Cover Image for Consultation: A/V Solutions and Prime Day Purchases.
Mon Oct 07 2024

Consultation: A/V Solutions and Prime Day Purchases.

In this week's episode of You Asked, we discuss where to start improving your audio and video system. ChatGPT shares its thoughts on soundbars and reveals which products I plan to purchase during Prime Day.

Dipam Patel, an audio enthusiast from the UK, is seeking advice on how to improve his audio and video system. He owns an 83-inch LG G4 television with bias lighting, a Denon X3400H receiver, and several Dali speakers, including an e12F subwoofer. After attending a high-fidelity exhibition and hearing extravagant audio systems, he now feels tempted to upgrade his equipment.

The first piece of advice is not to rush into replacing components. Although the Denon receiver is about seven years old, it is still good equipment within its category. Instead of changing parts, it is suggested to optimize the current setup, which can significantly impact sound quality. This involves considering the room's acoustics, speaker placement, and receiver settings. Moving the speakers away from the walls and adjusting sound levels can make a big difference.

Additionally, it is recommended to disable the Audyssey XT automatic setup, as manual adjustments could enhance the experience. The importance of absorbing sound reflections off the walls is emphasized, along with the possibility of hiring a professional if needed. Before spending on new devices, it is crucial to maximize what is already owned.

In another segment, an Australian user named Vinnie asks about the compatibility of his new Samsung Q990C with the Dolby Pro Logic format, as he enjoys watching old movies on LaserDisc. It is clarified that most modern soundbars, including the Q990C, do not directly decode this format but can use upmixing technology to simulate surround sound. Various audio settings are suggested to enhance the viewing experience, such as Adaptive Sound mode, which optimizes audio in real-time.

Stan, a user who owns the Samsung Q950A, reports that his soundbar turns on randomly. It is speculated that this issue could be a result of a recent firmware update. It is advised to turn off the HDMI CEC feature on the TV to prevent those unexpected power-ons, although this means that control between the TV and soundbar might be affected.

Finally, the upcoming arrival of another Amazon Prime Day is announced, similar to Black Friday, where significant discounts on technology products are anticipated. Not only are price drops expected on televisions, especially models from previous years, but it is also recommended to take advantage of deals on accessories such as HDMI cables and batteries, which tend to have high-profit margins.