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Last year's Super Bowl was the most watched spectacle in the history of the event, and with good reason! One thing fans are not doing, is buying tickets on the 50-yard line. Sales are suffering across the sport as consumers continue to cut back, but it's a guarantee that more people than ever will be tuning in at home.
“The picture and sound quality you can get with today's home entertainment systems makes skipping the pricey tickets an easy choice,” says David Berman, director of training for the Home Theater Specialists of America. “Today, consumers are only willing to spend more on things they can enjoy in the long-term, not just for an afternoon. That's part of the reason you see HDTV sales growing, despite cutbacks on other luxuries.” Also, the digital transition and lower prices have kept demand strong, and just like every year, we'll see another wave of sales fueled by the Super Bowl, then the basketball and baseball seasons.
While many will go for a bargain TV and call it a day, some are looking for more in their entertainment experience. For those sports fans, HTSA put together a list of recommendations for three audio, video, and control combinations. These feature the best performance and largest screen technologies available for the ultimate you-are-there realistic experience. All have been equipped with state-of-the-art technology for motion, color and resolution.
Rookie season: Entry level entertainment
For fans who want a great picture without blowing their bank account, Berman recommends the Pioneer Elite 151 TV or 141 monitor. He says, “These plasma screens are still the best flat panel performers I have ever seen. Get one while they're still available.” Another option is the Samsung 8000 series LED backlit LCD TV. Add a Chief articulating or motorized mount to either for additional mounting options with your video solution.
A great audio match to this video component is the Integra DTR7.9 A/V Receiver, and B&W CM series loudspeakers. To control it all, add a Universal Remote Control MX980 or MX3000 controller. A system of this level is priced starting at about $10,000.
Starting Line-Up: Next level in audio/video
For a step up in screen size, switch from flat panel TV to a projection system. Berman recommends the new Mitsubishi 82″ rear screen projection system. The size is great for a room full of people watching the game, and you don't need controlled room lighting as with other projectors.
To round out the audio, try the Integra DTR9.9 A/V Receiver and Definitive Technology BP 7002 loudspeakers. For control, go with an entry level Control 4 automation package like the HC 200 system and controller. Expect to invest $25,000 and up on a system of this quality, when installed and set up by an expert.
MVP: The best of everything
Not willing to skimp on performance when it comes to electronics? Then make the game really come alive by pairing a Digital Projection Titan Pro Series II Projector with a Stewart Firehawk screen for the makings of a reference video system.
Berman suggests adding Control 4 HC1000 level gear and touchscreens for automation, a Kaleidescape system for content storage and distribution, and Classé amplifiers paired with B&W speakers for the absolute best home entertainment experience. It comes with a hefty price tag, running upwards of $100,000, but when you want the best, you pay for the best.
Berman adds, “Whichever video option you choose for your home, the key is to recognize that the best, whether that is the best value, the best compromise, or the best performer, all have to be hooked up to great audio and operated by intuitive control systems for maximum enjoyment.”
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