Mounting a Projector to a Drop Ceiling: 4 Best Methods

If you have a projector that you want to hang from a drop ceiling but you need help with how to do it, then this guide is for you! Just a few attachments and follow some instructions, and you’re ready to go!

Our professional handymen outline simple methods to mount your projector to a drop ceiling. So, if you’re ready, let’s proceed. 

Locating the Right Place to Mount Your Projector

Before you think about mounting your projector, it’s important to install it in the right spot first. Otherwise, the images will not fit into your wall or screen, ruining your viewing experience. 

First, determine the projector’s throw distance to find the right spot. This is the distance that the device should be back from the wall or screen.

We suggest checking the throw-distance-to-screen chart in the manual. For instance, if you have a 120′′ screen, the chart shows that one projector is about 3m away from the screen while the other is further away to achieve the full-screen display. 

And when it comes to the angle, determine the center point of your wall or screen. Make sure that the lens of the device flashes directly at that point. Once you have the right spot, you can start using the projector.

4 Methods to Install Your Projector From a Drop Ceiling

Method #1: Universal Drop Ceiling 

You can use a universal drop ceiling mount for easy projector installation. This is the quickest way to mount your projector. Here’s how you can go about it: 

1. Buy a tile-fitting that’s projector-ready. You can easily find one in various media stores. 
2. Once you already have one, disassemble one of your existing tiles and change it using the new tile. Then, you’re done. 

Method #2: Projector Brackets

Next, consider using a projector bracket. These are easy to install and will fit onto your drop ceiling. But make sure to secure them with a stud. 

1. First, you’ll need to install the brackets on your projector. We suggest following the instructions that come with the projector brackets. 
2. Adjust the throw distance to the mount-to-lens distance.
3. Then, secure your projector. Secure it with the stud using your screwdriver, bolts, or wench.
4. Finally, secure the cables, and you’re good to go!

Method #3: Projector Ceiling Plates

Another way to mount your projector is by using ceiling plates. Refer to the simple steps below:

1. Position the ceiling plate on the tile’s top and screw it into the tile rafters. 
2. Then, drill a hole in the tile to give way for the pipe column. 
3. Finally, carefully insert the pipe column into the ceiling plate and tile towards the projector mount. That’s it! 

Method #4: DIY Mount 

If you want a cost-free projector mount, then make this DIY mount. 

1. Choose from any of the following: glass, metal, and wood for your projector’s bottom. Make sure that it sticks out from the back of the projector.
2. For the projector’s screws, you can drill two holes in the platform’s wood or metal components. You can also add two more holes to the area that sticks out.
3. Screw your chosen platform to your projector using a screwdriver.
4. Make a hole by drilling near the platform’s bottom with your small hook. Then screw the hook on your projector’s front.
5. To secure the front of your projector, drill a dry-wall stud into the ceiling. Then slide the hook attached to the projector onto the dry-wall.
6. Lastly, use the two screws of the dry-wall [1] for your platform to secure the projectors back to the ceiling. 

Our Top Product Recommendations 

1. VIVO Universal Adjustable Ceiling Projector Mount (Link)

We highly recommend this VIVO Universal Adjustable Ceiling Projector Mount if you want an excellent and reliable universal drop ceiling. It has strong support that’s fully adjustable. 

The ergonomic design allows your projector to be placed at an ideal height for optimal viewing. 

2. AMER Projector Mount – Ceiling Bracket LCD (Link)

If you opt to use a projector mount, the projector mount from AMER can be the best option. This versatile aluminum mount can be used to install a projector to your ceiling. 

Its adjustable arms can be used to accommodate various sizes and types of projectors. It also features a 360 rotation and 180 pitch for optimal A-V projector alignment. 

3. Peerless CMJ500R1 Lightweight Suspended Ceiling Kit (Link)

If using a ceiling plate is your choice, we recommend this suspending ceiling kit from Peerless. 

The adjustable design allows for optimal positioning of your projector below a ceiling tile of 2′ x 2′ or 2′ x 4.’ It’s also pre-assembled, making it easy to remove and replace. 

