Are TV Mounts Safe?

are tv mounts safe - Sacramento

Are TV Mounts Safe to Use? 

Most homes nowadays have flat-screen TVs in almost every room. They’re great for entertainment, but some people have a hard time with displaying their TV screens. Since every home has its own unique layout, it can be hard to properly hang or display your TV. Properly hanging your TV can improve viewing quality and free up space. You may be wondering if TV mounts are safe to use. The short answer is yes, but of course, it depends on who and how your TV is mounted. With the cost of TV screens increasing, the last thing you would want is your TV to come crashing down. In this article, we answer: are tv mounts safe to use? For professional audio and video services, please contact Specialized AV today.

What Is There To Be Done

Those who try to mount their TV themselves will need to have a lot of time on their hands. Although wall mounts are relatively inexpensive, mounting your 68″ TV by yourself is a lot harder than you think. TV mounts have an anti-tip strap that secures your TV and furniture together. These straps are quite sturdy. Today’s TV mounts may also accommodate your accessories and other electrical components. You may easily put a streaming device panel behind your TV to keep small streaming components like Roku or Apple TV out of reach and sight of curious young eyes or paws. Furthermore, the last thing you want is for your child to tear out the wires or cords. However, you will be relieved to learn that TV mounts are also capable of concealing these components after the final installation has been completed.

TV Mounts Also Improve The Aesthetics Of Your Room

Of course, your children and pet’s safety are priority. However, you also want to get the most out of your television screen. TV wall mounts allow you to adjust the angle of your TV screen for the optimum viewing experience. You may even alter the appearance of your entire room. If you are looking for a TV bracket in Sacramento, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our range of top TV mounts will provide you with the best viewing experience and are equipped with a variety of safety measures, making us one of the industry leaders.

How Can I Tell if The TV Height Is Adequate?

Your living room isn’t complete without a television set. Others feel the same way about other living rooms in your home, such as the kitchen, home office, bedroom, and so on. The technique is simple: buy a television set, bring it home, and arrange it in the best possible location (which can either be mounted directly on the wall or placed on a cabinet or table). If you intend to mount your TV set on the wall, things can become a little tricky, and you may find yourself surrounded by certain doubts, such as the approximate height for mounting your TV set and so on.

It is critical to determine the height of your TV set if you intend to install it or use a TV stand. After you have installed the television, it is critical that the viewer’s comfort is prioritized. Aside from reducing reflections, a comfortable viewing position is essential. It is not as straightforward as most people believe to determine the appropriate height of a flat-screen TV set. To determine the optimal height for mounting, you must first understand a variety of factors of the TV, such as the viewing angle, eye-level height and viewing angle, and size. Below, we explore some of these factors you should consider before mounting your TV.

Things to Consider When Choosing a TV Height

When watching TV, your eye level is computed when you are sitting rather than standing. To figure out how high you’ll be sitting, measure the distance from the floor to your eyes. According to our Sacramento audio and video experts, the TV should not be positioned more than 30 degrees from the wall.

Size of the Television Set

The TV set’s size just comprises the viewing area of the TV. Understanding the size of the TV’s viewing area can assist you in determining the height at which you should mount the set. It is critical to remember that you are judging from the floor to the center of the TV set, not from the top or bottom.

Contact Specialized AV

All you need to do is contact Specialized Audio and Video for professional TV mounting. Our audio and video services are of the highest quality. Also, we will ensure that your TV set looks beautiful on your wall. We proudly serve the Greater Sacramento area and beyond. Give us a call today to get a quote on our AV services! Check out our Facebook page to stay up to date with the latest news.

Man Cave Must-Haves

man cave - sacramento

What Every Man Cave Needs

Nowadays, everyone desires the ideal man cave to provide a peaceful getaway from the stresses of everyday life. After a long work week, it’s always nice to come home to a place that is 100% yours. So, what exactly does the ultimate man cave have to offer? In honor of football season starting again, Sacramento AV experts have put together a few must-haves for your man cave. 

