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Soundproofing materials can keep sound out of a room, or they can keep sound contained in a confined area, such as a home theater or a teen's bedroom. Whether noise in your home originates from within or from exterior sources such as passing cars or a neighbor's yard, acoustical wallpaper can restore the peace. Residential acoustical wallpaper, which can reduce noise by nearly 75 percent, comes in smooth and textured varieties. Some are paintable; others are available in a choice of colors. The installation process is the same as the process for hanging regular wallpaper, but the weight of acoustical…
Bose home theater systems come in a number of different configurations, with varying choices for speakers and other components. While the system can be the solution for your whole home's audio and video needs, it doesn't do much good if you're getting an error message every time you try to use it. If you're seeing an "801" or other type of error message displayed on your system display, you have a few options for trying to fix the problem.
The Sony TA-E1000ESD digital processing control amplifier -- sometimes called just the Sony 1000ESD -- is a preamplifier and processor for a home-theater system. Dating back to the late 1980's, this component represented the state of the art for its time. It combines a full set of analog audio and video inputs with the ability not only to route digital audio signals, but also to digitally modify sound. This allowed it to both support Dolby Pro-Logic surround sound in movies and to simulate various listening environments.
The Coby DVD968 is a home theater system built around a progressive scan DVD player capable of handling DivX video files as well as upconverting video resolution to near HD quality for display. In addition to the video capabilities of the system, the DVD 968 contains a high quality 5.1 speaker system consisting of five satellite speakers supported by the system’s single large subwoofer.
Properly wiring an aftermarket stereo head unit for your 2001 Chevrolet Suburban will ensure maximum functionality and increased audio system reliability. In addition to using a vehicle-specific mounting kit to properly install the aftermarket radio, making the required wiring connections with the aid of harness and antenna adapters will allow you to keep the factory connectors intact, if you decide to reinstall the original factory radio at some point.
AIWA manufactured audio devices such as tape recorders, CD players and portable stereos until Sony merged with the company in 2002. The AIWA HSJ900 slim-line tape recorder offered several features, including a Dolby B NR playback system, the ability to cue and review an audio track during playback and a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery capable of 300 charges before required replacement.
The Sanyo JCX-2900K is a vintage home-audio receiver. Unlike typical modern receivers, which are compact and lightweight, this old-school receiver weighs 52 pounds. It has a very limited number of integrated chips and utilizes discrete components instead. Dating back to an analog era, it lacks any type of digital processing capabilities and has no digital inputs or outputs. On the other hand, it features built-in phono pre-amplification and an analog AM/FM tuner.
Modern digital broadcasting lends itself well to certain types of antennas. Enterprising do-it-yourselfers have created homemade models based on tried-and-true commercial designs. Almost universally made from readily available and inexpensive materials, these antennas require little expertise to produce. Once constructed, the antennas will pull in high-quality digital broadcasts from miles away.
MixAmp is a line of digital audio receivers developed by Astro for use with video game consoles like the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Stereo receivers were first developed to receive radio signals and subsequently have found use paired with record players, tape decks, CD players and home theater systems. When properly equipped, stereo receivers can also work with video-game consoles.
A set of noisy stairs can sorely test the day-sleepers and tiny babies in your household. Although absolute soundproofing would require enclosure of the staircase and coverage of walls and ceilings with expensive acoustical materials, the noise levels on many interior stairways can be lowered without expensive major reconstruction. Especially in old houses where wood has dried out, pull up and reinstall creaky treads. Dampen impact noise with one of three types of carpeting, depending on your needs and budget.
The DTXplorer electronic drum kit from Yamaha is a five-piece kit that offers a variety of sounds that you can generate from the unit. In addition, you can connect external devices to the DTXplorer to expand the sound and functionality of the drum kit. Among the devices you can connect to the drum kit are amplifiers, mixers, speakers, headphones, external audio sources and MIDI players.
Founded in 1947, the Japanese electronics manufacturer Sansui gained a reputation for producing high-end audio products in the 1970s and 1980s. The impression lasted so long that modern audio aficionados still seek vintage Sansui equipment, such as the SE-7 stereo graphic equalizer. This model, which connects easily to stereo components, caters to receivers with dual tape decks and features frequency response from 10 to 100,000Hz and a level variation range of 12dB.
