Mark Fleischmann

Analysts who predict mass defections from cable and satellite service call it "cord cutting." But fewer people are interested in cutting the cord than has been widely reported.

Netflix regards streaming as a major component of its future survival when online delivery eventually takes over from disc rentals. But until now, Netflix streaming has been limited to 720p resolution. That's high-def but not the highest-def. And so Netflix streamers' hearts were glad when a report slipped out that Netflix was about to go 1080p. Unfortunately that report has since been retracted.

Price: $2,999 At A Glance: First Denon A/V receiver with nine channels of amplification • Networked audio features include Wi-Fi • Strong audio fundamentals

Need Supersizing?

Has the concept of supersizing peaked? The McMansion-driven housing boom is a bust. Some SUV owners are trading in their gas-guzzlers for more efficient hybrids of the same size, while others are opting for more efficient hybrid sedans. Fast food addicts are counting the calories in their Happy Meals.

HDTV sales are typically booming at this time of year. Conventional wisdom has it that the Super Bowl is the reason. Is it really?