Compare Lutron vs. Crestron shades for smart home integration. Discover which high-end motorized shading system fits your home automation system at Elite A/V.

Comparing Smart Home Integration for Lutron and Crestron Shades

Transform your home theater with professional acoustic panels. Learn the best placement strategies, material differences, and how to improve audio clarity today.

Mastering Sound: How Acoustic Treatment Transforms Your Space 

Master your viewing experience with our definitive guide to choosing the perfect home theater projector. Compare brightness, resolution, and screen sizes today.

Home Theater Projector Guide: Brightness, Resolution, & Screen Size Explained

We've all wondered if it would work, right? Well, there are tons of factors to consider. See what you should know before making a decision!

<p>Ever looked at your big-screen TV and thought, 'That would make a fantastic computer monitor'? You're not alone! Many of us have been tempted to swap out our traditional computer monitors for the larger, potentially clearer TV display. But is it really a good idea?</p>
<p>There are quite a few factors to consider before making the switch. From resolution and refresh rates to input lag and viewing distance, let's take a look and see if your TV is up to the task!</p>
<h2>Screen Size and Viewing Distance</h2>
<p><img alt="Selection of TV sizes" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_TV-Monitor_1.jpg" title="Elec_TV-Monitor_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>One of the first things you'll notice when using a TV as a monitor is the size. TVs are typically much larger than standard computer monitors. While this might seem like a bonus (who doesn't want a bigger screen, right?), it can actually be a drawback.</p>
<p>The larger the screen, the further away you need to sit to see everything clearly and comfortably. This is known as the viewing distance. For a typical TV, the recommended viewing distance is about 1.5 to 2.5 times the screen's diagonal size. So, if you're using a 55-inch TV as a monitor, you'd need to sit about 7 to 11 feet away for the best viewing experience.</p>
<p>But let's be honest, most of us don't have that type of space on our desks. So, if you're thinking about using a TV as a monitor, consider the size of the screen and how far away you'll be sitting.</p>
<h2>Resolution and Screen Quality</h2>
<p><img alt="Screen resolution comparison between full HD and 4K" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_TV-Monitor_2.jpg" title="Elec_TV-Monitor_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Resolution is a crucial factor when considering a TV as a monitor. It refers to the number of pixels displayed on the screen. More pixels mean sharper images and text. Most modern TVs come with at least a 1080p resolution, but for a truly crisp display, you might want to consider a 4K TV (but not everything has a 4K output).</p>
<p>Screen quality is another important consideration. TVs tend to have less accurate color reproduction accuracy and color compression, so colors are always a little off. So, if you're into graphic design or photo editing, this could be a deal-breaker.</p>
<h2>Refresh Rate</h2>
<p>If you're a gamer, refresh rate is a key factor when using a TV as a computer monitor. The refresh rate is the number of times your screen updates with new images each second. A higher refresh rate means smoother, more fluid images, which is vital in fast-paced games.</p>
<p>Most TVs have a refresh rate of 60Hz, which is fine for general use and watching movies. However, for gaming, you might want to look for a TV with a refresh rate of 120Hz or even 240Hz for the best experience. But don't forget to match the refresh rate with your computer's graphics card!</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Be aware of the tag "motion rate" on TVs; these describe the processing techniques used for better motion clarity and are not the refresh rate. These rates are usually twice the true refresh rate, so keep that in mind!</p>
<h2>Input Lag</h2>
<p>Input lag might not be something you've thought about before, but it's definitely worth considering, especially if you plan to game. Input lag is the delay between the action you perform on your input device (like a mouse or keyboard) and when it's displayed on the screen. So, the lower the input lag more instant your actions display on the screen, which is vital in fast-paced, competitive gaming where every millisecond counts.</p>
<p>Most TVs have higher input lag than monitors, and some newer models are designed with gaming in mind to reduce input lag. Remember to keep that in mind before choosing a TV as your monitor!</p>
<h2>Connectivity Options</h2>
<p><img alt="TV with HDMI connection" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_TV-Monitor_3.jpg" title="Elec_TV-Monitor_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>When using a TV as a computer monitor, checking the connectivity options is essential. Your TV needs to have the correct ports to connect to your computer.</p>
<p>Most modern computers and TVs use HDMI ports to transmit audio and video signals. However, if you have a high-end graphics card, you might want a TV with a DisplayPort, which can handle higher refresh rates and resolutions. Don't forget to look for USB ports for connecting peripherals or charging devices.</p>
<p>Lastly, if you plan to use the TV's built-in speakers, check if it has an audio return channel (ARC) or enhanced audio return channel (eARC). These allow the TV to send audio data upstream to your audio device, providing better sound quality.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Some TVs even have USB-C ports, which can handle video, audio, data, and power simultaneously!</p>
<h2>Task-Specific Considerations</h2>
<p><img alt="Woman using her TV to video conference while working from home" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_TV-Monitor_4.jpg" title="Elec_TV-Monitor_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>The tasks you plan to do on your computer can influence whether a TV is a suitable monitor. Whether working or gaming, using your TV as a monitor depends on the situation.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Work:</strong> A big TV screen can be a boon if you're multitasking or working with large spreadsheets. However, a TV might not be the best choice for graphic design or photo editing due to less accurate color reproduction.</li>
<li><strong>Gaming:</strong> Gamers can benefit from the immersive experience of a large TV screen. Just remember to check the refresh rate and input lag for a smooth gaming experience.</li>
<li><strong>Video Conferencing:</strong> If you're working from home and often have video meetings, a larger screen can make it easier to see your colleagues clearly and to give presentations.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Weighing the Pros and Cons</h2>
<p>Switching to a TV as your computer monitor can be a game-changer. You get a larger screen for multitasking or gaming; sometimes, a high-quality TV can be more cost-effective than a high-end monitor.</p>
<p>But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. TVs often have lower pixel density, making text less sharp. They can also suffer from slower refresh rates and higher input lag, which isn't ideal for fast-paced gaming. And don't forget the potential ergonomic challenges - you'll need enough space to sit comfortably from the screen.</p>
<p>So, before you make the switch, weigh these pros and cons against your specific needs and preferences.</p>
<h2>The Big Picture</h2>
<p>Can you use a TV as a computer monitor? Absolutely! But whether it's the right choice depends on what you're using it for. But don't worry; at , we've got a wide range of <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/televisions/" target="_blank">TVs</a></span> to suit all your needs. So why not <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/contacts/" target="_blank">give us a call or drop by</a></span> and find your perfect match? Our team is always here to help you make the right choice.</p>

