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The Power of Lumbar Support

A great home theater seat should not only look quality, but also FEEL like quality. Comfort and strong, lower back support should be staples in your chair selection. Daily routines often include extended periods of standing or sitting, which tend to increase the potential for significant back strain overtime. Even if lower back pain doesn’t pop up right away, the possibility for gradual damage is more likely if you’re not getting the support you need.

Control over every area of your life isn’t feasible. Sometimes, sitting at a desk and staring at a screen is part of the daily routine. Recent studies show that 70% of Americans believe they are sitting too much at work. This makes choosing a seat with lumbar support that much more important when the choice is yours. Lumbar support keeps the spine from overworking itself, allowing a pain-free, care-free experience every time you unwind. Comfort is an obvious priority, but what defines maximum support, extended relaxation, and style vary from person to person. You don’t purchase luxury home theater seating to curl up and fall asleep! You make the investment to enjoy gaming, sport events, and the occasional binge watching with complete comfort.

The best case scenario after sitting for an extended period of time is to get up and not feel stiff or sore! No one wants to sit for 20 minutes and get up to stretch because they feel uncomfortable in their seat. At Seatcraft, we carry a variety of customizable designs for seats and sectionals that take lumbar support seriously, providing comfort that lasts. Each chair has been topped with plush cushioning, made with high quality materials, and innovatively designed with lower back support in mind.

The Seatcraft Equinox, for example, features an adjustable power lumbar and adjustable headrest. You can fully recline, hook up your USB devices with ease, and most importantly, each individual can select personal settings while providing support at the push of a button.

Space is also an important factor to consider. Just because space is limited doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice comfort or style. The Seatcraft Napa takes all of these components into consideration, and then some. The storage-free arm reduces row width by over 10%, allowing more space in your confined area.

Just like the Equinox, there’s a power adjustable headrest, as well as that much needed power, adjustable lumbar support. The gap between the seat and footrest has been removed, creating a chaise lounge, so you can still really stretch out. The quality and comfort of this Spacesaver is innovative and, best of all, reasonably priced.

If you’re looking for a real crowd pleaser, check out the Seatcraft Vienna Sofa. It combines all the standout elements of the most popular designs, making it not only one of the most versatile options but, hands down, the most comfortable. It features power lumbar, power headrest, and power recline options. It also includes in-arm storage, USB charging ports, and many other convenient features to simplify and satisfy.

54% of Americans claim to have chronic lower back pain and the numbers keep going up. Join Seatcraft in planning ahead and putting comfort first, ensuring that back pain will be the last thing on your mind when it’s time to take a seat.

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Best Home Theater Accessories

A new 65’’ tv, speakers, or subwoofer may be some of the most thrilling pieces of equipment to purchase for your home theater, but adding some quality accessories truly completes a system. The new year means the chance to take your home theater to the next level. Here are the accessories trending in 2018, but more importantly, the ones built to last.

Light Up Cup Holder

The light up cup holder is proof that it’s truly the little things that count when it comes to creating an epic home theater. Nothing puts a damper on movie watching quite like fumbling around for a spot to set your drink, or worse, spilling it. This little seat accessory available in the Seatcraft Excalibur will take your cinema experience from easy to effortless in a big way. Its stainless steel, easy to clean, and topped off with a soft ambient glow ensuring the only thing distracting you is the big screen.

Universal Neck Pillow
The universal neck pillow is likely the one home theater accessory you never knew you always needed. Leave shifting, straining, and slinking in 2017, not your seat. It fits almost any seat, drapes over the back, and provides extended support. If you’re ready to move into your most relaxed position, this easy to adjust pillow is strongly advised.

SoundShaker Vibration Kit
Nothing says “Hear (and feel) me roar, 2018” like the groundbreaking SoundShaker. Whether hosting a movie night, watching the big game, or gaming, you’ll be fully immersed in every bit of the action without ever leaving your seat. This system is not only powerful and innovative, it’s easy to set up. Once you’ve felt this tech savvy simulation, your senses will never settle for less and your guests will be delighted you didn’t.

Wine Glass Caddy
We all know atmosphere is everything. When in need of a break from “adulting,” we sometimes like to have a little wine as well. Whether having a romantic evening or simply relaxing, you’ll need a place for your glass. The wine glass caddy elevates any home theater from standard to stylish in an instant. With it’s 360 degree rotation and no spill hook, you’ll be able to fit any glass with ease. Let us also mention that it’s incredibly sturdy.

Swivel Tray
Speaking of places to plop things down, no home theater is complete without one of these. Whether you’re looking for a perch for your phone, universal remote, or popcorn, you’ll be fully equipped with the much needed space to do so. While it’s always within reach, the sleek swivel design allows you to move it out of the way, really recline, and never worry again about all the things you once dropped between the seats.

Adjustable Tablet Holder
One of the most crucial assets for any home theater is having the freedom to do whatever you want with ease. In 2018, your tablet not only allows you to sync up and control what’s in front of you, it provides an escape while the kids watch their favorite movie for the fifteenth time. However, holding it can feel like a chore after a while. Having an adjustable tablet holder allows you to keep up with your emails and still kick back, hands free.

Wireless Headphones
Great sound is key. This includes blocking out all the noises that aren’t invited into your home theater. Hearing only the things you want is as important as hearing them clearly, and in this case, cordlessly. The good news is, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. There’s a wide variety of options that provide a sound full/sound proof experience without breaking the budget. If you’re looking for crisp sound and a super comfy feel, the Artiste ADH300 might be the way to go. But if you’re still not sure how much you’d like to spend or what exactly you’re looking for, Ideas in Life has created a line of extremely affordable 6-in-1 wireless headphones that are definitely worth a try.