Conclusion

Mounting a projector doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right spot and the correct installation method, you can have a great viewing experience. 

If you need to learn about mounting a projector to a drop ceiling, choose your preferred method and install it as directed above. Whichever method you opt for, you can enjoy what a drop ceiling mounted projector offers.  

The post Mounting a Projector to a Drop Ceiling: 4 Best Methods appeared first on The Product Analyst.

from The Product Analyst https://theproductanalyst.com/mounting-a-projector-to-a-drop-ceiling/

Is Geek Squad Protection Worth it for a TV?

Best Buy offers Geek Squad Protection, which aims to provide you with prolonged warranties and protection services for your item purchases. It covers all types of appliances like TV, monitors, and more. 

But many prospective buyers often ask if Geek Squad Protection is worth it for TV purchases. To help you decide, our team reviewed and assessed the value of this plan.   

Is it Worth Getting a Geek Squad TV Protection Plan from Best Buy?

Best Buy Geek Squad plans are definitely worth signing up for, depending on the type of electronics you’re buying. Yes, it could be worth it for your TV, especially if you opt to buy a high-end class TV unit.

Protection Plan Coverage and Costs

The cost of the protection plan varies by product. You can only see the exact cost of your desired plan after you add to the cart the product. For example, if your TV costs $1,299, your plan can be something like this:

Cost of the TV: $1,299.99
2-year plan: $174.99 (about $7.29/month)
5-year plan: $299.99 (about $5.00/month)
And the plan covers the following:

• General wear and tear
• Defected parts
• Battery failure
• Screen burn-in
• Any liquid spillage
• Pixel malfunction
• Etc.

Product Replacement Plans

Geek Squad’s product replacement plans are robust and can be used for many expensive electronics, such as smartphones and 4K computer monitors or TV units. They can be very easy to replace, and they come with a very minimal amount of hassle.

Unlike other protection plans, Geek’s Squad Protection Plan does not require the eligible item to suffer disastrous failure. Best Buy will even provide a replacement for minor malfunctions. The plans can last up to three years, and the cost varies depending on your TV model.

The plan cost may vary depending on your TV unit. But the cost is usually 20% (at least) of the item. 

Large Electronics Protection

Although this plan isn’t as robust as a full replacement, it can still be handy for those who have recently purchased a new TV or computer monitor. 

This plan covers various repairs and features, such as power surge and pixel burnout, as well as one-time bulb replacements for projectors.

Besides, it also covers the recalibration and installation of the TV. Although the price varies depending on the model and the initial cost, it can be quite expensive. You can usually negotiate with a Best Buy employee to lessen the cost.

How Does Geek Squad Support TV Purchases?

Does Geek Squad Replace TVs?

Geek Squad can replace TVs, but that’s on a case-to-case basis. Geek Squad usually just repairs, but if something goes wrong and can be hard to fix, that is the only time they will replace a TV. 

Does Geek Squad Repair TVs?

Yes, that’s the usual thing Geek Squad does. If you’re thinking of getting their service, refer to the following: 

Cost of Diagnosis

The cost of a diagnosis varies depending on the issue and whether or not repairs are needed. Having the device checked can help determine the issue with your TV or other electronic gadgets. It can go anywhere from $40 to $70. 

Cost of Repair

The cost of repair may vary depending on the device. In the case of a TV, the cost can be between $1000 to $4200. 

FAQ

What are the differences between a Geek Squad Protection Plan and a manufacturer's warranty?

Most manufacturers’ warranties [1] only cover defects in the materials and quality of the product. On the other hand, Geek Squad plans cover issues arising from daily use and accidental damage.

When should I purchase a Geek Squad protection plan?

After purchasing an item from a manufacturer, you only have 30 days from your date of purchase to get a Geek Squad plan.

Can the plan be transferred?

If you’re selling or giving away an item that Geek Squad covers, you can transfer the protection plan to another person.

Conclusion

As you can see, Best Buy’s Geek Squad Protection Plan aims to help tech and appliance user’s like you get the most out of your device – be it a gadget, appliance, or any home device. If you’re still thinking if the Geek Squad Protection Plan is worth it for your TV, it’s a definite yes! 