Is it a Good Idea to Use Your TV as a Computer Monitor?

Ready to elevate movie nights at home? We've got you covered. Uncover the essential electronics to transform your home theater experience today!

<p>Ever thought about how to take movie nights to the next level? Imagine sinking into your comfy couch, surrounded by the sounds of your favorite films and stunning visuals that take your breath away. Creating an immersive viewing experience right at home is more achievable than you think!</p>
<p>With the right blend of high-quality electronics, you can transform your living room into your own cinema. From the sharp details of 4K displays to the impressive echoes of surround sound systems, upgrading your home theater system is a game-changer. But don't worry; we'll show you which electronics are worth the investment!</p>
<h2>Screen Reel Estate: 4K TVs and Projectors</h2>
<p><img alt="Family choosing what to watch on a huge projector screen" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_1.jpg" title="Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>The first electronics to consider is the heart of your home theater &mdash; the screen! The quality of your display is crucial for that cinema-like experience. You've probably heard of <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/4k-ultra-hd-tv/" target="_blank">4K TVs</a></span> and projectors, but what makes them so special? 4K resolution is full of over eight million pixels packed into your screen, each one working to create images so detailed and lifelike, you'll feel like you're in the scene rather than watching it from your living room.</p>
<p>And if you really want to supersize your viewing experience, a <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/projectors/" target="_blank">projector</a></span> can transform an entire wall into a movie screen. Imagine a screen larger than any TV you could buy, projecting razor-sharp, detailed images that bring movies to life&hellip;oh yea, that's good (*wipes off drool*).</p>
<p>So, whether you opt for a 4K TV or projector setup, both choices will provide a visual feast for whatever you watch. Trust us, your favorite movies and shows have never looked better!</p>
<h2>The Sound of Immersion: Surround Sound Systems</h2>
<p><img alt="Home theater with a surround sound setup" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_2.jpg" title="Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Next, let's immerse ourselves in the world of sound. Imagine hearing the softest whisper from one corner of the room while a car roars past in the other. That's the magic of a surround sound system.</p>
<p>A <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/audio-systems/" target="_blank">surround sound</a></span> system engulfs you in sound from all directions, creating a rich audio landscape that's truly three-dimensional. It's the difference between merely watching a movie and feeling like you're right in the middle of the action. So, why settle for less when you can be surrounded by great sound?</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> A 7.1 surround has more speakers, providing a more immersive experience than a 5.1 surround system!</p>
<h2>Perfect Pitch: The Impact of Dolby-Enabled Speakers</h2>
<p>Imagine having an immersive sound experience that engulfs you from all directions, placing you right in the heart of the action. That's exactly what Dolby-enabled speakers bring to your home theater system. Dolby technology is unique because it creates a three-dimensional soundstage.</p>
<p>Instead of just left, right, and center, Dolby creates a dome of sound around you. It enables the speakers to project sound upwards, creating a sense of height and depth, enhancing the overall quality, and making the audio experience more immersive. Dolby technology ensures that every sound detail is reproduced with remarkable clarity, from the soft whispers to the booming explosions.</p>
<p>So, for that extra dimension in your home theater's sound, consider the upgrade to Dolby-enabled speakers.</p>
<h2>Bringing the Bass: The Role of Subwoofers</h2>
<p><img alt="Simple home theater setup with a subwoofer and sound bar" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_3.jpg" title="Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>While your surround sound system and Dolby-enabled speakers are doing an incredible job painting a detailed audio landscape, there's one component that can take it to the next level: a subwoofer.</p>
