TV and Audio

Topic: TV and Audio (Read 1458 times) previous topic - next topic

TV and Audio

October 23, 2016, 12:50:05 pm

I need some education on TV and Soundbar.
How many HDMI do I need on TV to use with a Soundbar to watch TV and stream movies as well as Bluetooth music from the phone or computer through soundbar. If I get a upgraded phone with HDMI and use a cable to attach does i just go into the soundbar? Looking at a,TV but it only has 1 Hdmi port.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #1 – October 23, 2016, 02:26:44 pm

In my coach the DirecTV recvr, the blue ray player and the dedicated coach PC all connect to the TV using HDMI. IPads can connect with HDMI as well. The TV connects to the Bose system with RCA cables. If I had a soundbar it would connect with an optical cable. How you connect the soundbar to the TV depends on which connection options are available. Optical is considered best. I also have a RCA to 3.5mm cable from the TV to plug into my Bose Soundlink Mini. (A very nice device). There is also a 3.5mm to RCA connection to the Bose system so that I can connect external devices (iPhone) to the Bose system to play something. I can connect the iPhone to the Bose Soundlink mini with bluetooth.

So I would go for a TV with as many HDMI connections as possible. At least three. And an optical output for a sound bar.q There are some very good HDMI switches that let you connect three to five sources to one input. Many are auto switching. They switch to the source when it comes on. It gets a bit goofy with a DirecTV rcvr. These think they are on all the time. But they can be manually switched as well.

We have more than 60 blue ray discs in the coach. I have more than 50 dvds on a 2 TB harddrive on the coach network. I can play them through the PC to the TV using the Bose surround sound system. The coach PC, a verizon MiFi device, the TV, an Amazon Firestick, the blue ray player, the printer, the DirectTV rcvr, 3 TB of network attached storage, my laptop and all of the mobile devices (5) are connected to the internal coach network. So there are many ways to get external streaming sources. Streaming uses huge qtys of data so we rarely stream stuff. Most campgrounds won't let you stream using their wifi.

The sound bars are generally bluetooth rcvrs. You can send to them but not the other way. So they can make a nice sound system. There are some very nice sound systems made for PCs especially gaming systems that you can use in other ways like with a TV. They are reasonably priced.

Probably added more questions then answers.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #2 – October 23, 2016, 05:11:56 pm

We put a Bose Solo 5 sound bar below our front tv. The optical cable and power cord (both included) were really plug and play. An optional mounting bracket from Bose makes it a snap to remove for outside use.

Phones and iPads play thru their Blu-tooth function easily. Best feauture for me is Dialogue button that reduces bass and makes movie dialogues less muddled to my old drummer's ears.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #3 – October 23, 2016, 08:06:42 pm

If you get a TV with Bluetooth capabilities a sound bar that is Bluetooth will connect with the tv no cables needed.

John M.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #4 – October 23, 2016, 08:47:13 pm

You need to be a bit careful with TV connected to Soundbar/speakers/headsets or anything like that using blue tooth technology. There is a small time lag (getting smaller as technology improves) that is noticable to some folks. Music, sound effects background noise are pretty much OK but voices and conversations when you are watching the people speaking can be just off enough to be disconcerting. Some TVs have built in means to offset audio and video to help compensate for this delay.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #5 – October 23, 2016, 09:06:43 pm

Quote from: Roger & Susan in Home2 – October 23, 2016, 08:47:13 pm

You need to be a bit careful with TV connected to Soundbar/speakers/headsets or anything like that using blue tooth technology. There is a small time lag (getting smaller as technology improves) that is noticable to some folks. Music, sound effects background noise are pretty much OK but voices and conversations when you are watching the people speaking can be just off enough to be disconcerting. Some TVs have built in means to offset audio and video to help compensate for this delay.

May be out of date, but believe bluetooth only supports stereo. Your 5.1 or 7.1 dvd or even tv sound will be converted to 2 channel stereo. with a stereo soundbar, no problem, but many soundbars now have remote wireless subwoofers and rear surround channels.
Jim

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #6 – October 24, 2016, 03:14:47 pm

Just to regurgitate what some others have said in a slightly different way:

Part A - Soundbar

Step 1) It seems like you already have the soundbar, and you are trying to make sure it is compatible with your new TV? Most soundbars come with "Digital Audio (Optical)", "RCA Audio", or "HDMI" type cables to connect with your TV. Check and see what kind of cable your soundbar has (some may have more than one option). You can use google images to help identify the type of cable. Then, make sure whatever TV you are buying has an "Audio Out" connection type that is the same as the soundbar connection.