Recliner

You must first and foremost have comfy seats. Watching the big game or your favorite movies isn’t the same if you don’t have the right couch or recliner. Our favorites are made of genuine leather. You may choose from hundreds of different styles and microfiber colors, as well as different grades of leather if you use the correct source for your seats.

Big Screen 

When it comes to man cave big screens, there are two options: projectors and HD TVs. Both technologies have advanced dramatically in recent years, and either can give high-fidelity photos when you need them the most. Projectors require a little more setup and can be tricky if the lighting isn’t correct, but they might be a cost-effective option if you need a large screen. TVs will be easier to use, although they may be slightly more expensive for the same size image as projectors. Consider your budget and available space, then chat with an experienced consultant who can share their expertise with you. Read this article to learn more about projectors vs. TVs.

Surround Sound Speakers 

To go with your receiver, you’ll need high-quality speakers. For the most powerful bass, depending on the layout of your man cave, you should choose a powered subwoofer. This function is especially useful if you love entertaining guests or hosting movie nights. There is an almost endless supply of high-quality speakers to pick from, so it is critical that you consult with someone who is well-versed in this area.

Bar 

Having everything you need to prepare the perfect drinks is an important part of entertaining. We recommend storing your favorite adult drinks and sodas. Whatever drinks your family often uses, that way you don’t have to go too far to get a refreshment.

Games

Pool table, dartboard, or other classic games are excellent for a man cave. Most people love playing games, especially in a man cave. When you have your buddies over for a guys’ night in, nothing beats a few hands of poker with a drink in the other hand. To finish the setting, add low-hanging billiard lights to create an old-school ambiance.

Book Nook

For those looking to add some sophistication to their man cave, consider adding a book nook area. Including a bookcase and filling it with classic literature is impressive. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial construction company, recommends floor to ceiling bookcase. This will make the space look more masculine, and the ceilings will appear larger. 

Contact Audio and Video Company 

While Specialized AV does not carry everything on this list, we can help you with your audio and video needs. Contact Specialized AV for professional installation on TVs, receivers, and surround sound options to help you create the ultimate sound system for your man cave. We offer the best audio and video services in Sacramento. Call us today!

Projectors vs. TVs

projectors vs. tvs - Sacramento AV

The Battle of the Big Screens: Projectors vs. TVs

 

Your home is your sanctuary. It’s important to have what you need to call home. For some, this could be a designated home office, kitchen, or TV room. Nowadays, most Americans have one TV in every room as a way for entertainment. If your household is big on entertaining guests, you may be considering audio and video upgrades. Many home theaters have a big 4k TV. But, that’s not the only option. Today, home projectors give TVs a run for their money. Choosing between the two can be difficult. So, this raises the question: which is better? In this article, our Sacramento AV experts weigh out the pros and cons of projectors vs. TVs.  

 

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Living Room Projector

Let us begin by looking at projectors. Though they were long restricted to the domains of the corporate conference room and the movie theater, they are now a popular choice for homeowners seeking that extra visual edge.

 

Benefits of Projectors

  • In terms of screen size, a living room projector is an increasingly cost-effective option. The projector can easily produce a bigger screen area, but a TV that size will cost you a pretty penny. 
  • The capacity to maximize high-resolution content. You can view all of the fine details in your ultra HD material with a living room projector setup. If you don’t have a big enough TV, those visuals won’t be as sharp.
  • Maintain more adaptability in the use of your media room; projectors are simple to place, and screens are usually simple to store. It is more difficult to move a TV if you desire a more versatile entertainment space.

Cons of Projectors

  • The size of the screen is still restricted by the size of the room; for a larger image, a greater distance between the screen and the projector is required. In certain households, this will impose a hard limit on the size of your screen. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial construction company, point out that this can be said for conference rooms as well. When in doubt, contact a professional for their opinion.
  • Most projectors still require dim lighting to produce the finest image. There are ultra-bright projectors available, but they are more expensive. The greatest projectors may attain contrast levels comparable to some televisions; nevertheless, for most devices, darker environments are preferable, which may limit utility for some users.
  • Maintenance can be an issue. With a TV, you simply plug it in and start watching; with a projector, you will need to replace air filters and bulbs on a regular basis. Some homeowners may find this inconvenient if it is ceiling mounted.