Another “smart” way to get the most out of your home theater is to invest in this multifaceted gadget. Take the effort out of entertaining, have complete control, and stay in your seat. The latest universal remotes are easy to manage and compatible with almost every device out there.

The Logitech Harmony 350 is definitely a top pick for 2018. It’s just as versatile as many of the high end models, able to sync with your phone and access every inch of your home theater, but for about half the price.

Another economical yet tech savvy option is the Anymote. It converts almost any Android into a universal remote. The settings are easy to access and even easier to navigate.

Having a one of kind home theater means combining the latest technology with all those little touches that make it your own. With these easy upgrades, you’ll wow your guests, minimize set up time, and take the pressure off your hosting duties. Maybe you’re ready to clean up the clutter with swivel trays or feel the intense impact of each explosion with the SoundShaker. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s no time like the present to step, or in this case, take a seat, with the future of home entertainment with 4Seating.com.

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Audio Dolby Reference

Table of Contents

1.   Introduction

   1.1    What is a home theater?
1.2    Surround sound makes the difference
1.3    Dolby Digital: the sound of home theater today
1.4    What is “5.1” surround sound?
1.5    Surround from VHS tapes and regular TV

2.   Choosing your home theater sound system

   2.1    Your home theater: it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3
2.2    The simplest solution: “home theater in a box”
2.3    The A/V receiver route
2.4    The high end
2.5    About DVD-Audio
2.6    About home theater speakers

3.    Speaker placement

   3.1    Front speaker placement
3.2    Preferred surround speaker placement
3.3    Alternative surround speaker placement alternatives
3.4    Surround placement for DVD-Audio listening

4.  Installation and operation tips

   4.1    The room
4.2    Speaker wiring
4.3    Speaker polarity
4.4    Analog audio/video connections
4.5    Digital audio connections
4.6    Bass management
4.7    Delay adjustments
4.8    Channel balance
4.9    Processing enhancements
4.10  Regular stereo programming

5.  For more information

1.  Introduction

1.1   What is a home theater?

A home theater is an audio/video playback system that approximates in your home the experience of seeing�and hearing�a film in a cinema. Setting up a home theater can be as simple as adding a compact surround sound system to the TV set in your family room, or as complex as building a dedicated viewing room equipped with elaborate built-in speakers, massive amplifiers, and a big-screen front-projection TV system.

1.2   Surround sound makes the difference

Surround sound, which is what turns conventional TV viewing into home theater, originates from program material such as DVDs that have multichannel soundtracks. The multiple channels are reproduced by three speakers across the front of the viewing area, and surround speakers to either side (Figure 1). The result is sound that transports you into the world of you’re watching; you feel less like a passive viewer and more like an active participant.

 

 

Figure 1: A home theater system features three speakers across the front of the viewing area plus surround speakers to either side.

1.3   Dolby Digital: the sound of home theater today

The leading surround sound technology today is Dolby Digital. It is a method of compacting digital audio so that high-quality multichannel soundtracks can be easily carried via digital discs and broadcasts.

Soundtracks encoded in Dolby Digital come to you via DVDs, digital television (DTV) broadcasts, and digital satellite and cable transmissions. Dolby Digital decoding is licensed by Dolby Laboratories to manufacturers of home playback equipment. Programs with Dolby Digital soundtracks and playback equipment with Dolby Digital decoding are usually identified with the  logo.

1.4   What is “5.1” surround sound?

Dolby Digital brings 5.1-channel surround sound into your home. It provides five full-range audio channels: three for speakers at the front and two for surround speakers at the sides. A sixth, low-frequency effects (LFE) channel carries those deep bass sound effects you feel more than hear. Because it covers only about one-tenth of the audible range, the LFE channel is called a “.1” channel. Its low bass sounds can be channeled to the subwoofer in the home theater system, if it has one, or to any other speakers in the system that can reproduce low bass.

A newer variation of Dolby Digital, called Surround EX, encodes Dolby Digital program material with a third surround channel that can be decoded at the listener’s option for playback over additional surround speakers placed behind the viewers (Figure 2). Surround EX program material is fully compatible with regular Dolby Digital 5.1 playback (the additional center rear information is split between the left and right surround channels).

 

 

Figure 2: Standard Dolby Digital vs. Surround EX.

1.5   Surround from VHS tapes and regular TV

Prior to the advent of digital audio, Dolby Laboratories developed a way of delivering four-channel surround sound from stereo VHS tapes, TV shows, video games, and other analog sources. Called Dolby Surround, it encodes four channels of information (left, right, center, and a single surround channel) onto regular stereo soundtracks. The four original channels can be reconstructed upon playback by means of a Dolby Surround Pro Logic decoder, which is included in virtually all home theater systems, including those that also have 5.1-channel Dolby Digital decoding.

More recently, Dolby Laboratories introduced an improved decoding process called Dolby Surround Pro Logic II. It provides a listening experience more like Dolby Digital 5.1, by deriving five channels, including two full-range surround channels, not only from programs encoded in Dolby Surround, such as movie videos, but also from regular stereo material, such as music CDs. The result is improved spatiality and more accurate localization of sounds on Dolby Surround material, and an enveloping, lifelike soundfield on regular stereo recordings.

Program material encoded in Dolby Surround is usually identified with a Dolby Surround logo 1 or  logo. Playback equipment with Dolby Surround Pro Logic or Pro Logic II decoding is identified with a Dolby Pro Logic logo or Dolby Pro Logic II logo logo respectively.

2.   Choosing your home theater sound system

This Guide assumes you are putting together a new home theater sound system from scratch. If you are converting an existing analog Dolby Surround system to Dolby Digital, you will find helpful information in Frequently Asked Questions about Dolby Digital in the Home, located under Home Theater.