<p>Subwoofers handle low-frequency sounds or bass. That's the deep rumble you feel during action scenes or when a dramatic soundtrack kicks in. A <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/subwoofer/" target="_blank">subwoofer</a></span> adds depth and richness to the overall sound profile by accurately reproducing these sounds, so you literally feel the action.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Most surround systems will include a subwoofer (they're the .1 in the system), but if you only have a sound bar, consider adding a subwoofer to catch every riveting moment!</p>
<h2>Sound Bars: Big Sound in Small Packages</h2>
<p>Want high-quality sound without the bulk? Enter the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/soundbar-speakers/" target="_blank">sound bar</a></span>! It's a sleek, compact all-in-one speaker system that delivers crisp, immersive audio and is ideal for smaller spaces. They can mimic the effect of surround sound, making movies more engaging without the need for multiple speakers around the room.</p>
<p>But, while a sound bar can enhance your audio experience, it doesn't quite match a full surround sound system. If you have the space and budget, a complete audio setup will offer a more immersive experience. But a sound bar is a solid choice for compact spaces or simpler setups.</p>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> Many sound bars have nifty features like voice control and streaming capabilities. Some even include subwoofers for a fuller, richer sound.</p>
<h2>The World at Your Fingertips: Streaming Devices</h2>
<p><img alt="Woman scrolling through her streaming options" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_4.jpg" title="Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Another electronic you can't miss in your upgraded home theater is the streaming device! Unlike your TV's integrated apps, these devices are dedicated powerhouses of streaming content.</p>
<p>They can handle a broader range of apps, deliver smoother streaming, and even upscale content to match your 4K TV better. Plus, they're often updated more frequently, meaning you get the best features faster. So, if you're after quantity, quality, and ease of use, don't overlook the value of a great streaming device in your upgraded home theater system.</p>
<h2>Clear and Crisp: Importance of 4K Blu-ray Players</h2>
<p>You might not think it, but another component that can seriously up the ante for your viewing experience is a 4K Blu-ray player. Yes, we live in a streaming era, but why limit your content? And if you have a surplus of Blu-rays and DVDs on your shelf, don't count them out of your home theater experience!</p>
<p>4K players make the picture sharper, colors more vibrant, and bring out intricate details that can be missed on lower resolution formats. Plus, many 4K Blu-ray players offer upscaling, where they'll upgrade your older DVDs and Blu-rays to look better on your shiny new 4K TV (and if the player doesn't do it, sometimes your TV will!).</p>
<p>So, if you're about quality and versatility, a 4K Blu-ray player might be a great addition to your home theater system.</p>
<h2>New Way to Binge-Watch</h2>
<p><img alt="Family fully immersed while watching a scary/thrilling movie" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_5.jpg" title="Elec_Electrifying-Home-Theater-Upgrade_5.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Ready to transform your movie nights into a cinema-like experience? Upgrading your home theater setup has never been easier. At , we've got all the cutting-edge tech to electrify your viewing experience. We've got everything from dazzling <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/televisions/" target="_blank">TVs</a></span> and <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/projectors/" target="_blank">projectors</a></span> to jaw-dropping audio to completely transform your home theater!</p>
<p>And if you have any questions, don't hesitate to <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/contacts/" target="_blank">call or stop by</a></span>. We're here to make your home theater dreams come true!</p>

