The high price of reference monitors, the weight of OLED TVs, and achieving surround sound in an apartment with limited space are common inquiries in the realm of audio and video technology. This article aims to shed light on these intriguing questions and offer solutions for achieving the best possible audio and visual experience.
Why are reference monitors so expensive?
The high price tag of reference monitors stems from their specialized nature and the unique technology they employ. These monitors are not designed for mass consumer use and are instead intended for professional studios and creators. Their technology, such as dual-cell LCDs or true RGB OLEDs, is tailored for specific needs, often exceeding the brightness requirements of a home environment. Additionally, their size and video connections are often unsuitable for home use. With a limited market and a focus on meeting the demands of professionals, the cost of these monitors remains high.
Why don’t OLED TVs weigh less?
While OLED technology was initially touted for its potential to create lightweight displays, the reality is more nuanced. While OLED panels are indeed thinner due to the absence of backlights, the use of glass substrates and encapsulation glass for protection adds significant weight. Furthermore, the demand for increased brightness has led to heavier power supplies, further contributing to the overall weight. The use of premium materials for structural rigidity and a premium feel also plays a role.
It’s worth noting that despite these factors, OLED TVs are still lighter than the Plasma displays they were designed to replace. Additionally, premium QLED TVs are similarly heavy, indicating that weight can be a factor across high-end displays.
Achieving surround sound with limited space
Creating an immersive surround sound experience in a small apartment, especially with a wall behind the seating area, can present challenges. Conventional speaker placement relies on specific positioning, with surround speakers behind and to the sides of the listener. This becomes difficult when a wall obstructs the rear positioning.
In such situations, compromises are necessary. While placing surround back channels directly behind the listener on the wall may not deliver the desired effect, dipole speakers can help spread the sound and make the source less obvious. For Atmos channels, it’s recommended to place two speakers in front of the listening area, with a second set behind being less effective.
In light of these limitations, the Sony Bravia Theatre Quad is a viable alternative. Designed for challenging placement scenarios, it leverages Dolby Atmos Flex connect and Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology to create a convincing surround sound experience. It can be paired with any TV that supports Dolby Atmos via eARC, offering a complete sonic experience. While it may lack the TV integration and Acoustic Center Sync features found in a Sony setup, it provides a versatile and easy-to-place solution for those with limited space.
This article addresses key inquiries about the technology behind reference monitors, the weight of OLED TVs, and the challenges of achieving surround sound in confined spaces. It offers insights into the factors driving these phenomena and provides practical solutions for achieving a fulfilling audio and visual experience within these limitations.
