that. I could not find any units that could house a serious large center speaker internally with. Salamander has a extension for the center piece but it came without doors and did not look part of the complete A/V ncabinet. All these other units seem to have room for dinky center speakers. The center is, afterall, the most import speaker in a HT setup.

I currently have a dinky center speaker but I realized I might upgrade that which is part of the reason I went with the Salamader unit linked above. It appears that it would accomodate a very large center speaker even though the area isn't enclosed (and the speaker in that picture looks to be pretty large). And while the speaker isn't enclosed I do like the "two layers of wood" look the riser gives.

Perfect? No. But looks nice enough and I think will suit my needs now and gives me room to grow. I'll be sure to post pictures once I have the furniture and plasma in place (waiting impatiently!).

overtime

overtime,

That riser only gives an extra height of 8". I don't think that would accomodate a large center channel unless.

Riser height can easily be adjusted later (or ordered) with inexpensive parts. Specs...

65.75" W x 9.625" H x 19.75" D (I.D.=8.5" H x 18" D). Also available in 10", 11" or 12" heights.
You could almost design the rise to fit whatever speaker you wanted there. I wasn't that impressed with the Salamander until I explored all the configurability options. Now I'm impressed.

overtime

I see, I am just not thrilled with the look of that riser. I like the plasma mount though, I am just worried about how high the plasma will be off the unit when attached to the mount. I would like room for an eventual 12" high cc. Anyone know any dimensions, I can't really find any on the salamander website.

I've seen the mounts in person and I didn't like them all that much. They kind of bend forward under the weight of a 50"+ set and from profile view the tv really isn't very close to the wall (12+"?). It seems like you'd be better served going with a stand at that point.

I'm going to be mounting the plasma on the wall. It seems like most people with REALLY large center speakers just plop them on top of their credenza/stand.

overtime

bdi had this one plasma table called the callisto model number 9850, it came out about 2, 3 years ago, i am trying so hard to find one but no one has it, if anyone knows where i might find one please pm me... here is a link showing what it looks like, psb is using it in there advertizing, looks very kool...


http://www.psbspeakers.com/s/PlatinumSeries.html

dudes...no stand i know...can handle the equipment i am dealing with...

Originally posted by david8613
bdi had this one plasma table called the callisto model number 9850, it came out about 2, 3 years ago, i am trying so hard to find one but no one has it, if anyone knows where i might find one please pm me... here is a link showing what it looks like, psb is using it in there advertizing, looks very kool...


http://www.psbspeakers.com/s/PlatinumSeries.html

I tried your link which took me to PBS but there were no pics on their webpage whatsoever. Strange?

Originally posted by cajieboy
I tried your link which took me to PBS but there were no pics on their webpage whatsoever. Strange?

This one: :)

http://www.psbspeakers.com/Gfx/a/PlatinumM2Lifestyle400_250.jpg

Originally posted by david8613
bdi had this one plasma table called the callisto model number 9850, it came out about 2, 3 years ago, i am trying so hard to find one but no one has it, if anyone knows where i might find one please pm me... here is a link showing what it looks like, psb is using it in there advertizing, looks very kool...

Found this store searching the net:

Finally got my plasma and furniture. I ordered this piece from a local store but it comes from a place in Wisconsin called The Custom Shoppe.

Originally posted by BruZZi
This one: :)

http://www.psbspeakers.com/Gfx/a/PlatinumM2Lifestyle400_250.jpg

What, the pic disappeared?!? :D :D :D


Here we go again... ;)

http://216.180.241.242/~glaucob/Photos/BDI.jpg

You can always just have regular furniture frame the wall and put the plasma on the wall. Then you don't actually need dedicated plasma furniture.

Seth

Bruzzi, is that a pic of the Callisto 9850?

Yup. :)

That's what I call one heck of a center channel speaker!!!:D

hey guys thanks for the link i am going to check it out, damn doesnt that calisto look nice....i like it ALOT!!!

Any of you folks have a suggestion for a fairly elegant piece of furniture that could be used to house a few components? I need to house 3 components (room for 4 would be very nice to have, but not absolutely necessary). Assume they each need about 18" width and depth, and 5-6" in height (specifically, NAD T762, Tosh RD-X2, NHT Xd amp/crossover).

The piece doesn't have to actually be a component cabinet, though that would be nice...but I'm not afraid to drill a few holes if needed in something like a nice cabinet or booktable if I have no other choice.

Price is not a significant consideration.

Doesn't sound too tough so far, does it? Okay, now here are the constraints that are making this a beast to satisfy:

- No glass in the doors (wife doesn't want to see the components at all)

- There are two potential sizes we could consider: one would be 40" or less wide (to fit in a "sort of" corner), and the other would need to be 50"-60" wide, to sit behind a sofa that sits in the middle of a large room. The second size is our preferred one, we think, because we have to put a piece back there anyway, so it may as well be functional.

- The height of the piece should be no more than 34", but should be at least 30"

- It has to be a really nice, traditional piece. The link below shows the TV credenza we are considering (without the side units), to give you an idea of what we are looking at...cherry and mahogany.

http://www.hookerfurniture.com/largeview.cfm?filename=photos/large/HF15955020op_11_03.jpg

I've been racking my brain (and this thread and Google and MSN's new search engine and various furniture manufacturer's websites) and haven't found anything yet.

Anybody got any ideas?

Glennm0270 - The Hooker stuff is great. I have owned hooker peices for over 10 years and they are quality stuff. Pricey, but worth it IMHO. If you scan back in this thread you will see that the unit you are asking about has already been discussed by myself and others. I have seen these units in person and like everything about them. Cost is from $3,500 to over $5,000 depending on which one you want. I would have bought one if it had not been for a single consideration. The storage area of the unit is only 50" wide. My Toshiba 42HP83P plasma is 52" wide (due to built in speakers on the sides) and cannot be made any smaller. The other thing I have found is that NO mfg's currently offer ANY units capabile of handling anything larger than 50" wide. If you are looking to recess a plasma larger than 50", there is NO mfg out there TODAY offering such a product...This Mine is on the wall.

Orther notes: These units are taller than you specified (most are 42" tall or so).
They DO have wood doors that can be used to "hide" the components (of course then you have to figure out how you are going to get the IR signals to them).

I like the Salamander triples, but I can't afford it...

The Sauder 846-920 Credenza from Best Buy is also nice...

Ultimately, I went with the Bush Furniture Platinum Mist VS44150-03 for my 42" Panny. It retails for $450, but I got it for about 1/3 of that price...

ndabunka-

Sorry I wasn't clear...I already plan to get the Hooker unit--the center credenza. I don't have enough room to get the two end pieces, which would otherwise be a perfect solution. The TV I plan to get (50" Panny) will fit just fine. I got turned on to it by this thread.

What I am looking for is something in that same general "family" that would fit the size constraints I mentioned earlier, to hold some of my audio components separately. Need something that is either about 40Wx33H or 56-60Wx30-33H.

Originally posted by gungadin25
I like the Salamander triples, but I can't afford it...

The Sauder 846-920 Credenza from Best Buy is also nice...

Ultimately, I went with the Bush Furniture Platinum Mist VS44150-03 for my 42" Panny. It retails for $450, but I got it for about 1/3 of that price...

i hade a better made triple designed...

Originally posted by glennm0270
ndabunka-

Sorry I wasn't clear...I already plan to get the Hooker unit--the center credenza. I don't have enough room to get the two end pieces, which would otherwise be a perfect solution. The TV I plan to get (50" Panny) will fit just fine. I got turned on to it by this thread.

What I am looking for is something in that same general "family" that would fit the size constraints I mentioned earlier, to hold some of my audio components separately. Need something that is either about 40Wx33H or 56-60Wx30-33H.

I guess I don't understand (still). Your planning on buying the Center component but not the ends. Since the ends are where the components are stored your looking for another unit to put them in, right? If so, then I assume that your plasma will reside in the original Hooker piece and then (on another wall?) you want a similar peice that holds the electronics, right? If so, then the size unit you outlined seems to be pretty big for just a few components and how would you wire from one wall to the other? Whatever the case, I guess you've got that worked out. Since the unit we have is too large for the space, we are considering getting a unit similar to the dimemsions you outlined to reside below our wall mounted unit. The units we are now looking at are 62W.5x22D.125x36H or 65Wx24Dx34H. These hold the components in the center and allow DVD's and other things in the sides. Maybe a little wide but with prices between $700 and $1200 they seem to be a good fit for our needs. PM me if you need the exact model numbers.

I *finally* received my Salamander shipment. It came in 8 different boxes and setting it up was fairly timeconsuming. The retailer I ordered from said they'd do it a cost but that they wouldn't get to it until next week. No way I was choosing that option with a new XR4 sitting in a box in my living room!

Anyways, for those that have indicated otherwise, this is a SUBSTANTIAL piece of furniture. I mean, if I could fit in there, the cabinet would be the first place I'd jump into if there was a large earthquake :D. I was very impressed with the quality of the components, the fit and finish and elegant modularity of the entire structure. My wife who is VERY against anything industrial/techy/mod looking (very little glass or metal furniture in our house) gave it a big thumbs up.

I'll post a picture once I have everything in place but I'm impressed with this piece.

overtime

re: Have you considered the Hooker FOcus or "Seven Seas" stuff?

ndabunka: You have PM! :-)

back at 'cha!

Here is a recent article (http://www.audioholics.com/ces/CESfurniture/MizzicoFurniture.php) about a furniture company name Mizzico (http://www.mizzico.com). They seem to have solid designs including some unique corner solutions.

http://www.hometheaterforeveryone.com/images/500_portfolio_a_042005.jpg

http://www.hometheaterforeveryone.com/images/500_portfolio_b_022305.jpg

http://www.hometheaterforeveryone.com/images/500_portfolio_c.jpg

This has been a really good, long furniture thread. Maybe there should be a "sticky" thread on flat-panel furniture, summarizing all the suggestions?

Anyone get a chance to see the Soundations stuff in person? The furniture looks really well built and nicely designed. I am interested in the media storage solution called the Toscana 2, btw. Which I think will go nicely with the Salamander rack I already have. Thanks.

Has enyone heard of or tried any of these plasma stands/lifts? Prices seem to be too good to be true.

Warehouse Direct USA (http://www.warehousedirectusa.com/c=eUxlfLHa1Am6Tz2mwj4S8mjSR/category/entertainmentcenters/)

check out this system...

Jay, is that homemade, or purchased from a store? It's very close to what my wife and I have been searching for!

-Juice

I made a custom piece along the "wall" lines that are out now...

Check out my gallery for pics....

custom baby...my design...executed..?

all my cables run in the wall...I only left that short SVideo exposed in the picts because it was short...needs to be replaced...I pump my wires through a PVC pipe in the wall...behind the credenza...

I'll post a picture once I have everything in place but I'm impressed with this piece.

I know this post is from a long time ago but have you had a chance to post any pictures of your Salamander setup?

I bought a Pottery Barn "Signature large TV stand" at the Pottery Barn Outlet in San Marcos yesterday for $240. It is an awesome unit! They had bunches of entertainment furniture being blown out. They had these new in the box, as it's discontinued. I got a Mahogany, but they had Black as well.

Stand (http://ww1.potterybarn.com/cat/pip.cfm?src=shpcfurabstvs%7Crshop%2Fshpcfur%7Crshop%2Fcst&pkey=cfurabstvs&gids=p4715)

Outlet locations (http://ww1.potterybarn.com/cs/index.cfm?sect=outlet&src=cst)

I bought a Pottery Barn "Signature large TV stand" at the Pottery Barn Outlet in San Marcos yesterday for $240. It is an awesome unit! They had bunches of entertainment furniture being blown out. They had these new in the box, as it's discontinued. I got a Mahogany, but they had Black as well.