Tape decks function by passing the tape over the tape heads of the player. For a smooth consistent sound, the parts require the use of a rubber belt to provide their movement. Over time, the belts will wear out from use or dry to the point of cracking. Replacing the belt on a Panasonic tape deck isn’t a difficult process; it just requires locating the belt in your particular model and then installing a new one of the same size.
In 1992, the Federal Communications Commission partitioned radio frequencies especially for satellite radio. Nine years later, XM launched its service and the following year – 2002 – Sirius offered its services to the public. The two companies merged, becoming SiriusXM, in July 2008. The 2006 Civic had optional XM radio available, but you had to configure the radio and subscribe to receive a signal. SiriusXM has an online interface to activate your radio, and the configuration is automatic after you subscribe.
Verizon FiOS and Cablevision used two different types of technologies to provide service to customers in 2008. Verizon used fiber optics and Cablevision used coaxial cable to offer customers cable television, telephone and high-speed Internet service. In 2008, both Verizon and Cablevision offered services in major markets throughout the United States. However, neither company offered service in every market.
Subwoofers are the key to getting the best sound for the low-pitched bass beat you hear when music plays. The ASUS G73JH notebook computer comes with an audio subwoofer built into the body of the unit. The subwoofer is separate from the traditional laptop speakers. Any piece of hardware can be problematic at times. Since the subwoofer is a distinct part, it can have issues different from the other sound components.
When determining the optimal length on an FM antenna, you should consider several external factors. These factors include the height of the antenna above ground, interference sources and other high-power FM transmitters. After considering external factors, you can calculate the length of an antenna using a formula, helping to ensure the length of the antenna supports the frequency of the station you want to receive. The length of the antenna refers to the total measurement of the wire that makes up the antenna.
RCA makes a number of models of televisions, including LED LCD, plasma and other LCD models. Older models included CRT -- also called cathode ray tube -- televisions. While the internal components of each type of television are quite different, each of them has an external plug that connects to an electrical outlet to power the television. If the plug is damaged, it presents a potentially dangerous situation, as you are dealing with high voltage that could result in electrical shock. As a result, take extra care when you're troubleshooting a broken plug on your RCA TV.
A power amplifier is a circuit that converts direct-current input power into radio frequency or microwave output power. ACPR is an abbreviation for Adjacent Channel Power Ratio, the ratio of the power in the adjacent channels, or side channels, to the power in the main channel. ACPR describes how the power in the main channel leaks into, and interferes with, adjacent channels.
The amplifiers that transport you to another place and time through reproduction of music and movie soundtracks contain numerous circuits, which prove critical in handling the electrical impulses you later perceive as sound. From the input to the output stage, each circuit must handle the delicate signals with a minimum of loss and error to avoid distortion and poor sound.
Subwoofer speakers produce those deep bass sounds that reverberate in the room and vibrate in your core. While precise specifications for a particular subwoofer depend on the technical specifications and enclosure size of the individual unit, you can pick the right type of subwoofer for your home by learning how different types of subwoofers affect the kind of sound the speaker produces. Before shopping for a subwoofer, learn the differences between the most common types: sealed or ported, passive or powered, and front-firing or down-firing.
An LP produces analog sound by scraping a needle along a groove. Many audiophiles are of the opinion that if you scrape enough times, some data will be lost. A CD produces digital sound read by a laser. The same data is reproduced the first time it is played as the millionth time, so no data is lost. Converting your old LPs to CDs will preserve their original sound and can be accomplished in several ways. If you choose to make your own conversions and have a PC with a CD burner, you can purchase a USB turntable or use…
Whether you're a big fan of only one type of music or you just want a station that stays the same from coast to coast, satellite radio offers reliable radio that tailors to specific audiences. Currently, the most popular hardware for satellite radio involves enjoying it in your car, at home or on the go with a portable receiver. Not to be overlooked is the use of the smartphone for streaming; with the purchases of smartphones tripling from 2008 to 2011, expect satellite radio on your smartphone to be another popular option for satellite hardware in the near future.
RCA connector plugs, also known as phono or audio/video connectors, were originated by RCA in the 1940s. Speaker wire comes in twisted-pair chrome and copper wire in various gauges from very thin 24 gauge to heavier custom gauges up to 8 gauge. There are several reasons for attaching an RCA-type connector to the end of a speaker wire cable: quick speaker change, positive connectivity, maintaining positive/negative grounding and convenience.
