On this week’s show ask the question: “What Happened to DLNA Technology” We also read your emails and the week’s news. Also, say hi to Evelyne, our virtual news reader.

News:

• Plex warns users to update systems immediately after detecting worrying security issue
• Samsung’s $30K Micro RGB TV Is Here
• Sling TV launches single day, weekend, week-long pass options
• Apple’s new ‘Charismatic’ smart home OS is getting set to take on Alexa and Google

DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) technology, once a popular standard for sharing media like photos, videos, and music between devices on a home network, has largely faded from prominence. 

Here's a concise overview of what happened:

• Peak Popularity (2000s–Early 2010s): DLNA, introduced in 2003, enabled seamless media streaming between certified devices like TVs, computers, smartphones, and gaming consoles. It was widely adopted by manufacturers (e.g., Sony, Samsung, LG) and supported by software like Windows Media Player. By 2010, millions of devices were DLNA-certified, with a focus on interoperability and ease of use.
• Decline in Relevance:
• Rise of Proprietary Ecosystems: By the mid-2010s, companies like Apple (AirPlay), Google (Chromecast), and Amazon (Fire devices) pushed proprietary streaming protocols that integrated tightly with their ecosystems, offering smoother user experiences and cloud-based features DLNA lacked.
• Complexity and Inconsistency: DLNA's interoperability was hampered by inconsistent implementation across devices. Some devices supported only specific file formats or had clunky interfaces, frustrating users.
• Shift to Cloud and Apps: The rise of streaming services like Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube shifted media consumption to app-based, cloud-driven platforms. DLNA's focus on local network sharing became less relevant as users prioritized internet-based content.
• Emerging Standards: Technologies like Miracast, Wi-Fi Direct, and Bluetooth offered simpler or more versatile alternatives for device-to-device connectivity, further eroding DLNA's niche.
• DLNA's End (2017): The DLNA organization officially dissolved in 2017, ending certification and development. While some devices and software (e.g., Plex, VLC) still support DLNA for backward compatibility, it’s no longer a focal point for manufacturers or consumers.
• Current Status: DLNA remains functional on older devices, but it’s largely been supplanted by modern protocols and platforms. For example, smart TVs now rely on app ecosystems or protocols like Google Cast. Some enthusiasts still use DLNA for local media servers, but it’s a niche use case.

From our archives (June 2012)

What's missing?

So if you've tried any of the DLNA servers out there, you've probably seen how bare they are.  With so many consumer electronics devices supporting DLNA playback, it seems a really good DLNA server would sell like hotcakes.  Here's what we think the perfect DLNA server would do.

Support Transcoding.  Some DLNA Servers support transcoding, but not all of them.  Transcoding allows the server to change the format of the video your watching or song you're listening to to something that the player can actually play back.  Otherwise you'll get a bunch of failures trying to play back stuff like DivX and Xvid.

Support Cover Art.  Most DLNA servers will just grab a video frame out of a movie file and display it as a thumbnail.  Why not replace that with the actual cover of the movie?  They're easy to find online.  It might take a little more setup up front to get all the covers downloaded and in the right place, but it would be worth it.

Categorize videos.  A few of the servers support a limited amount of categorization for video files, but what you'd really like to do is tag a movie with a genre, a year, rating, actors, director, producer, etc. and use any of those pieces of information to find the right movie.

Built-in DVD backup.  Consumers want a way to backup their movies.  DVDs don't last forever.  Allow a user to create a backup copy of their DVD on a hard drive.  Of course they'll also be able to watch it from any network connected DLNA player, but that's just a slight benefit of the nifty backup feature.  Of course, if you could then provide the built-in...

Connection to IMDB.  Allow users to automatically populate cover art and meta data info by selecting the correct movie from an online database like IMDB.  This would greatly simplify the chore of adding movies to a video library.  While this tends to be a one-time event (once per movie at least), it can be painful and tends to wear on you after a while.

Support online sources.  Right now PlayOn is the only server we've found that supports online video sources.  It, however, doesn't support local sources.  It looks like that functionality will be coming soon, but the two ideas need to merge for a really great product.