While we can help you get the most out of your home theater system, Dolby Laboratories cannot make specific equipment recommendations. However, you can rest assured that all products licensed to incorporate Dolby Digital decoding meet Dolby Laboratories’ high performance standards.

For specific product recommendations, consult the various publications that test home theater products, and/or home entertainment equipment retailers.

2.1   Your home theater: it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3

  • To play Dolby Digital programming, you need one or more program sources equipped with a Dolby Digital output, such as a DVD player, digital television (DTV) receiver, digital satellite set-top box, and/or a digital cable set-top box. To play Dolby Surround programming, all you need are regular analog stereo sources, such as a conventional TV receiver, VHS deck, satellite receiver, or cable box.

  • To decode surround sound programming, you need an A/V receiver or other playback electronics that incorporates a 5.1-channel Dolby Digital decoder for programming with Dolby Digital soundtracks, and a Dolby Surround Pro Logic or Pro Logic II decoder for analog Dolby Surround soundtracks.

  • To hear Dolby Digital and Dolby Surround soundtracks, you need five speakers (six, if you use a subwoofer), and the same number of amplifier channels in the playback electronics.

Put these basic elements together with your television set and you have a home theater, like the one shown in Figure 3.

 

Figure3

 

Figure 3: A basic home theater system equipped for 5.1-channel Dolby Digital playback (optional subwoofer shown).

2.2   The simplest solution: “home theater in a box”

Many audio manufacturers offer complete, integrated home theater sound systems. Because the equipment is often compact enough to fit into a single shipping carton, this kind of system is sometimes referred to as a “home theater in a box.”

These uncomplicated, cost-effective systems supply the necessary playback electronics, including Dolby Digital decoding, along with a multichannel speaker system typically consisting of five small satellite units and a compact subwoofer.

The electronics may be contained in a simple A/V receiver to which you connect your program sources and the speakers, or built right into one of the speakers (usually the subwoofer). There are also systems that combine a DVD player and the system electronics in one compact unit, to which you connect the speakers.

Regardless of configuration, a “home theater in a box” can be a practical, good-sounding solution, particularly if you’re on a limited budget or short on space.

2.3   The A/V receiver route

If you’re looking for higher-quality sound, and/or prefer to choose among components from different manufacturers, consider a system similar to the one illustrated above in Figure 3. This consists of one or more Dolby Digital and Dolby Surround program sources; an A/V receiver that integrates all electronics-control circuitry, Dolby Digital 5.1 and Dolby Surround Pro Logic decoding, multiple amplifiers, and a radio tuner-in one convenient unit; and a home theater speaker system consisting of five satellite units plus a subwoofer.

2.4   The high end

Specialty audio manufacturers offer a wide range of high-performance home theater products, including elaborate, software-based sound processor units; ultra-powerful amplifiers; and sophisticated speaker systems. If you are contemplating a high-end system, we suggest you consult a specialist retailer/installer, such as one affiliated with the Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA), which is active in the US, Europe, Australia, and South America, among other areas (www.cedia.org).

2.5   About DVD-Audio

DVD-Audio is a variation of the DVD format that provides superb high-resolution music recordings going well beyond the limits of CDs. DVD-Audio music programs can be recorded with up to six discrete channels of surround sound, making them ideal for playback over a home theater system.

To play multichannel high-resolution DVD-Audio programs, you need a DVD-Audio player, most of which also play DVD-Video discs. In addition, your receiver or other audio controller unit must have a six-channel analog input. This is because DVD-Audio players internally decode the high-resolution programs on DVD-Audio discs to as many as six analog output channels.

If you are unsure about committing to the new DVD-Audio format, we recommend that you choose a receiver or controller that has a six-channel input, which allows you to easily add a DVD-Audio player at a later time. In the meantime, almost all DVD-Audio discs include a Dolby Digital 5.1-channel version of the program in addition to the high-resolution version. This means you can play these discs on a DVD-Video player with standard-resolution surround sound, and purchase a DVD-Audio player later to “unlock” their high-resolution programs.

2.6   About home theater speakers

Most speaker manufacturers offer complete home theater systems, usually based on a satellite/subwoofer configuration (see Figure 4). These integrated systems make choosing and installing a home theater system much easier than it used to be, and often provide higher performance for the dollar than a random assembly of individual component speakers.

 

Figure4

 

Figure 4: Satellite/subwoofer systems are easy to install, take up little space, and provide good value.

Satellite/subwoofer systems take advantage of the fact that the lowest bass frequencies are non-directional, which means the ear cannot readily detect where bass sounds are coming from. As a result, these systems channel the low bass to a dedicated bass speaker called a subwoofer. The subwoofer can usually be tucked out of the way, because its placement is not critical to reproducing the directionality of the original sound.

Because they are not required to reproduce low bass, the satellite speakers can be compact, making them less intrusive and easier to place. Many systems use identical satellites for the left, center, right, and surround channels. This means that all speakers have the same timbre, or tonal characteristic, which is desirable in a home theater system. Other systems provide identical satellites for left, center, and right, but the surround units may be somewhat different, usually with respect to their radiating characteristic. Nevertheless, the surround speakers should still be timbre-matched to the front speakers.

Of course, there are excellent alternatives to satellite systems. For example, you can create a home theater system using larger, full-range tower speakers for the front left and right channels, or for both the front and the surround channels. Their manufacturers usually provide well-matched center and surround speaker options. Some of today’s tower speakers have built-in powered subwoofers, making them particularly suitable for a home theater.

If you do assemble a home theater speaker system from individual speaker units, as opposed to a satellite system, it is best to use models from the same manufacturer for the sake of timbre-matching, and to follow the manufacturer’s advice for mixing and matching their models. Also, be sure that all front speakers are magnetically shielded to prevent interference with the television’s picture (in general, speakers designated specifically for the front channels of a home theater are shielded).