Niiiiiice. $240 for this PB stand is a STEAL. Very, very nice find. It does make me cringe to see how much retailers mark up furniture though!

Best i've seen so far is the studiotech. The one with the rosewood finish (scroll down)

http://www.studiotech.com/jsp/productDetail.jsp?prodID=63

I actually got the ethan allen media cabinet. I ordered back in Nov 04 but it took 4 months until delivery. This color was discontinued. New color is awful. It did have a backpanel but it was ugly and not very sturdy. Glad I got this one. By the way got the matching dining room table as well

Here's a very expensive source.

http://www.soundwhere.com/

Best i've seen so far is the studiotech. The one with the rosewood finish (scroll down)

http://www.studiotech.com/jsp/productDetail.jsp?prodID=63

please...mine blow this cabinet away...

Can you put rack rails in yours?

Here's some of my comments regarding Audio/video furniture [and their shortcomings].


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5546461&highlight=audio+AND+protein#post5546461

Feel free to visit 'Brucer's Corner' at AV123 Forum for furniture design questions & discussions.

Current designs in process include a floating Maple/ Curly Maple cabinet with figured Maple Barrister flip-up door fronts, and Laminated cracked glass top. Room for B&W HTM1 center channel . BTW, this is for the First Pioneer PDP-503CMX to be reported on this forum in fall of 2001. Only reason for changing stand is due to new toddlers poking in the tweeter dome, YIKES'. Wall is All Glass, so wall mounting is not an option.

Others include Wrought Iron console, Library table design, and other [Actual real ] Santos Rosewood veneered and Macassar Ebony Veneered 'Buffet' designs.

I'm starting to get frustrated! I'm looking for a new plasma stand/table, but it can't be deeper than 18.5", and even that's pushing it. I have four A/V components to store, and I'd also like DVD storage. I'm not picky about wood, I like the really dark brown (venge) finish, so it could be either laminate or stained.
Anyone know of a simliar unit under $300? I'm putting an ad on craigslist to see if I can get this built, what do you think is a fair price? This is what I'd like:

http://img292.echo.cx/img292/1237/plasmastand16ny.png

Here's a nice stand:

http://www.bdiusa.com/whats_new/icon_9429.shtml

I have just ordered one of these. Appox $2k and 4-5 weeks delivery.

It is purpose made to house the Yamaha YSP-1.

Thats the Mizzico (sp?) mentioned before. Very nice piece. We're leaning toward designing our own at this point

Here's the above mentioned Credenza in Curly & Bird's Eye Maple:

http://av123forum.com/photopost/data/500/6EggerCredenza10sm3.jpg

I agree, those are all great pieces. Since my plasma was under $2k retail, I can't see myself spending the same on a stand. I've given myself a budget of $300-$500, I'd obviously like the lower end, but I have yet to find one with the proper storage (see drawing above).

:rolleyes:

I'm in the same boat as you are consumertalks. I've been looking for months now and haven't found anything.

Exile, Brucer, that's a great looking piece.

-JR

There is a lot out there that is attractive and functional... however, few offer 'exactly' what I want / need. The last time I did this, I wound up designing my own and having it built. It has been perfect for many years. Now that we are slimming down the amount of equipment as well as widening and slimming down the size of the TV (to plasma), there needs to be a change again.

Devil in the details includes the major center chanel speaker I have. 7.5 h x 21 w. x 10. This will not fit in the Salamander cabs (which I like), or some others.

Ugh... may just have to design / build again.

shane

Brucer, that's a nice looking credenza! If I may ask, how much does it go for?

One thing that's bugged me ever since I switched my TV shopping focus from rear projection to plasma is that all of the furniture seems to be 19-25" deep, which negates what I consider to be a major advantage of plasma, the ability to get a bit of room back. Why are there no 10-15" deep stands out there? My guess is that it's some combination of a stability issue or limited market, since most can mount on the wall and eliminate the furniture requirement altogether, while the 19" cabinets can be used for plasma/LCD or RPTV.

Thinking about buying the BDI Avion 8527 65" Credenza with optional display stand (BDI Stand 8540) for a 50" Panny... just wondering if anyone has one of these stands and has any opinions about them.

I have called around many places, and no one has them in stock because they are all backordered...

specs are on BDI's website: http://www.bdiusa.com/whats_new/avion_8527.shtml

Images with optional display stand attached.

Brucer, that's a nice looking credenza! If I may ask, how much does it go for?

Thanks, it is probably best that I leave that answer to private correspondance, E-Mail.

Thanks Juice.

Cmon,

Furniture that is designed to house audio components has to be deep. 10" would be pretty narrow, unless other measures were taken to stabilize. The metal stand that the above credenza is replacing was narrow, but was also bolted to the floor.

Kenchi,

If that third picture is a fair representation of the finish, I would be a little concerned. I have not seen them up close to verify.

Thinking about buying the BDI Avion 8527 65" Credenza with optional display stand (BDI Stand 8540) for a 50" Panny... just wondering if anyone has one of these stands and has any opinions about them.


I'm looking at the exact same credenza (with the stand as well) also for a Panny 50". I, too, would love to get some opinions of the piece. I have seen the credenza itself at a local store but they did not have it with the 8540 stand. I definitely liked the the look of the credenza (the finish is much nicer than it looks in that photo BTW) but I am concerned that the BDI Web site won't even supply a decent picture of the stand, let alone a detailed spec sheet. I need to make sure that I can mount the plasma high enough so that I can fit my rather large center channel under the display (sitting on top of the credenza itself). Without specs for the stand it seems like a gamble right now to go with this credenza.

Kenchi,

If that third picture is a fair representation of the finish, I would be a little concerned. I have not seen them up close to verify.

I actually took that picture myself at Abt Electronics showroom (without a flash) - so the picture is very grainy. Yes, the finish looks a lot nicer than the photo...I also saw the cherry finish in the showroom which I like better.

The display model they had a 61" Sony display mounted on the stand (the BDI specs say use for up to "50 i believe), but I did try to wobble the stand to see how much it would move with my hand, and it was fairly sturdy, without too much movement (although there was some) - it would be hard for a young child to mess around with i think.

Anyway, if anyone knows any verified places that have this in currently in stock, I would be interested.

I decided to check out overstock's current inventory, and while these won't work for me, maybe it's what someone else would like:

Sideboard (http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2.cgi?page=proframe&prod_id=1503277#)- Looks like you have have to add an internal shelf?
Coffee Table (http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2.cgi?page=proframe&prod_id=856022) - Three drawers, shelf
Console Table (http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2.cgi?page=proframe&prod_id=1013026#) - Two shelves & drawers
Stand (http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2.cgi?page=proframe&prod_id=856038) - Shelves look good, but the door may be awkward.

I'm very interested in the BDI avion 8527.Does anyone own it?If so how is the quality?Thanks bm
http://www.bdiusa.com/avfurniture/images/avion_8527.jpg

I can't comment on the Avion line at BDI but I recently purchased an Axis 8022 rack and 8024 stand. So far I am extremely impressed with both the looks and quality of the BDI products. Both are rock solid and the cognac finish is beautiful. My TH-50PHD7UY fits perfectly on the 8024 stand. Luckily, I was able to see the rack at a local retailer before buying. If the Avion line is anything like the Axis line I think you will be happy. It would be nice to see it first or at least hear some feedback from an owner though.

Here is a link (http://www.audioholics.com/productreviews/avhardware/BDI_furniture_review_1.html) to an Audioholics.com (http://www.audioholics.com/index.html) review of the Axis in case anybody is interested.

This is a picture of a couple of 8022 racks and the smaller 8023 stand from the Clint's review at Audioholics.com (http://www.audioholics.com/index.html)

http://www.audioholics.com/about/staffsystems/images/system3a.jpg

I can't comment on the Avion line at BDI but I recently purchased an Axis 8022 rack and 8024 stand. So far I am extremely impressed with both the looks and quality of the BDI products. Both are rock solid and the cognac finish is beautiful. My TH-50PHD7UY fits perfectly on the 8024 stand.


Charlie-
can you take a pic of your TH-50PHD7UY/Axis setup and post? Interested in seeing it...
Thx

wow, 41,000 views and 320 posts. When I started this thread, I never thought it would be my largest post yet.

I've had the Ethan Allen now for a while, and still marvel at the quality for the price. It looks beautiful, and I get comments on everyone who sees it. It's very sturdy with the 50" on there and I know I can someday go 65" on this unit. Someday... I can dream at least :)

I wonder if these ethan allen pieces are more readily available...

gadgetfreaky,
How about a pic?bm

I just saw an AWESOME looking Hooker stand, piers, and bridge at Costco today. It was a dark walnut color, super nice looking. It was also very inexpensive :) If I can remember, it was 68' wide as well. They had a Pioneer 5040HD in there, and it looked great!

I went to Abt Showroom again with my camera, and took some more pics of the hard-to-find-in-stock BDI Avion 8527 Credenza. Pics of both the Cherry and Espresso were taken, with some close up pics of the cabinet interior and back of plasma attachment to see how it is attached (as best as I could take, without making too much of a scene in the store). Anyway, if anyone owns this piece, please let me know. Total 9 pics will be attached in the next 3 msgs.


Thinking about buying the BDI Avion 8527 65" Credenza with optional display stand (BDI Stand 8540) for a 50" Panny... just wondering if anyone has one of these stands and has any opinions about them.

I have called around many places, and no one has them in stock because they are all backordered...

specs are on BDI's website: http://www.bdiusa.com/whats_new/avion_8527.shtml

Images with optional display stand attached.

Espresso pics attached (sorry, without flash, poor qual)
and cherry bottom drawer


I went to Abt Showroom again with my camera, and took some more pics of the hard-to-find-in-stock BDI Avion 8527 Credenza. Pics of both the Cherry and Espresso were taken, with some close up pics of the cabinet interior and back of plasma attachment to see how it is attached (as best as I could take, without making too much of a scene in the store). Anyway, if anyone owns this piece, please let me know. Total 9 pics will be attached in the next 3 msgs.

Pics of back of display mount on plasma and "hidden wheels" of base of unit

I'm very interested in the BDI avion 8527.Does anyone own it?If so how is the quality?Thanks bm
http://www.bdiusa.com/avfurniture/images/avion_8527.jpg
With any luck, my BDI Avion 8527 will arrive tomorrow (in Espresso). Will report then.

Albert,
Please post some pics.Thanks bm

Albert,
Please post some pics.Thanks bm
The good news: the unit arrived today
The bad news: BDI did not ship the handles

Overall, the unit is very well-made. It comes largely pre-assembled, with only a few items you need to bolt on. Hex key tool is included. There is a lot of thought given to ventilation. Cable management is average... mainly velcro loops you can use to keep cable bundles together.

Make sure your components will be visible through the window or you'll have some problems getting the IR to reach your unit. I had to adjust the top shelves so my shorter components could see through the glass.

The center channel drawer is nice.

Those are the initial impressions... still waiting on my PDP-5050HD to arrive, and the handles. Will take more photos once the rig is fully set up.

Some early photos:

http://photos.leesoft.com/photos.cgi?cache=yes&album=2005/misc&res=800&image=DSC_1123.jpg

http://photos.leesoft.com/photos.cgi?cache=yes&album=2005/misc&res=800&image=DSC_1124.jpg

Any other BDI Avion reviews?

Someone has to have one since they are all backordered. I ordered my BDI Aviona 8529, the longer 77in version, 2 months ago and I'm still waiting for it. I ordered it from ABT.