The Benefits of TVs

  • A large TV may provide tremendous entertainment value for many households, especially with the expanding availability of 4K material. 
  • Easy to purchase 
  • Improved brightness and contrast. Regardless of the lighting in your home, it is always simple to view clean and clear details on the screen.
  • It is easier to install and takes up less total space to offer a comfortable viewing distance. Furthermore, most TVs today can be readily mounted to the wall, freeing up extra floor space.
  • With Smart TV features now prevalent and easily accessible plugs and connectors for adding game consoles, cable connections, and more, it’s easier to utilize as a media hub.

Disadvantages of TVs

  • Cost. Today’s top-of-the-line televisions can be expensive, especially if you want all of the latest bells and whistles, such as OLED technology. If you have to choose between a projector and a TV for 4K content, projectors may be the more affordable option.
  • Less than efficient audio quality. Built-in speakers on televisions are sometimes insufficient for home theater use, which is a concern with projectors as well. You’ll likely need to have a professional AV company install a speaker or surround sound system to match your new TV.
  • Size and position are fixed.  

What’s Better: Projectors vs. TVs

Unfortunately, there’s not one clear answer. As you can see, there’s a lot that goes into both. It will depend on the size of the space, your audio and video needs, and your budget. Projectors may give a longer-lasting opportunity to provide movie-watching experiences. However, it might not be adequate for small spaces. A TV may be the ideal option, especially when it comes to selecting the other parts of the space. However, there is no definitive answer as to whether you should buy a projector or a television – each buyer’s circumstances will play a significant role in the decision. Having said that, both approaches offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. You can always contact a professional for help.

 

Contact Specialized AV 

As we’ve seen, there are advantages and disadvantages to both sides of the issue, and determining the best option necessitates a comprehensive examination of what you want most from the viewing experience. Of course, matching your selections to your budget and space constraints is essential. At Specialized Audio and Video, our team will help you choose the best audio and video products for your home. Contact us today to learn more about our audio and video services.

Signs It’s Time To Upgrade to a Home Theater

Signs It's time to upgrade to a home theater- Sacramento CA

Five Signs It’s Time to Upgrade to a Home Theater

There’s nothing quite like having the house that everyone loves to come together at. Whether it be birthdays, holidays, or weekend events, it’s important to be proud of the home you’re in—a place where you can make new memories with the whole group. Home theaters have become increasingly popular, allowing families and friends to get together without going to the theater. But how do you make the decision to invest in a home theater system? Well, if you’re on the fence about it, consider these five signs it’s time to upgrade to a home theater. You can always contact Specialized Audio and Video in Sacramento for an estimate on our professional audio and video services. 

You’re Ready for The Financial Investment

While you’re eager to have your home theater up and running, it’s a good idea to budget for a home project like this. You’ll need a new television, surround sound, home theater chairs, and more. The average cost for professional wiring a home theater’s components is about $400. Of course, this can increase based on the size of your room and the components that will be necessary to complete the project.

Your Television is Outdated

Today, 4K TVs are the new best thing. If you haven’t purchased a new smart TV in the last year, it’s likely your television is already outdated. 4K is the new HD, and it’s definitely what it’s all cracked up to be. Our video equipment specialists highly recommend making the upgrade for your new home theater. The type of television you choose will make or break your new home theater. Read our most recent blog post about the Pros and Cons About UHD TVs.

If you’re hoping for a screen larger than 80″, you might want to think about investing in a home theater projector instead. It’s important to keep in mind that you’ll need a clean, white surface to project the image upon. If you have the necessary space, a projector will transform your room into a theater-like environment. Also, think about how you’ll exhibit your films to your audience. If you’re streaming, be sure your internet connection is up to speed.