(Special note: If you have a fancier 3-4 year-old soundbar that only has an HDMI port, and it is marked ARC [Audio Return Channel], then you will need to buy a TV that has an HDMI ARC output. This is unusual and probably doesn't apply to you)

Step 2) Plug in the soundbar, go into the TV settings, and you'll find there are audio settings for Speakers (the TV's internal speakers) and for External Audio (or Output Audio). Turn the Speakers to Off, and the External Audio to On, and you should be good to go. Whatever sound your TV plays will come out the soundbar.

Part B - HDMI Ports.

You will need an input for each device you wish to control through the TV. For example, if you have each of the following devices: 1) DVD Player, 2) Computer, 3) DVR/Tivo, and 4) iPhone with an HDMI converter cord -- and each of these devices has an HDMI cord to plug into the TV -- then you will need a TV with at least 4 HDMI input ports. They do make both HDMI splitters and switches that enable you to use 4 HDMI devices on a 1 HDMI Port TV. But I would strongly advise against that option - Through repeated purchases in my own home, I've found that most are unreliable, require their own power source (a no-no in the motorhome world), and require that devices are powered on in a certain order.

Note that the HDMI port issue is is separate from your soundbar question. The soundbar uses the TV's output (which will be clearly labeled as OUT on the TV), while the TV is connected to each of your devices through an INPUT.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #7 – October 24, 2016, 03:40:14 pm

I missed the part about connection music from the phone directly to the soundbar, sorry.

Many soundbars will come with either an "Auxiliary Input" (which use an 1/8th inch or 3.5mm audio cable directly from your phone's headphone jack) and/or a Bluetooth connection. Either of those should work fine - just check which connection works with your particular soundbar and plug it in. The music should function independently from your TV, and should not affect your choice of TV. However, you may have unplug the auxiliary cable (or disconnect the bluetooth) from the soundbar when it is not in use so that the TV sound works correctly, depending on your soundbar.

If you have a much older soundbar, you may not have either of those connections available. If that is the case, you can run your phone through one of the TVs inputs, and let the TV play the music through the soundbar.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #8 – October 24, 2016, 08:51:11 pm

T $:-\$ hanks for all the info.I don't have anything yet.
I removed the original 13" TV that was in between the windshield visors and the box it was mounted in. I am going with a 24" flatscreen.I have not decided which one yet, I want LED and 1080 butvam unsure if I want a Smart TV or just a regular one.I'm thinking regular.The soundbars I have looked at online talk about a optical cable from the TV, I have not seen that available on a 24" TV unless Im reading the specs wrong. I have seen some 24" with 2 hdmi but not any more than that.still researching. Thanks.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #9 – October 24, 2016, 10:10:23 pm

Most LED TVs get thin and light at the expense of speakers. Some are better than others. A supplemental speaker helps. Smart TVs need internet access to play Netflix Hulu, Amazon or anything else. If you want that functionality a Roku box or any of the add on smart boxes will work. Keep looking.

This one has two HDMI and optical output.

Amazon.com: LG Electronics 24LF4820 24-Inch IPS 1080p Smart LED Television/Mo...

I have one of these 3x HDMI switches. They work well. There is a 5x as well
Amazon.com: Kinivo 301BN Premium 3 port High speed HDMI switch with IR...

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Re: TV and Audio

Reply #10 – October 24, 2016, 10:46:04 pm

Got a bit different question, at least quick glance at thread did not seem to answer this....

Yous folks think soundbar is better than surround? (I have surround, not bar in coach....you got me to wondering if might switch out, but bar on dash just seems would not be preferred to the surround?)

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #11 – October 24, 2016, 11:01:09 pm

Quote from: Michael & Jackie – October 24, 2016, 10:46:04 pm

Got a bit different question, at least quick glance at thread did not seem to answer this....

Yous folks think soundbar is better than surround? (I have surround, not bar in coach....you got me to wondering if might switch out, but bar on dash just seems would not be preferred to the surround?)

Most stand alone soundbars are not surround, some may claim they are, but are not really. For proper surround, [according to audiophiles] you will need speakers placed behind the listening area. Also a soundbar alone will have very small woofers, incapable of producing any realistic bass. Keep what you have. I have tried high dollar soundbars in a couple of coaches and none were as good as even a low priced real surround sound with 5 or more dedicated speakers. Many late 90's [320's anyway] and up Foretravels had Bose systems with 5 speakers and a subwoofer. Not true audiophile sound, but pretty darn good sound. {Believe this was a factory option]

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #12 – October 25, 2016, 01:04:48 am

My understanding of the surround sound is based in part on surrounding the viewer/listener with speakers. Traditionally, there may be a center front, left front, right front, left rear, and right rear. This front, rear, left, and right is in relation to the listener.

I have not been able to find a location in my Foretravel for my DW and I to sit and watch a video screen with that kind of configuration. How are the rest of you accomplishing this?