Wireless speakers give you flexibility in arranging your sound system, but they have weaknesses. Whether yours are connected to the transmitter by infrared beams, radio waves or Bluetooth -- which requires "pairing" them with a Bluetooth-enabled device such as an iPhone or a computer -- the signal may become bad or completely nonexistent. Some problems, such as a bad power source or incorrect settings, are common to any sound system, but wireless systems also present a unique set of challenges that's different from the one presented by wired speakers.
Three methods exist for connecting your sound system to your TV, depending on your equipment: 2.1 analog, 5.1 digital and 7.1 HDMI digital. The analog 2.1 system consists of two speakers and a sub-woofer, and it works for older hi-fi receivers. A 5.1 digital audio system features five speakers and a sub-woofer, supplying basic surround sound and representing a significant improvement. At the high end, a 7.1 HDMI digital audio system features a state-of-the-art array of seven speakers and one or two sub-woofers for an all-encompassing sound experience. Whichever system you have, connecting a sound system to your TV is…
Serious audio connoisseurs usually settle for nothing less than top-shelf audio gear in their home stereo setups. Audiophile-grade systems such as those made by Denon, McIntosh, Snell Acoustics and others certainly produce high-fidelity sound that most listeners will appreciate and enjoy. Unfortunately, the price tag of high-end audio gear often runs into the tens of thousands of dollars. If you are on a budget, audiophile-grade gear is probably not an option, but this doesn’t mean that you have to settle for listening to music on a portable AM/FM radio. If you take into consideration your listening space, musical tastes and…
DVD players have many different features and some may even include an antenna for radio broadcasts transmitted in the frequency modulation format for high-fidelity sound. Not all DVD players have FM antennas included, especially standalone players. However, portable DVD players and home theater audio receivers with built-in DVD players often do have FM antennas included.
If you use an RCA cable modem to connect to Comcast Internet but experience problems starting or maintaining a connection, a problem may exist with the dynamic host configuration protocol, or "DHCP." Re-configure DHCP settings so you can resume connection your computer to the Internet via the router.
Contemporary home theater and car audio systems incorporate subwoofer technology in an increasingly integrated manner. Subwoofers are so prevalent that content providers create material with features designed to make the most of enhanced low-frequency reproduction. The phrase "subwoofer remix" has two common applications for hardware and content, both aimed at enhancing the bass sounds of an audio system
Monitor Audio and Angstrom Loudspeakers are home audio product manufacturers based out of Britain and Canada, respectively. Both companies manufacture a wide array of audio products, ranging from traditional stereos to more advanced home theater systems. The companies differ somewhat in terms of product lines and availability.
IDQ and SWR are subwoofer lines developed by Image Dynamics and Alpine, respectively, for use primarily in automobile audio applications. Both product lines are designed to get maximum performance out of small enclosures. Though similar in terms of intended use, Alpine SWR and Image Dynamics IDQ subwoofers differ somewhat in available sizes, power output, construction and price.
Digital delay is an electronic effect used by vocalists and musicians to create a repeating echo with an expanded sound. Digital delay can be accomplished by a variety of devices that range from small inexpensive boxes used with electric instruments to expensive gear used in recording studios. Digital delay can be adjusted based on attack and decay times. Digital delay is useful as a repeating sound effect that broadens sound, as well as a tool for tempo and reducing echo from multiple speakers.
Average wattage output for the Onkyo TX-DS787 receiver is governed by the impedance of connected speakers. Measured in ohms, speaker impedance regulates wattage from the receiver by providing voltage resistance at the output stage. The TX-DS787 is capable of driving speakers rated at 4 to 8 ohms, with 4-ohm speakers providing higher average watts.
The Kinetic KA-6100 is a multi-channel surround-sound speaker system. This high-end speaker system features 1000-watts of power, five surround speakers and one subwoofer. When connecting this system, use the high-quality, low-gauge speaker wire included with the speaker system. Don't use shielded cables or other types of speaker wire or you can damage the speakers and your amplifier.
The science of electroacoustics began with the invention of the telephone in the mid-1800s and progressed through radio, audio amplifiers and other developments in the early 1900s. Electroacoustics applies electrical and electronic principles to the creation, transmission and reproduction of sound. Today, virtually all live and recorded musical performances are done using electronic equipment.
Ground loops carry the potential to plague even the newest televisions. Caused by a difference in electrical potential between two differing devices, the lines and audible humming associated with this interference should be excised to maximize viewing enjoyment. Samsung televisions are not immune to this phenomenon, which is caused by audio and coaxial cables.