But, if your TV or device is not the high-end class or not so pricey, you might want to pass with this protection plan – just the warranty cover will do.  

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from The Product Analyst https://theproductanalyst.com/is-geek-squad-protection-worth-it-for-tv/

What is DCR on a Monitor? Is it Good for Gaming?

DCR is the latest trend in screen technology, improving videos or graphics quality. If you want a better viewing and gaming experience at a price you can afford, considering it may be a good option.  

But for those unfamiliar, you might ask what a DCR is on a monitor and how it benefits gaming. Luckily, our engineers have the answer, so keep reading! 

DCR, Explained

The DCR, short for Dynamic Contrast Ratio, is a technology that can automatically figure out how bright an image is as a whole. It can effectively fix different color levels by lowering the brightness of dark areas.

DCR not only enhances the contrast ratio but also makes the grayscale look better. Basically, this DCR technology is used to enhance the quality of the pictures and automatically change the settings so that the pictures look better.

Dynamic Contrast Ratio Monitor Aspects

• Dynamic contrast is a value for contrast measured by an LCD in certain situations. The contrast parameters are found by testing each screen part to see which has the highest contrast ratio.

• The DCR's value is actually the difference between the screen's maximum brightness, which is all white, and its minimum brightness, which is all black.

      If we look at the contrast ratio of a CRT monitor, which can be as high as 500:1, we can see why it’s hard to show a black picture on one.

• This contrast ratio technology uses special features that automatically figure out how bright everything is. Also, it does a good job of analyzing the whole picture and restoring different colors to make it look clearer and more finished.

• The manufacturer uses different ways to measure the dynamic contrast of the screen. Even though there are two kinds of contrast ratios, dynamic contrast and real contrast, they are not the same.

Is DCR Good?

Nowadays, DCR is commonly used. Improved contrast improves image quality and creates more sable blacks than the typically available on high-resolution displays.

Often, monitors with dynamic contrast adjustment deliver a more excellent viewing experience. You will notice fewer shadows and better color contrast. As the brightness levels change, it’s easier to see everything on the screen, even in dark spots.

Even though Dynamic mode isn’t the best for watching movies or other shows on a monitor in a dimly lit room, it can be a great place to start when gaming.

When to Use DCR?

When you look at the game screen with and without DCR, you can see that it is very bright. If you turn the DCR on, the screen’s highlight area gets much darker. This makes the overall color of the image easier to look at. But if DCR is not turned on, the screen will seem too bright.

So we recommend turning it off if you want to play games. But this tip is mostly for games with graphics that are very realistic. If you play games with stylized animation, you can probably leave it on.

When to Enable or Disable DCR for Gaming

Contrast is used by all monitors and televisions to highlight dark scenes or black screen areas. Almost all of them serve whites well, but blacks are treated differently. 

Low contrast makes blacks and dark areas appear grey. Some people don’t mind, but high contrast is generally preferred to ensure gloomy scene realism. 

In games, you don’t want blacks to appear grey because this will reveal every hidden element. That would be detrimental to the goal of playing a horror game [1]. As previously stated, if you’re tinkering with optimization in mind, it’s best to turn it off. 

This advice, on the other hand, is primarily directed at games with hyper-realistic graphics. 

Advantages of Having a DCR Monitor

Perfect for Gaming

The most important thing for an excellent gaming experience is good graphics. So, if you are a hard-core gamer who used to play games for long periods, using a DCR in your monitor will keep you away from stress caused by poor graphics quality, resolution, and contrast ratio. 

Sufficient Contrast Ratio

DCR monitors are known for their sharp images and many different contrast ratios. So, all of the graphics are easy for anyone to understand.

Less Eye Strain

With the DCR, you won’t have to worry about eye strain because it can change the screen’s brightness. DCR’s display technology won’t bother you to look at dark images. It improves the quality of the visual display.

Affordable

DCR monitors are cheap – much lower than the prices of the latest HDR technology. Regardless of where you use it, you can find prices that are easy on your budget.