 

3.   Speaker placement

3.1   Front speaker placement

The front speakers should be arrayed across the front of the viewing area, as shown in Figure 5. If you plan mostly solo viewing, arrange the speakers as shown so that your seating position is equidistant from the left, center, and right speakers (A). If your system is used mostly for group viewing, arrange the speakers in a straight line (B). In any case, avoid placing the center speaker closer to the viewers than the left and right speakers (C).

 

Figure5a

Figure5b

 

 

Figure 5: Front speaker placement.

The left and right speakers should include an angle of from 45 to 60 degrees with the center-most viewer, as shown in Figure 6. An angle nearer to 45 degrees is preferred if you use your system mostly to watch movies, as it approximates the circumstances under which film soundtracks are mixed and monitored. A wider angle, with the left and right speakers further apart, is recommended if you use your system for music listening more often than watching movies.

 

Figure6

 

Figure 6: Use the narrower angle if you mostly watch movies, and the wider angle if you mostly listen to music.

Finally, the three front speakers should be as close as possible to the same height, at or near ear level (Figure 7). Because it is often easiest to place the center speaker on top of the TV set at a fixed height, consider mounting the left and right speakers on adjustable stands so that you can match their height to that of the center speaker.

 

Figure7

 

Figure 7: Adjustable stands for the left and right speakers can make it easier to achieve the same height as the center speaker.

3.2   Preferred surround speaker placement

The surround speakers should be placed alongside and slightly to the rear of (but not behind) the prime seating position (Figure 8); well above ear level, to help minimize localization effects (Figure 9); and aimed directly across the listening area, not down at the listeners (Figure 10). This arrangement creates a diffuse, enveloping surround soundfield throughout the listening area, like that in cinemas and in the dubbing theaters where soundtracks are mixed. If the speakers are too far forward, you won’t get sufficient rearward effect, and if the speakers are too far back, there will be a loss of envelopment and integration of the surround information with the whole soundfield.

 

Figure8

 

Figure 8: Place the surround speakers alongside and slightly to the rear of the seating area.

Figure9

Figure 9: Install the surrounds two to three feet above listeners.

 

Figure10

Figure 10: Aim the surrounds straight across, not down at, the listening area.

3.3   Alternative surround speaker placement alternatives

Of course, not every home theater installation has sidewalls in just the right place to mount surround speakers. If this is your situation, consider the following alternatives.

Generally, placing surround speakers on the wall directly behind the listeners is not preferred. But when there’s no alternative, there are several mounting techniques you can try, as shown in Figure 11. Mount them well above ear level, and try aiming them at each other (A), towards the front (B), or to reflect off the sidewalls (C and D). Experiment with placing and aiming the speakers until the surround soundfield seems to envelop you, rather than coming from behind.

 

Figure11

 

Figure 11: Placing surround speakers on the rear wall.

Alternatives to wall placement are shown in Figure 12. Mounting the surround speakers on stands above ear level (A) to either side gives much the same effect as sidewall mounting. You can also try placing them to the sides or rear aimed upwards, either right on the floor, or, preferably, raised a couple of feet off the floor (B).

 

Figure12

 

Figure 12: Speaker stands or small tables can substitute for wall-mounting surround speakers.

3.4   Surround placement for DVD-Audio listening

The multichannel music programs on DVD-Audio discs are mixed under different circumstances from movie soundtracks. Films are mixed in large rooms called dubbing theaters that are sized and configured like actual cinemas, while DVD-Audio music programs are typically mixed in much smaller recording studios.

As shown in Figure 13, dubbing theaters (and cinemas) use multiple surround speakers arranged along the sides and rear, mounted high to create a diffuse, enveloping surround soundfield. The advice we’ve given so far for placing surround speakers is aimed at duplicating this effect at home. In most DVD-Audio mixing facilities, however, there are five identical speakers arranged at ear level in a circle around the mixer.

 

Figure13

 

Figure 13: Film soundtracks and DVD-Audio music programs are mixed under different conditions.

 

Chances are that you will be pleased by the sound of multichannel DVD-Audio programs with your surround speakers optimally placed for movie playback. However, if you wish to more closely replicate what mixers hear when preparing music for DVD-Audio releases, you have two choices. One is to effect a compromise by lowering your surround speakers to a height of four or five feet from the floor to split the difference between the diffuseness desired for film sound and the more direct radiation preferred for surround sound music.

The other alternative is to install and switch between two pairs of surround speakers, one optimized for film playback, and the other, identical to the front speakers, placed at ear level for optimum DVD-Audio playback. This purist (and potentially costly) approach is facilitated on some A/V receiver models by the inclusion of connections and switching for two pairs of surround speakers. However, while this approach may optimize the effect for a listener in the center “sweet spot,” those seated off-center may hear too much of one surround speaker or the other.

4.   Installation and operation tips

4.1   The room

The sound of your home theater system is critically affected by your room’s acoustics. These tips are designed to help you achieve more satisfying performance. However, if you have severe acoustical problems, consider consulting a professional home theater installer for customized assistance.

  • Too many bare surfaces can cause reflections that add harshness to the sound or muddy the dialogue; try adding carpeting and/or drapes to keep them in check.

  • If you have a choice of rooms, avoid those that are perfectly square, or that have one dimension exactly twice another; they can aggravate resonances that color the sound.

  • If possible, center the seating area between the sidewalls on which you mount the surround speakers.

  • The closer a speaker is placed to intersecting room surfaces-corner, wall and ceiling, wall and floor-the stronger its bass output (possibly too strong in some cases).

