August 30, 2001

Editor,

I hope you can help. I've purchased a Sony STR/DE475 home-theater amp and Sony DVP/NC600 DVD player. I can't get the amp to play on DVD with the optical cable connected. I get a picture, but no audio. If I switch to TV/satellite, then the sound works, but there's no video. For both audio and video, they work fine, but I can't configure the DVD section to use optical cable. Can this be the setup? Or is the coax setting my only option? Is the optical setting only available on TV/satellite? I've followed the manual for setup, but with no luck.

Brian Sprouster

You have not assigned digital inputs to various source selections. Let's say you have the DVD player connected to digital coax one. When you select "DVD" as the source for the receiver, you must tell the receiver that it should use digital coax one as the audio source. You apparently are not doing that, hence the mixed-up sound and video. Some of the more expensive receivers will search all the digital inputs to find the one that is active when you select "DVD," which cuts out one setup step. It sounds from your description like your receiver does not do that (or the feature is turned off).

If you read in the manual about assigning digital audio inputs to various source selections and you still can't figure it out, that's why you buy your hi-fi components from a dealer who can help you with setup problems like this....Doug Blackburn

August 21, 2001

To Roger Kanno,

I have an Onkyo TX-DS676 receiver. Can I connect two subwoofers to this receiver, and if so, how should they be connected? Would there be any advantage to using two subs?

Good question.I assume that you want to connect two subwoofers to the .1 LFE channel, in which case you can just use a Y splitter to get two outputs instead of one. This can be done with any receiver or processor with a pre-out for the sub.

Two subwoofers will have the advantage of being able to produce more volume without strain, which should lead to cleaner bass. By carefully placing the two subwoofers, you should also be able to get smoother frequency response throughout the entire room. However, if the subs are reproducing upper-bass frequencies (especially if your receiver has a fairly high crossover point and the main speakers are set to "small") you could run into phase-anomaly problems where the frequency response will become more uneven.

I'm of the opinion that one good subwoofer is better than two lesser subwoofers, but every situation is different. Factors such as cost, placement and convenience always come into play. But if you do have another subwoofer kicking around, go ahead and hook it up and see what happens. Just remember to recalibrate the volume levels of your system before cranking something like Saving Private Ryan....Roger Kanno

August 14, 2001

To Doug Schneider,

I enjoyed your review of the five-channel Simaudio amplifier. You made several statements to the effect that all amplifiers do not sound the same. The editors of the The Sensible Sound would challenge that statement and are also willing to place money on their position by challenging anyone to a double-blind listening test. Will you be willing to take the test and publish the results in SoundStage!?

I have become very interested in this subject as I am thinking of replacing my current B&K Reference 4420 two-channel amplifier (225Wpc). I am considering the Bryston 4B or the Odyssey monoblocks, both of which will cost me twice as much as the B&K. In your opinion, can I expect a significant sonic improvement with either of these amps?

E. Gregory Brown

Unfortunately in audio there is a tendency to take polarized viewpoints on certain subjects. There is a group that believes not only all amplifiers sound the same, but all electronics too. And, of course, there are those who can find the most drastic of differences out of those things that have virtually no differences at all. My experience is that amplifiers definitely do sound different, although one must be careful when relating the magnitude of those differences. For example, in general I've found the differences between similarly powered solid-state amplifiers to be quite small compared to the difference between loudspeakers.

That said, I have no idea what the publishers of the The Sensible Sound are doing, and I would be a fool to take a challenge before understanding their methodology. I, unlike many audiophiles, do believe in blind testing and have taken part in numerous experiments. However, constructing the test is not easy, and for it to be valid certain criteria must be met. To the best of my knowledge, we at SoundStage! are the only magazine in recent years to publish the results of blind-listening tests and these were done with the expert knowledge and the use of the facilities of Canada's National Research Council....Doug Schneider

August 13, 2001

Editor,

I am very interested in home audio; however, I am a beginner and not very knowledgeable about the different products.I have narrowed my choice of a receiver down to a Yamaha HTR-5280. However, my new dilemma is speakers. I have looked at Cerwin-Vega and Klipsch. Can you recommend a home-theater speaker system that will compliment this receiver?