I went and looked at them yesterday at magnolia hifi.They have them in stock.The were ok.I didn't think they were worth $1500.No much different then salamander.bm

Brucer, very cool! You made those? If so are you selling?

Brucer, very cool! You made those? If so are you selling?

Thanks,

If you are referring to the Maple unit, at least one is in the production que [waiting for me to get to it to be made], maybe a second one at different size and configuration. Feel free to click on my user name to pull down my profile and E-Mail me for offline questions. My PM stays full.

Has anyone seen anything that fits around a fireplace? Like a modified surround with shelving for components?

Some early photos:

http://photos.leesoft.com/photos.cgi?cache=yes&album=2005/misc&res=800&image=DSC_1123.jpg

http://photos.leesoft.com/photos.cgi?cache=yes&album=2005/misc&res=800&image=DSC_1124.jpg


How much does this stand go for?

I have this unit, it holds all my stuff.

It was originally a computer station type desk which I modified.
I removed one divider section to make the tv section one large box, added the shelf that the tv sits on and the dividers for the preamp, dvd and CD player.

There is 3 doors to cover the screen.

50' pioneer plasma with modified stand legs to sit lower.
4 Amps
CD player
DVD player
Preamp
Media reciever
Monster HTS 5100
3 drawers DVD's

http://cgim.audiogon.com/i/vs/s/f/1118684241.jpg

How much does this stand go for?
$1599. They make one that's slightly wider at $1799.

Might as well add my contribution to this thread.

I spent a long time looking around for a TV Tabletop Stand.

I finally settled on an Aspen Furniture model OTF2110.

http://www.aspenfurniture.com/digital%20solutions/OTF%20Console_Data.htm

You can probably find/order one from a discount oak type of furniture store.

It met my needs almost perfectly:

45" W - a nice fit for the 4312
22" H - using the lower height on the 4312 stand, this gave a good viewing height.
25" D - deep enough for any of my A/V components
Enclosed Solid wood - needed to be closed and toddler proof
Looks like "real" furniture - rather than typical A/V stands - important for the wife
Cheaper (~$275) than equivalent name A/V furniture stand.
Comes with casters for easy moving.
No assembly required.

The nice thing is that unlike a lot of A/V furniture, it doesn't look like A/V furniture - it goes well in our living room and would match our bedroom furniture very nicely. This was a must for the wife.

They are solid oak, come in like 5 or 6 styles, and a couple of choices of finish. The one I got was only about $270. Look for discount oak type of furniture stores - they may carry them or be able to order them.

I finally got my BDI Avion 8527 Cherry Credenza and 8540 display rack :)

Attached are pics of it open and closed. I haven't installed the display rack yet...will wait until my 5050HD comes in next week.

Finally got my HT set up!
Pioneer 5050HD with BDI Avion 8527 Cherry with Display Rack mount photo attached.

Big thanks to Aaron Snell @ TVAuthority for accomodating timing of delivery and expediting things! :)

I wanted a stand with wheels and provided eye-level viewing. I found the Quebeko Odyssey at Standsandmount.com

On the stand is a 30" Syntax Olevia. Inside the box are an Ahanix Devine D4 Media Center computer, a DirecTV stb, an XBox, and a Sony VCR. Inside the Ahanix Devine is a Windows Media Center Edition 2005 with two HD tuners, and one SD tuner.

The Quebeko has front slots for DVD and CD disks. Along each side are shelves. I have stocked some PC game boxes, and miniDV cameras and equipment on these shelves.

That is a Belkin wireless keyboard on the top platform which is surprisingly roomy. A Dlink wireless USB network adapter sits on the top of the panel.

So, this is not really a Home Theater PC. I move it around the house as needed.

I finally got my BDI Avion 8527 Cherry Credenza and 8540 display rack :)

Attached are pics of it open and closed. I haven't installed the display rack yet...will wait until my 5050HD comes in next week.


anyone have any pics of this piece in the espresso color? i need ton convince the wife, PLEASE help!

anyone have any pics of this piece in the espresso color? i need ton convince the wife, PLEASE help!

http://photos.leesoft.com/cache/2005/misc/800/DSC_1123.jpg

http://photos.leesoft.com/cache/2005/misc/800/DSC_1124.jpg

http://photos.leesoft.com/cache/2005/misc/800/DSC_1128.jpg

Basset furniture offers following plasma console hutch under its 5th ave brandname. The webpage only shows the light cherry finish. However, the dark Java finish is much cooler.

Although it may save me some work on wiring behind the dry wall, I have some concerns on mounting the 90lbs TV on the back panel of the hutch, especially since it is not made by solid wood. Do I have to use special screws such as the dry-wall screw? Is it safe?

Thanks

Fred

http://photos.leesoft.com/cache/2005/misc/800/DSC_1123.jpg

http://photos.leesoft.com/cache/2005/misc/800/DSC_1124.jpg

http://photos.leesoft.com/cache/2005/misc/800/DSC_1128.jpg


thanks albert, hopefully this will help! Looks great! do you happen to have another of the front completed setup? The last pic is a bit dark and hard to see the "finished" product.

Last Call for the previously mentioned Audio Protein Maple Credenza [or similar unit], I'll be starting production shortly. [Same is true for the AP Buffets]

I called EA and they quoted 8 weeks. Is this accurate or are they still behind? I know they were a few weeks late with my bedroom furniture back in December.

thanks albert, hopefully this will help! Looks great! do you happen to have another of the front completed setup? The last pic is a bit dark and hard to see the "finished" product.

Some people were asking me for more pics of the BDI Avion setup-
some pics attached with and without the Plasma mounted on display rack.

Nice one, kenchi. Is the height of the plasma vertically adjustable? How's the build quality? Did you place your center channel in the drawer? Sound ok there?

Another question if you don't mind...
What is the space between the top of the BDI unit and the bottom of the Plasma frame?

I'm asking, since my CC speaker will not fit in the drawer (it's 7.5h x 21w), I'd need to put it under the monitor, and I'd rather not block the image ;)

Also... what is the height from the floor to the bottom of the Plasma frame? I'd like to know if the monitor is at a good height overall.

thanks

Keep us posted on the BDI. Every stand I've seen that uses a back mount like that ends up bowing forward. The vertical mounting posts never seem to be strong enough to hold the display completely vertical for a long time. They seem to start out perfect at 90 degrees, then gravity takes over.

Another question if you don't mind...
What is the space between the top of the BDI unit and the bottom of the Plasma frame?

I'm asking, since my CC speaker will not fit in the drawer (it's 7.5h x 21w), I'd need to put it under the monitor, and I'd rather not block the image ;)

Also... what is the height from the floor to the bottom of the Plasma frame? I'd like to know if the monitor is at a good height overall.

thanksI sell this line and I can tell you that your center-channel speaker will fit on top of the credenza with no problem. Depending on the bezel width of your plasma, a speaker of up to about 10-12" in height should be just fine. As you will notice from kenchi's attached images, there are a couple of connection points on the 8540 mount unit, making the height of your display adjustable to suit your preferences. The 8527/8540 combo was designed to hold a 50" plasma so that the bottom one-third of the screen is at eye-level -- assuming you are in the average seated viewing position. Figure about 32"-34" from the floor to the bottom of a typical 50" plasma bezel. It could even be higher, if you choose to use the topmost mounting position.

Thanks RU...

So, just to be clear, when you say "Figure about 32"-34" from the floor to the bottom of a typical plasma screen", are you referring to the bottom edge of the frame or of the actual 'screen'? Don't mean to be nit-picking, but with some monitors with bottom mounted speakers, there can be a big difference.

Thanks and... cheers!

shane

Albert Lee...
Is that a vent panel on yours, on the top, on the right side of the photo's?
I don't see the same thing on Kenchi's BDI...

Whassup?

Also... Kenchi, Albert... where did you buy yours and how was the purchasing experience?

Thanks

shane

Albert Lee...
Is that a vent panel on yours, on the top, on the right side of the photo's?
I don't see the same thing on Kenchi's BDI...
The vent panel goes in back... I had it lying on the top of the unit while I was putting everything together.
Also... Kenchi, Albert... where did you buy yours and how was the purchasing experience?
Bought mine from a local dealer (Harvey Electronics) in NYC. Easy to order, and arrived 2 days later by local courier, who also set things up and removed all the packing material. Could not have asked for a better experience.

The vent panel goes in back... I had it lying on the top of the unit while I was putting everything together.

I'm an idiot... I should have realized that! :o Doh!
thanks for the info.

shane

kenchi, ru geekman and albert,

How does the build quality of the BDI Avion compare to a Salamander product?

Sorry I know this is worthless without pics but I have the BDI 8529 in Espresso, the 77in version. It was delivered and setup last weekend. The stand is great. I'll take pics this week.

I ordered it from ABT in April and waited over 2 months for the stand. They matched the lowest online dealers and with tax I paid the same amount as what most websites are charging with free delivery but ABT offers white glove service. My plan was to have the Plasma TV and the stand delivered at the same time but this did not work out. Anyway...

Right now my plasma is on a stand on top of the unit. I'm going to mount it on the wall this weekend. I thought about going with the BDI poles, they are very solid and will not sag, but decided against the poles as I want the real wall mount look.

The build quality seems to be ok, but I think it is a little overpriced. The wood is a little soft and the staining could be a little better. I was going to purchase a custom Linear credenza from Room and Board, www.roomandboard.com, but those unit are not designed for A/V equipment, but the build quality is top notch. The BDI design features are well thought out and well designed. The ventilation and the wire management for the center speaker is very nice.

Thats about it, again I'll snap some pics this week.

Wish me luck as I am going to mount a 50in on the wall into metal studs this weekend with toggle bolts.

BDI's Avion line is a more premium product than Salamander's top-of-the-line Synergy series, in my opinion. I sell both, so that is my unbiased view.

Here are some nice features of the BDI Avion:

Hidden wheels on the bottom inside steel legs. This is a great feature, makes it so much easier to get to the back of the unit. The legs have levelers if your floors are uneven or if you want to prevent the stand from moving with the wheels. They are adjusted with a hex key within the unit. - Advertised

European hinges that are recessed into the cabinets. The glass can be removed and replaced with cloth and vice versa. - Advertised

The adjustable shelves rest on metal pegs that screw in an out of metal sleeves inside the unit.

I wish the top drawer was on sliders that allowed the entire drawer to be pulled out without having 2-3in that are within the drawer when fully extended.

I wish they included one more rear panel for the center. I wish the rear panels were a little thicker, but probably built that way for ventilation.

We decided to go the "design your own" way. We sketched this on a piece of paper, handed it to this guy who designed our bathroom/kitchen cabinets and 3 weeks and $1500 later he came over and installed this.

Would have been $1200 without the froast glass. Got the WAF big time but not the athenas AS-2.2's that will go on the sides.

Nice one, kenchi. Is the height of the plasma vertically adjustable? How's the build quality? Did you place your center channel in the drawer? Sound ok there?

Also... Kenchi, Albert... where did you buy yours and how was the purchasing experience?


Yes, the height of the plasma is adjustable. My photo shows my display roughly in the "middle" setting, where all the brackets are mounted in the middle of the range of height.
Depending on where you mount the bar brackets on the back of the plasma display, the screen has a pretty wide range of height.
My plasma is very sturdy with the current settings I have it on right now, and barely moves when I try to "push" gently on the side of the display.

One of the best features of the credenza is the hidden wheels, which makes pulling out the whole thing (including plasma on the display rack) forward for very easy access to the back of the credenza. The wheels can be "converted" to standard legs from the front of the credenza with a screwdriver.