How to Electrify Your Viewing Experience with the Best Home Theater Upgrade!

Shopping for a TV? Don't settle for just anything! First, you need to narrow down your options. These questions are just the thing — check it out!

<p>Shopping for a new TV should be simple &mdash; but there are so many things to consider, so knowing where to start can be challenging. And with so many new gadgets and shiny features, narrowing down your choices seems impossible, or is it?</p>
<p>It doesn't have to be a never-ending puzzle riddled with frustrations. You just have to ask yourself a few key questions! By figuring out what you're looking for before you start shopping, you'll go into the process informed and ready to buy!</p>
<p>So, what questions should you be asking? Take a look!</p>
<h2>1. How big do I need my TV?</h2>
<p><img alt="Family watching a decent-sized TV for their living room" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_1.jpg" title="Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>When choosing your TV size, the phrases "one size fits all" or "bigger is always better" don't always apply. A TV that's too large can overpower a small room, while one that's too small won't do justice to that blockbuster experience you crave.</p>
<p>So, it's best to decide on the size based on the room size and the viewing distance! The recommended viewing distance is about 1.5 times the size of your screen. So, measure your space and pick a size that's a comfortable fit!</p>
<h2>2. Which TV resolution do I need?</h2>
<p><img alt="Concept photo of the different TV resolutions" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_2.jpg" title="Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Resolution refers to the sharpness of the picture, determined by the number of pixels displayed. So, the more pixels there are, the more details you can see. But as you shop, you'll see the tags like HD, 4K, and 8K. Is there much of a difference between them? Yes!</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>HD (High Definition):</strong> The long-standing standard, offering decent image quality.</li>
<li><strong>4K (Ultra High Definition):</strong> Four times the pixel count of HD, providing crisper, more detailed images.</li>
<li><strong>8K:</strong> has four times the pixels of 4K, but the lack of 8K content and the higher price tag makes it a luxury most of us can postpone.</li>
</ul>
<h2>3. What should my budget be?</h2>
<p>Budgeting isn't the most thrilling part of shopping for a new TV, but it's an essential step. Prices can vary significantly depending on the features you want and the size. You'll find that higher-end models may offer advanced smart features, better picture quality, more HDMI ports, and larger screens, so if these are options you want, you'll need a larger budget.</p>
<p>But if you only want the essentials and don't mind a moderate 40-inch screen or smaller, you won't need to budget for so long. In any case, decide what matters most to you, and balance that with your budgetary needs!</p>
<h2>4. What refresh rate should I look for?</h2>
<p><img alt="Couple watching action film with decent refresh rate" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_3.jpg" title="Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>The refresh rate of a TV describes how many times per second the picture on the screen is updated. A higher refresh rate (measured in Hertz or Hz) means smoother motion, which is especially important when watching fast-paced action scenes or sports. Most TVs offer a standard refresh rate of 60Hz, but for those extra-intense car chases, you might want a model with a higher refresh rate of 120Hz or more.</p>
<p>However, some manufacturers will have a confusing spec called "Motion Rate" or something similar. Think of this as a "fake" refresh rate; it uses motion-smoothing technology to make the picture appear smoother. The motion rate is often twice or even four times the actual refresh rate, so keep that in mind while you shop!</p>
<p><strong>Note:</strong> A motion rate of 240 Hz typically equals a refresh rate of 120 Hz, while a motion rate of 120 Hz equals a refresh rate of 60 Hz.</p>
<h2>5. Should I shop online?</h2>
