Simple Simon

Sydney Hi Fi Mona Vale's ,Kyle Fairhall, is Peninsula Livings audio visual expert and penns the Pittwater editions "Simple Simon" column each month. Listed below are some of the questions that have been answered to date.

If you have a question and can't find the answer here, feel free to email them to "Simple Simon" at monavalecustom@sydneyhifi.com.au Your question and "Simple Simon's " answer will appear in the next edition of the Pittwater Peninsula Living.

Questions and Answers

From "Simple Simon"

Click on any of the questions below to see Simple Simon's answer

• • What is digital TV and do I need to get a new TV to have it?
  • I have just had a new swimming pool and BBQ area built. Is it possible to have speakers in these areas for entertaining?
  • I have a decent record collection (vinyl albums) some of which are not available on CD. Can I still buy a turntable or shouldI just throw my collection away?
  • Which is better plasma or LCD ?
  • I’ve noticed large-screen televisions being advertised with a built-in standard or high definition digital tuner. What are the advantages of this?
  • Is there a difference between hi-fi specialists and large ‘discount’ stores? They both seem to have the same products and the larger chain stores are cheaper?

  • I love my iPod and was wondering if I can connect it to my hi-fi so the sound comes out of my speakers. Is this possible?
  • I currently use five remotes just to watch TV! Is there a way to replace them all with just one?
  • Is two channels still available
  • What is a Hard Disc Drive video recorder going to do for me?
  • What is an HDMI cable and do I need one?
  • I recently purchased a plasma TV and the picture makes all the people look short and fat (and me feel good!!) Why is this happening?
  • I just want to listen to high-quality stereo music, but the market seems to be dominated with home theatre and ‘all-in-one’ products. Are two-channel hi-fi components still available?
  • With so many cheap DVD Players in stores, why should I pay over $100 for a “Name” brand?
  • My VCR is playing up, should I get another one or are VCRs dead?
  • What’s the deal with speakers? With all these 5.1 theatre systems and big screens are speakers still important?
  • I have read in the news that Digital TVs freeze when watching particular channels, is this true?
  • My Son tells me I need a subwoofer for my audio system. What is a sub-woofer and what does it do?
  • I want to set up a home entertainment room. Is it simple to buy the equipment and install it myself?
  • I have now “ripped” all my CDs to my computer, is there a way to enjoy my music around the house without having a PC in each room?
  • Should I get a Foxtel IQ box or buy a separate hard drive/DVD recorder?
  • I am confused, what is a Media Centre and do I need one?
  • Do I need a good quality pair of outdoor speakers. I only use them a couple of times a month?
  • I have trouble reading the buttons on my remote control without having to put my glasses on. Are there any models with buttons that are easier to see?
  • How important is power protection and do I really need it considering that my electrical mains already have circuit breakers?
  • I think my plasma screen would look nice on my wall. What would be involved with wall mounting my screen?
  • Can you get a CD player cleaner?
  • Christmas suggestions Simple Simon 2008
  • What is “Full HD”? How is it different from normal High Definition? What Full HD LCDs are the best?
  • I have just finished renovating my lounge room and have painted it in light colours. The rest of my furniture is light; do I have to have a black or silver TV?
  • My Pay TV box isn’t working, I can’t get any of the channels even though the green light is lit indicating that the power is on. What is the problem?
  • I have a large screen plasma TV and I would love to connect my computer to it and use the plasma as a screen. Is this possible to do?
  • We are currently having a house designed and we are having an entertainment room built in. We would like to have someone look at our plans and help us design the room layout and if possible choose suitable equipment so we can wire it during the construction. Our architect suggests that we see a specialist. Can you advise who does this sort of thing?
  • I recently saw an ad on TV for a new CD which was available to buy on CD or by 'digital download'. What is a digital download and where can I find it?
  • Working on a construction site I like to use my MP3 player with my headphones. Unfortunately they keep falling out of my ears. Are there headphones on the market that mould into shape or is there something you can recommend that is a bit more comfortable?