The build quality is excellent. Quite heavy, and required 2 people to move it in my house. Albert Lee has some good pics of what it looks like unpacked in the box. Install is easy and quick 30-45min - and is primarly preassembled. I installed everything on my own, but it would help to have someone help flip the credenza with you when finished attaching the legs.

I actually got mine from a reseller on Ebay, and had an excellent experience, with sooner delivery than expected. Also negotiated the price down a few hundred dollars compared to other online sellers prices.

Yes, my center channel speaker is hidden in the center drawer, where it comes preinstalled with the black felt window, or you can swap it out to glass (included) which will match the other windows. When I get a chance, I will take a photo of the the open drawer showing the hidden speaker. The sound from the center channel drawer is fine, without muffling or anything. All wires are concealed through a hole on the bottom of that drawer to go into the surround sound receiver.

Overall, it's a beautiful piece of furniture, well built, and was pretty hard to get (due to backorders everywhere) when I ordered mine last month. It is also good for small children (see photo) that want to touch the plasma screen, because the display is raised out of their reach, and wires are hidden within the metal tubing of the display rack...although the corners of the credenza are not rounded- so not completely child-proof. Wife had no problem with it, especially b/c she did not want to drill holes in the wall for mounting. Plus, we can eventually move the whole thing into the basement in the future when we upgrade the setup ;)

hope this helps, ken

I have pics of my BDI Avion. I would post them but don't know how.
If someone could send some instructions I'd appreciate it.

Thanks

I have pics of my BDI Avion. I would post them but don't know how.
If someone could send some instructions I'd appreciate it.

Thanks


Yup.

Go to http://www.imageshack.us/ and upload your pictures. It's free. :D

Then copy the links and post it here. :)



.
Check Out the all-new BruZZi's Panasonic Plasma FAQ (http://www.glaucobruzzi.com/plasma-faq/index.php?)
Links to Plasma Stands, Wallmounts, Murals, Lifts, Speakers, Frames, Bezels & Motorized Artwork.
Also links to Audio/Video/Computer Faqs, Comparisons, News, Reviews, Shootouts, Tutorials, Tweaks and Many More.

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/2391/img06942xu.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/8159/img06955nx.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/6449/img06979le.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/8066/img06983zn.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/1914/img06999zr.jpg

The pics are a 50in Panny on a 77in wide BDI Avion

Is the bottom center divider thing removable? Can components fit on either side of the divider? Otherwise, looks nice.

The center divider is not removeable.

From the pics the flash makes the contents of the cabinets and doors visible, in reality, everything is hidden.

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/2391/img06942xu.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/8159/img06955nx.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/6449/img06979le.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/8066/img06983zn.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/1914/img06999zr.jpg


This is one nice setup. Excellent, and thanks for the pics!

Just wanted to give a heads-up that I have three of the BDI Avion 8527 credenzas arriving at the end of the week in the cherry finish. Two are sold but the third one is still available, in case anyone is having difficulty finding them locally. The Avion line has been extremely back-ordered since it came out a few months ago...

Sanus PFFP is an economical flat panel stand with adjustable height for both upper shelf & flat panel mount. List price is $420, but it is widely discounted.

<https://www.sanus.com/cgi-bin/web_store.cgi?page=products/furniture/platinum/PFFP.html>

http://www.soundations.com/popImage.asp?img=lacasa4_series.jpg


www.soundations.com

Here is a new pic of the TV mounted on the wall.

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/3590/img07052fp.jpg

Here is a new pic of the TV mounted on the wall.

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/3590/img07052fp.jpg
Looks amazing!

Looks amazing!

I agree. Am seriously considering this unit once my Plasma comes home... ;)

Hey 3Series... Why did you opt for wall mounting instead of stand module?

cheers

shane

Ps.... yeah, thanks for the great shots!

I opted for wall mounting becuase I simply don't like the look of the poles. To me the poles are as offensive as wires hanging from behind the TV. I also dont like those stands where there is a piece of wood like a backboard where the TV is mounted to. I really like the floating TV wall mount look. An added bonus is that the Peerless wall mount I bought is a lot cheaper than that the BDI poles that are designed for the stand.

This unit ended up being exactly what I needed and extremely affordable.

The cabinet is a Whittier 743W Home Theater Console. It cost about $225 as a kit from Fred Meyer (a Kroger store). I assembled and finished in Natural Cherry, added the casters, and put in black screening instead of glass, both for looks and for ventilation.

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/59/closerstill8ht.th.jpg (http://img340.imageshack.us/my.php?image=closerstill8ht.jpg) Click for full size picture.

More pics here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5897793&&#post5897793) in the "2005 post pics.." thread.

http://www.soundations.com/popImage.asp?img=lacasa4_series.jpg


www.soundations.com

That's a computer rendering. Show me real photos and I'll take them seriously...

That's not bad Peter. It's not a Salamander Synergy but for the money, it looks darn good. Too bad I didn't see it at Fred Meyer during my vacation in Oregon.

That's not bad Peter. It's not a Salamander Synergy but for the money, it looks darn good. Too bad I didn't see it at Fred Meyer during my vacation in Oregon.
Thanks! It's actually part of a larger ensemble. I only bought the console piece. Here is the whole shebang:

http://img284.imageshack.us/img284/5375/whittiermediaconsole2uy.th.jpg (http://img284.imageshack.us/my.php?image=whittiermediaconsole2uy.jpg)
Click for full pic.

Here is a new pic of the TV mounted on the wall.

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/3590/img07052fp.jpg

Wow, very nice.

Just moved into a new house which only has a 48inch hole for the entertainment center (dumbest idea ever)! Might go for the Avion 8528 instead or find a custom solution.

I envy you guys! :(

Requesting pics of the BDI Avion in both espresso and cherry colors. A few interior shots would be great too.

Thanks!

Requesting pics of the BDI Avion in both espresso and cherry colors. A few interior shots would be great too.

Thanks!
Pics were posted on Page 11 and 12 of this thread in both cherry and espresso.

Here are 2 pics of mine...

http://photos.leesoft.com/photos.cgi?cache=yes&album=2005/misc&res=800&image=DSC_1123.jpg

http://photos.leesoft.com/photos.cgi?cache=yes&album=2005/misc&res=800&image=DSC_1124.jpg

Just found them after I posted. Sorry for the trouble. thanks for your links!

Pics were posted on Page 11 and 12 of this thread in both cherry and espresso.

Here are 2 pics of mine...

http://photos.leesoft.com/photos.cgi?cache=yes&album=2005/misc&res=800&image=DSC_1123.jpg

http://photos.leesoft.com/photos.cgi?cache=yes&album=2005/misc&res=800&image=DSC_1124.jpg


A. Lee,

Any pics of the back? Thanks

Any pics of the back? Thanks

Here's a rushed pic of the back... the vented panels are removable.

http://staff.pop3now.com/alee/bdi-back.jpg

Is there a panel for the rear center?

Is there a panel for the rear center?
No... just the left and right. Panels can slide from left to right, but the center area is left empty.

A. Lee,

thanks for the reply.

I'm trying to convince my wife but she's stuck on an Ethan Allen piece.

I don't want to wait the "8" weeks. It took our bedroom furniture almost 10-12.

Very interesting, I have been thinking about this exact unit (BDI Avion 70") for a few weeks now. I didn't realize it was the cabinet of choice.
I'm thinking about getting it in Espresso, my wife thinks the cherry looks a bit too "Ikea like".

So who's got them in stock ? Anyone

I'm a bit troubled by the $1700 price tag.

Did anyone try to request swatch samples before ordering ?

I'd like to see the color choices up close to really decide.

The BDI Avion is boner-rific.

3Series has it going on with the credenza, wall mount, and paint color. That's dope. We just opted to paint our living room a similar color, but I think our furniture will be a bit budget for the time being.

J-

I'm considering the BDI Avion unit. What are some recommended sellers to acquire this unit from?

Got my BDI Avion from Cambryn at TV Authority. Actually don't have it yet but should be here tomorrow or Monday. Free shipping and gave me a better price than the standard msrp on most websites. I got confirmation emails too, the last one with a tracking number. So far so good. I'll see how things are when I get it.

Did anyone get one of these stand/setups from costco?

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?prodid=10040717
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?prodid=11030787

I would love some real-world pictures and reviews.

Thanks+

There is a reason they make more than one flavor of ice cream. People's tastes are different. I still find this to be one of the finest offerings for plasma furnitue. The ability to customize the finished product with glass or cloth, type of finish and other goodies makes this, for me, one of the best plasma displays available. Give it a look.

http://diamondcase.com/TT/TT_HTML_Files/TT400.HTML

I like this one. Any idea on the price?

I saw it in person at their Loma Linda CA (?) showroom. Pretty nice. Very well thought out design (on casters, removable vents in back, can even add fans I believe) and sturdy looking. I think they're about $1800-$2000+. Several pros (HT installers?) were placing orders when I was there. Was pretty popular in some other "Show us..." type threads I've come across.

Because I live in an apartment where I can't mount the TV and my wife wants to use the top of the stand for decoration, I'm looking to get a stand that has the vertical bars on the back to mount the plasma on. My wife strongly wants some kind of "real looking" furniture (in other words, not the industrial look or cheap RTA look that you find so commonly).

Any suggestions other than the BDI Avion and Salamander product?

This seems like the perfect furniture for me. I like the BDI, but the opening for the center speaker doesn't seem big enough and I like the extra shelves in the diamondcase.

By the way, does anyone who owns this have pictures of their's all set up?

I went with a Diamondcase TT-400. I'm very happy with the design and the quality, though the price was steep (like high quality furniture) and unlike the sample pieces I was sent the walnut finish turned out to have reddish tones, like a mix of 2/3 walnut and 1/3 cherry. (I may have it refinished someday to match my favorite finish.) Also wasn't happy with freight company's bad communication. Other advantages are:
Room for three shelves of things on the left & right (that's my config), plus enough room in center for center speaker & subwoofer, if you want.

Backpanel is mounted about 1" out from the back so there's is great ventilation.

Back panel comes off for easy work on cables, and the extra depth means there's room back there for stuff that doesn't need to be controlled (surge-protector powerstrip, Terk RF injector that feeds outputs from my cablebox/DVD/VCR/PC into the coax to another room, component+audio signal amp/distributor).

Options for venting fan, interior lighting, interchangable wood or glass or speaker panel for each door, etc. etc.http://www.diamondcase.com/TT/TT_HTML_Files/TT400.HTML

(It isn't as glossy-shiny in real life as this seems to show. Also, it's deeper than it looks, but that makes it also good for handling lower-cost today's 8"-16" deep RPTV's and putting stuff inside behind your electronic boxes.)

Craig in NJ

PS -- I like the idea of the back panel of wood on the Ethan Allen that gadgetfreaky posted at the start of this thread.

I would highly recommend the Diamond Case Theater Tech TT-400. I also visited their showroom in Yorba Linda. Steve Hartfelder gave me the tour of his facility. The furniture is well designed and thought out for home theater. I ordered mine back in February. Took about 6 weeks to get it, but well worth the wait. This furniture is very high quality. Not cheap.

Anyone find anything that wouldn't dwarf a 37" Panasonic that would fit snugly in a corner? Oh yeah preferably not dark wood, seeing as the whole inside of my house is knotty pine (dark finished wood)

I'm new here, be gentle...hehe

I would highly recommend the Diamond Case Theater Tech TT-400. I also visited their showroom in Yorba Linda. Steve Hartfelder gave me the tour of his facility. The furniture is well designed and thought out for home theater. I ordered mine back in February. Took about 6 weeks to get it, but well worth the wait. This furniture is very high quality. Not cheap.
Agree. Much better quality than the pseudo-AV stuff from Room and Board. I like Salamander products, but the Diamondcase products are more "furniture-like".

