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mrpaul
mrpaul's stats
- Review count6
- Helpfulness votes23
- First reviewMay 22, 2012
- Last reviewMarch 5, 2015
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating4.7
- Review comment count5
- Helpfulness votes22
- First review commentApril 18, 2013
- Last review commentOctober 4, 2014
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count62
- Helpfulness votes2
- First answerJanuary 25, 2009
- Last answerMarch 5, 2015
- Featured answers0
- Best answers1
mrpaul's Reviews
This Panasonic DMP-BDT360 player's Wi-Fi allows Web access. To build a complete 3D home theater system, we recommend you purchase a 3D TV, 3D glasses designed for the TV, high-speed HDMI cable and an A/V receiver that is compatible with 3D products.
Posted by: mrpaul
from Tampa, Florida
Researched this model, purchased and connected. Set up was very easy. Entered Wi-Fi password and it connected to my home network easily. Next, clicked on Netflix, entered information and connected with no problem. Played an action Blu Ray, and the picture on my Pioneer Plasma was stunning. Truly a very good Blu Ray player with good features and an especially good deal buying on sale.
My Best Buy number: 0570429997
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Safeguard your Apple iPhone 6 with this OtterBox Symmetry Series 77-50226 case, which features dual-material synthetic rubber and polycarbonate construction and a streamlined design for reliable protection. A raised beveled edge protects the screen.
Posted by: mrpaul
from Tampa, Florida
The case is one piece, fits my iPhone 6 perfectly. I have no trouble with volume buttons, on-off, or plugging in to charge. It is a 1 piece product though I would prefer a 2 piece unit instead. It is not bulky and does what it is supposed to do.
My Best Buy number: 057042999
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Learn moreabout Magnolia PremiumInstallation Experience cinematic theater sound in your home with this 3-way center-channel speaker that features a 6-1/2" cone woofer and a 1" aluminum dome tweeter for powerful audio.
Posted by: mrpaul
from Tampa, Florida
Wow, what an amazing center channel. I matched this to my B & W 684 towers since I watch a lot of blu ray dvds, and it delivers an outstanding clarity even at low volumes. But it really is striking when listening to action scenes. It is not drowned out by the action explosions, yet still gives great clarity to voice. Very happy I chose this speaker.
My Best Buy number: 570429997
What's great about it: Powerful mid range
What's not so great: drab cabinet appearance
I would recommend this to a friend!
Sound Quality
5
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This row of 2 home theater seats features tall seat backs to ensure comfortable use and storage compartments in each arm to keep items close at hand. The wallaway design lets you fully extend the recliner, even when placed near a wall.
Posted by: mrpaul
from Tampa, Florida
What we found so great was the lumbar support these chairs offer. The lever to open is so easy to use. They tilt back very easily. Setting up was a breeze. Must say these chairs are for sure worth the money. We had to call the mfr and ask for both chairs to have two arms each, and they agreed and the chairs were delivered as promised with two arms each.
My Best Buy number: 570429997
What's great about it: Supports back
I would recommend this to a friend!
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+9points
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Learn more about Magnolia Premium Installation The gloss black finish of this triple-wide TV stand adds a touch of style to your home. The top center compartment can be configured to house a center-channel speaker, and the side compartments feature ample space for DVDs and CDs.
Posted by: mrpaul
from Tampa, Florida
Undoubtedly one of the classiest stands being offered. Has ventilated shelves and hidden wheels. Just a shame it costs so much, but was the only stand we fell in love with for style.
What's great about it: Style
What's not so great: Price
I would recommend this to a friend!
Durability
5
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+6points
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Learn moreabout Magnolia PremiumInstallation Enjoy enhanced sound quality with this 2-1/2-way, floorstanding speaker that features a 6-1/2" woven cone woofer and a 1" aluminum dome tweeter for powerful audio.
Posted by: mrpaul
from Tampa, Florida
What I wanted in a speaker was great mid range clarity and good bass, and the 684 gives both. The dual kevlar cones make the sound awesome. I connected to a Pioneer Elite (110w) and bought AudioQuest Rocket 33 bi-wire cables, and they truly make these speakers come alive. I have a large room and they fill the room without having to turn super loud. Make sure you do the speaker balancing and you won't be disappointed.
What's great about it: Sound clarity and bass
What's not so great: Cabinet style too bland
I would recommend this to a friend!
