The HT Guys, Ara Derderian and Braden Russell, are Engineers who formerly worked for the Advanced Digital Systems Group (ADSG) of Sony Pictures Entertainment. ADSG was the R&D unit of the sound department producing products for movie theaters and movie studios. Two of the products they worked on include the DCP-1000 and DADR-5000. The DCP is a digital cinema processor used in movie theaters around the world. The DADR-5000 is a disk-based audio dubber used on Hollywood sound stages. ADSG was awarded a Technical Academy Award by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2000 for the development of the DADR-5000. Ara holds three patents for his development work in Digital Cinema and Digital Audio Recording. Every week they put together a podcast about High Definition TV and Home Theater. Each episode brings news from the A/V world, helpful product reviews and insights and help in demystifying and simplifying HDTV and home theater. Our email address is htguys@htguys.com
Podcast #1135: Studio Report Card & TV Winners and Losers for 2023
On this week’s show we look at the Box Office Report Card for the major studios and we review the TV Winners and Losers for 2023. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
On this week’s show we review the Victrola Hi-Res Carbon Turntable that retails for $599. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
1/26/2024 • 0
Podcast #1133: Best of CES 2024
On this week’s show Ara and DJ of Brightside Home Theater Podcast rundown the best of CES 2024. Are also reads your emails and takes a look at the week’s news.
1/19/2024 • 0
Podcast #1132: CES 2024
It's that time of year where the tech world descends on Las Vegas for CES. On this week’s show we discuss a few announcements that we found interesting. We also read your emails and look at the week’s news.
1/12/2024 • 0
Podcast #1131: Why You Need a 4K Disc Player
Happy New Year! We are excited to be back for another year. On this week’s show we look at five reasons why you need a 4K Blu-ray player. We also have a backlog of emails and news.
1/5/2024 • 0
Happy New Year!
We are taking the week off. Happy New Year from the HT Guys!
12/29/2023 • 0
Podcast #1130: Inflation is up but Electronics have never been Cheaper!
On this week’s show, Inflation is up but Electronics have never been Cheaper! We also read your emails and the week’s news. There is no show next week. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year from the HT Guys!
12/22/2023 • 0
Podcast #1129: The 7 Best TVs For your Holiday Shopping
On this week’s show we look at the 7 best TVs for your Holiday Shopping. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
12/15/2023 • 0
Podcast #1128: Network TV's Fallish Schedule
On this week’s show, now that the SAG strike is over we take a look at the network TV lineup. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
12/8/2023 • 0
Podcast #1127: Hisense U7K and Nanoleaf Holiday Lights Review
On this week’s show Ara discusses his automated Holiday lights by Nanoleaf. And John Lyman was kind enough to review the 75” Hisense U7K which he picked up for $999! We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
12/1/2023 • 0
Podcast #1126: HT Guys Go Down Memory Lane
On this week’s show the HT Guys take a trip down memory lane and discuss what they are thankful for. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
11/23/2023 • 0
Podcast #1125: Black Friday Deals
On this week’s show it's time for Black Friday! We scoured the Internet to find you the best deals! We also read your emails and the week’s news.
11/17/2023 • 0
Podcast #1124: Vertical Framing Movies and TV
On this week’s show Vertical Framing of content is becoming a big thing now. Will this affect how movies and TV are shot? A listener talks about how he solved his parent’s remote control problem. We also read your emails, and we had a bunch of good ones. We also take a look at the week’s news.
11/10/2023 • 0
Podcast #1123: Sofabaton X1 Smart Remote Control
On this week’s show Ara discusses the addition of some inexpensive acoustic panels to his recording room and we have a listener review of the Sofabaton X1 Smart Remote. We also read your emails and take a look at some of the week’s news.
11/3/2023 • 0
Podcast #1122: Matter Supports New Devices and are you a Quiet quitter?
On this week’s show we look at the new devices supported by Matter 1.2 and we ask you if you are a Quiet Quitter of your pay TV service. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
10/27/2023 • 0
Podcast #1121: 5G Broadcast can Challenge ATSC 3.0
On this week’s show discuss the new Pro-Ject Dark Side of the Moon Turntable and talk about five mistakes to avoid with your earbuds. We finish up with a discussion about 5G Broadcast. Can it do what ATSC 3.0 can. We also read your emails and discuss the week’s news.
10/20/2023 • 0
Podcast #1120: HDR Formats Compared
On this week’s show Ara orders Holiday lights that he plans on leaving up year round. We also compare the HDR formats and explain terms to help you understand what it all means. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
10/13/2023 • 0
Podcast #1119: AppleTV is the Best? and the Tablo OTA DVR
On this week’s show we take a look at the history of a company that is synonymous with home theater, Dolby Laboratories. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news. On this week’s show we discuss a video where Caleb Denison of Digital Trends, says the AppleTV is the best at streaming your video and we have a review of the Tablo TV Over the Air DVR. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
10/6/2023 • 0
Podcast #1118: The History of Dolby Laboratories
On this week’s show we take a look at the history of a company that is synonymous with home theater, Dolby Laboratories. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
9/29/2023 • 0
Podcast #1117: Network TV Scrambles to Fill Out Their Schedules
This week we discuss how the network TV programmers are dealing with the SAG and WGA strike. We also give you some alternative ways to deal with the strike. Plus we read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
9/22/2023 • 0
Podcast #1116: CEDIA 2023 with DJ from Bright Side Home Theater
This week DJ Briggs from BrightSideHometheater.com joins the show to discuss what he saw at CEDIA. We also read your emails and take a look at the week's news.
