Have you thought about how you’ll keep yourself entertained at home overseas? If music and movies rank high on your list, you’ll need to consider that your current home theater system probably won’t work abroad.

Expat Home Theater Systems Combat World Conversion Conflicts Abroad

Welcome to the confusing world of voltage conversion, foreign video conversion, DVD region codes and Blu-Ray region codes. Click on these links to understand how this world coding system can impact your ability to play your favorite media. For example, a DVD disc from Region 1 (USA and Canada) won’t play on a DVD player from Region 2 (Europe and Japan.) And there are a total of 6 regions worldwide. The good new is, there’s a simple solution to all the confusion.

Multisystem, Region-Free Home Theater Systems Solve The Problem

The best home theater systems for expat living are multisystem and region-free for use worldwide. They’re manufactured by top brands like Panasonic, Pioneer, Yamaha, Sony, Samsung, Klipsch, LG and Bose. But they’re not available through most retailers. The model choices and brand selections may be limited (if you can find them at all) in your foreign expat destination. Specialty retailers’ online stores typically ship worldwide. And in many cases, shipping may be free.

Modern home theater systems require at least one display device and a sound system. Sounds simple, right? But CEPro, a leading trade publication for professionals involved in the custom electronics business, cites these 6 Hot Home Theater Trends for 2016:

6 Hot Home Theater Trends

1. Multiple Screens: Gives you more than one viewing option in a media room.

2. Hybrid Space: Includes family room, game room, media room in a single space.

3. Social Networking: Post social network updates while watching television.

4. Networking Media: Internet-connected Blu-Ray Players, Gaming Consoles, Apple TV and other.

5. Floor Standing Soundbar Speakers: Fills your room with the clearest audio.

6. Value: Get high performance, feature-rich components at a lower cost.

The typical expat living scenario may not call for multiple screens. But the trend for creating a "hybrid space" seems pretty spot on, wouldn't you say? And free-standing speakers and soundbars accommodate your flex space better than built-ins. Not to mention you get much higher quality sound from your speakers when they're not enclosed.

Once you've agreed how to configure your media room, you can focus on how to configure your home theater. Regardless of the sizes and numbers of screens and speakers you choose, there are a few standard features you should make sure you include for the best electronic experience abroad.

5 Top Standard Features In Home Theater Systems For Expats

1. Region Free Coding: Plays Blu-Ray DVDs, Standard DVDs and CDs from anywhere in the world.

2. Multisystem support. (Supports NTSC, PAL, SECAM)

3. 110-240 volts 50-60 hertz

4. USB input (Play media from external devices, like your phone or camera.)

5. HDMI Output (Connect HDMI compatible devices, like a Blu-ray player.)

Add Smart Features For The "Most Flexible" Media Experience

• 3D Blu-ray Playback: View 3D movies with special 3D glasses.
• Wifi Built-in: Avoid the cable clutter with wireless connectivity.
• Internet Streaming capabilities:  Stream from Youtube, Netflix, Amazon, Vudu, Picasa, Pandora and a multitude more apps.
• Bluetooth capabilities:  Stream audio wirelessly from your cellular phone, tablet, computer or any other Bluetooth compatible device.
• Networking Capabilities: Connect external streaming devices like Apple TV or Fire TV. Or gaming consoles like Xbox or PlayStation

"By 2019, more than 50% of TV households in Japan, the US, the UK, France and Germany will have smart TVs [ according to IHS]," writes a Broadband TV news correspondent.

Add Surround Sound & Ultra HD 4K For The "Ultimate" Media Experience

The butter on the popcorn? Powerful multi-channel surround sound speakers and Ultra HD 4K simulate a live cinema, coliseum or auditorium experience. Home theater systems are “giving way to soundbar/subwoofer systems because they offer an easy way to fill a room with audio,” says Peter Tribeman of Atlantic Technology, an audio engineering company. And according to TechRadar.com, “4K Ultra-High Definition will define the future of television.”  

When you invest in electronics for expat living, it only makes sense to invest in technologies that are here to stay awhile. Likewise, investing in region-free multi-system components is like buying global insurance. You can take your investment anywhere you go. 

Don't limit your entertainment choices abroad. Seek the advice of a region-free, multi-system electronics expert before you purchase. Request a free consultation online or call 220 Electronics at 847-640-9000 (International). Dial 877-578-0587 in the U.S.

View Our Multisystem/Region-Free Home Theaters.

View Our Multisystem TVs.

What are Multi-system, Multi-Region, Region Free and Code-Free Electronics?

In the electronics world, devices are manufactured specifically for the area in which they're to be sold. From the device's labels and packaging to the default language and even retail price, there are many variations from country to country on what is essentially the exact same product. Additionally, these devices are manufactured to meet the specific requirements or regulations of these various countries, with one of the major factors being voltage compliance. Since different countries have different voltage standards (ranging from 110 volts to 240 volts) the electronics sold in any given country must be compatible with that country's voltage.