Other Best Buy Products I Recommend
AudioQuest - Rocket 33 10' Pair Bi-Wire Speaker Cable, Silver Banana Connectors - Red/Black
(47)Sound Quality
5
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mrpaul's Review Comments
Learn moreabout Magnolia PremiumInstallation This Panasonic TV supports images up to 1080p. To build a complete 3D home theater system, we recommend you purchase 3D glasses designed for this TV, a 3D Blu-ray player, high-speed HDMI cable and an A/V receiver that is compatible with 3D products. Smart TVGet a world of instant entertainment on this smart TV. Connect to the Internet and stream movies, listen to music and access a wide variety of other content on your HDTV.Learn more about smart products.CinemaNowNetflixPandoraSkype Facebook VIERA / 55" Class / Plasma / 1080p / 600Hz / Smart / 3D / HDTV
Overall
4 out of 5
4 out of 5Good Picture and GREAT sound!!
By Shlim1
from Chicago
I was not really in the market for a new TV, but wanted to treat myself to a current model with todays technology. I am replacing a Sony 36" XBR CRT that has been working flawlessly, so the picture quality of the new TV would need to be superb!
After viewing numerous TV's, I was on the fence deciding between the 55" 8000 Series Samsung LED or the Panasonic VT series Plasma. I know comparing these 2 models was like comparing 2 completely different animals, but they were the 2 I liked with the best picture quality anytime I looked at any stores display (excluding the newer pricey 4K TV's).
I ended up deciding on the Panasonic, ONLY because of the refresh rate (Hockey games needed to be clear) and after friends suggestion of Plasmas generally having more true color levels. I really liked the brightness of the Samsung and was worried of how dark the picture on the Panasonic would be when in my home. This was truly my only major concern with the Panasonic. I did end up getting a great deal, with the store matching a web price of $1400!! They also said if I were to be unhappy with the picture, they would exchange with the Samsung at no charge within the first 15 days.
Once delivered, I was like a kid with a new toy! General set-up was a piece of cake, but getting the colors similar to the old CRT took quite some time. The Smart features are lack luster compared to the Samsung or a PC, and the web browser is lame, but that is not why I bought the TV anyway. I would say a QWERTY keyboard on a remote would be helpful. I also wish a couple 3D glasses were included as with the Samsung.
After 2 weeks of having the TV, I am very happy with the picture, and it will only be better after a calibration is complete. I was really impressed with the sound for a thin TV!! I wish I could get rid of the little advertisements when the TV powers up and during volume adjustments. Kinda lame if you ask me! Hockey games look awesome and blue-ray is phenomenal!! If you can still get a great deal on this TV, don't look back!!
After viewing numerous TV's, I was on the fence deciding between the 55" 8000 Series Samsung LED or the Panasonic VT series Plasma. I know comparing these 2 models was like comparing 2 completely different animals, but they were the 2 I liked with the best picture quality anytime I looked at any stores display (excluding the newer pricey 4K TV's).
I ended up deciding on the Panasonic, ONLY because of the refresh rate (Hockey games needed to be clear) and after friends suggestion of Plasmas generally having more true color levels. I really liked the brightness of the Samsung and was worried of how dark the picture on the Panasonic would be when in my home. This was truly my only major concern with the Panasonic. I did end up getting a great deal, with the store matching a web price of $1400!! They also said if I were to be unhappy with the picture, they would exchange with the Samsung at no charge within the first 15 days.
Once delivered, I was like a kid with a new toy! General set-up was a piece of cake, but getting the colors similar to the old CRT took quite some time. The Smart features are lack luster compared to the Samsung or a PC, and the web browser is lame, but that is not why I bought the TV anyway. I would say a QWERTY keyboard on a remote would be helpful. I also wish a couple 3D glasses were included as with the Samsung.
After 2 weeks of having the TV, I am very happy with the picture, and it will only be better after a calibration is complete. I was really impressed with the sound for a thin TV!! I wish I could get rid of the little advertisements when the TV powers up and during volume adjustments. Kinda lame if you ask me! Hockey games look awesome and blue-ray is phenomenal!! If you can still get a great deal on this TV, don't look back!!
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
Eliminate ads
April 18, 2013
If you search the set-up menu you will be able to eliminate the momentary ads that pop up when you first turn on the TV. I have this tv and did just that.
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Learn more about Magnolia Premium Installation This powerful subwoofer delivers a combination of bass extension, power and detail within a high-density cabinet with dual rear-mounted low-turbulence ports.
Overall
5 out of 5
5 out of 5Very happy with the purchase
By Zunk
from Troy, Ohio
At first, did not turn on or seem to be working because of the settings on the receiver. Geek squad quickly fixed this, now functioning with no problems. Love the extra kick this product gives to my system.
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
Right choice
May 13, 2013
I decided to go with this sub after listening at Magnolia. At home, I have watched several action movies with loads of explosions, planes flying over, and this sub really puts you in the heart of the action. I am totally pleased with how it adds to my viewing enjoyment. when you get a quality blu ray it knocks your socks off. Well worth the $$$ if you like totall surround and awesome low frequency (deep bass) room filling sound.
