Audio Video News

In theory, says Peter Putnam, the <A HREF="/accessories/1003zenith">Zenith HD230 HDTV receiver-DVR</A> should be one step ahead of the competition. PP explains why, and more when he reviews the latest tapeless tuner/hard-disk recorder that offers some unique features, but omits others.

John J. Gannon checks out the <A HREF="/surroundsoundpreampprocessors/1003integra">Integra Research RDC-7 Preamplifier-Processor</A> and opines, "I'm happy to report that Integra Research has actually delivered."

Joel Brinkley gets his hands on the <A HREF="/accessories/1003faroudja">Faroudja PlasmaSync 42MP4 & Native Rate Series Digital Cinema Source plasma display & DVD player-digital video processor</A> and puts it to the test. Combine a NEC plasma display with Faroudja processing and you get "an intriguing product for review," says JB.

Steven Stone takes on not one, not two, but three video processors: the <A HREF="/accessories/1003DVDO">DVDO iScan Ultra, DreamVision Optimizer, and Focus Enhancements CenterStage CS-1</A>. After several hours of screen time, SS finds that only one of the trio deserves your hard-earned cash and explains why.

From the November 2003 issue, Steven Stone takes a turn with the <A HREF="/speakersystems/1103dali">Dali Euphonia surround speaker system</A>. SS notes that an increasing number of manufacturers are creating high-end multichannel systems that "marry high performance to high style."

End of the year sales show that flat screens are the hottest new video display technology this season, but pricing and performance still hold them back. Michael Fremer explains why the <A HREF="http://www.guidetohometheater.com/showarchives.cgi?74">Hitachi 42HDT20 16:9 plasma television</A> is a step in the right direction, and how it changed his opinion about plasma's future.

Fred Manteghian takes his turn with the <A HREF="/surroundsoundpreampprocessors/1103classe">Class&#233; SSP-60 preamplifier-processor</A> noting that, although built by a Canadian manufacturer, it can hold its own feature for feature with the latest Japanese imports.