Marshal

quote: Originally posted by Audioholic: So I'm not a true Star Wars fan, huh, although I've seen every Star Wars movie in the theater as it was released (starting in 1977). I guess you're right, since I don't own any of the masks, uniforms, or a play light saber. How often do you wear yours, TODDVJ? Good one!!

As for Star Wars Episode 1, if you can get the DVD for free it may be a good demo disc but there's no way I would pay for one. The movie is not up to the originals and the Jar Jar character is so obnoxious that it brings back the need for "barf bags" in theaters. I saw it in the theater but won't be buying this DVD no matter how good the sound is. Did I hear an echo? ;-)

Hi Jack: What size is that TV? I may have seen that one. Is it a 50"? I saw a Sony 51" RP that is supersharp with great color. It looked better to me than the Pioneer it was sitting right next to displaying the same HD demo. Don't remember the model # though. Doesn't matter; 50+" is too big for my apartment.

One more thing; at least as far as audio is concerned, Star Wars Ep#1. I stepped into a Bose store about a week ago while killing time at the mall. They had an HT demo going on at the time with TPM playing with their top of the line HT speaker system, forgot which one. Everyone has been gushing about how awesome the movie is with 6.1 EX. The video looked good too, but it's the audio on that disc which is what's really sweet. Of course that DVD's Achilles heel is one insipidly stupid character named Jar Jar. The one reason I may not buy that one no matter how awesome the sound. Oh well, at least it has Natalie Portman. Overall, for a demo DVD to really show off your system with, go with the first three above. This message has been edited by Marshal on 12-21-2001 at 10:30 PM

The same as just about everyone else's: The Fifth Element-now the Superbit version. Eagles' Hell Freezes Over T2 Ultimate Edition

ToddVJ: Yeah, you're right about that Yamaha. I checked it out again and it doesn't have THX certification. But the specs still look good and A/V equipment doesn't absolutely have to be THX certified to be good equipment. I don't think any of the Sony ES line is(unless I'm wrong again)and those units are good. I'm still considering one of them too.

Most of the reviews are very positive.

Thanks for the info MaxG about the Sony 900V. I'm thinking about getting it before long or at least hoping to. Your system sounds impressive; no doubt your audiophile friends do love it. If I can just decide on a new HD ready TV, preferably 16:9 format under $3K for a small apartment(that means no 55" or 65" jobs)I'll be in business. Unlike you I am unfortunately on a budget so I can't overindulge in high-end AV equipment right now. No offense. BTW, have you or anyone heard, read or used the Yamaha 5490 receiver? The specs look impressive with its DD-EX, DTS-ES, and PL2 capability and being THX-Ultra certified. I haven't read any reviews on it, but with those specs and at +/- $850, it looks like a good buy.

MaxG: How do you like the Sony NS-900V DVD/SACD player? And what DVDs and SACDs have you played on it?

Geez, I'm disappointed. I expected there would be videophiles here to answer the ? for sure. If not the Toshiba, which would you recommend? I know this is mostly an audiophile forum, but with Home Theater being big these days, I expected at least a couple of replies.

I need to correct a mistake some of us(including me) have made with the T2 title. I believe the title we're referring to is not Special Edition(SE), but Ultimate Edition. That's the one with DD-EX and DTS-ES soundtrack and the impressive visual effects in the menu that say "Cyberdyne" and have the Terminator metallic skull.

I'm thinking about getting the Yamaha 5490 receiver with DD-EX & DTS-ES and DPL 2 capability. It has 550w total output power and is THX rated. Does anyone have any experience with this kit or know of someone who does? I'd like to read some reviews. TIA for your help.

I hope you have broadband: http://vw-team.de/usa.swf

I liked Shrek, but I liked Monsters, Inc even more. Not so much for the animation quality, which admittedly was not as good as Shrek, but the story was was better. My opinion.

I've been shopping for a new TV lately for watching my DVDs and the upcoming Winter Olympics and Superbowl(well, the commercials at least). I hope NBC will carry the Olympics in HDTV. Anyway, I've been thinking about the new Toshiba 42H81 16:9 HDTV ready kit and would like to field this group for feedback if you have this TV and any experiences. I have a small apartment and the relatively modest size for a widescreen is perfect for my apt and so is the depth, front to back. One problem however is that the top of the TV is too narrow to mount any speakers like a center channel. Any info on your experiences either with this TV or others would be appreciated. I've seriously considered the Sony Wegas like the 36 XBR450, but a widescreen is more future-proof. Thanks in advance. This message has been edited by Marshal on 12-26-2001 at 05:51 PM

Desperado on Superbit and The Fifth Element on Superbit, which is the ultimate so far in my opinion. Those and T2SE of course. Those are must haves along with the Eagles HFO for music.

I hope the Eagles' next album due next Fall will come out on SACD.

I've always liked that video because of Helena. Good video anyway; I like the way it was shot. I would always watch that video and think "It's good to be a rock star."

T2 Special Edition along with The Fifth Element(both versions, but especially Superbit)are in my book the best DVDs ever made for video quality and sound. Particularly video quality.

Chet "Mr. Guitar" Atkins 1924-2001