0points
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Learn moreabout Magnolia PremiumInstallation Enjoy lush, immersive visuals with this Pioneer Elite SC-79 A/V home theater receiver. Includes HDMI 4K Ultra HD and 3D pass-through technologies for compatibility with 3D TVs, Blu-ray players and gaming consoles and 4K Ultra HD TVs.
Overall
1 out of 5
1 out of 5Waste of money and lot of hassle
By AJar
from Cincinnati, OH
i have owned one of these pioneer elite systems for more than a year now. When I bought one, I bought the most expensive one in the series so I don't miss out on anything. I must tell you that I feel stupid because there are cheaper systems that are easier to install and easier to operate. The last straw was when I noted delays between audio on video on some connections. you also have to buy a seperate amplifier. The amazing set of features is useless because it is very hard to use. The remote, the connections and the interface is too complicated. My friend owns a system that costs less than one tenth and the music from his system sounds just as good. It is not impossible to learn the system, but who has several hours in the day for several days in a row to dedicate to learning to play a receiver? When you want to play music, you want to play music and not run for the manual and start flipping pages. Overall, I felt sad and felt that I would have been better off with a cheaper, easier to use system.
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
Get The Facts
November 25, 2013
You do not need a separate amp to use the multi zones on this receiver. Secondly, using the supplies microphone to do the speaker setup/balancing is a simple process. Other brands using Audyssey speaker balancing takes 6 steps to do it. Pioneer uses one step and according to most high end review sites is as good or better at speaker balancing. Very simple. Yes, this is a high end receiver, but it can be set up without using the manual.
+21points
21of 21voted this comment as helpful.
Learn moreabout Magnolia PremiumInstallation Enjoy lush, immersive visuals with this Pioneer Elite SC-79 A/V home theater receiver. Includes HDMI 4K Ultra HD and 3D pass-through technologies for compatibility with 3D TVs, Blu-ray players and gaming consoles and 4K Ultra HD TVs.
Overall1 out of 5
1 out of 5Waste of money and lot of hassle
By AJar
from Cincinnati, OH
i have owned one of these pioneer elite systems for more than a year now. When I bought one, I bought the most expensive one in the series so I don't miss out on anything. I must tell you that I feel stupid because there are cheaper systems that are easier to install and easier to operate. The last straw was when I noted delays between audio on video on some connections. you also have to buy a seperate amplifier. The amazing set of features is useless because it is very hard to use. The remote, the connections and the interface is too complicated. My friend owns a system that costs less than one tenth and the music from his system sounds just as good. It is not impossible to learn the system, but who has several hours in the day for several days in a row to dedicate to learning to play a receiver? When you want to play music, you want to play music and not run for the manual and start flipping pages. Overall, I felt sad and felt that I would have been better off with a cheaper, easier to use system.
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
What did you want?
July 19, 2014
When one buys a top of the line receiver it usually is because they have truly high-quality speakers and a somewhat large room. Stating you need a separate amp is totally incorrect. The auto MCACC ROOM CALIBRATION speaker balancing has received wide acclaim for its accuracy, even more so then the Audyssey which "balances" 6 sitting areas for a blended sound. This is a very sophisticated received with separate DAC circuitry for each zone. Perhaps you can study more about this unit to fully enjoy the great ability it has to truly reproduce sound at an amazing level. Class D3 amplification is truly a wonderful feature. Air Studios London has masters in sound quality who worked with Pioneer to achieve the best possible sound that can be done. Maybe you need to sell this unit and purchase a simpler unit. It also has a Network GUI to aid in setup.
+1point
1of 1voted this comment as helpful.
Sony 2.1-Channel Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer: Add booming bass, extra voice clarity and captivating virtual surround sound to your home theater. The soundbar is easy to mount on the wall, and the wireless subwoofer offers multiple placement options around the room. Plus, control the sound system and stream your music library or favorite Internet radio stations right from your devices.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5Sounds and looks beautiful!
By Emilemenator
Got a good deal on this one week when it was on special. It looks fantastic and matches well aesthetically and sonically with my Sony Bravia flat panel. Plus it's great to be able to match it up via Bluetooth with my iPhone and listen to music on it. Love this soundbar!
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
Worth it
October 4, 2014
Helped a neighbor purchase this unit. Was very easy to install, connected cable box HDMI to HDMI in and then connected HDMI out to tv. Unit paired to subwoofer automatically. While volume peak is not great, it is still much louder and more clear than tv speakers.
0points
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mrpaul's Questions
mrpaul has not submitted any questions.