Time for Better Surround Sound

Having the most up-to-date technology to produce the greatest picture possible is one component of a fantastic home theater, but having movies with excellent sound is the other component. If you’re in the market for a new sound system, it might be time to consider upgrading your living room to a home theater. One reason is that your movie sound can be contained in a single dedicated room rather than being broadcast across the entire house. Ensure that your room is soundproofed before cranking up the volume. This will ensure that you and your visitors can enjoy the movie without disturbing anyone else.

After that, you’ll want to locate a sound system that’s appropriate for your needs. Consider investing in surround sound since it will make you feel as if you are truly in the movie you are now watching. Contact Specialized Audio and Video to learn more about our audio and video products.

Ready for a Designated Space to Relax

Installing a home theater really elevates the overall house. Many Sacramento homes are designed to have the kitchen and living room connected. This can take away from the home theater experience. Our friends at Tureks Plumbing, a home remodeling company in Fox Valley, highly recommend investing in this home renovation project. This can raise the value of your home. Plus, who wouldn’t want a home theater? Investing in a home theater will give you a designated space to relax and unwind with family and friends. Finding the ideal seats might even make going to the movies a much more enjoyable experience than going to a regular movie theater. Our audio and video experts can help you custom design your home theater however you’d like.

Ready to Be the Hostess With The Mostest

With a home theater, you’ll most likely be the place where everyone wants to be. If you’re ready to host fun and engaging gatherings, it’s time to consider investing in a home theater system. Are you the type of family who loves watching the latest movies and television series? You need a new home theater! Pro tip: In order to truly replicate the theater experience, consider investing in a popcorn machine so that you may have a freshly popped snack while watching your show. 

Contact Specialized Audio and Video

Whatever the motivation may be, a home theater is a fantastic upgrade that will provide years of entertainment for friends and family. In your new home theater, you may relax and watch your favorite movie in luxury. Are you interested in home theater system installation? Specialized AV can help you with your audio and video needs. Contact us today to schedule an estimate!

 

Common Home Theater Problems

common home theater problems - Sacramento CA

Common Home Theater Problems

Home theater systems are the best for entertainment. However, when you have too many wires and devices, it can be hard to troubleshoot when things go wrong. Our Specialized Audio and Video team have experienced quite a few problems in our many years in the audio and video industry. Fortunately, we’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. Below, we discuss the common home theater problems Sacramento homeowners come across.

Home Theater: No Sound At All

One of the most common home theater problems users experience is no sound at all. If your speakers aren’t producing any sound, you’ll want to unplug your receiver from the power supply. The good news is that it is highly rare that you have experienced a total device failure. That would require every single speaker in your system to go out at the same time, which is unlikely. The next step is to ensure that your audio and video receiver is properly paired. If you’re using bare wire, make sure it’s firmly held down by the binding post screws, with no apparent excess wire. Assuming everything is in order and properly paired, the next best guess is that the issue is with a setting in your receiver’s program. 

Navigate to the on-screen configuration menu and begin experimenting with various speaker settings. In certain cases, you may need to manually allocate speakers to specific channels. In others, the source material may be incompatible with the speaker setup you have. Regardless, experimenting with various settings can easily solve this problem. In certain cases, a total loss of sound is the simplest issue to fix.

Home Theater: My Surround Speakers Aren’t Working

Okay, this may seem obvious, but if your surround sound speakers aren’t working, try increasing the volume. In certain cases, audio and video may be lower on certain devices. Go to the receiver’s menu and see what the settings are.

If that doesn’t fix the problem, it’s time to dig deeper into your source material. The question you must ask is if your source material is capable of 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound. If you’re listening to music through your receiver, it’s unlikely that most songs are only combined for two channels, not five or seven. Surround sound is becoming more common in movies and television shows, but it is not always present. If this is the case, you may need to configure your receiver to convert a 2.1 mix to 5.1 or higher.

Receiver settings vary, but you should be able to find this choice under something titled DSP Settings or something similar. Again, experiment with various settings to see if it makes a difference. You can always test a source that you know is capable of full surround sound to see if your receiver or speaker is the issue.

