Ask S&V

Q I have a Technics SL-J33 turntable and an NAD PP4 preamp. I wish to listen to my vinyl collection through an older Sonos speaker setup with a Sonos ZP80 preamp that feeds into a Yamaha RX-V495 receiver. I haven’t found any workable solutions. Can you please help? —Bill Pilat

Q Bluesound’s Node streamer has a built-in DAC and costs around $500. Meanwhile, Lumin, Linn, and Naim sell streamers without built-in DACs for over $2,000 or $3,000. What do these more expensive streamers do to the signal that justifies the extra expense? And if the digital output from these pricier streamers is of higher “quality,” can a high-quality DAC compensate for a lower-priced streamer with a “lower quality” output? — Reginald Tinsley

Q I am installing my first home theater setup and using five ceiling speakers that were already pre-wired into the house when we bought it. Should I buy a receiver with Dolby Atmos or a better quality non-Atmos receiver? I do not want to add any more speakers, so I’m wondering if the Dolby Atmos is worth it or would I not notice the Atmos effect using only the ceiling speakers? — Mark Miller

Q When I switch to the Netflix app on my Sony TV, the receiver doesn’t switch to ARC; it stays on HDMI and I get TV audio instead of Netflix. Sometimes, powering down everything works to restore the connection, but the issue soon returns. Any thoughts on this? — Larry Hochstetler

Q There are so many versions of Eyes Wide Shut, censored, uncensored, different durations, Director’s Cut, Studio Cut, Theatrical Release USA, Theatrical Release Europe ‐ ugh! Out of all of these, which Blu-ray version is considered, in 2023, to be closest to what Kubrick intended? — Dan Labriola

Q I’m wondering which upgrade will make a more significant audible difference in my home theater: upgrading the power amplifier or treating room acoustics? — Michael (last name withheld)