Is there a way to surf the web with my "smart" Samsung BDE5400/ZA Blu Ray Player?
My Samsung BDE5400/ZA player is called "smart" but did not come with a web browser. Is there a way can download one? Any way to work around this deficiency?
Sadly no. To include a web browser in a modestly priced blu-ray is just not feasable. If you have a laptop with an HDMI output, you can use a laser mouse and control from a chair with the laptop connected to the TV via HDMI.
11 years ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
47" Insignia worked only 78 days
I bought a 47" Insignia on Jan 21 2013 and it went out Apr 7 2013. The picture went out first then the sound also went out. Is there a store warranty that will cover this?
Yes, the tv does have a warranty. Some Insignias have 90 days and others have 1 year. You may have to call first to see if it has in home service or if you have to bring it in. A simple phone call will determine that.
11 years ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
i there a sale in bestbuy?
Best Buy is no different than any other company. Every week there are different things on sale.
14 years, 4 months ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
Is it possible to run my HD cable box thru my DVD player?
Before I got my HD cable box I ran my old box thru my DVD player. That way I didnt have to use the input on the tv. I just changed the inputs on the dvd player. Now that I have my HD box I can no longer record things off of my tv. It just records black screen. Would an upscaling DVD player that records work for doing it the way I used to?
If you have an hd cable box you buy a dvd recorder that does not have a digital tuner. You connect from the cable box to the recorder, and then connect the recorder to the tv. Some units have an ir cable to place in front of the cable box receptor to change the cable box channel so you can use the timer feature of the recorder (which I currently have).
14 years, 4 months ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
Where are Panasonic Plasma TVs manufactured?
Most all tv manufacturers today have tv's assembled all over the Asian market, and sometimes they have factories in Mexico. No different then Acura autos being made in Tennessee. It's the specifications they are made to that counts.
14 years, 4 months ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
Do you think getting my tv calibrated (50" Panasonic Plasma) is worth the cost?
Television circuits are done at assembly line speed and are far from perfect. The industry uses a color temperature called Kelvin, and the ideal temp is 6504. Most tv's come out of the box in the 9000-10000 range, while lcd's run as high as 13000. Way too distorted on color purity. Break in your Panasonic on the movie setting for 4-5 weeks, then get the calibration done. Picture beauty will be amazing, and energy consumption will be reduced. Go to customretailer.net and see how this saves energy.
14 years, 4 months ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
SET UP/INSTALL
I want a new Sony 32 " flat screen HD 1080. We have currently a Samsung flat sceen w/ HD cable service. Would you install a new tv and hook it up and if so how much?
It is most certainly worth having your tv connected to an hd cable box. Just buy a good HDMI cable and connect to your cable box, and use the same type of cable to connect you dvd player to the tv for best picture.
14 years, 4 months ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
power surge
My Tv stop working because of the surge, do you think it is Power Supply, how can I fix that myself, will you sell part for it?
First it depends what type of tv? A crt, lcd, plasma, dlp? Many parts could have been fried due to a power surge. Today one needs a Power Condtioner/surge protector to clean the pulsating electricity as well as protect against surges. Also when you buy one, connect the cable line to the conditioner first, then to the cable box. You can get a lightning hit via the cable line being hit in the ground. Best to spend a few bucks to estimate repairs. Biggest factor is what type of tv you have? Is it old, not an hd tv, most likely not worth spending the money.
15 years, 3 months ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
Brand Quality
Generally, what is the quality difference between Sharp and Samsung for LCD HDTV - especially 50"+ models with 120 hz?
In 2008 and 2009 Samsung has generally offered a better product at a fair price. Back in 2004 Sharp had one of the finest LCD pictures on the market, but not as great anymore. Samsung 6 series and higher are your best bet.
15 years, 3 months ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida
Rocketfish Wireless Speakers -- Still not working.
Thanks for your answer Jerry. It's still not working. I forgot to mention that there is a DVD involved which I would like it to work, please. Currently I have:
Sender (red + white) <==connected to==> TV (red + white)
... which doesn't seem right.
Thanks again!
Freda
Sender (red + white) <==connected to==> TV (red + white)
... which doesn't seem right.
Thanks again!
Freda
In order to use the Rocketfish wireless setup, it needs to be connected to your audio/video receiver, not the tv. The tv (does not have an amplifier in most cases). If you have your dvd connected to the receiver in order to get your 5 channel sound you must connect with either digital coax or optical, then the receiver can send the proper coded signals to the rear speakers. The same holds true for your tv, if you have a cable box, connect digital coax or optical from the cable box to the receiver to get true 5.1 channel sound from HD tv channels.
15 years, 3 months ago
by
mrpaul
Tampa, Florida