Conclusion

The DCR technology is becoming more popular as a smart display feature that can decide on its own how to adjust the way pictures are shown. 

So, these screens are, without a doubt, the best for gaming. When you use DCR on a monitor, you will definitely be able to see more detail and have a better visual experience.

The post What is DCR on a Monitor? Is it Good for Gaming? appeared first on The Product Analyst.

from The Product Analyst https://theproductanalyst.com/what-is-dcr-on-a-monitor/

Sony HT-A7000 Review: Is This is Best Atmos Soundbar from Sony? (2022)

There’s an increase in Dolby Atmos-ready models and configurations, and the Sony HT-A7000 speaker is right up the trend. But with this latest technology comes a hefty price tag. 

If you don’t want to splurge on an upgrade with average or disappointing new features, allow our pro audiophiles to break down the unit in this Sony HT-A7000 review. 

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What We Like

• Excellent build quality
• Clear and crisp sound with dialogue
• Great surround support format
• Two HDMI inputs
• Options for wireless playback
• Wide support system
• Room correction option

What We Don't Like

• Available in black only
• Premium soundbar

Design and Build

The design of the Sony HT-A7000 has changed dramatically from its predecessor flagship unit, the HT-ST5000. 

Unlike several of the drivers in the latter model, the 11 speakers drivers in this soundbar are all located behind a metal grille. It has grilles on both sides and the top surface at the end of the soundbar. 

However, at 3.25 x 5.7 inches, it is just as attractive. Along with the TV, its simple design is slender enough to avoid fouling the bottom of the TV screen.

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You may also need a wider TV stand because the Sony A7000 is 51-inch long, making it suitable for bigger TV screens. 

Regarding its build quality, Sony doesn’t skimp, and the HT-A7000 model feels top-notch due to its luxurious finish. In addition, the soundbar is also wall-mountable.

Sony HT-A7000 Features

Overview of Specifications

Color/s	Black Only
Ports	Ethernet, USB-A, Analog Audio Jack In (3.5mm), Digital Optical, 1x HDMI Out (ARC/eARC), & 2x HDMI In
Audio Channels	7.1.2
Audio Formats Supported	Dolby TrueHD, DTS X, DTS, Dolby Atmos, & Dolby Digital
Power Cable Output	500 Watts
Connections	Wireless (Spotify Connect, Airplay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth CBC, LDAC, & AAC)
Voice Assistance	Google Assistant & Alexa
Subwoofer	Integrated
Size	51 1/4 x 3 1/4 x 5 5/8 in
Weight	19.2 lbs.
Mounting Option/s	Yes

Sound Quality

This soundbar is suitable for a variety of uses. It suits various types of audio content thanks to its neutral sound profile that is balanced, together with rich bass. 

It struggles, however, to recreate deep thumps within its low bass. However, you can always upgrade this setup by adding a dedicated subwoofer and satellites.

Configuration

The size of the soundbar features 11 drivers, which include two beam tweeters, two subwoofers, and five mid-range drivers for bigger and brighter sound. 

Also, the couple of upward-playing units on the upper part add height details to DTS:X and Dolby Atmos music tracks.  

Frequency Response

The stereo frequency response of the Sony HT-A7000 is adequate. It has a fairly neutral frequency response, with an extra knack in the bass range. 

Its frequency response is enough for most audio content types, though its capacity to reproduce the rumbling, thumpy low-bass usually found in action-packed movies or heavy bass music is average.

Soundstage

This Sony HT-A7000 features an excellent stereo soundstage. Its soundstage is discerned to be impressively wide due to its Surround technology (S-Front Pro), reproducing the field of sound using front-playing surround speakers.

But its focus is average, and the sound objects appear to be from a broader location rather than a specific, pinpoint frequency. 

Dynamics

The HT-A7000 provides a satisfactory stereo dynamics surround performance. However, it does not provide a room-filling sound as it doesn’t volume much–unsuitable for parties or crowded places. You’ll notice some compression when you turn it all the way up. 

Distortion

The HT-A7000 performs well in terms of stereo THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) [1]. The distortion amount is within acceptable limits at normal listening volumes, resulting in pure and clean audio reproduction. 