Denon is Japan's oldest consumer electronics manufacturer, makers of surround sound receivers and stereo gear. The DRA 685 stereo receiver is a model still in wide use in many two-channel stereo and multi-zone audio installations. Certain installation circumstances may result in the unit displaying a circuit protection warning, simultaneously shutting off audio output until the situation is remedied.
Radio frequencies function as a communication tool for different types of electronic devices. The success of the transmission depends in part on the power of the transmitter and receiver. If the signal is not strong enough, you cannot listen to or watch the transmission. An RF power amplifier can improve weak signals.
Soundproofing is important in homes and apartments to give the residents privacy from each other. Soundproofing is also vital in places such as recording studios where the audio in a room is carefully controlled. The material used to build a room plays a significant role in how soundproof the room is, and brick often is used for this purpose.
Optical fiber cables are used for data transmission. Simplex cables are a type of optical fiber cable. Unlike duplex cables, which carry two fiber optic filaments, or multi-fiber cables, which carry many, a simplex cable only carries a single optical fiber. Simplex cables are easier and cheaper to manufacture than other cables and can be fitted with connectors quickly; they have some limitations, however.
If the speaker on your HTC Shadow goes out, you may still be able to use the phone, but you will be missing out on many important features like the phone's speakerphone and the ability to play music. Unlike some device components, like the charging port, the HTC Shadow's speaker is modular, meaning that if you can take the device apart, you can replace the component. The Shadow's speaker is located on the underside of the back housing, so you don't need to do much disassembly to replace the part.
The CleanSweep CL441dsp from JL Audio is a sound processor designed to pick up where standard equalizers end by eliminating processing produced by factory receivers. The CL441 uses a digital signal processor to analyze the frequencies of audio signals and modifies them with 30 equalization bands. Installing a CleanSweep CL441dsp uses the same method installing an aftermarket does, and requires a layman’s knowledge of wiring.
Bose car stereos tend to be self-contained systems, with one amplifier devoted per one speaker. In these systems, a 6- or 8-inch subwoofer is often mounted in the rear deck. However, this subwoofer may not be sufficient for those that desire hard-hitting bass. Adding a stand-alone amplifier to power an additional subwoofer to a Bose system is a matter of finding the right signal to tap into.
Biamp, based in Beaverton, Oregon, is a manufacturer of professional audio systems. Designed for rack mounting, Biamp mixers are commonly used in permanent public address systems, such as those found in airports, schools, churches and businesses, though you can also incorporate these mixers into applications such as concert sound reinforcement. Adjust the mixer's configurations through a combination of knobs, trim controls and DIP switches.
The first radio receivers, made in the 1920s, had a single amplifier and speaker. For the next 40 years, it would be the standard way listen to music and speech, until attempts to bring stereo sound to the average listener finally succeeded with long-playing records, which paved the way to stereo FM broadcasting.
Poor quality mini plugs, cables and jacks can have an affect on sound quality in high-volume situations, but overall cable quality is the most important factor in stereo sound. Any good-quality cable will be fitted with good quality connectors. Mini jacks and plugs from RCA or otherwise are common cable connectors used in stereo music systems. Because cable plugs mate with component jacks for audio signal transfer in the form of voltage, contact points are metal, and plated in chrome or gold to prevent corrosion.
Proper subwoofer and amplifier matching depends entirely on the true wattage and ohm rating of both components. While speaker and amp ohm rating systems are standardized within the audio industry, wattage ratings are not and can be misleading. A subwoofer rated at 2000 watts peak power will only handle 2000 watts of amplifier power for very short durations, resulting in a blown speaker if it's powered by an amplifier rated at 2000 watts continuous power.
A speaker's resistance is the property that controls the amount of electricity that flows through it. Resistance, or impedance, is usually measured in ohms. Speaker resistance affects the performance of the audio amplifier, which is why the speaker's resistance should be the same as the amplifier's resistance. If the speaker's resistance is lower, it may cause the amplifier to overheat, which can cause irreparable damage. If the speaker's resistance is higher than the amplifier's, the sound may come out toneless and weak. Thus, it is important to measure a speaker's resistance in order to optimize performance.
Often a component of surround-sound systems in home cinema set-ups, a subwoofer is a freestanding speaker dedicated to low-pitched bass frequencies. Because the noise they make tends to travel through walls and floors, subwoofers can be a source of friction with family and neighbors. To muffle a subwoofer, isolate it from direct contact with your walls and floorboards and use soft furnishings to absorb some of the sound.
