OTHER TECH

The Dish on Bandwidth

Q. I have an old HDTV with just a component-video input, and I want to buy a new receiver. When I look at receivers with component-video switching, different models have different input bandwidths. How high a bandwidth do I need to pass through a high-definition signal from my Dish HD receiver to the TV? Scott Prokash Pulaski, WI

A. Al Griffin says: Until recently, a receiver's component-video bandwidth spec needed to be looked at closely. But most new models have the bandwidth to pass high-def component-video unscathed. An HDTV signal of 720p - the highest-bandwidth signal you'll need to pass via a component-video connection - has a minimum requirement of 37 MHz, so make sure any receiver you buy meets that minimum.

Sub Matching

Q. When I'm in the process of choosing a subwoofer, do I have to take my present speakers into account for tonal balance? Robert Brissard Cornwall, Ontario

A. Ian G. Masters says: Virtually all subwoofers are designed to work with a wide variety of satellite speakers, so you're unlikely to find gross mismatches. Just make sure that you can adjust the crossover point of the sub to match your other speakers and avoid sonic gaps, as might happen, say, if your sub's highest crossover point is significantly lower than the lowest frequencies reproduced by your main speakers. Then follow the sub manufacturer's setup directions carefully, and be sure to take a lot of time to choose the proper location for the sub. That'll have the greatest effect on your overall tonal balance.

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