 

4.2   Speaker wiring

Prepare speaker wires by stripping their ends (A), then twisting the bared strands tightly together (B) to prevent shorts across terminals (C). Or, if speaker and amplifier/receiver terminals permit, use banana plugs to ensure solid connections (D).

 

Figure14

 

Figure 14: Proper speaker wire preparation will ensure optimum performance and prevent future problems.

4.3   Speaker polarity

As shown in Figure 15, connect the “+” and “-” terminals (usually red and black, respectively) on each amplifier channel to the corresponding terminals on each speaker. To make this easier, speaker cable is coded with a bead or stripe down one lead’s insulation, and/or with different color wires. Connected identically, all speakers will operate “in phase,” with their cones moving back and forth together. “Out of phase” connections, while doing no electrical harm, muddy spatial effects and weaken bass.

 

Figure15

 

Figure 15: Maintaining consistent polarity for all speaker connections ensures fullest bass response and unambiguous sound localization.

4.4   Analog audio/video connections

Use good-quality shielded cables, and be sure plugs are fully inserted into jacks. Follow the color code used on most connectors and cables to prevent confusion.

 

Figure16

 

Figure 16: When making analog audio/and video connections, be sure to follow the color code.

4.5   Digital audio connections

Most products capable of playing or receiving programs with Dolby Digital soundtracks, such as DVD-Video players, have a stereo analog output, plus at least one digital output. Some units let you choose between two types of digital output, coaxial or optical, as shown in Figure 17.

The analog outputs are for connection to a conventional stereo or analog home theater system. For 5.1-channel Dolby Digital playback, you need to connect the unit’s digital output to an appropriate digital input of your 5.1-channel playback system. The digital output passes through Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtracks for decoding by your playback system’s 5.1-channel Dolby Digital decoder.

If your system components allow you to choose between two types of digital connector, note that both have identical audio performance. Under some circumstances, however, very long coaxial cables can be more susceptible to radio frequency (RF) interference than optical cables. Because optical cables are more expensive, try coaxial cables first and switch to optical only if you encounter problems.

 

Figure17

 

Figure 17: Some digital program sources, including many DVD player models, provide two types of digital audio output, as well as an analog stereo output.

4.6   Bass management

Receivers and other units that incorporate Dolby Digital 5.1-channel decoding provide a feature called Bass Management, which allows you to distribute low bass just to those speakers in your system that can handle it. By keeping low bass out of the other speakers, such as small satellites, the system will be able to play louder with less distortion.

If you have a typical home theater speaker system with a subwoofer and five small satellites, select the mode that sends all bass-from the main channels as well as from the low-frequency effects (“.1”) channel-to the subwoofer. If you have some other speaker configuration, check your receiver’s owner’s manual for the Bass Management option suited to your particular system.

4.7   Delay adjustments

Because the surround speakers in a home theater system are usually closer to viewers than the front speakers, both Dolby Digital and Dolby Surround Pro Logic decoders provide a split-second electronic delay of the surround channels.

In the case of Dolby Digital, the delay ensures that the sound from the surround and front speakers arrive simultaneously. For Dolby Surround Pro Logic, which has less inherent channel separation than Dolby Digital, a slightly longer delay ensures that sound from the surrounds arrives just after sound from the front speakers. This delay makes it difficult to detect any leakage of sounds that should come only from the front, such as dialogue, into the surround speakers.

While your system may provide the option of adjusting these delays, and in some cases a delay for the center speaker as well, the default settings provide proper performance in most cases. If you wish to optimize the settings, many receivers and processors allow you to do so through an onscreen menu, which asks you to enter the distance from your listening position to each speaker, and then automatically calculates the proper delays for you.

If your system allows you to adjust delays arbitrarily, without an onscreen menu requiring you to enter distances to the speakers, you will find information on making the adjustments properly in Frequently Asked Questions about Dolby Digital in the Home, located under Home Theater. Improper delay settings can have an adverse effect on the sound of your system.

4.8   Channel balance

Systems with Dolby Digital and Dolby Pro Logic decoding feature a test signal generator for balancing the channels. As the signal moves from channel to channel, you adjust the balance controls until each channel plays at the same volume. You can do this by ear if you wish, but it’s better to use a sound pressure level meter, such as the relatively inexpensive Radio Shack 33-2050.

Even though you should adjust the surround channels to be as loud as the others on the test signal, you’ll find that on actual program material the surround level is much lower than the front much of the time. Film sound mixers in particular use surround mostly for subtle atmospherics and ambience, and only rarely for special effects. A good surround mix doesn’t call attention to itself; if it did, it would soon become tiresome.

4.9   Processing enhancements

In addition to Dolby Digital and Dolby Surround Pro Logic decoding, some systems offer the option of switching on additional processing enhancements. Some, such as THX-licensed processes, are intended to make your home theater sound more like a movie theater or the dubbing theaters in which movie soundtracks are mixed. Others are intended to provide special acoustic effects on stereo music (for example, “Hall,” “Jazz Club,” and other venue modes). In general, critical listeners find that some of these enhancements work well, while others sound artificial.

4.10   Regular stereo programming

Many stereo recordings and TV broadcast soundtracks contain natural ambience that a Dolby Surround Pro Logic or Pro Logic II decoder treats much like surround sound. We suggest that you try leaving the decoder on when listening to stereo material.

On some material, particularly dialogue-intensive TV shows, original Pro Logic can provide a pleasant, more cinematic effect. On music-only recordings, however, it may reduce the stereo width across the front more than you like. Pro Logic II, on the other hand, can provide a wide, astonishingly life-like soundstage with accurate localization on all kinds of material, since it was specifically designed to extract five-channel sound from both surround encoded and conventional stereo recordings.

