Recent FAQ Articles
FAQ: Do Atmos Enabled Speakers Really Work?
We frequently get asked if Dolby Atmos add-on speaker modules work well enough to be a viable alternative to discrete ceiling mounted speakers. We answer and discuss the trade-offs to let you decide.
FAQ: Set Up and Equipment Advice for Home Theater
We gathered some of the most frequently asked questions from our YouTube & Facebook pages regarding home theater set up issues % AV equipment recommendations. Check out video and editorial responses.
Why Don't We Record Listening Demos For Our YouTube Fans?
This article and related video discusses why we don't record listening demos on YouTube. We also discuss the best way to demo gear to help you make better purchasing decisions.
Can I Use Regular Speakers as Dolby Atmos Upfiring?
We've received numerous emails from our readers asking if they could repurpose ordinary speakers as Dolby Atmos Upfiring units as opposed to purchasing specific Atmos-enabled ones. Find the answer.
Should I Spend That Much on Exotic Audio Cables!?
We had a concerned reader ask us if it was worth spending almost as much money on audio cables as the cost of their AV processor. See how we advise them on how to budget for cables.
FAQ: Does My AV Receiver Have Enough Power for Speakers?
This week's FAQ question deals with AV receiver power and if it's sufficient to drive a full home theater speaker system. Start with our power quiz and consider a model with preouts for later use.
FAQ: Where Did My Multi‑Channel Analog Inputs Go?
Are you looking at a new AV receiver and realize there are no multi-channel analog inputs on it to play multi-channel SACD files in native DSD format. Are you out of luck? Read on to find out.
Bookshelf vs Tower Speakers: Which Should I Get?
What is better; a bookshelf or tower loudspeaker? We discuss the factors involved in making a purchasing decision based on bass and loudness, room size, budget, aesthetics and more. Get what you need.
FAQ: DIY Speaker Kits, Dolby Atmos Placement Tips and Wi‑Fi Help
This week we answer questions from our YouTube Channel on DIY speaker kits vs finished products, Wi-Fi network stability issues, Dolby Atmos speaker placement and subwoofer purchasing decisions.
FAQ: Converting a Room to a Home Theater
This FAQ discusses converting a regular room into a theater room covering such topics as: running dedicated 20A lines for amps and subs, passing cables through walls and passive treatments for bass.
FAQ: DTS:X Blu‑ray Compatibility, Ported and Stacking Speakers
In this FAQ, we answer questions about DTS:X Blu-ray compatibility, front vs rear ported speakers and the issues of speaker stacking and whether or not it should be done.
Bi‑amping vs Bi‑wiring: What's the Difference and is it Audible?
There are various ways to connect loudspeakers. Bi-amping vs bi-wiring, active vs passive bi-ampling; what kind of effect can it have on your audio system and is it audible? Read on.
What are the Best Amplifiers in the World?
Best Power Amplifiers: If you have a thirst for power, you're in luck. We take a look at some of the best amplifiers on the market today, with some models easily exceeding 1kW of output per channel.
How to Buy a Subwoofer
Let us show you how to make an educated purchasing decision when buying a subwoofer for your home theater system, taking into account size and aesthetics as well as performance. How to shop subs? Here
How To Calibrate and Level Match Your Speakers
We walk you through the process of manually calibrating and level matching your speakers so you can double-check the results of auto-calibration. You'll just need an SPL meter to get the job done.
Q&A: Using the A/B Speaker Selector for Comparisons
Tech article: A reader asked us if it was possible to use the A/B speaker selector to compare speaker cables. The short answer: yes, you can do that, and compare speakers with instant switching.
Q&A: I Have A Bose Acoustimass 10 System, What Receiver Should I Buy?
Frequently Asked Questions: A reader wants to know what A/V receiver to use with his Bose Acoustimass 10 system. We discuss the system's power ratings, and if its worthwhile to go beyond the minimum.
Retrofit an Old Flagship A/V Receiver or Upgrade?
FAQ: A reader wants to know if its possible to breathe new life into an outdated flagship A/V receiver by adding a preamp or re-purposing it. The Audioholics run through his potential options.
How To Read a Review ‑ An Insider's Perspective
With the decline of B&M; stores, being able to read a review is imperative. Obviously, arming yourself with knowledge about the product you are buying is the key to your success. We help.
Headphones Shopping Guide: Which are Right for You?
Headphones Shopping Guide: comparing earphones can be difficult. We've assembled a Cheat Sheet to help you narrow down your choices along with a helpful guide on the different headphone types.
DACs: Do You Need an External Digital to Analog Converter for your Hifi System?
A Digital to Analog Converter (DAC), takes your digital content and transforms it into analog so that your hifi system can amplify it and play it through your speakers. Do you need a new one? Read on.
Headphones: Are You Ready for an Upgrade?
If your headphones came with your player, you need an upgrade. But what if you have some newer, fancier headphones? Do you still need to upgrade? We help you out with a handy chart to help you decide.
Is it Time to Upgrade Your Subwoofer?
Sub Upgrade: Wondering if you need a new powered subwoofer? Audoholics goes over the factors to consider in your decision, and we give you a tool to determine if your sub is holding your system back.
HDTV: When is it time to Upgrade Your Display?
HDTV: When is it time to upgrade your Display? Our TV upgrade guide will help you. We run through not only how large a screen you need, but break down the features manufacturers are convinced you want
AV Receivers vs. Separates: Which One Is Better?
AV receivers vs. Separate preamplifier/processors and amplification has been hotly debated for decades, with valid arguments on both sides of the table. Read on to see what the Audioholics think.
Reader Question: DACs ‑ What Do You Recommend?
I am considering replacing my Marantz CD player SA300 with an Oppo BDP-95. I have an older but high quality system consisting of Levinson 23.5 power amp, Roland Consonance Pre, Sota Sapphire Table
Why are TVs Typically Brighter than Front Projectors?
A darker room and less light output is the key for getting a very dynamic, deep image on a projector screen. With a flat panel TV, you can get a much higher contrast ratio by increasing light levels.