This Publication tells you everything you need to know when shopping for HDTV and surround sound gear including how to read a spec sheet, how to separate fact from hype, and how to get good value for your money. The book weighs the pros and cons of HDTV display technologies such as LED-backlit LCD, plasma, and projection systems, plus next-generation OLED displays. It dispels the confusion surrounding such topics as 4K Ultra HDTV, 3DTV, smart TV, 1080p, refresh rates, exotic screen shapes, and the new HDMI 2.0. It explains the differences between Dolby, DTS, THX, and Audyssey surround technologies and a new section goes into depth about high-resolution audio downloads. It covers all formats under the sun including Blu-ray and DVD, DVRs, streaming from a multitude of devices, and wireless connectivity. And it explores often ignored topics such as buying a DTV antenna, power-line accessories, and cables. A richly detailed connections chapter tells how to hook up every component. By knowledgably guiding readers through the briar patch of video and audio, Practical Home Theater has become the standard reference work for home theater buffs. This edition is dated 2014 and will be sold between October 2013 and October 2014. Readers are warned to buy only the latest edition. Future annual editions will continue to track changes in home theater technology.