On this week’s show we take a look at the pros and cons of Low Earth Orbiting Satellites and ask if competition from them could lower your Internet bills. One of our listeners does a good analysis of what it would cost cordcutters to watch every NFL and most College football games. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.

News:

• Hulu App to Be Phased Out as Disney Is ‘Fully Integrating’ Service Into Disney+
• Fubo drops 100,000 subscribers in Q2
• HBO Max to enforce password-sharing crackdown in Sept. 
• Fubo readying sports-only plan for 2025 season
• Amazon Launches 24 Satellites Aboard SpaceX Rocket to Build Its Home Internet Service

Other:

• dbx 510 Subharmonic Synthesizer for Creating Amazing Deep Bass in Your Home Theater

On a recent show we talked about High Speed internet eliminating the need for over the air broadcasting. However we understand that not everyone has access to high speed internet. We mentioned Low Earth Obiting (LEO) satellites as an option. With the news that Amazon has begun putting it's network together, we decided to look at the pros and cons of this type of Internet delivery.

LEO satellite internet, like Starlink and the upcoming Amazon Project Kuiper, offers several advantages over traditional satellite based internet. Here's a comparison of the benefits:

1. Benefits of LEO-Based Internet
   • Lower Latency:
   • LEO satellites orbit at 200-2,000 km, much closer than geostationary satellites (35,786 km). This reduces round-trip data travel time, resulting in latency of 20-50 ms compared to 600+ ms for geostationary systems.
   • Benefit: Faster response times for gaming, video calls, and real-time applications, closer to terrestrial fiber (10-30 ms).
2. Global Coverage:
   • LEO constellations, with thousands of satellites, provide internet to remote and rural areas where terrestrial infrastructure (fiber, DSL) is unavailable or costly to deploy.
   • Benefit: Connects underserved regions, ships, planes, and isolated locations.
3. Higher Speeds:
   • LEO systems can deliver download speeds of 100-400 Mbps (with potential for more as technology improves) and upload speeds of 10-40 Mbps, rivaling or exceeding many terrestrial broadband connections.
   • Benefit: Supports streaming, large downloads, and multiple users simultaneously.
4. Scalability:
   • LEO constellations can add more satellites to increase capacity and coverage, adapting to demand more flexibly than laying new cables or building cell towers.
   • Benefit: Easier to expand and improve network performance over time.
5. Resilience:
   • Distributed satellite networks are less vulnerable to single points of failure (e.g., damaged cables or local outages) compared to terrestrial infrastructure.
   • Benefit: More reliable in disaster-prone areas or during natural events.
6. Portability:
   • LEO user terminals (e.g., Starlink dishes) are compact and can be set up anywhere with a clear sky view, enabling mobile or temporary use.
   • Benefit: Ideal for travelers, RVs, or temporary sites like construction zones.

Limitations of LEO Internet Compared to Traditional Internet:

1. Cost:
   • LEO internet often requires expensive user equipment (e.g., $300-$600 for a Starlink dish) and monthly subscriptions ($50-$150, depending on region/plan).
   • Traditional internet typically has lower upfront costs (e.g., modem/router) and competitive pricing in urban areas.
2. Weather Sensitivity:
   • LEO signals can be affected by heavy rain, snow, or dense cloud cover, though less severely than geostationary systems.
   • Traditional fiber or cable is generally immune to weather-related disruptions.
3. Network Congestion:
   •  In high-density areas, LEO systems may experience reduced speeds if too many users connect to the same satellite or ground station.
   • Traditional broadband, especially fiber, often handles high user density better in urban settings.
4. Line-of-Sight Requirement:
   • LEO terminals need a clear view of the sky, which can be challenging in dense urban areas or locations with tall trees/buildings.
   • Traditional internet (e.g., cable, fiber) doesn’t require line-of-sight.
5. Data Caps and Throttling:
   • Some LEO providers impose data caps or throttle speeds during peak usage, whereas many traditional ISPs offer unlimited plans in urban areas.
   • Benefit to traditional: More predictable performance for heavy users.