9/15/2023 • 0
Podcast #1115: Should IPTV Streamers be Treated like Cable Companies?
This week look at what would happen if Instagram and TikTok allowed 10 minute short video clips. Also, we breakdown why local network affiliates are trying to convince the FCC to start treating IPTV Streamers like cable TV providers. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
9/8/2023 • 0
Podcast #1114: Where to Watch College Football
This week is the start of the college football season and we help you find where your favorite team’s games can be watched. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
9/1/2023 • 0
Podcast #1113: Vintage Stereo Gear
This week a listener asks if his separates from the 80s are as good as his more modern home theater equipment. We also read your emails and look at the week’s news.
8/25/2023 • 0
Podcast #1112: Listener Speaker Configurations
This week Braden tells his Soundbar saga and Ara bought an Airpod Max. We also have early results of our Listener Speaker Configuration Survey. Plus we read your emails and the week’s news.
8/18/2023 • 0
Podcast #1111: Samsung 89" Micro LED and AV Receivers We Don't Talk About
This week Samsung is bringing an 89” Micro LED TV to market and it will only cost you $102,000USD. We also take a look at AV receivers that we don’t typically talk about. And as usual we read your emails and look at the week’s news stories.
8/11/2023 • 0
Podcast #1110: Sony HT-AX7 Portable Theater System Review
This week we take a look at the best speakers for 2023 that are priced between $50 and $1000. And Ara reviews the Sony HT-AX7 Portable Theater System from Sony. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
8/4/2023 • 0
Podcast #1109: Are We at Peak TV?
This week we ask if we are at “Peak TV”. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
7/28/2023 • 0
Podcast #1108: SAG/WGA Strike
This week take a deep dive into the SAG and WGA strike. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
7/21/2023 • 0
Podcast #1107: Things that Bugged Me about The Walking Dead and are We at Peak TV
This week Ara explains why he gave up on “The Walking Dead” and we ask if we are at “Peak TV” we also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
7/14/2023 • 0
Podcast #1106: Update on the "Telly" TV and the Best 75" TV
This week we found out more about the Free Telly TV and their user agreement. We give you three options for the best 75 inch TV and we read your email and look at the week’s news.
7/7/2023 • 0
Podcast #1105: Amazon's New Internet Service and Prime Smart Home Products
This week we look at Amazon’s new home Internet service as well as a sneak peak at the best early Prime Day smart home products. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
6/30/2023 • 0
Vacation Message
No show this week as we take some time away with our families. We’ll be back next week!
6/23/2023 • 0
Podcast #1104: New Apple Music Features - Bestjoy Super Remote - Cable TV Turns 75
This week we take a look at six new features that Apple Music is getting and we give you our take on the BestJoy Super Remote. Unfortunately we’re still looking for a Harmony Replacement. Did you know Cable TV is 75 years old this month? We look back at where cable started and where it is now. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
6/16/2023 • 0
Podcast #1103: Get the Most out of Your UHDTV and the Apple Vision Pro
This week we look at 9 tips that will get the most out of your LG C3 and G3 OLED TVs. These tips can find equivalents on pretty much any UHD TV. And Apple introduced its challenger into the VR goggle arena with the Apple Vision Pro. Will it succeed? We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
6/9/2023 • 0
Podcast #1102: Netflix Password Sharing - Best OLEDs - Wifi 6E
This week we help you find ways around the Netflix password sharing crackdown and we look at the best OLED TVs according to Tom’s Guide and we help you decide if an upgrade to wifi 6E is in order. We also read your emails and look at the week’s news stories.
6/2/2023 • 0
Podcast #1101: HBO Max is Now Just Max - LG C2 OLED - Canceled TV Shows
This week HBO Max is now just Max. Ara gives his impressions of his LG C2 OLED and we look at the shows that were canceled at the end of this season. We also read your emails and go through the week’s news.
5/26/2023 • 0
Podcast #1100: How Long until Cable and Satellite go Full IPTV
This week we have a big show for you! We announce the winner of our speaker giveaway, talk about the “Telly”, a free TV with a second screen for ads. We also take our monthly look at the RTINGS.COM longevity tests and finally we discuss why cable companies may want to forgo hardware and just go IPTV. We also read your email and take a look at the week’s news.
5/19/2023 • 0
Podcast #1099: Bluetooth Turntables and FAST TV
This week we ask whether you really need a Bluetooth enabled turntable and are products like the Anker X600 Boombox going to turn off people to “Spatial” audio. Finally, we look into FAST TV services. We also read your emails and the week’s news!
5/12/2023 • 0
Podcast #1098: ATSC 3.0 Encryption - Sony TV Pricing and Apple's VR Headset
This week we look at a new technology that may transform the earbuds you currently own. Also, Sony released pricing on their new 2023 models and would you watch sports with a VR headset? We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
5/5/2023 • 0
Podcast #1097: Should you Buy a LG C3 OLED and a Speaker Giveaway
This week we have four reasons to buy and three reasons to skip the LG C3 OLED and the top 5 TV picks for all budgets. We also read your emails and the week’s news!