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The SeatCraft Accessory Pod

The newest addition to our SeatCraft Home Theater Seating brand is the unique stainless steel Accessory Pod. The Accessory Pod feature provides a strong hold to any SeatCraft Theater Seating accessory attachments. This theater chair accessory makes use of the stainless steel reinforced cupholder that is factory installed on our theater seats. The reinforced cupholder is an essential item for the Accessory Pod to function. The Accessory Pod slides into the cupholder and provides a secure hold for our IPAD Dock, Wine Glass Caddy, Tray Tables, and Articulating LED Light home theater seat accessories.

Our SeatCraft Home Theater Seats comes standard with the black cupholders. With the option of upgrading to the stainless steel reinforced cupholder, you’ll enjoy the comfort of your home theater seats along with knowing your drinks are safely secured in the cupholders.

You don’t have to worry about any wobbly table trays, cup holders that can’t secure your wine glass or even having to re-adjust your position in the theater seat for better use of your laptop. With our unique Accessory Pod you gain the ability to use the insert able tray tables in any of our SeatCraft home theater Seating. It is also perfectly designed to secure our removable wine glass caddy for those relaxing nights with a glass of wine . To check out more of our items in stock, visit us at 4seating.com.

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How to Get Rid of Cable Clutter

6 Tips to Reduce Cable Clutter

Chances are if you have a TV (and a pulse), you have an astronomical number of cables to go with it. Include a gaming console and/or sound system, and the number of cables may double or even triple! Feel like you’ve weaved a web of cables? Here are some quick, easy tricks to declutter and get organized:

Cable Ties

● Cable ties are the fastest way to clean up cable clutter. Rather than having 15 separate cords hanging from your TV, these ties combine multiple cables into a few larger groups. Consider opting for velcro instead of the traditional single-use plastic. They’re a little pricier, but are worth it in the long run as they can be reused. If those are too pricey, try using zip-ties or pipe cleaners.
● This method requires you to go through the cables you currently have. In this process, you might find some unused cables you can give the boot!
● If you want to go the extra mile, consider replacing your current cables with color-coded ones. Have a red bundle for video-related cables, a blue bundle for audio-related cables and so on.
● This trick will also allow you to shorten your cables. Most cables come in different size increments. Purchasing the smallest possible reduces clutter, but doesn’t allow for very much wiggle room if you need to move your TV or use it for something else. Pick longer cable lengths, and then coil the excess cable. Use a cable tie to secure the loops.

 

Image courtesy of Amazon.com

Label Your Cables

● Labeling your cables will prevent any confusion later on. Some cable ties even come with little labels that you can write on for an extra level of organization. If you have the space, get specific. “HDMI” won’t help you in the long run, but “Samsung TV HDMI” sure could help down the line.

Mount It

● Mounting the TV on the wall is an easy way to reclaim space. With the TV on the wall instead of a media table, you free up space to tidy up the boxes and cords that rested on or within the table.
● For a wall-mounted TV, consider drilling holes in the wall to organize those pesky cables. Simply tuck the cables out-of-sight without worrying about them dangling down the wall from the TV. If you live in a rental or are otherwise unable to drill holes in the wall, you can purchase a cord cover at most home improvement stores. These adhere to the wall over your cords and can be painted to match the wall color. Need a cheap alternative? Use a shower curtain rod for similar results.

Use Cord Clips

● Cord clips are similar to cord ties– they both hold cables together. However, cord clips attach to a wall or table to hold cables up, rather than just tied together. Try attaching cord clips to the backside of tables to avoiding sagging cable. It’s best to place them 12 inches apart and to hang skinnier cords across these clips to prevent cables touching the floor.

 

Image courtesy of hisugarplum.com

Use What You Have

● Still feeling inclined to let those cables drag on the floor? Embrace it! Adjust your baseboards. Many baseboards can be altered to allow for space for cable to be threaded behind them.
● Disconnect rarely used items. Only use that Wii twice a year when you have your younger cousins over? Pack it away and connect it when you need it.
● Large binder clips can also be used in a pinch for the same purpose as cord clips. Put a screw with a small washer through one of the handles of the clip and screw it into the table or wall. Then do the same as you would with the cord clips, and thread your cords through.

 

Image courtesy of wrappedinrust.com

Decorate

● Place extra cables in decorative boxes. Sometimes, the best trick is to hide your clutter in plain sight! This can also work for things like routers or gaming consoles. Just check to make sure your remotes still work properly while the router or gaming console is in the box.
● If the box method doesn’t work for your bigger items, use it for your power strip. Simply cut holes in the side and thread the cables through.
● When in doubt, cover up the cables!
● Use an over-the-door shoe rack to keep extra cables in storage. Dedicate one pocket for each cable or cable type. Alternatively, use a box with empty paper towel rolls standing straight up inside. Put bundles of cables inside and pack the box away. No more giant and tangled ball of cables in your garage!

Cleaning up your cables can seem like a daunting chore. However, breaking it up into smaller tasks will make it more manageable in the long run. Happy decluttering!

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The Tablet

The advent of the computer tablet brought a new portability to internet entertainment.  No longer restricted to bulky computers and laptops, you could carry it with you anywhere, anytime–the entire power of the web at your fingertips.  It’s a fact that when it comes to audiovisual content, there are times when you want the power of a large screen and state-of-the-art sound system to make the action on-screen really come to life.  Conversely, those who have spent their savings on constructing the perfect home theater should not feel restricted only to what they can pop into a DVD player.  Happily, the marriage of the internet and the large-screen is easily accomplished by hooking a tablet to your TV set, bringing the million-plus options of the World Wide Web to movie theater excellence.