Summary

LEO-based internet excels in global reach, low latency, and flexibility, making it a game-changer for remote areas, mobility, and disaster resilience. However, traditional internet (fiber, cable, DSL) often provides lower costs, higher reliability, and better performance in urban areas with established infrastructure. The choice depends on location, use case, and budget, at least for now.

On this episode of the Rewind show we go back to August 13 2010 where we read your emails,  look at a news story or two, discuss DVRs and the Netflix/Epix deal.

On this episode of the Rewind show we go back to August 13 2010 where we read your emails,  look at a news story or two, discuss DVRs and the Netflix/Epix deal.

On this week’s show we discuss the 2025 Value Electronics TV Shootout. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.

News:

• Nielsen: Ad-supported content dominates TV viewing 
• NFL sells NFL Media, including RedZone, to ESPN
• New Fox One streaming service to launch in August

Other:

• How to Increase Storage on Google Chromecast With Google TV
• Howdy Subscription | Ad-Free Streaming | The Roku Channel

For the seventh consecutive year, Sony has claimed the title of “King of TVs” at the 2025 Value Electronics TV Shootout, held at their Scarsdale, New York showroom. The winning model, the Sony Bravia 8 II OLED (K65XR80M2) $3000, emerged victorious in a fiercely competitive field of flagship OLED TVs from LG, Samsung, and Panasonic. This annual event, now in its 21st year, is a benchmark for videophiles, retailers, and manufacturers, offering a no-nonsense, side-by-side comparison of the best TVs on the market. 

The Value Electronics TV Shootout

Founded in 2004 by Robert and Wendy Zohn, the Value Electronics TV Shootout has become well known for its rigorous and objective evaluation process. Each TV in the shootout is professionally calibrated and tested under identical conditions—same lighting, same content, and against professional-grade Sony BVM-HX3110 mastering monitors, which are the gold standard for video professionals. 

The TVs are judged on picture quality attributes like color accuracy, contrast, motion handling, and performance in both Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) and High Dynamic Range (HDR). This year’s competition was exclusively dedicated to OLED TVs, with no separate category for LCDs, reflecting the industry’s shift toward OLED’s superior black levels and color reproduction.

The 2025 lineup featured four flagship 65-inch OLED models:

• Sony Bravia 8 II QD-OLED (K65XR80M2) $3000
• Samsung S95F QD-OLED (QN65S95F) $3300
• Panasonic Z95B WOLED (TV65Z95BP) $2000 US Model is Z95A
• LG G5 WOLED (OLED65G5WUA) $2900

A panel of ISF-certified judges, including display and film production professionals, evaluated the TVs using a mix of Blu-ray movie clips and specialized test patterns, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of their capabilities.

Sony’s Bravia 8 II QD-OLED won top honors for its exceptional SDR performance and consistency. Judges noted Sony’s superior video processing, which delivered cleaner images and better upscaling than competitors. Kevin Miller, ISFTV president and display consultant, stated, “Sony’s video processing is cleaner and handles upscaling better than Samsung’s, despite both using the same quantum dot OLED panel.” This processing edge proved decisive.

Panasonic’s Z95B OLED marked its U.S. market return at the 2025 Shootout, narrowly winning the HDR category over Samsung’s S95F by 0.01 points. Absent from the U.S. for years, Panasonic leveraged the event to showcase its OLED lineup, previously limited to Europe and Asia. Alex Fried, Panasonic’s director of business development, emphasized the brand’s renowned picture quality, saying, “It was great to be back in the shootout, reflecting Panasonic’s legacy of top-tier performance.”

Samsung’s S95F QD-OLED came in a close second overall, splitting HDR category wins with Panasonic and performing strongly across the board. Its quantum dot OLED panel, shared with Sony, delivered impressive brightness and color volume, but it fell slightly short in SDR due to Sony’s superior processing.