4/28/2023 • 0
Podcast #1096: Netflix to End Physical Disc Rentals
This week Tom’s Guide reviews the Roku Plus Series 4K QLED TVs and Kef introduces their THX certified in-wall speakers. Then we go through the Netflix Timeline from start through the latest announcement that they are ending physical disc rentals. We also read your emails and look at the week’s news.
4/21/2023 • 0
Podcast #1095: Best Passive Bookshelf Speakers and is 1080p HDR all you Need
This week we look at the best passive bookshelf speakers under $600. We also revisit the RTINGS.com long term burn in investigation and we ask the question, “Is 1080p with HDR all we really need?” Pulse we read your emails and the week’s news.
4/14/2023 • 0
Podcast #1094: New Pioneer Elite - Spatial Audio for Cars - End of Mini LED
This week Pioneer introduces a new flagship receiver, the LX805, and we discuss whether Spatial Audio makes sense for cars and if Mini LEDs are on their way out. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
4/7/2023 • 0
Podcast #1093: Interview with Jeff Baron LA Underground DJ
This week we have an interview with Jeff Baron, former DJ at KPFK Los Angeles around 1968, then KPPC-FM Pasadena in the early 70s and finally KMPX San Francisco also early 70s. We also read your emails and read the week’s news.
3/31/2023 • 0
Podcast #1092: A Speaker Selection Journey
This week we go on a speaker evaluation journey with Ara and his daughter. But not before we read your emails and the week’s news.
3/24/2023 • 0
Podcast #109: Set up your Speakers Properly
This week Ed Mullen and Nick Brown of SVS join the show to help you get the most out of your speakers. We also read your emails and discuss the week’s news.
3/17/2023 • 0
Podcast #1090: New Sony Bravia TVs and Why Movie Theaters Fail
This week look at the new Sony Bravia line for 2023 and discuss why watching movies at home is better than in the cinema. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
3/10/2023 • 0
Podcast #1089: Freeform Radio of the 70s and 80s and Why Audio Reviewers Can't Hear Obvious Flaws
This week we take a trip down memory lane and discuss Los Angeles free form radio from the 70s and 80s. We also discuss a technology that may make LCD TVs obsolete. And finally we talk about audio reviewers and whether it's worth listening to what they have to say. Plus we read your emails and the week’s news.
3/3/2023 • 0
Podcast #1088: Optimal Screen Size
This week we ask the question, how big is too big? We discuss what is the optimal size screen for your viewing situation. We also give some recommendations for some large screen TVs. We also read your emails and look at the week’s news.
2/24/2023 • 0
Podcast #1087: Is ATSC Doomed to Fail?
This week we take a look at what is next for the ATSC 3.0 transition and why we think it will not be as smooth as the ATSC 1.0 transition. We also read your email and take a look at the week’s news.
2/17/2023 • 0
Podcast # 1086: Listener Recommended Demo Material and New Sony Receiveers
This week we list the content our listeners use to show off their systems whether it be for music listening or movie watching. Also, Sony announced five new receivers that we discuss. And as usual, we read your emails and go over the week’s news.
2/10/2023 • 0
Podcast#1085: Monoprice SS-Pro 8 Speaker Selector and Audio to Show Off Your Sound System
This week give you our impression of the Monoprice SS-Pro 8 Speaker Selector, take a look at the streaming scorecard for 2022, and we wrap up with our list of music to demo your sound system. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
2/3/2023 • 0
Podcast #1084: Netflix Password Sharing - Netflix Top 10 Series - 4 ATMOS Sounders for 2023
This week we discuss Netflix and password sharing and while we are at it we countdown the top ten TV series streaming on Netflix. We wrap up with the Four of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars to look forward to in 2023. We also read your emails and discuss the week’s news.
1/27/2023 • 0
Podcast #1083: Home Automation Golden Rules and Switching Back to Cable
This week we look at an article in the Washington Post that talks about Four Golden Rules of Home Automation and we discuss whether switching back to cable is worth it. We also have your emails and the week’s news.
1/20/2023 • 0
Podcast #1082: Best of CES 2023 Roundup
This week is our Best of CES 2023 roundup. We look at what popular websites saw as the best products from this year’s show. We have plenty of email and news to discuss as well!
1/13/2023 • 0
Podcast #1081: SVS Soundbase Pro
Welcome back from your Holiday break! This week we have a review of the SVS Soundbase Pro. A powerful and compact integrated amplifier that should be on any music lover's short list of products to buy in 2023. CES started this week but due to the timing of our show schedule we’ll have that for you next week. We also have a backlog of your emails as well as the week’s news.
1/6/2023 • 0
New Years Message
We are taking the week off to be with family. We'll be back at it in 2023. Thank you all for listening and supporting our Podcast! Happy New Year from the HT Guys!
12/30/2022 • 0
Podcast #1080: WiFi 6 and Amplifiers don't have to Break the Bank
This week we find out what makes wifi 6 something you’ll want to upgrade to, especially if you have a lot of IoT devices on your network. We also start a discussion on amplifiers. Do you need to spend thousands of dollars to get a quality amp? We also read your emails and talk about some of the week’s news.