When you set the volume bar to its maximum, THD increases. But, you might not notice it in the actual content.

Surround Sound 5.1

The surround sound performance on the Sony HT-A7000 is average. It represents the surround objects with front-playing speakers within the bar, but it doesn’t sound as natural and clear as discrete speakers. It also has a bass-heavy frequency response – maybe too much for some.

When you listen to surround content, you can utilize the ‘Immersive Sound AE’ button to operate the up-playing drivers with the side-playing drivers. However, we ran this test set with this feature disabled. Note that you cannot modify this feature when you’re listening to any Atmos content.

Atmos

The Sony HT-A7000’s Atmos performance is average. To simulate height, the bar’s up-playing drivers fire bounce off the ceiling and then sounds down towards you. These channels, however, do not provide that much volume, and the frequency response can be a little bright.

We ran the sound tests setting the bar to the ‘Standard Surround’ setting. During the listening test, we discovered that when you listen to Atmos content, the ‘Cinema’ setting adds height. 

However, the performance of the bar isn’t as exceptional as some of the other soundbars we have tried before as some important details are lacking. So when you listen to Atmos content set in the ‘Standard Surround’ setting, you cannot modify the Immersive AE setting.

Sound Adjustments

The Sony HT-A7000 comes equipped with great sound adjustment features. You can customize the sounds using the EQ presets, such as ‘Music,’ ‘Standard Surround,’ ‘Auto Sound,’ and ‘Cinema.’ You can tweak the preset in order to match the content you’re listening to based on the subjective listening tests we’ve conducted.

Audio Formats Supported

• ARC

This HT-A7000 soundbar supports a wide range of audio format via ARC. You have both standard and virtual surround sound formats (Dolby Digital) as well as lossless and object-based formats (Dolby Atmos).

• HDMI In

It also supports a wide breadth of formats using the Full HDMI inputs. HT-A7000 supports all the sound formats we’ve tested, including the lossless and object-based formats such as DTS: X and Dolby Atmos.

• Optical

Dolby Digital and DTS content is supported by the HT-A7000 using the Optical. These sound formats are usually found on a streaming music service or Blu-ray disc.

Performance With Subwoofers

The Sony HT-A7000 has a built-in subwoofer in the bar – placed on the left and right sides of the center speaker. You can add a dedicated subwoofer, which you need to purchase separately. 

The double woofers on the bat’s front provide some oomph, especially when the volume is turned up above 60%, but they are no substitute for a discrete subwoofer. 

Actually, we agree with some Sony HT-A7000 reviews online, and we can say the same for the up-playing speakers and surround drivers, which appear a little weaker.

It can produce 7.1.2-channel sound on its own. While that appears to provide more sound output, it’s mainly focused in the mid-range if you don’t butt in and adjust the EQ manually.

What you’ll hear right out of the box, without additional hardware, is a clear and solid dialogue. 

Throughout our testing process, regardless of the source, we could clearly hear the dialogue, even though we changed the TV’s sound mode to a more dynamic setting, like the Sony TV’s ‘Cinema’ sound mode.

Connectivity Options

The Sony HT-A7000 soundbar has two HDMI 2.1 inputs and one eARC/HDMI output port on the recessed side for hardwired connectivity. It can handle Dolby Vision HDR, 4K @120Hz, and 8K @60Hz signals.

You can also find a digital optical port, analog input via a 3.5mm jack socket, USB Port Audio, and analog output for converting a compatible Sony Bravia TV into the center channel using the supplied cable.

Wireless connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as Chromecast, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect.

Interface and Controls

The Sony A7000 features a small interface displaying your current settings and inputs. You can find touch-capacitive buttons located on the bar’s top. 

These buttons enable you to turn on/off the bar, activate Bluetooth, change the input, set the volume, and open music services.

App

You can navigate all of the soundbar’s features within the Sony Music Center app. What’s disappointing here is the Sound Field Optimization features is available only when you connect it to your TV.