Thanks,

Trent

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #13 – October 25, 2016, 07:06:46 am

We installed the Vizio sound bar and have been very happy with it. The subwoofer is wireless and plugs in between the love seat and the co pilot seat. Easy install on the forward panel.

Amazon.com: VIZIO SB3821-C6 38-Inch 2.1 Channel Sound Bar with Wireless...

The blue tooth feature is a great addition for personal electronics.

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Re: TV and Audio

Reply #14 – October 25, 2016, 10:17:37 am

Quote from: TulsaTrent – October 25, 2016, 01:04:48 am

My understanding of the surround sound is based in part on surrounding the viewer/listener with speakers. Traditionally, there may be a center front, left front, right front, left rear, and right rear. This front, rear, left, and right is in relation to the listener.

I have not been able to find a location in my Foretravel for my DW and I to sit and watch a video screen with that kind of configuration. How are the rest of you accomplishing this?

Thanks,
Foretravel mounts the small satellite speakers under the cabinets. One on each side near the kitchen area and one on each side in the front corners under the cabinets or on them facing back. Center channel is in middle under tv. All these speakers are small cubes about 2 inches by 2 inches on an adjustable mount. Subwoofer is mounted under front sofa. Control Unit is in cabinet next to tv.
Believe this is what the factory installed in some coaches. [it was an option]
Bose Lifestyle 8 Home Theater System Platinum White MINT With Manual...

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #15 – October 25, 2016, 11:27:18 am

Jim,

The point I was trying to make that this cookie cutter installation is not they way most people actually sit in the RV while being entertained. I was trying to find out what others have done to make the sound surround there normal viewing/listening position.

Maybe I am doing a poor job communicating, for which I apologize.

Trent

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #16 – October 25, 2016, 11:42:11 am

Quote from: TulsaTrent – October 25, 2016, 11:27:18 am

Jim,

The point I was trying to make that this cookie cutter installation is not they way most people actually sit in the RV while being entertained. I was trying to find out what others have done to make the sound surround there normal viewing/listening position.

Maybe I am doing a poor job communicating, for which I apologize.

Trent
You are right, you can adjust the sound somewhat so that is alright for someone sitting on one side of the coach, but then the person sitting on the other side suffers.
I have seen one coach with 60 inch tv built into wall of slide with main speakers beside it. Surround speakers were on both sides of sofa across from it where people sat. That was a pretty good setup, only problem was that coach was $1.6m.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #17 – October 25, 2016, 11:54:18 am

I ran across this 24" TV online for just over 60.00 delivered. The specs look like it will possibly do.
24" SE24FL | seiki

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #18 – October 25, 2016, 02:03:28 pm

We had Foretravel install a Samsung 42" curved screen TV and a Samsung soundbar with a wireless subwoofer. Pulled the old Bose system out, put the wireless sub where the old sub woofer was, hung the soundbar right below the TV. The picture and sound are great. Very seldom is a RV set up to allow viewers to sit in the "sweet spot" for optimum viewing and especially listening, so while surround may seem to be the way to go the RV listener is usually sitting too close to one set of speakers to get the full effect. The curved screen really makes a difference when watching the TV at an angle which most of us are forced to do, it's like sitting in a theatre off to the side, with the curved screen you still get a good viewing experience. The soundbar does a good job of mimicking surround sound for all the viewers and of course the wireless sub woofer gives you the great special effects without having to run a cable. The TV and soundbar communicate using the ARC (Audio Return Channel) feature, all it requires is a ARC compatable HDMI cable. This allows the TV remote to control the soundbar and there is no lag between the audio and video. The soundbar also has bluetooth capability which makes it nice to be able to play music through a decent set of speakers from your mobile devices.

Rick

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #19 – October 25, 2016, 11:54:32 pm

We recently bought & returned Samsung soundbar, but just found a great sounding Vizio soundbar: Vizio SB3851-D0 (NOT older -C0).

(SB=soundbar, 38=38" long, 51=digital 5.1)

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #20 – October 26, 2016, 09:19:33 am

Agree on the sound of that bar Barry. We have the 2.1.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #21 – October 27, 2016, 05:54:16 pm

Decided on a LG 24" 1080 LED smart TV.
I took out the old one and built a support frame and used a drop down bracket that locks in the up position for travel. I took the old pleather off of the original tv box and covered a piece of 3/16 wood and made a cover for the front if the opening.It turned out good.It is nice having a bigger screen and 24" is perfect for our living room in here.

Re: TV and Audio

Reply #22 – October 30, 2016, 09:33:27 am

U295Rick, I'd love to see pics of your TV-audio install. This is top of my list once we get our new coach outa the shop.

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