LG’s G5 WOLED, however, was a surprising disappointment, finishing last in both SDR and HDR categories. Despite LG’s pioneering role in OLED technology and its use of RGB OLED panels from LG Display, the G5 struggled with color accuracy and EOTF (electro-optical transfer function) issues. Judge Chris Boylan, co-founder of Big Picture Big Sound, noted, “The LG was a little disappointing with some processing issues that lowered its overall scores in some categories. Some of these might actually be fixable with future software updates.” This outcome raised questions about LG’s current standing in the OLED race, especially given its historical dominance in the category.

Final Thoughts

Sony’s seventh straight “King of TVs” win at the 2025 Value Electronics TV Shootout reaffirms its position as a leader in premium display technology, driven by superior video processing and consistent performance. However, the tight competition—especially Panasonic’s HDR upset and Samsung’s close second—shows that the gap between top-tier OLEDs is narrower than ever. For consumers, this means more choices and exceptional quality across the board. Whether you’re a videophile chasing the ultimate picture or a casual viewer seeking a top-tier TV, the 2025 Shootout proves that OLED is the technology to beat, and Sony’s Bravia 8 II is currently leading the pack.

Note - Hisense and TCL were invited to the 2025 Value Electronics TV Shootout but chose not to participate. 

On this week’s show we ask what ever happened to the Ring Indoor Security Drone and we take a look at the Top Ten Streaming shows for the first half of 2025. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.

News:

• DirecTV tests convenient new feature for streaming customers
• Google Home speaker debacle worsens with more failures
• Social platforms and streamers battle for the living room

I was thinking about all the cool stuff that had been introduced at CES over the years and remembered one that I really wanted to use, the Ring Indoor Security Drone. It's perfect for those who own a home and may want to check in on parts of it without placing cameras everywhere. So what happened to it?

Amazon's Ring Always Home Cam, a $249.99 indoor security drone announced in 2020, remains unreleased with no confirmed launch date. Initially planned for 2021 and showcased at CES 2023, it was part of an invite-only U.S. program, now discontinued. Ring’s CEO confirmed ongoing development in 2024, citing challenges with mirrors, windows, and cost. Privacy concerns, technical limitations like a five-minute flight time and inability to navigate stairs, and user frustration on forums suggest delays. A July 2025 report hints at a possible limited release, but Ring’s focus seems to have shifted to AI features and other products.

The first half of 2025 has delivered an exciting lineup of streaming shows that have captivated audiences across platforms. From gritty dramas to thrilling action series, here’s a breakdown of the top 10 streaming shows that dominated screens, as highlighted by The Streamable.

1. Landman S1 (Paramount+) 14.44B min watched: A gritty drama following an oil field worker navigating the high-stakes world of the Texas oil boom.  
2. 1923 S2 (Paramount+) 13.29B min watched: The Dutton family faces new challenges in the early 20th century as they fight to protect their Montana ranch during turbulent times.  
3. The Night Agent S2 (Netflix) 8.66B min watched: FBI agent Peter Sutherland dives deeper into a web of conspiracies, balancing loyalty and danger in a high-octane thriller.  
4. MobLand S1 (Paramount+) 8.04B min watched: A crime drama exploring the gritty underworld of organized crime in a small, corrupt town.  
5. Love Island USA S7 (Peacock) 8.01B min watched: A group of singles navigate romance, drama, and challenges in a tropical villa to find love and win a cash prize.  
6. Ginny & Georgia S3 (Netflix) 6.32B min watched: The mother-daughter duo faces new secrets and struggles as they adjust to life in a small town with a dark past.  
7. The Pitt S1 (HBO Max) 6.24B min watched: A high-intensity medical drama set in a Pittsburgh hospital, focusing on the personal and professional lives of its staff.  
8. The Residence S1 (Netflix) 6.06B min watched: A comedic murder-mystery centered on a quirky staff navigating scandals and secrets in the White House.  
9. Zero Day S1 (Netflix) 5.97B min watched: A tense political thriller about a cyberattack that triggers global chaos, led by a retired operative seeking answers.  
10. Reacher S3 (Prime Video 5.96B min watched): Jack Reacher tackles a new conspiracy, using his brute strength and sharp mind to unravel a dangerous mystery.

