[joe2k1]

Hello,


Looking to setup a 10'x10' den with a tv (lcd?plasma?), tivo, dvd/vcr combo. I would also like to get some headphones so I can watch stuff and not make any noise. Do 5.1 surround headphones exist? I would also like to get some wireless home theatre speakers to give that 5.1 surround sound. The room is small so I do not want anybody to trip on the speaker wire, so wireless would be best. I am looking for the following features in the tv, if possible would be closed captioning, screen in corner of screen and being able to use our existing dvd/vcr combo without too much trouble. I have heard about these fancy remotes that can do all the work of the 3-4 remotes I would own with all of the following accessories, any thoughts on that? I am also curious to hear the pro's and con's of hanging the lcd/plasma on the wall versus using a stand on the entertinament we already have. I wonder if any experts can make some general recommendations. I am located in Canada, the cable service is provided by Rogers.

 

[brandonnash]

Lot of questions...They do make 5.1 headphones. I've not listened to them, but would like to see what they're like. They haven't got the greatest of reviews. Do a search on ebay and you'll find some. I know sony makes some wireless 5.1 headphones. Wireless speakers I'm not a fan of. You get either one of two varieties. The ones that need batteries that won't get that loud and won't stay charged that long, or the ones that need to be plugged in the wall for power, making them not really wireless. I would go with normal speakers, with the wires, and run them either through the wall or tucked underneath between the carpet and the walls. You won't see them and nothing to trip over. Most any tv now will do picture in picture and closed captioning. You won't have any problems hooking up your existing dvd to it. The remotes you have several options and they will control all of your gear. Take a look at logitech harmony remotes. Pros of mounting your plasma on the wall would simply be floor space.

 

[auron990]

Wireless speakers do not have good sound quality, not worth it imo. You can arrange things so your speaker wires wont trip people. If your room has carpet and a trim just tuck the wire under the trim. If not run them through the wall. It's worth it. Also 5.1 headphones exist. You have to have a reciever or some device that outputs dolby headphone. This 5.1 is simulated, but sounds damn good too me depending on your headphones.

 

[joe2k1]

I have narrowed some possible choices. I wonder if I could have some additional feedback on my ideas :


TV


LCD preferable to Plasma. We looked at a Samsung 40" - Model LN40A650 And A Sharp Aquos 42" - Model LC42D85


Tivo dual tuner model


DVD Blue Ray There wasn't a Blue Ray combination VCR on display. Do they exist?


Surge Power Bar

All in one Remote


Sound System


The units on display at various electronics stores offered a wireless feature for "large" speakers. Does anyone know of alternatives that have really small speakers and are wireless?


Also can anyone recommend a brand of wireless headphones that provide surround and work with the above equipment?

 

[joe2k1]

I should also mention that I will not be playing video games on this system, strictly watching cable tv and BR/DVDs.

 

[mayhem13]

Price vs performance, a properly calibrated Plasma will outperform an LCD, especially in contrast. Cost has come down so much it doesn't make sense to not buy a Pioneer Kuro plasma. You owe it to yourself to take a look. PDP-5020FD


As far as Blueray, i have a sony 350 and 550 and love em both, especially for the price on the 350.


Harmony remotes all the way. Easy web based setup, long battery life and flawless macros.


This little 5.1 system is a nice match for a Sony BD and small rooms
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc....html#features


To make the rear speakers wireless...add this
http://www.rocketfishproducts.com/pc...eaker-kit.aspx


Wireless 5.1 headphones=EXPENSIVE !!!!
http://www.parts-express.com/pe/show...number=250-645

 

[joe2k1]

I have seen late model plasma(forget the brand/model), at a friends of friends place. The plasma was in a living room with very bright sunlight making the plasma behave like a bathroom mirror! I was not too impressed with it. I would love to hear more comments about plasma vs LCD. Thanks!

 

[mayhem13]

Just google Plasma vs LCD and it becomes very clear. All TVs look like crap in bright rooms. A little light control goes a long way.