Audio Video News

<A HREF=http://www.tivo.com>TiVo</A> may be this year's hot ticket.

One of the electronics industry's dirty little secrets is that plasma display panels (PDPs) can exhibit all kinds of problems at higher altitudes. Home theater fans in places like Vail, CO (altitude 8500') have been plagued by buzzing noises and other strange behaviors when trying to enjoy films or television programs on PDPs.

La-Z-Boy
So you've finally put together your dream home theater. The screen is just perfect, the components come together nicely, and you're all ready to settle in for that Rocky marathon this weekend. If only you could enjoy it all from the comfort of your favorite La-Z-Boy recliner. Say no more, my friend. La-Z-Boy has answered your prayers with their new Home Theater Collection. Seven pieces comprise the new Matinee group: right and left one-arm recliners; right and left wedges with armless recliners; a two-arm recliner; a console with a storage drawer; and a standalone wedge. You can customize the recliners with La-Z-Boy's power recline system, which lets you recline or extend to virtually any position. La-Z-Boy says that each cushion is placed at a 15-degree angle and positioned so that the seat back won't block the surround sound. The suggested retail price of the dividing furniture pieces (including the wedge and console) ranges from $299 in fabric to $799 in leather. Prices for the seating furniture pieces (including the one- and two-arm recliners) range from $599 in fabric to $1,899 in leather with the power reclining option.
La-Z-Boy
(734) 242-1444
www.lazboy.com

Once again, home theater fans can help themselves and others at the same time by participating in <A HREF="http://www.fatwyre.com">The Cable Company</A>'s eighth annual "Summer Against Hunger" campaign. The Cable Company and a wide cross-section of its vendors (listed below) have set up a program by which up to 10% of The Cable Company's August sales are donated to CARE and the International Rescue Committee, with contributions to be used to assist the worldwide disaster relief efforts of those humanitarian organizations.

The next generation of home theater equipment is likely to be smaller and more efficient, thanks to recent developments in digital amplification at <A HREF="http://www.ti.com/">Texas Instruments</A>.

The DVD format continues to gain momentum. Earlier this year, DVD rentals exceeded VHS in units and dollar business for the first time, sure signs that videotape is headed for extinction.

Home video fans and independent film makers should take heart in a new announcement from <A HREF="http://www.apple.com">Apple Computer</A>.