LATEST ADDITIONS

A 65-inch TV screen is nice but what if you could watch movies and binge-watch your favorite Netflix shows on a screen twice that size? Or maybe you already have a projector you’ve been wanting to upgrade. Either way, with the holidays fast approaching it’s a great time to step back and assess your TV/home theater setup. We’ve compiled snapshots of six top performing projectors that, with the right screen, can make all your big-screen dreams come true. And once you make the switch to a mega screen you might never step foot in a movie theater again — assuming, of course, your new projector is hitched to a first-rate home theater sound system.

Visit our Projector Reviews and Projector Screen reviews pages to see all Sound&Vision reviews in the projection category. Also don’t forget to visit our Top Picks page where you can search for the cream of the crop in all categories, including prospective AV receivers and home theater speaker systems to mate with your new projection setup. For even more on the ins and outs of video projection, see Projector Primer: Closer Than It Looks.

PRICE $799

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Stunning design with consummate build quality
Pleasurable sound balance
Plush ear pads
Minus
Sound balance may be too rich for some tastes

THE VERDICT
Campfire Audio’s Cascade is a class act, with distinctive good looks and a sweet, easy sound.

Even before I start listening to headphones, their look and feel on my head can have an influence on my first impressions of the sound. On that score, Campfire Audio’s Cascade headphones really had my hopes up. The satin black machined aluminum earcups felt like they could survive a close encounter with a city bus and escape unscathed. The plush, real lambskin-covered earpads promised good times ahead. Yesiree, the Cascade makes a mighty fine first impression. What about the sound, you ask?

My hypothesis is this: Things that are old will last longer and will be more useful for a longer time, than things that are new. Yes, the logic of my hypothesis is somewhat circular, but that doesn't mean it isn't true. Exhibit A: The vacuum tube.

Paul Barton, noted Canadian speaker designer and founder/chief designer of PSB Speakers, was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award on Saturday at the Toronto Audio Fest.