That Theater Tech piece is extremely nice; I like it. How much is it? And does it have an option anywhere to attach the vertical poles for mounting the plasma above the stand?

Two birds with one stone.

http://www.onkyousa.com/images/products/Speaker/CBSP1200.jpg

More info (http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=CB-SP1200&class=Speaker&p=i)

MSRP: $599

That Theater Tech piece is extremely nice; I like it. How much is it? And does it have an option anywhere to attach the vertical poles for mounting the plasma above the stand?
Hovering around $2000. I don't think they have the pole mount option. Can't hurt to call them though.

Two birds with one stone.




woah, good find. if those speakers are any good this might be the furniture for my 37" plasma

Today I sold my panny pt47wx49 RTPV that I used to house in this wall unit (http://www.standsandmounts.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=749) (coincindentally, the product picture used by the manufacture is also the exact model RPTV!!).

I'm replacing it with a Vizio 50" plasma. I planned on mounting it to our wall and selling the wall unit as well.

My wife would not allow me to sell the wall unit and insisted that I keep it.

I had no choice but to find a suitable table/stand for the plasma. I did not want a glass stand or a metal stand, which would have otherwise looked nice, standing alone; but certainly would have looked out of place in the cherry wall unit.

I had my eye on a Studiotech DP-2 RW (http://www.studiotech.com/products/plasma_tv_stands/dp-2/overview.html) that sort of matched the cherry color of my wall unit (http://www.standsandmounts.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=749). But, again, my wife balked at the price and noted that the color may not match perfectly.

Then I saw this Studiotech Ultra U-22 RW (http://www.studiotech.com/products/component_cabinets/ultra_u-22/overview.html), but again the same problem of matching the color.

Finally, we took a trip out to Ikea and I saw this (http://www.ikea.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10101&storeId=12&langId=-1&productId=32419) . The shelf is made of untreated pine and measures 41 " wide by 19 1/4 " deep by 15 3/4 " high. It has a maximum load of 154 lbs.

It was perfect for my use because all I have to do is stain it in the exact color of my existing wall unit and I have a perfectly matched unit.

So I then stopped by local Home Depot and bought this in natural cherry (http://www.minwax.com/products/onestep/polyshades-color.cfm) and miraculously, the two pieces are a close enough match :)

so for less than $90 I found the perfect plasma stand!!

Two birds with one stone.

http://www.onkyousa.com/images/products/Speaker/CBSP1200.jpg

More info (http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=CB-SP1200&class=Speaker&p=i)

this is great, any more info on that? does it have 2 speakers & 1 sub?

Here is a new pic of the TV mounted on the wall.

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/3590/img07052fp.jpg

I really like the stand can you tell where you got it and how much is it?

this is great, any more info on that? does it have 2 speakers & 1 sub?

Did you miss clicking on More info (http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=CB-SP1200&class=Speaker&p=i)?

No sub. L, R, C channel speakers. Pretty small woofers 3-5/32"

I really like the stand can you tell where you got it and how much is it?

That would be the BDI Avion 8529 (looks like expresso color).

Very nice piece .. around $1700 .. the top drawer has a speaker grill so you can hide your center speaker. This is probably the nicest of the traditional home theater cabinets IMO

I just got my BDI Avion 8527 today and it is a very nice piece. It comes pretty much assembled other than the legs and handles. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking.

Got it for a good price from TVA. Word of caution...got free shipping but it's only curbside. I wasn't told this and it's a heave piece of furniture. Good thing my neighbor was home to help unload it from the truck! Originally had my wife scheduled to be home early from work but the delivery times got "messed" up. I would've been pissed if my wife would have ended up being home instead of me.

A. Lee, thanks for your pics and info!

I just got my BDI Avion 8527 today and it is a very nice piece. It comes pretty much assembled other than the legs and handles. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking.

Got it for a good price from TVA. Word of caution...got free shipping but it's only curbside. I wasn't told this and it's a heave piece of furniture. Good thing my neighbor was home to help unload it from the truck! Originally had my wife scheduled to be home early from work but the delivery times got "messed" up. I would've been pissed if my wife would have ended up being home instead of me.

A. Lee, thanks for your pics and info!
What type of wood is it? Hardwood like oak or maple? Or does it feel softer than that? Just wondering how scratch/dent resistent it is.

Judging from all of the pix I've been looking at ,the two choices are either oak with the espresso stain or cherry with no stain.

Both wood types in this case are plywood with edgebanding where necessary. I'd be stunned if it was solid oak or cherry.I'd bet my soon to be ordered 500U on it.

I'm going to build my own version of this unit,with a few tweaks out of birch plywood and stain it black.


Although most of these pieces are made well, the wood choices are questionable.These guys "build" furniture and usually don't know a thing about finishing them.Which is why using oak and then staining it a color that they call espresso ,which is essentially black doesn't do the oak justice.

This could be a great piece if it was done in mahogany with no stain and just a clear lacquer finish.

In my search for A/V stands that include a flat panel mount, I came across:

http://www.omnimount.com/product.asp?p=119

It's a low, wide A/V stand that includes a rear column for a "floating" type flat panel mount. I really like this form-factor for a plasma stand.

Can anyone comment on this unit? Does the quality/construction look good? I searched, but couldn't find any reference to this unit. There were a few other users who commented on the VT2 stand, but not the VT2-FP, which includes the panel mount. I'm interested in fitting my new Panasonic 50PHD8UK, which I should receive soon. :)

I'm interested in the unit because:

- Fairly compact, integrated unit, including lots of space for A/V equipment (including my tall receiver) Should be able to fit three 17" components side-by-side! :eek:
- Plasma height and tilt are adjustable, and nice center channel solution: right below the display, on the top shelf. (Often I was overlooking the center channel) :o
- Panel height would be fairly low, which seems more ideal for seated viewing.
- Easy access to rear of A/V components and easy to hide wires going to display and center channel
- No need to cut holes or drill into wall, especially good given I can't figure out quite what's going on with the walls studs. :confused:
- Comes in black or grey, which should be a decent match for my components and the Panny PHD8UK
- Pricing is attractive, considering other options consisiting of panel wall mount + A/V comp racks

Hopefully, someone has purchased or has seen this unit and can comment. I can find it at lots of places online, but I can't seem to track it down at any B&M stores, or even get any higher-res photos than the basic photos from the omnimount site.

Any input on this stand is greatly appreciated.

Thanks, HM

I like the "floating glass" look of this one ---->

http://www.bush-furniture-online.com/xmodels/bush/VS88536h.jpg

Shame it only holds 3 components (2 if you placed your center speaker directly under the tv).

Cool piece of furniture, nice find Brucer. :)

-JR


I bought this piece a couple years back at Best Buy...its nice, but this SOB is a ton!! Its like trying to move a cement truck!!

Also, if you have young kids, the glass really jets out at the corners and is fairly dangerous. Also, the glass protrudes longer out the back end then the rest of the unit, making the sharp edges stick out that much more.

In my search for A/V stands that include a flat panel mount, I came across:

http://www.omnimount.com/product.asp?p=119

It's a low, wide A/V stand that includes a rear column for a "floating" type flat panel mount. I really like this form-factor for a plasma stand.

Can anyone comment on this unit? Does the quality/construction look good? I searched, but couldn't find any reference to this unit. There were a few other users who commented on the VT2 stand, but not the VT2-FP, which includes the panel mount. I'm interested in fitting my new Panasonic 50PHD8UK, which I should receive soon. :)

I'm interested in the unit because:

- Fairly compact, integrated unit, including lots of space for A/V equipment (including my tall receiver) Should be able to fit three 17" components side-by-side! :eek:
- Plasma height and tilt are adjustable, and nice center channel solution: right below the display, on the top shelf. (Often I was overlooking the center channel) :o
- Panel height would be fairly low, which seems more ideal for seated viewing.
- Easy access to rear of A/V components and easy to hide wires going to display and center channel
- No need to cut holes or drill into wall, especially good given I can't figure out quite what's going on with the walls studs. :confused:
- Comes in black or grey, which should be a decent match for my components and the Panny PHD8UK
- Pricing is attractive, considering other options consisiting of panel wall mount + A/V comp racks

Hopefully, someone has purchased or has seen this unit and can comment. I can find it at lots of places online, but I can't seem to track it down at any B&M stores, or even get any higher-res photos than the basic photos from the omnimount site.

Any input on this stand is greatly appreciated.

Thanks, HM


Great find!! That is exactly what I am looking for if/when I make the leap to the 50" Panny plasma...nice, sleek, compact design.

And, from what I can tell, actually a resonable price!! However, everywhere I see it for sale seems to indicate you need to buy the plasma holder seperately.

My local PC Richard carries them. The quality is very good IMO. But as GBFreek pointed out, you need to buy the UM-1 adapter plate separately.

Here's a better pic:

http://im1.onecall.com/Image_Products/omnimount/vt2fplarge.jpg




.
Check Out the all-new BruZZi's Panasonic Plasma FAQ (http://www.glaucobruzzi.com/plasma-faq/index.php?)
The FAQ plus links to Plasma Stands, Wallmounts, Murals, Lifts, Speakers, Frames, Bezels & More.
Also links to Audio/Video Faqs, Comparisons, News, Reviews, Shootouts, Tutorials, Tweaks & Many More.

Thanks for the comments. It's nice that at least one person has actually seen the unit. :)
I just didn't want to order it online without anyone seeing it, or commenting at all.

I'll phone a few B&M's that carry Omnimount products, and see if any have it on display. If not, I'll probably go ahead and order from some online reseller anyway. My Panny should be here later this week, about a couple weeks earlier than I was told it would be in. :eek: Got to make sure the stand won't be lagging too much or I might go mad waiting for that.

Good point about the mounting plate. I wasn't sure that was needed but I guess it is. Even so, I think the price of this unit doesn't look too bad, depending on where you buy. But the adapter plate seems pricey for what you're getting. I can use the sheetmetal bend, brake, notcher, and milling machines at work so I feel a DIY plate might be on the menu. :D

If I learn anything more about this stand, I'll post an update here.

HM

saw this on the swans speaker website. Looks interesting

http://www.swanspeaker.com/product/htm/mview.asp?id=250

this looks hot!

My local PC Richard carries them. The quality is very good IMO. But as GBFreek pointed out, you need to buy the UM-1 adapter plate separately.

Here's a better pic:

http://im1.onecall.com/Image_Products/omnimount/vt2fplarge.jpg




.
Check Out the all-new BruZZi's Panasonic Plasma FAQ (http://www.glaucobruzzi.com/plasma-faq/index.php?)
The FAQ plus links to Plasma Stands, Wallmounts, Murals, Lifts, Speakers, Frames, Bezels & More.
Also links to Audio/Video Faqs, Comparisons, News, Reviews, Shootouts, Tutorials, Tweaks & Many More.

Thanks for the comments. It's nice that at least one person has actually seen the unit. :)
I just didn't want to order it online without anyone seeing it, or commenting at all.

I'll phone a few B&M's that carry Omnimount products, and see if any have it on display. If not, I'll probably go ahead and order from some online reseller anyway. My Panny should be here later this week, about a couple weeks earlier than I was told it would be in. :eek: Got to make sure the stand won't be lagging too much or I might go mad waiting for that.

Good point about the mounting plate. I wasn't sure that was needed but I guess it is. Even so, I think the price of this unit doesn't look too bad, depending on where you buy. But the adapter plate seems pricey for what you're getting. I can use the sheetmetal bend, brake, notcher, and milling machines at work so I feel a DIY plate might be on the menu. :D

If I learn anything more about this stand, I'll post an update here.