 

There are two primary ways of hooking a tablet to a television set.  First, you may want to get an adjustable tablet holder which can fit easily onto your home theater seat’s armrest, so that you can browse the web within arm’s reach.  Then, you can either use your home wi-fi to connect your tablet to your screen, or use a cable to connect to the HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) ports on your tablet and TV.  Each option will work, although if you’re looking for an ultra-fast connection you may want to stick with a cable hookup.  In addition, keeping your tablet charged has become less of hassle with the introduction of deluxe home theater seats like the Liberty and Horizon, which come complete with charging stations featuring USB ports.

From there, you have the internet at your command.  Internet streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Google Play offer thousands of movies and TV shows (commercial free!) to choose from.  Recently Netflix has been focusing more on TV shows and original content, which has let Google Play and Amazon Prime offer a wider variety of movies. Therefore, it’s best to become familiar with all the options at your fingertips, as between them you’re bound to find what you’re looking for.  The recent debut of “The Interview” in the online streaming format has possibly set a precedent for further films being made available this way–meaning that home theater owners may be set to catch more first-run releases online in the near future.  Youtube is also a great source for older films, TV, and especially live music uploads. Want to see The Beatles live on “Ready! Steady! Go!” in 1964, or the latest Taylor Swift video? Youtube is likely to have it, and watching these shows on the big screen, with the sound system that you spent so much time and care to install,  is the only way to do them justice.

Gamers will also have a field day with a tablet hookup, as the internet offers dozens of game sites that feature variations on classic board games and puzzles, with more sophisticated visual odysseys that will have you lost in their imaginative worlds.  This entertainment option has come a long way since Pac-Man or Super Mario, now offering characters, plotlines, and beguiling visual backdrops that are more akin to user-participation movies than games. Once again, you will find a dramatic difference between playing these games on your tablet, and being able to do so with the advantages offered by a home theater setup.  Besides gaming, you can also access personal files to conveniently share family photos on the big screen, or spend time on social media. You won’t ever have to squint if you wish to read an e-book, either, although with the tablet holder you can also read directly from your tablet while reclining in your seat without having to hold it in your hands.

So what are you waiting for?  Why agonize over having to figure out what movie to watch, only to find that you have to wait to purchase or order it?  Get your instant gratification now by being able to browse to your heart’s content from thousands of available choices–or decide to try that new online version of Monopoly. You’ll never be at a loss, with your tablet hookup; the only problem will be how to narrow the endless list of choices down.

At 4seating.com, we have the largest selection of in-stock and ready-to-ship home theater seating and home theater furniture available! We offer theater seating and design solutions for both the casual and professional home theater enthusiast.  We also have a complete line of custom home theater decor available.

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The Power Headrest Collection

In the past few months, Seatcraft has rolled out an impressive new line of home theater seats. Each is an essential addition to the Signature series, featuring such standard Signature features as chaiselounger seating, lighted cup holders, and in-arm storage.  These seats also boast a new hi-tech feature, which is sure to make them a favorite among home theater owners–power adjustable headrests.

The power adjustable headrest works much as the power recline feature does–it allows you to move a section of the seat, at the simple push of a button.  The power option allows for the greatest flexibility in positioning, as the headrest will stop at any place the individual feels is comfortable for their head, neck, and shoulder placement.  Rather than staying in the same position for hours, one can constantly re-adjust their setting at will; such freedom of movement reduces neck and shoulder fatigue, allowing you to better focus on the screen action.  The power headrest is more than just a convenience; it’s a necessity for anyone who spends a lot of time in their home theater.

Of the new seats which feature the power headrest, the Richmond stands out for its Leather 7000 material construction and unique black onyx shade.  Black onyx has a reflective shine which gives the seat a deluxe appearance, while Leather 7000 is carefully handpicked from the top third of all hides to produce a leather that is superior in texture and suppleness.  The Richmond also comes with included tray tables, ambient base lighting and lighted cup holders for a well-rounded array of convenient features.  The Element also features Leather 7000 in black onyx, but distinguishes itself with a striking, geometric stitch pattern that cuts a stylish “V”-shape across the seat back.

The Phantom is a chair that features a sporty, muscular three-part seat back with a bolstered frame, that provides plenty of cradling support to the upper body.  It is topped by a padded headrest and comes with beautiful burlwood tray tables, lighted cup holders, ambient base lighting, and an accessory mount with which to attach tablets, reading lights, wine glass caddies and more options.

The Odyssey comes in 100% genuine bonded leather, which mimics much of the soft texture and swank appearance of full grain leather, at a superb value.  As with the other chairs, it boasts chaiselounger seating for full cushioned support to the lower body, lighted cup holders, in-arm storage compartments, and a wall-hugger design that allows it to be placed just inches from any wall, even in full recline.

Each chair in the power headrest series comes with its own unique character, so it’s just a matter of choosing which one of these sumptuous designs will best meet your home theater needs.  One thing’s for sure, however–your head, neck, and shoulders will thank you!

At 4seating.com, we have the largest selection of in-stock and ready-to-ship home theater seating and home theater furniture available! We offer theater seating and design solutions for both the casual and professional home theater enthusiast.  We also have a complete line of custom home theater decor available.

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The Wine Glass Caddy

Why a wine glass caddy?  You may not be a wine drinker, and besides, doesn’t each home theater seat already come equipped with cup holders?  Many people do not realize the many benefits a wine glass caddy will add, in both convenience and style, to their home theater seat.  Although labeled a “wine glass caddy”, this convenient accessory can be used for any beverage.  A cup holder can only hold a certain size of cup or glass, and many times you will want the full bottle of liquid and the glass within arm’s reach.  With the caddy, you can place the bottle in the cup holder slot and then pour it into a glass which remains firmly and securely attached right next to it.  This setup is perfect for not only wine enthusiasts but those who drink sparkling ciders, large bottled waters, or large bottled sodas.  You will never have to leave your seat during a movie, just to get the original bottle to re-pour yourself a glass.  And you will never have to leave bottles or glasses on the floor, where they can tip over and spill.