12/23/2022 • 0
Podcast #1079: Buying Guide for your Audiophile, Movie Lover and Smarthome Enthusiast
On this week’s show we look at an article at CE Pro which is a list of 12 products that CE Pro writer Bob Archer thought were 2022’s products of the year. We only look at two products. One that is unobtainium and the other a mere mortal can buy today. We also have a buying guide that is a bit different than our usual one. We also read your email and take a look at the week’s news.
12/16/2022 • 0
Podcast #1078: Is a DAC in your Future
This week we talk about an article where the author claims that his budget OLED TV has ruined movie theaters for him. We also give you seven reasons why buying a DAC may be in your future. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
12/9/2022 • 0
Podcast #1077: Interview With Gary Yacoubian and Nick Brown of SVS
SVS recently announced their new Prime Wireless Pro Powered Speaker and for today’s feature, Ara spoke with CEO and President Gary Yacoubian and Vice President of Marketing Nick Brown. They talk about this potential soundbar killer as well as a few other cool things SVS is working on.
12/2/2022 • 0
Podcast #1076: Happy Thanksgiving!
This week we do our annual Black Friday Roundup. Unfortunately the retailers are turning it into a Black Friday month. It was hard to track down info specifically for Black Friday but we did. Honestly it's not our best work. We also read your email and take a look at the week’s news.
11/25/2022 • 0
Podcast #1075: Black Friday Roundup (Not our Best Show)
This week we do our annual Black Friday Roundup. Unfortunately the retailers are turning it into a Black Friday month. It was hard to track down info specifically for Black Friday but we did. Honestly it's not our best work. We also read your email and take a look at the week’s news.
11/18/2022 • 0
Podcast #1074: Matter Hubs and Sony Projectors
This week our show really matters! We feature a few of the newly certified Matter controllers and we talk about what projector we would consider if we were building out a dedicated home theater. Plus we read your emails and news of the week.
11/11/2022 • 0
Podcast #1073: Top Ten Movie Rentals and Keeping Your Vinyl Clean
This week we take a look at the week’s top ten movie rentals and we continue our feature on getting the best results when listening to vinyl. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
11/4/2022 • 0
Podcast #1072: Tips to Clean Your Record Needle to Improve Your Experience
This week we spotlight some huge “desktop” speakers from Monoprice and take a look at why NFL fans want Youtube or Amazon Prime to pick up Sunday Ticket. We also give you some tips to keep your turntable in tip top shape. All that plus your emails and the week’s news.
10/28/2022 • 0
No Show this week
No Show this week
10/21/2022 • 0
Podcast #1071: Technics EAH-A800 Noise Canceling Over Ear Headphones Review
This week we have a review of the Technics EAH-A800 Noise Canceling Over Ear Headphones and we read your emails and look at the week's news.
10/14/2022 • 0
Podcast #1070: Best of Show Awards Winners
This week we present the TWICE Best of show awards for the CEDIA show that took place last weekend. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
10/7/2022 • 0
Podcast #169: 5 Ways Matter Will Disappoint and Denon 2022 Lineup
This week we look at five ways Matter will disappoint you at launch. Spoiler, we don't think it will. We also take a look at the new lineup of Denon Receivers for 2022. We round out the episode with email and news.
9/30/2022 • 0
Podcast #1068: Sunday Ticket without the Satellite and The Fosi Digital Amp for Audiphiles
This week we take an extended look at an email from Chris who is paying for two sports packages but still can’t watch all his team’s games. Is there a VPN solution? Did you know you can get Sunday Ticket from DirecTV without a Satellite? There are some limitations but we have the info. Finally we have a brief review of two portable amplifiers from Fosi Audio that pack a huge punch. All that plus your emails and the week’s news!
9/23/2022 • 0
Podcast #1067: Fluid One: Next Generation Smart Home Control and Network TV Premiers
This week we take a look at a startup home automation company, Fluid One. Their goal is to seamlessly connect your actions, your decisions, and your home. Then we go through the network shows and premiere dates. We also read your emails and the week’s news.
9/16/2022 • 0
Podcast #1066: Home Theater Trends
This week we take a meta look at Home Theater Trends by comparing what different groups are saying. Let’s see if there are any common threads. We also read your emails and the week’s news.
9/9/2022 • 0
Podcast #1065: Albums, CDs, and Hi Res Digital - Listeners Chime In
This week we have three features provided by our listeners. Scott Hawk has thoughts on why CDs were considered superior to albums in the early 80s. John Lyman compares Records vs Airplay and Digital lossless and Tim Klevar reviews the Airfly Bluetooth dongle and the Sony Mark V headphones. Plus we have listener emails and news.
9/2/2022 • 0
Podcast #1064: OLED vs Mini-LED and the EISA Awards
This week we look at why OLED TVs are losing the price war to Mini-LED and share some of the winners of the Expert Imaging and Sound Association EISA Awards. Plus we read your emails and look at the week’s news.