HM



happymedium, you can use the Retailer locator:

http://www.omnimount.com/retailer.asp?r=1


.
Check Out the all-new BruZZi's Panasonic Plasma FAQ (http://www.glaucobruzzi.com/plasma-faq/index.php?)
The FAQ plus links to Plasma Stands, Wallmounts, Murals, Lifts, Speakers, Frames, Bezels & More.
Also links to Audio/Video Faqs, Comparisons, News, Reviews, Shootouts, Tutorials, Tweaks & Many More.

does anyone have the JSP Jazzy unit? My wife and I love it, but for a little over 2 large, it is quite an investment.

Opinions?

http://www.jsp-industries.com/Pages/Jazzy.html

Does anyone have the JSP Jazzy unit? My wife and I love it, but for a little over 2 large, it is quite an investment.

Opinions?

http://www.jsp-industries.com/Pages/Jazzy.htmlI have it and I absolutely love it! Not only does it look great, but it's extremely functional. For me it was important to have something with doors on it so my toddlers wouldn't mess with my equipment. The only negative thing I can say about the Jazzy is that it does tend to get pretty hot inside. There are air vents a the top of each compartment, but they don't provide adequate cooling for components that run hot such as a cable boxes, DVR's, etc. I have been thinking about adding some type of active cooling in the form of a fan, but I haven't got around to it yet. :)

cool. do you have the back piece too? One thing I really like is that my sub will fit in the middle cabinet, and I'll put my center speaker right on the top, under the screen.

LOL -- saw this today on Engadget. What would Austin Powers own:

http://www.engadget.com/entry/1234000010057598/#comments

i'm looking for a stand that has room for a center speak for a 50' panny for around $250/300 is this possible? any links would be appreciated

can we stick this thread?

For those on a budget or that just want a temporary stand until you can get your 42" plasma mounted I highly reccomend this from Target. They call it a coffee table but to me it looked like the perfect plasma stand. The shelf underneath perfectly holds my cable box, DVD player and receiver. I could also stack one more component over the receiver but I don't have one to put there.

Most of it is made of real wood but even the veneer parts look very natural. It is sturdy, stylish and the price can't be beat. $89. I hate cheap looking furniture but this looks like it's much more than the price you paid. It's also the perfect height for viewing from a couch.

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000ZSA4I.16._AA384_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg (http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=br_1_6/602-2500677-4970251?%5Fencoding=UTF8&frombrowse=1&asin=B0000ZSA4I)
http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=br_1_6/602-2500677-4970251?%5Fencoding=UTF8&frombrowse=1&asin=B0000ZSA4I

As I had rendered previously in this thread the Plasma Credenza….B&W HTM1 accomodating….

I call this “Nuk Not Included…or how to child proof thoses tweeters”

This replaces an metal open stand after the client had to buy another tweeter…culprit looks more innocent than he really is.

Single slice of Birds-Eye Maple used on flipper door fronts, Framed with curly maple and curly maple sides. Cracked glass laminated top to follow later [client supplied].

Heavy Krell amp and other goodies behind 20” wide component compartments. Adjustable tilt on center channel.

http://www.av123forum.com/photopost/data/500/6EggerCredenzaPic2.jpg

Thats a great looking cabinet !

I love "birds eye" maple

I'm just about finished building my version of the BDI Avion, I'll have pix up hopefully by the weekend.

The 50PX500U is getting wall mounted this Saturday.

Brucer,
One of the nicer credenzas yet. How's the center channel work? Center section opens-up? I'll assume there's plenty of breathing room/venting in the back for your equipment? Any way we can have a peek back there?

That credenza is stunning.

Any pics with the doors open?

Thanks,

My customer sent[E-Mail] me the photo, I’ll see if I can get him to send some more shots. All interior surfaces are clear select white maple [curly maple in speaker compartment].

There is a back panel framework, with large openings for ventilation and wiring/hookups. Each shelf has a notched rear edge for wire management, as well. Inside walls have wire management pass-thru holes. The center channel compartment has mostly an open back [approx. 3” frame around opening].

As can be seen in the photo, the entire wall behind the plasma is made up of large [door-sized] glass panels so wall mounting was not an option.

Here’s a link to the original sketch showing that the doors are a barrister bookcase style [flip-up and slide into cabinet]. There are threaded inserts in fron center shelft with padded screw-type legs to adjust the center speaker tilt angle, as well as rear stops to prevent speaker from sliding [vibrating] rearward. Shelves are fully adjustable on 1” centers. The finished size turned out pretty close to the render.

Cabinet floats above floor 2-3/4” on the metal plasma stand foot [shadow line barely visible in center section underneath] [2” x 2” x 1/8” thick steel sq. tubing]. Rectangular floor framework with two vertical uprights [cross braced] welded together, and then two forward extensions to mount standard wallmount hardware and project PDP forward a few inches. There are two small hidden “news and kiddy show” plasma powered speakers mounted to the uprights such that the B&W Main audio system does not have to be fired up.

There is a matching wall unit [off camera, stage right] with a larger audio rack and other cabinetry. Wiring comes up thru the floor, under stand.



http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5723739&&#post5723739

BTW, this is one of the very first 50" PDP-503CMX's purchased upon release and reported on AVS [circa fall 2001].

Bruce

I've found many better quality stands around with reasonable prices. Seems as though most people are wall mounting and these stands are not fling out of the stores so the prices are usually discounted or on sale.

Brucer,

That has got to be one of the simplest yet nicest pieces of furniture I have ever seen.

http://home.comcast.net/~dealios/pic.jpg

Here is my setup...

I got this one from IKEA last night

Thanks snowjay,

Sometimes simple looking involves more than at first appears. There is a lot to be said about proportions & execution, as well.

An old friend told me once “Ya know, there’s a butt for every seat”

Even though we were talking cars, at the time, that statement holds true for a more universal application.

Love that Ikea set up. Most of the Hardware is hidden, Do the side shelves support component widths?

L\I realy like the hidden component look. Nice and clean looking. Don't need to worry about IR reflection in middle unit.

scrapple,
Just wondering how's the sound w/ the front LCR speakers so high up? No way to lower them? I'm guessing there's a WAF or kid-factor involved?

My wife and I have this unit, which we pruchased for under $100.

The only issue we've had is our STB it too wide to fit in the frosted glass areas. We've had to put it in the middle.

-JR

same here.

oddly enough, while looking for a good week for a cabinet that could hold

1) full atx HTPC
2) receiver which is slightly bigger than the htpc
3) xbox
AND
4) my center channel under the plasma itself

the best match i could find was...a cheapo 100 dollar TV stand at wal mart, heh.

if anyone is interested, and also happen to have an axiom center channel,

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=2197741

it fits in that top hole flawlessly, and also matches the boston cherry axiom speaker finish if that's the color you got ;)

same here.

oddly enough, while looking for a good week for a cabinet that could hold

1) full atx HTPC
2) receiver which is slightly bigger than the htpc
3) xbox
AND
4) my center channel under the plasma itself

the best match i could find was...a cheapo 100 dollar TV stand at wal mart, heh.

if anyone is interested, and also happen to have an axiom center channel,

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=2197741

it fits in that top hole flawlessly, and also matches the boston cherry axiom speaker finish if that's the color you got ;)

Nice find Xayd! Swap out the image of the TV with a plasma, and change the title of the product to "Plasma Stand" you could charge over $1000 for that unit. ;)

My wife and I are still looking for a unit to fit all of our hardware into. :(

-JR

I just picked up a sauder for pretty cheap (199.99) at a local furniture shop. The thing is pretty sturdy and weighs over 100 lbs. I'll post a pic later this week but i think it looks pretty good and was the best stand i could find for the price. it's 52" across which accommodates the 50" plasma and is 25" high and 20" deep

http://img57.imageshack.us/img57/3566/livingroom6xw.th.jpg (http://img57.imageshack.us/my.php?image=livingroom6xw.jpg)

Dania make some very sturdy and very reasonably priced pieces: http://www.daniafurniture.com/?page=shop/category_items&category_id=1daa0d19ea4b945e437120f02c136ddd
My 42" Plasma cheerfully sits on top of a black $20 Ikea "lack" table

Love that Ikea set up. Most of the Hardware is hidden, Do the side shelves support component widths?




L\I realy like the hidden component look. Nice and clean looking. Don't need to worry about IR reflection in middle unit.

Kudos for not mounting the Tv on the wall with a component shelve undeneath. That setup in my opinin looks the worse and defeats the clean look of a wall mount. Besides the screen is close to you as well.



Not really, they are good for ps2, xbox, dvd's , etc....

I have my gamecube in one, xbox in another, and my roku soundbridge in another.... and the other 2 i use for media storage... still, for $229 its a steal... solid pine that is built like a rock and heavy so it will never fall apart....


yea, looks good on the stand... i agree

scrapple,
Just wondering how's the sound w/ the front LCR speakers so high up? No way to lower them? I'm guessing there's a WAF or kid-factor involved?

when they were building my house, i snuck in and installed surround sound 5.1 (decided i didnt need 6.1) when the sheetrock was off the walls.... i was unsure about what I wanted to do back then so i just installed everything high and I would angle the speakers....

i was worried about sound as well, but it sounds awesome.... i just angle the speakers directly where i sit and its pretty good to me.... astecically, it looks fine as well since my wall paint is dark and the speakers are darkish.... plus like you said, no kids can destroy it....

This one looks nice - the Urban Loft 60" Entertainment Console, from Sam's club. Comes with plasma mount, and the middle doors can be solid or glass.
http://www.samsclub.com/eclub/main_shopping.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&n=0&mt=a&coe=0&oidPath=0:-23542:-23589:-24298:-29582:932735
I like the fact that it's not so deep: <19".

there's also a matching wall unit:
http://www.samsclub.com/eclub/main_shopping.jsp?coe=0&oidPath=0%3a-23542%3a-43701%3a-43704%3a-44264%3a-44961%3a934751&mt=a&n=0&BV_SessionID=_SC_1044342586.1128569104_CS_&BV_EngineID=ccchaddflehekfkcfkfcfkjdgoodfkh.0

Dania make some very sturdy and very reasonably priced pieces: http://www.daniafurniture.com/?page=shop/category_items&category_id=1daa0d19ea4b945e437120f02c136ddd
My 42" Plasma cheerfully sits on top of a black $20 Ikea "lack" table

I just check those out and have one question...what aspect ratio is this mock flat screen? ;)

http://www.daniafurniture.com/shop_image/product/9af25e21de7c51e2d7c04cb2d11ef060.jpg

I just check those out and have one question...what aspect ratio is this mock flat screen? ;)

http://www.daniafurniture.com/shop_image/product/9af25e21de7c51e2d7c04cb2d11ef060.jpg
I'm more freaked out by this telephone booth of a TV; it looks like it'a about to walk toward me:

http://www.daniafurniture.com/shop_image/product/19a051db217502698d73aa4dac0328c6.jpg

I'm more freaked out by this telephone booth of a TV; it looks like it'a about to walk toward me:

http://www.daniafurniture.com/shop_image/product/19a051db217502698d73aa4dac0328c6.jpg

Take me to your leader!

:D

Here is what i am doing...

I have one of these below (but in light wood finish, not white)

http://www.ikea.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10101&storeId=12&langId=-1&productId=11317

I have turned it on it's side, mounted 5 inch steel and rubber casters to the 4 corners and have found wood baskets to fit in each of the four openings. These baskets will be used to hold DVDs, accessories, and a few of my 18mo old's toys :)

I have the A/V components sitting along the top of this shelf and my Plasma mounted on the wall above this. The cables to the plasma all run through a hole in the wall behnd the plasma out another hole lower on the wall behind this shelf. All the wires are hidden behind the shelf so it is a cable/wireless look.