Netflix led with four titles, while Paramount+ had three. The Streamable notes that HBO’s The Last of Us and The White Lotus would have made the list if non-originals were included. The data underscores the competitive streaming landscape, with platforms like Paramount+ and Apple TV+ gaining ground against Netflix

On this week’s show we take a look at why people are not upgrading their set top boxes and we read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.

News: 

• Samsung Develops Cheaper Method Of QLED Panel Production
• Netflix puts more ads on originals than licensed titles
• Vizio TVs will now be sold exclusively at Walmart
• Classic Looney Tunes Cartoons Will Move to Tubi After Leaving HBO Max

We are big fans of streaming devices for a bunch of reasons like; they have the latest hardware so streamers can take advantage and give you higher quality. Or apps are updated more frequently, Or even that you can have identical experience across different manufacturers. Regardless of why we love them, a recent report by Cord Cutters News, said that devices like Roku, Amazon’s Fire TV, Apple TV, and Google TV aren’t flying off the shelves this year. So, what’s behind this? 

Why Skip the Upgrade?

Well it may be that your 2022 Fire TV Stick is still streaming “Stranger Things” in glorious 4K, or maybe that your Roku Smart TV hasn’t missed a beat with the latest Disney+ releases. According to Cord Cutters News, the majority of Americans are saying, “Why fix what ain’t broke?” The survey reveals that many are perfectly happy with their current streaming devices, which continue to deliver Netflix, Hulu, and more without a hitch.

There is also an opportunity cost that spending $50–$150 streaming gadget means they may have to give up a streaming service. “Consumers are realizing last year’s Roku or Fire Stick still streams 4K just fine. Unless there’s a major leap in features, there’s little incentive to upgrade.” So, if your device is still slinging episodes of “The Bear” without buffering, why shell out for a new one?

What’s Holding People Back?

1. Device Longevity: Unlike some consumer electronics, which seem to demand upgrades every couple of years, streaming devices are built to last. Companies like Roku, Amazon, and Apple push regular software updates, keeping older models compatible with new apps and features. For example, a 2019 Roku Smart TV can still handle the latest streaming services like a champ. 
2. Market Saturation: The numbers don’t lie. Over 80% of U.S. households already own a smart TV or streaming media player, according to 2024 stats from Statista. For many, it’s not about “needing” a new device—it’s about whether they want the hassle of setting up another one. If your living room is already equipped with a streaming stick or smart TV, adding another gadget might feel like overkill.
3. Cost vs. Benefit: For some setting up a new streaming device means re-entering Wi-Fi passwords, logging into apps, and maybe even dealing with a new remote. For most folks, the minor perks of a newer model (slightly faster processor? Shinier interface?) don’t justify the cost or effort.

What’s Next for Streaming Devices?

If Americans aren’t rushing to buy new streaming devices, what’s the game plan for companies like Roku, Amazon, Apple, and Google? They’ll need to get creative to get us to upgrade. Here are a few possibilities:

• Software Innovations: Expect a bigger focus on user interfaces, Better more relevant content recommendations, or even augmented reality for interactive viewing. 
• Bundling Deals: To entice satisfied users, companies might offer sweeteners like a free Fire TV Stick with a new smart TV or a discounted Apple TV+ subscription with a new device. 
• Exclusive Content: “Roku and Amazon are likely to double down on exclusive content or partnerships to make their devices more appealing, even to satisfied users.” It’s all about giving us a reason to upgrade when we’re already content.

Takeaways

So, what’s the bottom line? If you’re one of the many Americans skipping the streaming device upgrade in 2025, you’re in good company. Your current Roku, Fire TV, or Apple TV is likely still performing well, thanks to solid hardware and regular updates. But keep an eye out for deals or game-changing features—like faster processors, better voice controls, or exclusive content—that might make an upgrade worth it.

On this episode of the Rewind show we go back to July 23rd 2010 where we read your emails,  look at a news story or two, discuss how to pick an AV Receiver and why Bluray was not selling like hotcakes.