8/26/2022 • 0
Podcast #1063: Audiophile vs Audio Purist - 8 Reasons to buy Discs and UST Projector Showdown
This week we are back from vacation and have a jam packed show. We start off with a Phoenix record store owner who set the audiophile world on fire over his claim that Mobile Fidelity, a company that has prided itself on using original master tapes for its pricey reissues, had actually been using digital files in its production chain. Then we look at 8 reasons you should keep buying UHD discs. And we look at Projector Central’s 2022 Laser TV Showdown. All this plus the week’s news and your emails!
8/19/2022 • 0
Vacation Special - Best 65" TV for under $1K and The HT Guys were Pilots
This week Ara is on vacation again but we didn't want to leave you hanging so we have a special show. We go back to theearly 2000s and learn how Ara and Braden became pilots for a very brief moment.
8/12/2022 • 0
Podcast #1062: Video IPTV Service How to Stop Subscriber Loss for Cable and Satellite
This week we take a look at a new IPTV service called Vidgo and the five reasons why services like Vidgo are taking subscribers away from Cable and Satellite TV Services. Can they stem the flow? Perhaps but it's unlikely they will do what is needed. We also read your email and the news of the week.
8/5/2022 • 0
Podcast #1061: Braden's New Speakers
This week we discuss Bluetooth getting it's biggest upgrade in years, NFL+ launching it's own streaming service and Braden tells us if his new speakers were worth the wait. Plus we read your emails and news of the week.
7/29/2022 • 0
Podcast #1060: Are TV Reviews Valid Any Longer and the New Vizio Lineup
This week we discuss whether TV reviews are worth using on the current crop of TVs and we look at the US use of Smart TVs growing even beyond the pandemic induced growth of 2020. Vizio announced their new lineup with the glaring omission of a new P-Series model. And finally we read your emails and look at the week’s news.
7/22/2022 • 0
Podcast #1059: The Kaleidescape
This week we have a special guest host DJ Briggs of “The Bright Side of Home Theater” podcast filling in for Braden. We do the usual things like read your email and discuss the week’s news. But we also discuss how much DJ loves his Kaleidescape video server.
7/15/2022 • 0
Vacation Special - Part of the HT Guys Origin Story
This week Ara is on vacation but we didn't want to leave you hanging so we have a special show. We go back to the mid nineties and learn how Ara almost gave up software to become a projectionist. Enjoy!
7/8/2022 • 0
Podcast #1058: Best Budget HDTV and A Streamer's Dream Site
This week we take a look at the Hisense UG6 as the best budget TV (from RTINGS.com) and we take a look at a streamers dream site called “The Streamable”. Plus we read some listener emails and the week’s news.
7/1/2022 • 0
Podcast #1057: DTS Play-Fi Soundbars Challenge WISA and 8K TV Sales
This week we take a look at the top ten movies on Netflix and talk about DTS Play-Fi becoming a challenger to WISA with their new Play-Fi Soundbars. We also discuss why 8K TV sales are not really doing anything worldwide. Plus we read your emails and the week’s news.
6/24/2022 • 0
Podcast #1056: Has Netflix Jumped the Shark and Broadlink's FastCon Smart Home Protocol
This week we try to determine whether Netflix has jumped the shark and what they can do save the company. We also take a look at a new smart home protocol from Broadlink called Fastcon. It's highly reliable and very affordable. We also read your emails and discuss the week’s news.
6/17/2022 • 0
Podcast #1055: Sonos Ray - Ecovent - Costco TVs
This week we discuss the Sonos Ray Sounbar and we found a solution for controlling which rooms in your house get all the cool or warm air from your HVAC system. Finally we take a walk through Costco and look at their TV department. We have some breaking news about Insteon turning their servers back on along with the rest of the week’s news. We also read your emails in an action packed episode!.
6/10/2022 • 0
Podcast #1054: Streaming hits record levels and Microns OLED
This week we have a holiday shortened show where we briefly discuss Microlens OLED and Streaming to your TV hitting record levels. We also answer a few emails and read the week’s news.
6/3/2022 • 0
Podcast #1053: UST Projectors - Mistakes with Soundbars - Smartthings and Matter
This week LG Debuts a new 4K UST Laser Projector and we discuss five mistakes everyone makes with Sonos Soundbars. Finally, Samsung begins integrating it's SmartThings home automation platform with Matter capable devices. We also read your emails and the week’s news.
5/27/2022 • 0
Podcast #1052: Will Matter Fix the Smart Home?
This week we discuss how matter will fix the smart home. Well it won’t fix the smart home completely but it will make adding new devices faster. Pulse we have an abbreviated email and news segment since one of us went to Alaska.
5/20/2022 • 0
Podcast #1051: Sony's 2022 Lineup with Availability and Pricing
This week we take a look at Sony’s 2022 TVs and Projectors with availability and pricing information. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
5/13/2022 • 0
Podcast #1050: 5 Mistakes Everyone Makes With Their TVs, and How to Fix Them
This week we look at 5 mistakes people make with their TV Settings and how to fix them and long time listener Jerry documents his transition from the Insteon Home Hub to Home Assistant. We have no email but we do discuss some of the week’s news in an episode that includes a discussion about Mead, Bourbon, Beer, and Moonshine!