I think I paid $130 for the shelf 5-6 years ago, the casters cost me about $30, the baskets another $40 and the wall mount just over $100. Add in the time to run the wires and voila!

A nice clean look for the plasma for a lot less than specialized furniture

I will supply a picture soon (after I finally run all wires behind the wall).

fit4lyf

Well,

After the wife gave me the green light on the plasma purchase. She of course would not let any furniture in the house. After looking at dozens of websites and dozens of stores. I found this posted somewhere else on AVS forum.

http://www.ethanallen.com/templates/solutions_summer04/ent_state/state_ent.html

It's about the same price as the salamander, maybe cheaper considering it has something to mount the plasma on. We are putting the plasma on the side of the room that has a window, and so hanging it on the wall wasn't an option. We are draping the entire wall and hiding that window and using this piece. I saw it in person at the ethan allen store. It's very well built, very sturdy and actually looks like real furniture. They have a whole collection of bedroom, living room furniture as well that matches. It's $900 and the plasma back piece to mount the plasma is $300. So $1200 total which isn't bad for an ethan allen piece. Considering they have coffee tables that are close to that price.

Ok, so here's the bad part. 4 months for it to come in!!! Apparently it's so new, that each order is built from scratch and they don't stock any as they aren't 100% sure it will sell. I think this is going to become one of the best wife friendly plasma credenza's out there. No holes in the wall and it looks really nice. It should last a very long time as it's Ethan Allen.

Doors in front apparently can be glass or wood (you get both when you buy it).

So, hopefully in September I get it. Which is then when I will finally order my 50" plasma. I've narrowed it down the panasonic thanks to this forum. Mayber the 7UY will be out by then and the price is still about $5K or less.

Reading posts every day until I get to pull the trigger when the furniture gets in.

Shouldn't it be eye level? I would just put the panel on the top (on the stand it comes with). Why mount it so high?

Also, if you want a center channel in the middle compartment, does the glass or wood come off?

I believe on that model from Ethan Allen the front doors can have either glass or a wood insert. Both panel types come with the stand. The doors could be removed but the hinges are screwed onto the front so you'd be stuck with the screw holes showing. I don't own this unit but I did spend some time looking at it today in person.

The way the stand is designed it has a hole on the top for a center channel speaker so in order to make space for the center channel they have to mount the television higher.

While I'm new here it's plainly obvious that some people actually like their television mounted up high. Maybe they just like to slouch while they watch tv!

Have you had any thoughts about how to mount the plasma to video board. I have just taken delivery of this unit from EA and have found them to be terribly unhelpful with regard to mounting the screen. I think I am going to go through the video panel into the studs with a few pieces of 'filler' material to fill the gap between the panel and the wall. Any other suggestions or solutions are most welcome.

Thanks

Have you had any thoughts about how to mount the plasma to video board. I have just taken delivery of this unit from EA and have found them to be terribly unhelpful with regard to mounting the screen. I think I am going to go through the video panel into the studs with a few pieces of 'filler' material to fill the gap between the panel and the wall. Any other suggestions or solutions are most welcome.

Thanks
I thought they're built to accept most wall mounts, without having to drill into the studs. If the EA doesn't allow it, IMO that would defeat the purpose (for some people at least) of buying the plasma back. The plasma backs allow to mount without having to worry about running wires in-wall, and it's portable (i.e. don't have to drill holes into walls) in case you move.

Thanks for the feedback. I agree with you that the design is there to allow use of the panel without going into the wall. However how do you reconcile the fact that most mounts appear to use 2 1/2" or 3" lag bolts. Are you saying that shorter bolts are ok or do you intend that the panel is set at least 1 to 1 1/2" from the wall to accomodate the length of the bolt that passes through the back panel?

Thanks

After the wife gave me the green light on the plasma purchase. She of course would not let any furniture in the house. After looking at dozens of websites and dozens of stores. I found this posted somewhere else on AVS forum.

http://www.ethanallen.com/templates/solutions_summer04/ent_state/state_ent.html



We also thought EA was on the right track, but I decided on a slight modification (I tried to upload a few images but my files are too large and I am too lazy to modify them).

I used one each of the larger EA base and the smaller EA base, and fitted the larger version of the "backstand" in the center. It took some doing to arrange and bolt the pieces together, but in the end it is almost impossible to see that the assembly is actually 2 separate bases. The entire system of furniture came in at under $2000 (if I don't count my own labor and modifications).

What I really likes about this setup is the ease of running cables, the overall simplicity, and the fact that the size and style of the display is not at all restricted by the furniture. In fact we are still in the decision phase regarding the eventual display device.

I can no longer tolerate the "early dorm" look of multi-component, multi-cable setups that sometimes result from too much of the current technology, and the designers at Ethan Allen seemed to sympathize with me.

... If you have ordered one form Ethan Alan I suggest you talk to your sales person, they are having some issues with manufacturer of these, something about the plant being in Florida. (or at least that's the line they gave me) ...

Like most things these days, these pieces are manufactured in China. I have a setup described in another post, and frankly I am quite pleased with the design and quality. The shelving and door inserts are first rate, as is the included power strip. Even so, I was a little surprised to see the "China" logo on the back of the furniture.

We also thought EA was on the right track, but I decided on a slight modification (I tried to upload a few images but my files are too large and I am too lazy to modify them) ...

I'm still lazy, but you can view a few photos here:

http://www.photohaven.com/ethan_allen

For everyone w/ the 'perfect furniture' do you wish you had beefy casters on the bottom to allow access to the back? Still wondering if it's worth the extra expense to go w/ a company like diamondcase, which comes w/ casters.

gohd,

Try here:

http://www.studiotech.com/

Cheaper than DiamondCase and Salamander plus a la carte items are more reasonable in price. I ordered one of these in natural cherry:

http://www.studiotech.com/products/component_cabinets/ultra_u-22/index.html

Should be here any day now. Didn't opt for the casters yet but nice to know they are available at reasonable cost as are most of the accessories. If I encounter any problems I'll post back.

For everyone w/ the 'perfect furniture' do you wish you had beefy casters on the bottom to allow access to the back? Still wondering if it's worth the extra expense to go w/ a company like diamondcase, which comes w/ casters.
Depending on the design of the furniture, it can be easy to add your own casters. That's what I did (see photo link in my sig) using casters bought at home depot.

Depending on the design of the furniture, it can be easy to add your own casters. That's what I did (see photo link in my sig) using casters bought at home depot.Exact same here, i picked up some tasteful black casters at Home Depot that are rated at 75 lbs each and screwed them to the underside of my Best Buy TV table when i was modifying it (it originally had a 180 lb tube TV on it before the plasma). It originally came with plastic slider pads but i wanted to be able to roll it away from the wall to get at the backside, or roll it out and turn it 90 degrees to face the couch when i had company over.

Hey guys,I finally finished my version of the BDI Avion. A few members were kind enough to give me some key measurements ,and off I went to build.
The basic cost was for 2 sheets of Birch plywood ,the pulls and knobs,2 pairs of euro hinges, 6 -6" high feet, 4 pieces of 1/8 glass and some speaker grill "like: material.
Total cost approx, $275. I stained it black and it's finished with a satin lacquer.

I opted for 2 drawers in the center the top holds the center channel and the bottom hold misc goodie/junk. I liked the linear look of the matching drawers instead of the drop down face on the "original" Avion.

The outsides compartments have adjustable shelves that are vented as are the bottoms of the two compartments.

Thats the 50PX500U on the wall, awsome out of the box, normal adjustments. 100% happy with the TV, it's been up for 2 weeks now.

I went with the Denon 2805 Reciever and Denon 2910 DVD and a Panamax 4300
Not going to mention the speakers at the moment ( embarassed) but looking into Axioms.

I'm going to try to post the pix here( cross your fingers)

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-10/1087948/IVGKP-cabinet0010_1_1.JPG

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-10/1087948/cabinet0004_1_1.JPG

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-10/1087948/cabinet0009_1_1.JPG

You guys are the bomb! Damn this furniture thread is just what I needed!

Hey guys,I finally finished my version of the BDI Avion. A few members were kind enough to give me some key measurements ,and off I went to build.
The basic cost was for 2 sheets of Birch plywood ,the pulls and knobs,2 pairs of euro hinges, 6 -6" high feet, 4 pieces of 1/8 glass and some speaker grill "like: material.
Total cost approx, $275. I stained it black and it's finished with a satin lacquer.

I opted for 2 drawers in the center the top holds the center channel and the bottom hold misc goodie/junk. I liked the linear look of the matching drawers instead of the drop down face on the "original" Avion.

The outsides compartments have adjustable shelves that are vented as are the bottoms of the two compartments.

Thats the 50PX500U on the wall, awsome out of the box, normal adjustments. 100% happy with the TV, it's been up for 2 weeks now.

I went with the Denon 2805 Reciever and Denon 2910 DVD and a Panamax 4300
Not going to mention the speakers at the moment ( embarassed) but looking into Axioms.

I'm going to try to post the pix here( cross your fingers)

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-10/1087948/IVGKP-cabinet0010_1_1.JPG

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-10/1087948/cabinet0004_1_1.JPG

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-10/1087948/cabinet0009_1_1.JPG


Wow...that looks great for DIY. I have the BDI Avion and it's great but for about $1k less, yours is fantastic!

I'll try to post a pic of my set up for comparison.

I basically built the "wider" Avion unit. My thinking was, it centered the 50" plamsa nicely. More importantly it keeps my 2 and 5 year olds, just outside of arms reach of the TV.
On a side note I took my old 32 Sony CRT that this set up replaced and put it in the playroom, my 2 year old keeps telling me " daddy, thank you for the big TV " . So she's not even paying attention to the new one hanging on the wall. (and thats a good thing)

The dimensions should be almost exact to the 77" Avion unit. With the exception of that lower drop front door that I swapped for a drawer. I just didn't think the drop front had any practical use. I keep all of my manuals and "paper" stuff int he lower drawer.
It's put together with dowels , biscuts and good old Elmers wood glue) . I used Birch edge banding to cover all the plywood edges. It's easy to use, comes in a long roll and you just "iron it on" .

This is not as simple as it looks, my business is Furniture Refinishing and Antique Restoration. So ,Yes I was able to build this, but not being a production shop, it took about 2 weeks of a liitle here and a little there to build.I at least have peace of mind that what I built is of better quality than what I would have bought for $1700.

Bassett Direct has this piece that I am considering as an alternate to the EA piece due moslty to delivery times. This also has the optional back piece that I am not getting. They supposedly have 90 in stock and ready for delivery w/in two weeks. MSRP $1189.


I really, really like this unit. Anyone here got this in their home ? This is the perfect
unit for my home/wife, anyone who can either advise on the price/quality/where to buy from this unit please don't be shy !!! My wife has finally given me a green light but I need to do it fairly quickly - before her mind changes again - and I need to make sure I get a nice piece like this one with the TV, or no deal.

Thanks much !!!

I basically built the "wider" Avion unit. My thinking was, it centered the 50" plamsa nicely. More importantly it keeps my 2 and 5 year olds, just outside of arms reach of the TV.



Impressive. Looks very good.

Bassett Direct has this piece that I am considering as an alternate to the EA piece due moslty to delivery times. This also has the optional back piece that I am not getting. They supposedly have 90 in stock and ready for delivery w/in two weeks. MSRP $1189.


Hey mcannon if you are still around... are those glass doors on the top part of the stand? Hard to see from the Bassett website.

