Mr Hi-Fi's Profile

TCL is already selling their TV's here through discount resellers, so it will be interesting to see the disparity in price between what just the TV sells for versus the kit IKEA sells. Think tier 3 or tier 4 level TV's, below Vizio, more like Insignia or Dynex, and other "store brand" names as far as picture quality is concerned. I'm not sure where the 400Hz processing number comes from, maybe it's calculated differently on European models. Figure it will be marketed here as a 480Hz set, which means it's actually a 120Hz set after marketing jargon is broken down, which is at least respectable. I don't want to be a picture quality snob, but I hate to think that people are going to spend what is likely to be a lot of money based on something just how it looks when it is turned off, as opposed to what it's going to look like when it's turned on. The other problem? You'll likely never be able to test this next to another TV side by side to make an educated picture quality comparison. That's probably the plan though....

@Jeffreyk I'm not sure what the importance is of putting down someone's means of listening to music. Some people listen to music through the free headphones that came with their MP3 player. Quite frankly, I enjoy seeing a person bother getting vinyl at all. I love even more that someone bothered enough to hold onto their vinyl and use it as a part of their small space. All that vinyl could fit onto a tiny thumb drive, but she chose to keep it where all can see. Good job Jennifer.

Another incredibly important issue if you're going through the trouble of dedicating a space is to work with an Audio/Video dealer who you trust. Most screen companies offer products that offer aethetic appeal that you may not be able to find with a simple internet search. Within the same screen company you can get the same actual picture quality for $1500 or $15,000 depending on how fancy of a screen you get. Fixed screens are my favorite for value because they are evenly tensioned so you don't get the warped effect that is mentioned in this article, and also can get regular or acoustically transparent screens as mentioned by another commenter. The drawback? It basically requires you to use that room as a home theater. Whether you are a do-it-yourselfer or working with an integrator, set a budget and stick to it. Any self-respecting company will stick to your budget if you reveal it and are honest with your numbers.

On my final note, if you choose to take the integrator route, please don't take their time and expertise and then buy all the stuff online. I don't want this to sound like a rant, but we all know that many of the products you can find in stores are cheaper on the internet. Many you cannot, but many good integrators will be honest and up front with you about the advantages or disadvantages of buying online, as long as you disclose it. I never mind giving free advice, but I always feel bad when someone abuses my time!

I recommend the Radius series from Monitor Audio as well. Sound as gorgeous as they look. As for the Magnepan, they sound gorgeous, but the looks may not be for all. If you're bold enough, go for the 1.7's! Just keep them away from the wall...