5/6/2022 • 0
Podcast #1049: 400Gbps Internet speeds Evoca TV and the High Prices of TV Services
This week we talk about a world with 400Gbps Internet speeds and a new TV service that combines OTA and IPTV. Also, are we spending more for our A La Carte TV services today than what we used to spend for bundled cable programming when HDTV came on the scene. We also read your emails and the week’s news.
4/29/2022 • 0
Podcast #1048: Insteon Servers Shut Down and Home Assistant
This week we discuss the shutting down of Insteon servers and what you can do to continue using your Insteon automation products and we have an interview with Tony Willis where we discuss his Home Assistant setup that is one of the ways to keep your Insteon devices working. Plus there is a lot of Netflix news and we read your emails.
4/22/2022 • 0
Podcast #1047: Is all the content creation reducing the quality of what we watch?
This week Monoprice introduces three new THX Certified compact on-wall home theater speakers and we discuss Plex’s latest beta features that can help you navigate every streaming service you have. We also ask the question if all the content creation going on right now dilutes the quality of what we are watching. Plus we read your emails and discuss the week’s news.
4/15/2022 • 0
Podcast #1046: Number one on Netflix and Streaming Trends and Motivations of Samsung TV Owners
This week we discuss the number one streaming films/shows on Netflix across the world and we take an in-depth view into streaming trends and motivations of Samsung TV owners. Plus we read your email and take a look at the week’s news.
4/8/2022 • 0
Podcast #1045: Sonos Smart Sound Bars?
This week we discuss Sonos adding “Smart TV” Features to their Sound Bars and we take a look at the Best 4K Projectors according to CNET. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
4/1/2022 • 0
Podcast #1044: The Beginnings of "Fuzz Tone" - CD Fun Facts - 2022 LG Pricing
This week we further discuss the beginning of the “Fuzz Tone” in music, give you some fun facts of the Compact Disc and rundown the availability and pricing of the 2022 LG line of HDTVs. Plus we read your emails and go over the week's news.
3/25/2022 • 0
Podcast #1043: aptX HD andLutron Caseta Smart Home Products - The answer to Wifi Issues
This week we take a look at aptX HD Bluetooth: What is it? What devices and headphones support it? We also ask if Lutron Caseta Smart Home Products are the answer to Wifi Issues for homes with a lot of 2.4Ghz wifi devices? We read your emails and look at the week’s news as well.
3/18/2022 • 0
Podcast #1042: Sub $400 Tower speakers, Ads on Netflix, and a new SmartTV Paradigm
This week we explore a world where Netflix uses ads to support it's massive hunger for content and consider an approach where smart TVs are replaced by a mechanism that lets set top box manufacturers integrate their software with the TV. We also explore the sub $400 tower speaker world. All this plus your emails and the week’s news on this week’s show.
3/11/2022 • 0
Podcast #1041: QLED vs OLED and Audioengine S6 Mini Sub Review
This week we look at an article that claims a QLED TV is finally on par with OLED. We are not as convinced. We also review the Audioengine S6 Powered Desktop Subwoofer. And as usual we read your email and cover some of the week’s news.
3/4/2022 • 0
Podcast #1040: Hackable DIY Home Security, LED Bulbs, and Streaming Boxes are Here to Stay
This week we discuss how vulnerable your DIY Home Security System is. We help you with your LED bulb buying and give you three reasons why the HT Guys feel that set top streamers are not going anywhere soon. Plus we read your email and the week’s news.
2/25/2022 • 0
Podcast #1039: Five things to fix the Smart Home and the Best OLED under $1,500
This week we have a top ten list of what is popular on Vudu, five advancements that will “fix” the smart home and the best OLED under $1,500. Plus we read your emails and go through the week’s news.
2/18/2022 • 0
Podcast #1038: What does Reference Level Mean?
On today’s show we define “Reference Level” and what it means for your home theater and we look at the 9 things you need to consider if you are in the market for a new TV. We also read your emails and look at the news stories of the week.
2/11/2022 • 0
Podcast #1037: Are Streaming Delays Ruining Live sports on IPTV Services?
We have a shortened show this week but fear not we will go back to our regular show next week. For this week we ask if streaming delays an issue for you when watching live sports? We also have abbreviated email and news segments as well.
2/4/2022 • 0
Podcast #1036: What's Next for Google TV and Smart Homes in 2022
On today’s show we look at what’s next for Google TV and look at what the “Smart home” of 2022 will look like. We also read your emails and look at the news of the week.
1/28/2022 • 0
Podcast #1035: Fixing the Dialog in the Movies
On today’s show we help you determine if your new HDMI cable is Ultra High Speed certified and discuss whether Samsung’s Mini LEDs are harmful to your eyes. We finished with why dialog in today’s movies is so bad and how the movie studios can fix them. Plus we read your email and look at the week’s news.
1/21/2022 • 0
Podcast #1034: 2022 CES Innovation Awards
On today’s show we rundown some of the 2022 Innovation Award winners. We are discussing products related to home theater and audio as well as the Smart Home for this discussion. We read your emails and take a look at the week’s news as well.
1/14/2022 • 0
Podcast #1033: CES 2022
This week it's all about CES 2022! So much to talk about including Sony getting into the electric vehicle market. We read your emails as well.