Home Theater: Staticky Speakers

Static is almost often an indication of a problem with the speaker connection. A wire may have become dislodged from its original place, and all that is needed is for you to wiggle it back in. Is the problem still not resolved? To further investigate the staticky speakers, we need to know if the static presents all the time or sometimes? If so, what exactly are they? Changing out different sources is a smart way to narrow down your choices.

If you’re using a Blu-ray player, try a different one or watch something on a streaming service and see if the static repeats itself. The process of elimination should assist you in determining which component of your system is causing the issue. If you use a power amplifier with your receiver, you can discover that the problem is with the link there, which is much more common than you would expect.

In the end, dealing with static is almost always a problem with a loose link, and once you know where it is, it’s pretty simple to repair. Unless, horror of horrors, your speakers blew because they were mismatched with your amp. You should review this guide to ensure that this does not happen again.

Home Theater: No Bass

Check out the frequency settings if your home theater has no bass. Setting your subwoofer’s crossover will also make a significant difference in how your bass is viewed. Begin at 80Hz and work your way up. If you still aren’t hearing bass in your surround system, it may be a connection issue. When interacting with subwoofers, there are a few things to keep in mind. Traditionally, the most popular locations for a subwoofer are in a room corner, away from the walls. 

Contact Specialized Audio and Video

As you can see, there are quite a few home theater problems. One way to avoid all of these problems is by hiring a professional audio and video company. DIY audio and video usually end up taking more of your time and money. Specialized AV in Sacramento is happy to help with your audio and video services. Give us a call today for a free consultation on our home theater design. 

Home Theater Audio Tips

home theater audio tips - Specialized AV Sacramento

Home Theater Audio Tips

Movies are filmed to make viewers feel like they’re a part of the story. That’s why a good surround-sound system is crucial to a good movie night. With multiple speakers in a surround sound system, the movie is brought to life. If you’re planning an upcoming movie night, follow these home theater audio tips recommended by Specialized Audio and Video in Sacramento, CA.

Home Theater Surround Sound

If you can, we recommend purchasing the best audio speakers from an audio and video company. Although standard surround systems may seem easier, an AV specialist will have the best recommendations for your unique needs. Sacramento homeowners often purchase standard surround sounds, but it’s not adequate for something like a home theater. Trust us. There’s a lot more that goes into speakers than you think.

Keep Your Chairs Away from Walls/Speakers

Many people make the mistake of putting their chairs against the wall. Doing this can actually affect your surround sound experience. If you’re spending time and money on creating the best home theater, then you should avoid any chance of too much bass. A good rule of thumb is to put at least four feet of distance between you and the wall/speakers. Our friends at Headwaters Construction, Inc., a general contractor in Sacramento, agree that both homeowners and business owners make this mistake. Although it may seem like a good idea to purchase home theater chairs right away, it’s important to make sure they fit the space properly. 

Add Enough Subwoofers

Two subwoofers are needed for a single row of seats. If you have two rows of seats, you would need at least four subs, if not more. Smooth bass will not be provided by a horn-loaded mega sub. It will definitely provide you with a lot of it, but you will also experience huge peaks and dips while listening. To provide clear, smooth bass throughout your seating area, our AV experts recommend using more subs. 

Acoustics Are Key

Your audio system accounts for just half of the sound you hear, says Sacramento AV experts. The other half of the equation is the bed. Room acoustics are a minefield of differing opinions and self-proclaimed experts. Our recommendation is to stick to the fundamentals. Add enough bass trapping to monitor your room modes. Deep fiberglass traps are extremely efficient and inexpensive; the only drawback is that they take up a lot of room. 

After that, add just enough absorption to make your room sound good. It should not have a “dead” or “echoey” tone. It should feel normal to have a conversation with someone in your theater. When you have wall-to-wall carpet and home theater chairs, you don’t usually need any more absorption.

Hire a Professional

One of the most common mistakes people make when designing their home theater is doing it themselves. More often than not, you’ll spend more time and money figuring it out compared to hiring a professional to do the job. At Specialized Audio and Video, we want nothing but the best for our customers. Contact Specialized AV today for an estimate on custom home theater design or our other audio and video services.