The app serves as your remote control to navigate the bar’s features. It allows you to modify the sound settings and input and listen to music from your smartphone via Spotify Connect, Amazon Music, or any music streaming service. 

It also comes with a remote similar to those found with Sony’s other soundbars and Sony TV speakers. It’s big and has a lot of buttons for controlling its features.

Bonus Features

This HT-A7000 soundbar features a standby mode, turning off when inactive. Also, it supports the HDMI Cable CEC, which means you can use your TV remote to navigate to the main features. 

Quality high passthrough, which includes the Dolby Vision Passthrough, is supported. When you connect your TV or PC, the text on the TV screen appears clear and crisp.

The latency performance of the Sony HT-A7000 soundbar is excellent. Because of the auto-low latency mode, you’ll hear the audio properly synced with the video or content you see. As a result, it is appropriate for streaming movies and videos over these connections.

Additionally, the Sony is loaded with setup wizardry, and the calibration system is simple. There are onscreen menus you to tinker with. 

The soundbar includes DSEE Extreme upscaling technology, which helps restore lost audio details during low data streams. Actually, you can find this commonly on the company’s flagship WH-1000M5 Bluetooth headphones, for example. 

Price and Warranty

We cannot complete this Sony HT-A7000 review without mentioning its price range and warranty. So far, this standalone subwoofer is available in black with a hefty price tag. 

But as of this posting, it is discounted on Sony’s official website or through online retailers and websites such as Walmart, Amazon, Walmart, B&H, and Best Buy.

But given its price range, the Sony A7000 seems overpriced compared to other leading digital publisher and competitors like the Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3 and Sonos Arc. 

So, it undercuts Sony’s flagship by significant margins. Furthermore, adding wireless surround speakers or any wireless subwoofer increases the overall cost.

Regarding of the warranty, Sony provides a 1-year limited warranty to all their products purchased from the US and Canada only. 

Sony HT-A7000 vs. Other Soundbars

Sony HT-A5000

The HT-A7000 outperforms the Sony A5000. When it comes to the built, you can rely more on the HT-A7000 with 7.1.2 setup. It has improved soundstage and sound mode performance. Also, it features an extra HDMI input. 

But when you set them both on the max volume, the Sony HT-A5000, with the 5.1.2 setup, is slightly louder and gives less compression.

Sonos Arc

The Sonos Arc standalone is much better than the standalone Sony HT-A7000. The Sonos system is a 5.0.2 configuration – featuring an improved center, Atmos performance, soundstage, and surround. It also has a slightly more extended low-bass reproduction. 

The Sony, on the other hand, is more solidly built. It features a Full HDMI In port, unlike the Sonos, to which you can expect a high-quality passthrough.

Bose Smart Soundbar 900

When it comes to mixed-use, you can rely on the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 performance better than the HT-A7000. The Bose performs better in terms of soundstage, Atmos, and surround – which uses vertical surround engine technologies.

At maximum volume, it sounds louder with slightly more compression. However, Sony only supports any DTS content with a Full HDMI port.

FAQ

When was the Sony HT-A7000 released?

The Sony HT-A7000 with the 7.1.2 setup configuration was released in 2021. During its release, it promised a full-featured soundbar, which would deliver phenomenal direct audio quality. 

Do I need a subwoofer with HT-A7000?

Using a subwoofer with the HT-A7000 is completely optional. But if you’re willing to spend extra costs on purchasing an additional subwoofer, go for it. You can enhance the sound quality more, if ever. 

How many speakers does the Sony HT-A7000 have?

The Sony HT-A7000 has two up-playing stereo speakers for the overhead sound and two beam tweeters. Also, its five front surround speakers allow a more immersive surround experience, and its built-in dual subwoofer provides deep bass.

Review Conclusion: Sony HT-A7000

Our Sony HT-A7000 reviews and tests proved that the soundbar is a sophisticated television speaker solution. It offers impressive sound, improving the performance of your TV – achieving a completely cinematic effect. 

To further amp up its true movie-like performance and accuracy, we highly recommend connecting it to wireless subwoofers.

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from The Product Analyst https://theproductanalyst.com/sony-ht-a7000-review/