Our wine glass caddies were also built with luxury style in mind.  You can instantly upgrade the look and feel of your home theater with these elegant-looking setpieces, with their beveled edges fashioned out of stainless steel.  The sleek, sophisticated look will impress anyone, and add a level of grace and convenience not even found in a movie theater itself!   Relax at home with your loved one over a glass of wine and a Blu-Ray copy of Casablanca, or perhaps use the caddies for a big get-together screening of the Dark Knight trilogy.  Whichever way you go, you can rest assured that these accessories were built with the Seatcraft commitment to quality and durability.

The wine glass caddy is also a perfect match for our other accessories.   You can place the caddy on one armrest and a tray table on another, to enjoy a full dining experience.  Or, you can place an iPad on a tablet holder, so that you can sip and surf at the same time. Articulated lighting will enhance local ambience, if you just wanted to spend a quiet night alone reading with your favorite beverage.   Power recline is always an excellent choice for those who want to lay back in any desired position with a Merlot, after a long day at work.   With the variety of combinations available, there’s no reason why your wine glass caddy won’t become an absolutely indispensable addition to your home theater setup.

At 4seating.com, we have the largest selection of in-stock and ready-to-ship home theater seating and home theater furniture available! We offer theater seating and design solutions for both the casual and professional home theater enthusiast.  We also have a complete line of custom home theater decor available.

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The Tablet Holder

With New Years just around the corner, you may wish to upgrade your home theater to take advantage of the many exciting options available to enhance your entertainment experience. Among the many accessories which can help you do this, is the universal tablet holder.  This outstanding feature attaches easily to any accessory POD, allowing you to connect a tablet to your chair for individual browsing, or a full-blown hookup to your TV screen for a virtually endless array of viewing options.  Why be limited by a tiny tablet or laptop screen, when you can tap into the power of the large screen and state-of-the-art sound system that you have so painstakingly assembled for your home theater?

There’s no denying that the internet has opened up an entire universe of entertainment possibility, which goes far beyond basic cable or DVD options.  Youtube alone has become a virtual video library of quirky and unusual entertainment choices, from live music clips to news blooper compilations, stupid pet trick videos and much, much more.  It’s easy to get lost for hours browsing from clip to clip, all available at your viewing whim.  Internet streaming services such as Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime have also become extremely popular as of late, especially now that they have begun offering commercial-free original programming.  In an interesting new twist, some shows have begun offering entire seasons in bulk, leading to the phenomenon of viewers watching hours of episodes back-to-back. Beware: some of these programs, like House Of Cards and Orange Is The New Black, are highly critically acclaimed and enormously addicting.  Of course, many movies are also available to stream.

The internet has also become a paradise for “gamers”, those who lose themselves in the increasingly elaborate and sophisticated worlds of video game fantasy.  This entertainment option has come a long way since Pac-Man or Super Mario, now offering characters, plotlines, and beguiling visual backdrops that are more akin to user-participation movies than games.  There are plenty of game sites out there catering to the booming industry, which feature everything from variations on classic puzzles and board games, to far more elaborate fare.  Most sites also allow you to play with other users worldwide, in one-on-one or group matchups.  Once again, you may find a dramatic difference between playing these games on a limited, small tablet or laptop screen, and being able to see them in the context of your home theater setup.

There are so many more options available with a tablet hookup–everything from sharing slide photo presentations of your latest family vacation, to posting your latest obsessions on Pinterest.  But how does all this endless fun begin?  There are two primary ways of hooking a tablet to your TV screen.  The first step involves getting the adjustable tablet holder which attaches easily to your seat’s armrest.  There are then two ways to go from here: you can use your home wi-fi to connect the tablet to your screen, or you can use a cable to connect to the HDMI (High Definitiion MultiMedia Interface) ports on your tablet and TV.  For the fastest connections, a cable is preferable.  Once hooked in, the only problem from that point on will be figuring out just what to do, among the thousands of available choices.  One thing is for sure–you will never, ever be at a loss for entertainment, no matter what your mood or what guests you may have.

At 4seating.com, we have the largest selection of in-stock and ready-to-ship home theater seating and home theater furniture available! We offer theater seating and design solutions for both the casual and professional home theater enthusiast.  We also have a complete line of custom home theater decor available.

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The SeatCraft Accessory Pod

The newest addition to our SeatCraft Home Theater Seating brand is the unique stainless steel Accessory Pod. The Accessory Pod feature provides a strong hold to any SeatCraft Theater Seating accessory attachments. This theater chair accessory makes use of the stainless steel reinforced cupholder that is factory installed on our theater seats. The reinforced cupholder is an essential item for the Accessory Pod to function. The Accessory Pod slides into the cupholder and provides a secure hold for our IPAD Dock, Wine Glass Caddy, Tray Tables, and Articulating LED Light home theater seat accessories.

Our SeatCraft Home Theater Seats comes standard with the black cupholders. With the option of upgrading to the stainless steel reinforced cup holder, you’ll enjoy the comfort of your home theater seats along with knowing your drinks are safely secured in the cupholders.

You don’t have to worry about any wobbly table trays, cup holders that can’t secure your wine glass, or even having to re-adjust your position in the theater seat for better use of your laptop. With our unique Accessory Pod you gain the ability to use the insert able tray tables in any of our SeatCraft home theater Seating. It is also perfectly designed to secure our removable wine glass caddy for those relaxing nights with a glass of wine . To check out more of our items in stock, visit us at 4seating.com.