Christopher M. Williams

There are so many good speakers to listen to that it's hard to know where to begin. Starting with your selections, I would lean towards Klipsch, as they have been highly reviewed by one of our writers whose opinion I trust. I'm not familiar with any of the current offerings by Cerwin-Vega. I would also consider Paradigm heavily, as well as PSB, NHT, AR, and Axiom -- among others. I know these speakers perform well and should mate well with your receiver. If you listen to the above selections, you should have a good idea as to what is possible....Jeff Fritz

August 12, 2001

To Anthony DiMarco,

I've been reading your DVD reviews and just wanted to drop you a note on Superman: The Movie. As a chronic comicbook reader and collector, I feel compelled to correct a couple statements you made. DC Comics is actually the trademark holder and publisher of Superman, not Marvel Comics as you indicated. Also, the "Caped Crusader" is actually a common reference to Batman. Superman is commonly referred to as "The Man of Steel." I thought I'd just mention it to you as I know you like to be as precise with the details as I do.

Also, I have a stupid question for you. Can 3D movies be viewed (with good effect) from a DVD/ VHS tape on a regular TV set, if I had the 3D glasses?

Joseph Brooks

Thank you for your comments. The "Caped Crusader" point totally got by me, while the distinction between Marvel Comics and DC Comics was something I researched but unfortunately misprinted in the review. As far as the 3D question is concerned, even though a smaller screen won't communicate the same sense of scale as a theatrical presentation, the stereoscopic effect of 3D should work. Whether it will be to "good" effect is something you'll need to assess. Apologies, and thanks....Anthony DiMarco

August 11, 2001

To Anthony DiMarco,

I read with great interest your review of the Cambridge SoundWorks Newton system. I liked the way it was written and the fact that you were honest about your bias for the company prior to reviewing.

I was hoping you could give me your opinion of some systems I'm looking at. I have not auditioned any yet and several have 30- to 45-day trial periods, but I also can't purchase all of them at the same time. I'd like to concentrate on a few and then send back the "weakest links." I'm looking at putting this in a family room that is not very large, 12' x 15 ,' but does open up into a kitchen. The suspects range from $750 to $1800, and I am willing to spend more for better quality, but it can't be more for differences only electronic and diagnostic equipment can decipher. My short list:

Newton MC 300 and 300.5 (worth the extra money to move up to the 10" subwoofer?)
EdgeAudio (Aperion) 5.1 with the 12" subwoofer
Home Theater Direct 5.1 with 12" subwoofer
Polk Audio RM6600 with PSW 350 subwoofer
Definitive Technology Procimena 100 with 10" subwoofer

Any help is appreciated. Feel free to point me in another direction as well. Thanks!

Scott Kestler

With respect to your question, any of the systems you mention would do a good job with home-theater playback. If you're going to listen to music and home theater equally, Aperion Audio and Cambridge SoundWorks' Newtons would probably be your best bets. That's not to say that the Polk or the Definitives aren't good choices. Both of these systems will present a dramatic home-theater experience, but they do tend to lack a certain level of midrange detail to my ear. Unfortunately, I have yet to listen to any of the Home Theater Direct systems, but I believe that the highly rated system 3X maybe a bit too imposing in size for your room. However, Home Theater Direct's System Two maybe an option. The other variable is which surround receiver you'll be purchasing -- since the sonic character of the receiver will have a bearing on the final sound of the speaker system you choose. For music and movies, I personally own a Harman/Kardon AVR 510. For home theater only I would look at Onkyo's new line of receivers. You may also want to take a look at Paradigm and Axiom Audio. In particular Axiom's Epic Midi Home Theater System maybe a nice and inexpensive choice for music and movies.

Personally I think the Cambridge SoundWorks 300.5 system is a great overall value and has an honest edge over its competitors with its Bass EQ controller, extremely musical subwoofer and S300 switchable surrounds. Considering the size of your room, I see no need to upgrade to the 10" P1000. In fact, if the need for more bass ever arises, two P500's would be a better choice and allow you more placement and configuration options....Anthony DiMarco

August 10, 2001

Editor,

I read your parts I and II on home-theater systems ("The Director's Chair," May and June 2001). How much (given a simple budget) should be allocated for speakers? I am considering the Onkyo TX-DS494 and the Sony 670D DVD players. Any comments?