<p>Online shopping offers the convenience of comparing different models from the comfort of your own home. You can also browse customer reviews to get real-world insights into a TV's performance. Plus, who doesn't love shopping in their pajamas?</p>
<h2>6. Which TV type do I need?</h2>
<p><img alt="LEDs behind TV display" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_4.jpg" title="Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>TV screens come in different types, each with its pros and cons. While LCD and LED TVs are the most common, offering good picture quality for a reasonable price, OLED and QLED TVs use different technologies to produce an even clearer picture.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)</strong> uses light-emitting diodes and pixels filled with liquid crystals to produce a clear picture, but they use fluorescent lamps to provide backlighting.</li>
<li><strong>LED (Light Emitting Diode)</strong> use LED lamps to backlight the screen and feature dynamic or local dimming to make the screen visible even during dark scenes.</li>
<li><strong>OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes)</strong> use organic compounds that light up when electricity is applied. This allows each pixel to be controlled individually, resulting in excellent contrast and colors.</li>
<li><strong>QLED (Quantum Dot Light Emitting Diodes)</strong> uses quantum dot technology to add another "rail" of different-sized nanocrystal dots on a backlight to produce a boarder range of colors and brightness.</li>
</ul>
<h2>7. Do I need smart features?</h2>
<p>Many new TVs come with smart features that can enhance your viewing experience. These include built-in streaming apps, voice control, and compatibility with other smart home devices. Most new TVs will offer some smart features, but if you don't plan on using the built-in apps because you have a separate streaming device, you don't have to focus on those particular features.</p>
<h2>Bonus: What about the audio quality?</h2>
<p><img alt="TV with a sound system" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_electronics/Q3_2023/Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_5.jpg" title="Elec_TV-Shopping-Questions_5.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Naturally, a good picture deserves good sound. But, while many TVs come with decent built-in speakers, they're often thin because of the display size, so they don't have as much power as separate speakers do. That said, you might want to consider a <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/soundbar-speakers/" target="_blank">sound bar</a></span> or a <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/home-theater-system/" target="_blank">home theater system</a></span> for a more immersive audio experience (or to hear the dialogue without subtitles every time!).</p>
<p>And if you make sure the speakers feature Dolby Atmos to enhance your audio experience with a 3D soundscape!</p>
<h2>What questions did we miss?</h2>
<p>There you have it &mdash; the critical points to ponder while shopping for a new TV. Remember, the best TV for you is one that fits your personal needs and preferences, your space, and your budget. So, if you're ready to shop, our <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/catalog/televisions/" target="_blank">TV selection</a></span> at  features the brand names and technology that'll suit your needs!</p>
<p>But if you're left with more questions, don't hesitate to <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hometheater.vegas/contacts/" target="_blank">give us a call or stop by</a></span>. After all, our aim is to help you find the perfect TV for your cozy movie nights and thrilling game days!</p>

TV Buying Simplified: 7 Must-Ask Questions Before You Shop [+1 Bonus!]

Default Dev Script Validation

Default Header After Global Promotions

Blog

Is it a Good Idea to Use Your TV as a Computer Monitor?

How to Electrify Your Viewing Experience with the Best Home Theater Upgrade!

TV Buying Simplified: 7 Must-Ask Questions Before You Shop [+1 Bonus!]

CONTACT US

SOLUTIONS

INFO

ASSOCIATIONS

FOLLOW US

COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

JOIN OUR VIP LIST!