Many apartment dwellers struggle to enjoy immersive audio experiences without disturbing their neighbors. A common approach involves using headphones or a standalone soundbar with decent bass. For truly cinematic sound with headphones, consider using an Apple TV 4K with AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods Max, leveraging their spatial audio capabilities. Alternatively, the Sonos Ace headphones paired with a Sonos Arc soundbar offer a similar experience, allowing for both personal listening and group viewing. Bluetooth headphones, while convenient, often suffer from lag and lack surround support.
Another reader inquired about the advantages of Dolby Atmos over a traditional 7.1 surround system, particularly with an existing in-ceiling speaker setup. Dolby Atmos aims to create a dome of sound by using speakers positioned above the listener. While in-ceiling speakers can achieve this effect, it’s important to note that they are generally used in conjunction with speakers at a lower elevation for optimal results. With an all in-ceiling speaker setup, some acoustic trickery may be required to ensure that sound appears to come from the screen level. Ultimately, the best approach is to experiment with both 7.1 and 5.1.2 configurations to determine which setup sounds best.
The article also addresses the search for a good 55-inch TV under $500 for Black Friday. Two potential contenders are the TCL Q6 and the Hisense U7N, both expected to fall within budget during Black Friday sales. The author recommends comparing these models to make an informed decision, promising reviews of both before Black Friday.
The importance of TV tuners in TV reviews is highlighted, with the author acknowledging that many reviews focus solely on monitor functionality, neglecting the built-in tuner aspect. He emphasizes the significance of tuner performance, particularly for those accessing free TV programming via digital antennas. However, he acknowledges the difficulty in objectively testing tuner performance and advocates for prioritizing picture and audio quality, suggesting viewers select a suitable antenna for their area.
Finally, the article explores the limitations of LCD technology, specifically the inability to completely block backlight for true black levels. While acknowledging the potential for advancements, the author argues that the inherent limitations of liquid crystals hinder achieving a level of black reproduction comparable to OLED and Micro LED technologies. He suggests that continued efforts to improve LCD technology are unlikely, as the focus has shifted towards more promising display technologies.
