Gain, Level, Volume...aren't they the same thing? Everybody knows a volume control makes your music louder (or quieter), so why do there seem to be so many different ways to describe it?  If you're used to dubbing, or if making mixtape cassettes was your thing, you may remember ''level'' has something to do with volume. If you're into car ...

The Onkyo's have earned a slight reputation for running warm.  Proper placement and some simple solutions can help keep the electronics nice and cool though.  As far as I know a simple fan moving the hot air away from the case really works wonders   The 705 is only being removed so the 806 can take it's place.  I'm not really ...

It is possible to do this, however the amplifier in the TV might not produce enough power to justify the method.  Your best bet would be a sound bar like these:  Single Speaker Solutions.  In most instances, you'll simply have to connect a couple wires to the TV and supply a wall outlet for power.   This will greatly enhance ...

Your reciever does support HD audio formats as seen here: Yamaha's RX-V863.  It looks like a killer AVR...  When you get it all setup, post your thoughts   You migh also be interested in a number of the articles on the Crutchfield Advisor site like: Understanding Surround Sound Formats HomeTheater Introduction   Both ...

The Onkyo TX-SR705 is a fine reciever and I would stick to it for the back bone of your equipment selections.  The same goes for the blu-ray you have listed.  Both very fine choices.  If you want to stick with the ceiling speakers that is very fine.  I think you'd get better sound from a system that can direct the sound ...

“There is no physical reason why bi-wiring should improve a speaker’s sound.” I’ve heard this sentiment repeated over the years by some very reputable sources. So why do many respected manufacturers continue to build speakers with two separate sets of input terminals explicitly for that purpose (that is, connecting a loudspeaker to an amp or ...

This post was originally written as a collection of tips for CrutchfieldAdvisor.com's "The Audio Files℠" column. You've just fired up a DVD on your new home audio system. The screen momentarily goes blank: here comes the main feature. No — it's a THX demo! (You weren't expecting that.) Imaginary objects zip ...