On this week’s show we look at what the posters at AVS forum have spent on their home theaters and we look at the Roku Secret Menu options. We also read your emails and take a look at the week’s news.

News:

• Belkin plans to power down Wemo support in 2026 
• Netflix Sees Rapid Q2 Subscriber Gains
• Broadcast TV hits historical viewership low in June

Roku devices have hidden menus for advanced users, offering diagnostic tools, customization options, and more. Full article at ZD Net - Your Roku has secret menus and settings here's how to access them. Here's how to access them using your Roku remote:

1. Developer Settings

• How to Access: Home × 3 > Up × 2 > Right > Left > Right > Left > Right
• What It Does: For developers to test apps on Roku. Enables app installation, sideloading, and Roku account management.

2. Network Menu

• How to Access: Home × 5 > Right > Left > Right > Left > Right
• What It Does: View IP/MAC addresses, check internet connection, join networks, and toggle bandwidth-saver mode.

3. Wireless Secret Screen

• How to Access: Home × 5 > Up > Down > Up > Down > Up
• What It Does: Displays signal strength, antenna info, and error logs. Run AP speed tests or clear Wi-Fi settings.

4. Reset & Update

• How to Access: Home × 5 > Fast Forward × 3 > Rewind × 2
• What It Does: Factory reset, soft reset, search for updates, and USB port tests.

5. Ads & Screenshots

• How to Access: Home × 5 > Up > Right > Down > Left > Up
• What It Does: Control scrollable ads, disable screensaver ads, and adjust screenshot output formats.

6. HDMI Secret Screen

• How to Access: Home × 5 > Down > Left > Up × 3
• What It Does: View supported resolutions, refresh rates, HDR settings, switch inputs, and run input tests.

7. Platform Secret Screen

• How to Access: Home × 5 > Fast Forward > Play/Pause > Rewind > Play/Pause > Fast Forward
• What It Does: Displays CPU, memory usage, remote diagnostics, IPv6 settings, and remote logs.

8. Channel Info Menu

• How to Access: Home × 3 > Up × 2 > Left > Right > Left > Right > Left
• What It Does: View installed channel versions and build numbers. Uninstall apps directly from this screen.

9. Reboot Shortcut

• How to Access: Home × 5 > Up > Rewind × 2 > Fast Forward × 2
• What It Does: Quick reboot without accessing menus. Roku restarts immediately.

Tips and Warnings  

• Use these menus cautiously; some actions (e.g., factory reset) are irreversible.  
• Not all menus work on every Roku model (e.g., older devices or specific models like the Roku Smart Soundbar).  
• To exit, press the Home button.  
• For additional settings, explore the standard Settings menu or enable developer mode via Roku’s website for app sideloading.

Note: Always back up important settings before experimenting.

On this week’s show we design a high end home theater but one that is within reason because we are not going to spend your money just for the sake of spending money. We also read your emails and the week’s news.

News:

• Max Officially Changes Its Name Back to HBO Max
• Apple reportedly in pursuit of Formula 1 rights
• Streaming Subscriptions May Get Tougher to Cancel
• LG Debuts Wireless OLED Evo M5

Other:

• PWAYTEK Smart TV LED Backlight with HDMI
• New Balance - Saturday Night Live
• Nike Women's Ad - SNL

We have designed a budget based home theater system before so for this episode we decided to design a money is no object system. This high-end home theater system is centered around an 85" television and a 7.1.2 speaker configuration, optimized for premium performance since budget is not a constraint. We prioritize audio-visual quality, immersive surround sound, and aesthetic integration for a luxurious home theater experience. The room size for this theoretical theater is 15 X 20 feet or approximately 4.5 x 6 Meters. Note that some of these items are listed on our Amazon Influencer Store Front where we make a commission on the sales. 