I just spoke with someone today who purchased the Onkyo TX-DS494, and he is very happy. Good choice! As it happens, I also suggested speakers based on a PSB system that a local dealer had in stock. The price was around $900. We are currently reviewing Paradigm and Acoustic Research systems that are similar in price, and you will find an AAD system in the August issue of Home Theater & Sound also around the same price. Given these examples, and what I know of their performance, I would say that you could have a great 5.1 system for under $1000 retail, and even less given a dealer discount....Jeff Fritz

August 8, 2001

Editor,

I'd like your thoughts on the Kenwood VR-4090 vs. the Denon AVR-3801. I don't know if I will ever hook up more than a 5.1 configuration. It seems the Kenwood has more power and at a savings of $150. Good reviews on both. Confusing.

Jack Ferguson

Don't be confused. You are looking at two excellent products. When it comes down to a choice between two excellent receivers such as this, things like price, dealer support and features come into play. Be aware that Denon will introduce the 3802 soon with Pro Logic II, and Kenwood will certainly follow suit shortly. You may wish to ask your dealer about these too....Jeff Fritz

August 7, 2001

Editor,

I thought possibly you could answer this question. About six months ago, I purchased a California Audio Labs CL-2500 DVD/CD player. This is part of their 2500 series, which is supposed to be an upgrade from their highly reviewed CL-20 and CL-25 players. I have been all over the Internet looking for reviews of this product as well as audio magazines. Not only can I not find a review, I cannot even find the product itself. I don't understand. Not even CAL's website has this product pictured; it only has the other items in the 2500 series being shown. Is this strange? Could there possibly be something wrong or inferior with this product? I thought I would be getting a top-notch player in this price range, but I don't understand why I cannot find the CL-2500. I look forward to your reply and appreciate your time.

I'm not sure I can help, but I'll tell you what I know. Back about a year ago, we were in discussions with CAL regarding a review of the 2500 series components. It obviously did not pan out. I do know the company was sold to Sensory Science, but you are probably aware of that if you have been to their website. If you enjoy the product I would not worry. Typically, not seeing a review has more to do with a company's stance on sending review samples out and their past experiences more so than a lack of interest in the product. Even though we review a wide range of products, there are still times when we have a hard time securing a piece we want to review. Regarding the website, many are updated infrequently, so CAL's not being fully up to date is not surprising....Jeff Fritz

August 3, 2001

Editor,

Both Kenwood and Denon make good receivers. If I were shopping for one right now, I would look for a newer model with Dolby Pro Logic II. Kenwood is releasing a host of new products, and Denon has just released the 3802 (supersedes the unit you are considering), which includes PL II. A Rotel is likely to sound very good, though the last receiver from them I was able to examine (at CES 2001) did not have PL II. It was built to a substantial level, though, and would likely offer excellent sound. Who knows what may be around the corner for them, with CEDIA approaching fast?...Jeff Fritz

August 1, 2001

Editor,

Can you please help me? I have a Parasound HCA-1205A amp with Atlantic Technology 350 THX speakers (dual subwoofers). I've been using a Citation 5.0 receiver for the past three years and it sucks. I've had it repaired three times and I'm going to trash it in favor of something different. Could you recommend a good A/V processor or receiver? My budget is $2500-$3500. I am using the system mostly for DVD and VHS movies. I was thinking about the Denon AVR-5800 or Sunfire Theater Grand II. Please help.

Howard Kresner

You have a healthy budget there and can surely get terrific sound quality from your planned upgrade. Regarding my suggestions, I would look at the Denon you are already considering very closely, as it is a great unit. However, with even more processing flexibility and great user interface, the B&K AVR307 comes to mind. If you are going to use outboard amplification, you could get the AVR305, which is a five-channel version with the same processing section, or the Reference 30, which is a pure processor. Regarding other standalone processors, there is the brand-new Anthem AVM 20. Although I have not heard this piece yet, it certainly looks promising, especially with its bass management for the analog bypass and adjustable crossover. The Sunfire unit looks good as well, with the latest upgrade. Sounds like you are on the right track to me....Jeff Fritz

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