Here’s a recent custom unit I call the Library Table- TV Stand, that accommodates a very large and heavy center speaker [Onix Rocket Bigfoot in Ebony = 25.5”w x 12” h x 10.5” d @ 46lbs.] This was made to coordinate with other room furniture in a more traditional style.

Low profile steel speaker brackets give the center channel a levitating look

It is a solid & beefy unit featuring hand turned 5.75” diameter legs, 1.75” x 3” arched stretchers, with an independent bottom floor shelf. Features thru mortise and tenon joinery with locking tapered hard maple pegs. The flexible design allows for removal of the speaker brackets and bottom shelf [no exposed screw holes] if utilized as an occasional table later on.

No enclosure to create center speaker resonances within.

Size, wood type and finish, and styling can vary.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=44497

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=44498

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=44499

I got this one from Pottery Barn after being backordered for 2 months. (http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/ninja_blade/detail?.dir=/516a&.dnm=c224.jpg&.src=ph&.tok=phozwyDBw6tvxTOV)

The design is beautiful, IMHO, but the holes for the wiring were too cramped. Not much ventilation either.

Here’s a recent custom unit I call the Library Table- TV Stand, that accommodates a very large and heavy center speaker [Onix Rocket Bigfoot in Ebony = 25.5”w x 12” h x 10.5” d @ 46lbs.] This was made to coordinate with other room furniture in a more traditional style.

Low profile steel speaker brackets give the center channel a levitating look

It is a solid & beefy unit featuring hand turned 5.75” diameter legs, 1.75” x 3” arched stretchers, with an independent bottom floor shelf. Features thru mortise and tenon joinery with locking tapered hard maple pegs. The flexible design allows for removal of the speaker brackets and bottom shelf [no exposed screw holes] if utilized as an occasional table later on.

]

Beautiful stand! Where did you get this made?

Here is the 2 door Studio Tech unit. I just put it together (very easy to do) and set up the system. Would have liked to have gotten the three door unit but the space wouldn't allow for it and my plasma needs to be slightly off-centered on the wall.

I got this one from Pottery Barn after being backordered for 2 months. (http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/ninja_blade/detail?.dir=/516a&.dnm=c224.jpg&.src=ph&.tok=phozwyDBw6tvxTOV)

The design is beautiful, IMHO, but the holes for the wiring were too cramped. Not much ventilation either.

I almost bought this, my wife really liked the drawers on the front but I couldn't wait the 2 months. Also, PB wanted a surcharge for the shipping which made it the same price as the BDI Avion. I was also told by customer service that there were holes only for the top shelves and there wasn't much ventilation. I still like the way this looks over the BDI piece but went with the functionality of the BDI.

I almost bought this, my wife really liked the drawers on the front but I couldn't wait the 2 months. Also, PB wanted a surcharge for the shipping which made it the same price as the BDI Avion. I was also told by customer service that there were holes only for the top shelves and there wasn't much ventilation. I still like the way this looks over the BDI piece but went with the functionality of the BDI.

WAF was the deciding factor. The BDI is definitely a better piece in terms of functionality. I was very frustrated running all the wiring in this piece. There are very small holes that go from top to bottom, as well as from the far left to right shelves.

Beautiful stand! Where did you get this made?


Same manufacturer as all of my other designs I've posted about....Me.

It's what I do.

Thanks

Same manufacturer as all of my other designs I've posted about....Me.

It's what I do.

Thanks

Hey Brucer, maybe we should get together and build some plasma/stereo cabinets. ;)
My BDI Avion is on the top of this page. I made it in my shop,details are a few posts back.

I almost bought this, my wife really liked the drawers on the front but I couldn't wait the 2 months. Also, PB wanted a surcharge for the shipping which made it the same price as the BDI Avion. I was also told by customer service that there were holes only for the top shelves and there wasn't much ventilation. I still like the way this looks over the BDI piece but went with the functionality of the BDI.

Do you have a link to this? From what I can tell it's not on their website.

It's going to take a few weeks to get here as I had to order it from a local place, but I'll be getting this corner stand (except mine will be black):

http://www.riverside-furniture.com/selprod.asp?pos=6&mode=1&id=CRE&pID=EC818C

A corner unit just worked best for me as there's only one living room wall at my place where a wall mount would work, but the viewing distance would be too short.

Will post pics when I get it set up.

Hi,

Amazing forum! Great thread! I am a happy owner of a Studiotech audio rack. I bought it for $150 at Fry's Electronic as an open box item. It's built like a tank. I love it and would recommend this company. However, I might have to buy a new rack for an up-coming plasma tv, as my current rack is only 23'' in width, not wide enough for most 42'' plasma displays. I saw an amazing piece of furniture on another forum. Unfortunately, I am not a member there and thus can't ask questions. I wanted to post the link, but apparently, I need to post five times in order to do so. Thank you for this awesome site.

Hi,

Amazing forum! Great thread! I am a happy owner of a Studiotech audio rack. I bought it for $150 at Fry's Electronic as an open box item. It's built like a tank. I love it and would recommend this company. However, I might have to buy a new rack for an up-coming plasma tv, as my current rack is only 23'' in width, not wide enough for most 42'' plasma displays. I saw an amazing piece of furniture on another forum. Unfortunately, I am not a member there and thus can't ask questions. I wanted to post the link, but apparently, I need to post five times in order to do so. Thank you for this awesome site.


Send me a Private Message with the link so I'll post it for you. :)

Or check if you can find it here:

http://www.bruzzi.ws/plasma-faq/showthread.php?t=87




.
Check Out the all-new BruZZi's Panasonic Plasma FAQ (http://www.glaucobruzzi.com/plasma-faq/index.php?)
The FAQ plus links to Plasma Stands, Wallmounts, Murals, Lifts, Speakers, Frames, Bezels & More.
Also links to Audio/Video Faqs, Comparisons, News, Reviews, Shootouts, Tutorials, Tweaks & Many More.

Here’s a recent custom unit I call the Library Table- TV Stand, that accommodates a very large and heavy center speaker [Onix Rocket Bigfoot in Ebony = 25.5”w x 12” h x 10.5” d @ 46lbs.] This was made to coordinate with other room furniture in a more traditional style.

That's a very beautiful piece!!! I think I'll just go sit in a corner and cry while I look at my cruddy veneer stand made of plywood :)

Brucer,
In no way a knock on anyone who owns pieces from these companies, but I wish you could gather-up all those folks from Ethan Allen, Room-and-Board, Ikea, Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, etc, and give them a lesson on how to make real AV furniture. Their idea of AV furniture is anything w/ a hole in the back for a couple cables. I never knew I'd have such a hard time finding my 'perfect Plasma furniture.' Brucer, your stuff looks sweet, w/ real AV equipment in mind.

BruZZi,

Wow! Looking at the beautiful racks made by those various companies make me feel like I have been living in the wood. There are so many good stuffs out there. I take back what I said about that rack I saw being amazing. However, it would still buy it in a heartbeat because it is functional and simple. I will send you private message with the link shortly. Thank you.

Do you have a link to this? From what I can tell it's not on their website.

I couldnt find it on their website either. I have an old catalog I have to dig up. I'll post the sku if I can find it.

Do you have a link to this? From what I can tell it's not on their website.

They're trying to catch-up on their back-orders. You can still find it on their website only if you enter this item# 80-6763437 in their search. BTW, it measures 65" wide, not 60" as indicated on the website.

Brucer,
In no way a knock on anyone who owns pieces from these companies, but I wish you could gather-up all those folks from Ethan Allen, Room-and-Board, Ikea, Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, etc, and give them a lesson on how to make real AV furniture. Their idea of AV furniture is anything w/ a hole in the back for a couple cables. I never knew I'd have such a hard time finding my 'perfect Plasma furniture.' Brucer, your stuff looks sweet, w/ real AV equipment in mind.

Thank you so much for these words of encouragement. They will not go unnoticed!

Since I rarely get to live very long with any finished design, I get my job satisfaction from the journey itself [starting with the design to solve particular problems]. Feel free to visit the AV123 forum for my own corner, where I field A/V furniture design questions.

----------------

Good job, Stocky!!!

BruZZi,

Wow! Looking at the beautiful racks made by those various companies make me feel like I have been living in the wood. There are so many good stuffs out there. I take back what I said about that rack I saw being amazing. However, it would still buy it in a heartbeat because it is functional and simple. I will send you private message with the link shortly. Thank you.


Here's the link:

http://gallery.audioreview.com/showphoto.php?photo=862&size=big&password=&sort=1&cat=2


That is a DIY (Do It Yorself) Rack. Similar to the Archetype by Salamander Designs.

http://www.salamanderdesigns.com/archetype/imgs/archome_pict.jpg

http://www.salamanderdesigns.com/archetype/index.htm



Search for "Flexi Rack" to find tons of info about this kind of DIY stands/racks.


.
Check Out the all-new BruZZi's Panasonic Plasma FAQ (http://www.glaucobruzzi.com/plasma-faq/index.php?)
The FAQ plus links to Plasma Stands, Wallmounts, Murals, Lifts, Speakers, Frames, Bezels & More.
Also links to Audio/Video Faqs, Comparisons, News, Reviews, Shootouts, Tutorials, Tweaks & Many More.

BruZZi,

Thank you for the information. I love the DIY stuff, but I don't think I have the skill or patience to build anything. I am just gonna look for something that will let me stack various parts together like the Salamander design. You rock, dude.

For online retailers where is a good place to get the BDI Avion that is reliable and has a good price?

For online retailers where is a good place to get the BDI Avion that is reliable and has a good price?

I got mine from Cambryn at TVA for less than MSRP, no shipping and no tax. Took about a week to get it. Beware though, you have to unload it from the back of the truck and this sucker is heavy!

I've spent three whole days browsing the threads about TV furniture on this forum, countless furniture store sites and i'm almost decided on the following product :

http://www.apa-marketing.com/entertainment_collection/entertainment_centers/orchard_grove_oak/orchard_grove_oak_LPU_48TO.htm

I've not seen a single mention of this brand and their products on this forum. Apparently it's retailed around 3 grand and at over 150" of width (if you get the 69" cart) it appears to me as the best value for money.

The only things really keeping me from making a final decision are :

1) I'd have preferred a cart expandable to 73-75" (i'm getting a 65 incher but maybe i'll have a change of heart in the near future and want a bigger set.
2) It's made in china. I'd have preferred a made in the USA product.

Anybody can suggest a similar thing, feature-design-space-price wise but with the 2 parameters mentioned above ?

I was browsing the Salamander site and came across this picture on the home page, but couldn't find any specs/pricing info anywhere. Anyone familiar with it? Is it a custom piece? It looks lower than a Triple 20. That piece plus a riser would work perfect for me.

APA looks very similar to stonecreekfurniture dot com

Never mind. Found the lower unit in the System Configurator.

This is where my current plasma is sitting on :)

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00066XVCW.16._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

APA looks very similar to stonecreekfurniture dot com

Stone creek is one of the three manufacturers i had retained, along with APA and Parker-House.

Problem is, their DLP/Plasma wall units are in the 5-6 grand range and for that price they lack the features the APA unit has : surge protected power strips in each cabinet, wire management ports, cabinet ventilation, Speaker cloth inserts etc... They also lack one plus the Parker-House units have : an tv cart expandable to 72 or 75" depending on the unit. Quite important.

The Parker-House units are a tie with APA in my opinion, they're built in the US, in solid oak, they look good, have an expandable cart, are wider than the APA by something like 20 inches, but they lack all the features of the APA that i mentioned earlier. I'm still waiting for a quote on these ones, but i know it's gonna be a tough call...

This is where my current plasma is sitting on :)

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00066XVCW.16._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

Looks nice. Who makes it?