1/7/2022 • 0
Podcast #1032: 2021 in Review
Happy New Year! For our last show of 2021 we go through some of the news stories of the past year. We also have a few listener emails and some end of year news.
12/31/2021 • 0
Podcast #1031: When HDMI 2.1 is not HDMI 2.1
On this week’s show we take a look at the best mesh routers for 2021 and discuss whether something labeled HDMI 2.1 is actually HDMI 2.1. We read your emails and take a look at the week’s news stories as well.
12/24/2021 • 0
Podcast #1030: Audiophile Two Channel System
On today’s show we take a look at two budget smart thermostats and discuss whether Matter will be the glue that ties your entire house together. Finally we listen to music on an almost $25,000 two channel system. We also read your emails and go through the week’s news.
12/17/2021 • 0
Podcast #1029: Technics True Wireless Headphones
A few weeks ago we read an email from one of our listeners who works for Technics announcing a slew of new products. Two of which were the AZ40 (Street Price $150) and AZ60 (Street Price $230) Wireless Headphones. We expressed interest in reviewing them and were sent two pairs for review. We also read your emails and look at the week’s news.
12/10/2021 • 0
Podcast #1028: Level Up your Home Theater
On this week’s show we take a look at a cool gift idea for your technophobe friends that want to stay connected with you and we “ Level Up” your home theater. We also read your emails and discuss the week’s news. Plus Braden goes on a rant about his Internet provider.
12/3/2021 • 0
Podcast #1027: Thankful in the Multiverse of Podcasts!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! We have a special show for you all. It's our second annual crossover podcast with the guys from AV Rant and The Bright Side of Home Theater. There is also a video version available on our YouTube Channel “The HT Guys”. So sit back and enjoy some Turkey while you listen to this week’s show.
11/25/2021 • 0
Podcast #1026: Black Friday 2021
It's that time of year again! We get to enjoy a big meal with family and friends and then start the Holiday shopping season in earnest. On today’s show we run down some of the deals we find interesting. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
11/19/2021 • 0
Podcast #1025: Disney+ Gets iMax and Some Early Black Friday Deals
On this week’s show, Disney+ Gets the iMax treatment and we look at some smart devices that you didn’t even know existed. We also give you a heads up on some early Blak Friday Deals. Plus we look at the news and read your emails.
11/12/2021 • 0
Podcast #1024: Dune, Seven Alexa Commands You Are Not Using and Why Matter Matters
On today’s show we discuss watching Dune from our home theaters, Seven Alexa commands you are probably not using, and why we think Matter really matters. Plus we have two weeks of emails and news.
11/5/2021 • 0
Podcast #1023: A Very Special Episode
We are on vacation this week but we still have a show. Its a little different than our typical show. This week we tell you the origin of how we became the HT Guys. We'll be back next week with new content and your emails and news.
10/29/2021 • 0
Podcast #1022: Netflix's Most Popular Shows and The Best Smart Light Switches
On today’s show we look at the top 15 most popular shows on Netflix and run down the ten best smart light switches according to Tom’s Guide. We comment as we have had experience with all but three of them. As usual, we read your email and discuss the news of the week.
10/22/2021 • 0
Podcast #102: 4K TVs That won't Break the Bank and the New Hisense Soundbars
On today’s show we look at three 4K TVs that won’t break the bank and look at the new soundbars coming from Hisense. We also read your emails and look at the news of the week.
10/15/2021 • 0
Podcast #1020: Wide Color Gamut and the YIO Remote Two
This week we explain what Wide Color Gamut is and how it affects your TV viewing experience. We also discovered a new remote that wants to be your Harmony Replacement. It's really sexy but it costs a pretty penny. Finally we discuss why you don’t want to mount your TV over the fireplace. All that plus your emails and the week's news.
10/8/2021 • 0
Podcast #1019: Amazon Product Announcements andValue Electronics TV Shootout
This week we take a look at the latest product announcements from Amazon. There are a slew of smart home products and a new FireTV that’s actually TV! Then there is the Value Electronics TV Shootout where they pick the best TV in three categories. As usual we look at the week’s news and read your emails.
10/1/2021 • 0
Podcast #1018: TCL TVs for 2021 and CEDIA Expo Best Of Show Winners
On today’s show we reveal the 2021 TCL TV lineup and discuss FAST (free, ad-supported streaming television) channels. Is this the beginning of truly free TV? We also go through the list of the 2021 CEDIA Expo Best of show winners. Plus we read your emails and look at the news of the week.
9/24/2021 • 0
Podcast #1017: Summer Box office Wrap-up and AirPods Pro Review
On this week’s show we wrap up the Summer Box Office numbers with the top ten movies based on ticket sales and we look at two contradicting studies about streaming vs cable. We also have a review of Apple’s AirPod Pro. We also read your email and look at the news of the week.
9/17/2021 • 0
Podcast #1016:Hisense's new laser TV, Bluetooth for Audiophiles and a review of a $5 smart plug
We have a fantastic show for you today! Hisense announced what appears to be one of the best Ultra Short Throw Projectors on the market. We discuss Ara’s experience with his and how this may be the one to replace your regular TV. Qualcomm has something for audiophiles with their AptX Lossless codec for CD Quality Sound Over Bluetooth. Finally we take a look at a $5 smart plug from monoprice. Who would have thought that you can start your home automation journey for $5. As usual we read your emails and news stories for the week.