Television Samsung QN90D 85" Neo QLED 4K TV

This 2025 model offers exceptional brightness (up to 2,000 nits), deep blacks with Mini LED technology, and a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth motion. Quantum HDR 64X enhances color and contrast, ideal for cinematic viewing. Its slim design and anti-glare coating suit various lighting conditions. Price: $2,300

Features:

•     4K Ultra HD with Quantum Dot technology
•     Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
•     Built-in smart platform for streaming (Netflix, Disney+, etc.)
•     4 HDMI 2.1 ports for gaming and external devices

Edit - after this week’s announcement by LG we are changing this to the 83 inch LG OLED evo M5 series that costs about $8,750. 

AV Receiver  Marantz Cinema 30 

This 11.4 channel receiver delivers 140W per channel, supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D, and handles 8K/60Hz passthrough. Sound Master Tuned & Calibrated For You.

Powerful calibration and tuning tools are included, enabling you to get the best performance from your system. Price: $4,475

Features:

• 11 amplified channels (7.1.2 natively)
• HDMI eARC for lossless audio
• Advanced room correction for optimal sound

Front Left/Right Speakers: Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 (Pair)

These floor-standing speakers deliver crystal-clear highs and robust mids with 6" midrange drivers and carbon dome tweeters. Their 200W power handling ensures dynamic sound for movies and music. Price: $7,000/pair

Center Speaker: Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S3

From the same family of the 702 S3. For clear dialogue and seamless soundstage integration. Its dual 6.5" woofers and carbon dome tweeter handle complex audio with precision. Price: $2,500

Surround Speakers (4): Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 (2 pairs)

These bookshelf speakers provide immersive surround effects with compact footprints. Their 5" midrange and tweeter design ensures clarity for side and rear channels. Price: $3,000/pair (x2 = $6,000)

Height/Atmos Speakers (2): Bowers & Wilkins CCM7.3 S2 In-Ceiling Speakers

These in-ceiling speakers are designed for Dolby Atmos, delivering precise overhead effects with a 3-way design (tweeter, midrange, and dual woofers). They blend discreetly into the ceiling for a clean aesthetic. Price: $2,000/pair

Subwoofer: SVS SB-5000

This sealed subwoofer delivers deep, controlled bass down to 17Hz with a 2,000W RMS amplifier. Its DSP control and mobile app allow fine-tuning for room acoustics. Price: $2,000

Media Player - So this is where we get in trouble. Logic would say Kaleidescape since money is no object. But our recommendations Ara- Apple TV 4K $250  Braden - Roku Ultra $130 get you all you would need plus you can load your streamers, IPTV services, and automation controls. All with near perfect picture and sound quality.

Acoustic Treatments - GIK Acoustics Panels and Bass Traps

To optimize sound quality, acoustic panels reduce echo, and bass traps control low-frequency buildup. Custom designs can match room decor. Price: $2,000-$3,000 (depending on room size and coverage)

Seating: Salamander Designs Synergy Home Theater Seating (4 seats)

Premium leather recliners with motorized adjustments, built-in cup holders, and USB charging. Configurable for tiered rows in a dedicated theater room. Price: $8,000 for 4 seats

TV Stand/Mount: Salamander Designs Archetype System

Sleek, modular design supports an 85" TV with cable management and space for components. Wall-mount option available for a floating look. Price: $1,500-$2,000

Control System:

Here we are going with a Crestron System with installation. These systems can cost as much as $100K for a large home. But for our modest yet high end system we are allocating $10K for the theater area. 

Cabling and Power:

No need for super expensive cables even though money is no object. Afterall, we didn’t make all this money by throwing it away! We are allocating $1000 for monoprice cables and good power conditioners like  the Furman Elite-15 PF i

Total Estimated Cost:

• TV: $2,300 or $8,750 for the LG M5
• AV Receiver: $4,475
• Speakers: $17,500 ($7,000 + $2,500 + $6,000 + $2,000)
• Subwoofer: $2,000
• Media Player: $250
• Acoustic Treatments: $2,500
• Seating: $8,000
• TV Stand/Mount: $1,750
• Control System: 10,000
• Cabling/Power: $1,000

Total before installation: $49,775 or $56,225 for the LG

Total including Installation and calibration of $15,000: $64775 or $71,225 for the LG