9/10/2021 • 0
Podcast #1015: Locast Shuts Down and Should You Evangelize Hi-res Audio to Your Friends
We have a really big show this week! First off there is the news about Locast shutting down. We have what we think could be a good candidate to replace the Harmony Remote. We look at suggested seating distances based on screen size. You won’t believe this one. Then we look at an article that tries to tell you how to evangelize Hi-res audio to your friends. Plus we read your emails and look at the news.
9/3/2021 • 0
Podcast #1014: What we are streaming and IPTV Services Compared
This week we look at what everyone has been streaming based on minutes streamed. This is a new metric that Nielsen has developed to survive in a world where less and less of us watch live linear TV. Speaking of live linear TV we do a comparison of your IPTV options available to you. Between the two of us we have used them all. We also read your emails and take a look at some of the news stories of the week.
8/27/2021 • 0
Podcast #1013: Do you still Need a Set Top Box and the TWICE 2021 VIP Awards
This week we solve the mystery of what happened to HDNET and we ask the question if Set Top Hardware is still needed. Finally we go through the list of the 2021 TWICE VIP Awards. We also read your emails and give you the news of the week.
8/20/2021 • 0
Podcast #1012: DirecTV Stream and the sofabaton Universal remote Control
On this week’s show we opine on what is going on at AT&T and their DireTV Stream video service and we review the sofabaton U1 Universal Remote control. Can it make you forget about the Harmony? We also read your emails and go over some of the week’s news.
8/13/2021 • 0
Podcast #1011: Renting Out Your Home Theater and Scarlett Johansson
On this week’s show we talk about the possibility of renting out your home theater space a’la AirBnB and we also chime in on the Scarlett Johansson’s breach-of-contract lawsuit. We also have a lot of email and news to discuss!
8/6/2021 • 0
Podcast #1010: Samsung TV Plus and Belkin's Soundform Connect AirPlay2 Adapter Review
This week we discuss free TV on your Samsung TVs and mobile devices via Samsung’s TV Plus service. We also have a review of Belkin’s Soundform Connect AirPlay2 Adapter. And as usual, we read your emails and talk about the week’s news.
7/30/2021 • 0
Podcast #1009: Dolby vs DTS - Does it still matter?
This week we take a look at a new Drywall Screw that supposedly will isolate your theater from adjacent rooms. We also take a look at the differences between Dolby and DTS. Does it still matter in the era of their high definition codecs? We also read your emails and discuss the week’s news.
7/23/2021 • 0
Podcast #1008: Cinemas are done and possible NFL and Apple Marriage
Are Apple and the NFL close to a deal that will bring Sunday Ticket to AppleTV+? We give our thoughts on a possible deal between the two companies. We also start putting the last nails into TV and cinema operator’s coffins. All of this plus your emails and news await you on this week’s show!
7/16/2021 • 0
Podcast #1007: Dirty Power and our Favorite Automations
Is the power in your house dirty enough to affect your Home Theater experience? We quantify how to determine if you have dirty power and how to clean it up. We also look at our favorite Home Automation Scenes, read your emails and go through the week’s news.
7/9/2021 • 0
Podcast #1006: SVS 3000 Micro Subwoofer Review
This week we take a look at two articles comparing Apple services to Google and Amazon. Which service is right for you? It will be a shocker how they decide! We also spent some time with the smallest thing in subwoofers this week. The SVS 3000 Micro. This small subwoofer packs a big punch. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.
7/2/2021 • 0
Podcast #1005: Best OTA DVR for Cord Cutters
We were on vacation this week but that didn’t stop us from putting together a show for you. We take a look at the best OTA DVR for cord cutters and we have an abbreviated email and news segment.
6/25/2021 • 0
Podcast #1004: Netflixland and is your TV's Sharpness too high?
Are you ready for Netflixland? We discuss how Netflix is opening up an e-commerce site. We also take a look at the best Roku TVs in 2021 and why you should not set your TV’s sharpness very high. As usual we read your emails and discuss the week’s news.
6/18/2021 • 0
Podcast #1003: Finally a Reason for Atmos!
On today’s show it's all about Dolby Atmos. First up is the ten best Dolby Atmos scenes and if that is not enough we discuss how to stream Dolby Atmos music. We end with our impressions of listening to Dolby Atmos music on Apple Music. We also read your emails and the week’s news.
6/11/2021 • 0
Podcast #1002:
In this week’s show we look at the number of DVD, Blu-ray and UHD discs that have been released, run down the new flagship receivers from Denon and Yamaha, and answer the question, should I buy an 8K TV? Plus we read your email and take a look at the news.
6/4/2021 • 0
Podcast #1001: Email and News
On this week’s show we play catch up with your emails and the news from the past two weeks. We’ll have a traditional shw next week.
5/28/2021 • 0
Podcast #1000
It's our 1000th episode so we thought it would be fun to go down memory lane. It has been so much fun getting to know all of you. Some we know well and have developed personal relationships with. Others came and went as things in their lives changed. To Industry members, thank you for your support! To our listeners, thank you for subscribing, downloading and listening to our show. It's because of you that we are here today and will be here tomorrow!