 

Multi-System and Multi-Region

When someone refers to "multi-system" or "multi-region", they're speaking of a device that can operate in foreign areas - usually because of its special voltage capability. Typically the device has been modified to operate at any voltage due to internal modifications. Common examples are TVs, DVD & Blu-ray Players, Stereo Receivers and other common items that might be taken along when moving, relocation or traveling abroad.

 

Aside from the modifications that allow the device to operate at any voltage, there are also other changes in some cases. There are 3 major video formats used throughout the world - these are PAL, NTSC and SECAM. In order to use another video component with the TV such as a DVD or Blu-ray Player, both units need to use the same video format. While compatibility can be accomplished via an external converter, the best models will come with internal video converters which is the easiest option.

 

Region-Free and Code-Free

While DVD & Blu-ray players could fall into the multi-system category, they are more commonly referred to as being "region-free" or "code-free". The difference in names is mostly due to the fact that these types of devices are not only designed for a specific voltage, but also coded to only play discs that originate from the player's native region of sale. While there are many reasons for this which we won't get into, these types of devices need to be unlocked in order to play discs from outside regions.

 

When utilizing a region-free DVD or Blu-ray player, there is no issue with voltage OR with playing discs from foreign countries. Some people purchase region-free or code-free players for traveling while others purchase them for the purpose of playing foreign discs in their native country - this is common with people who are collectors and enjoy watching foreign movies or those who purchase discs from overseas while vacationing or via the internet.

 

It's advised that if you're using a TV that's not compatible with PAL, NTSC or SECAM, you should be sure that your video player is equipped with internal conversion. If not, you'll need an external video converter for compatibility.

 

Where Can I Find Multi-System and Region-Free Electronics?

220 Electronics is one of the world's largest retailers of professionally modified multi-system and region-free electronics. From TVs and Blu-ray players to stereo receivers, home theaters, and even 240 volt appliances, we carry the top brand names at the lowest prices, guaranteed. In business for over 35 years, our top priority is customer satisfaction and our low price guarantee. If you can find a product offered by a competitor at a lower price, we'll beat it by 10% of the difference. Check us out today at 220-Electronics.com where you can browse all of our products and learn more about finding the proper electronics for your needs.

 

Are you an obsessive compulsive Blu-Ray Disc collector who just can't seem to get enough? Maybe you're a hardcore movie junkie with an international knack for good films who just happens to own a Blu-Ray Player? In either case, we have some excellent news for you; for the both of you.

 

For the OCD Blu-Ray Disc Detective: While you may think you've purchased every Blu-Ray Disc available today in North America; while you've scoured the local store shelves and relentlessly searched the internet looking for the lates release or that "oldie but goodie" to supplement your pristine collection - there's likely something you're forgetting.

 

For the Sofa-Ridden Film Afficianado: Although your impeccable tastes for quality filmography and rare cinema have led you to the deepest darkest corners of the internet in search of new downloads; Even though you thought you've attained a new level of acheivement by discovering an underground streaming video network where you watched the very first episode (and only copy in the world) of The Three Stooges that have been dubbed with Korean voice-overs... There's likely something you're forgetting as well.

 

"What is it?", you ask.

 

It's called a Region-Free Blu-Ray Player. Also known as a Multi-Region or Code-Free Blu-Ray Player, these convenient marvels of modern day technology allow playback of Blu-Ray Discs and DVD's manufactured from anywhere around the world.

 

"What do you mean?", you ask while scratching your head.

 

Well, contrary to popular belief (possibly due to a lack of interest or maybe because the ingenious idea just never crossed you mind), you can't simply take a Blu-Ray Disc purchased during a business vacation in Hong Kong back to the USA and pop it into the Blu-Ray Player at home. Well, actually you CAN pop it into the Blu-Ray Player but the problem remains that it isn't going to play.

"Oh, I see, it's because they speak a different language, right?"

 

No, language has absolutely nothing to do with it. The real reason the Blu-Ray Disc won't work in your player is because during the manufacturing process, the disc was enbedded with what's known as a "region code". A region code is an additional chunk of data that's been attached to the the original content of the disc. In turn, the disc player itself has been pre-programmed to recognize and play only those discs that are embedded with the codes originating from that specific region. For example, Blu-Ray Players purchased in North America can only play Blu-Ray Discs purchased in North America since the North American player has software that will only recognize and play a disc embedded with the North American region code (Region Code "A"). Additionally, things work the same way in the Europe/Africa/Australia/New Zealand areas (Region Code "B") and respectively for the Asia/China/Russia areas (Region Code "C"). Blu-Ray Discs from a specific region can only be played from a Blu-Ray Player from within the same region.

 

Now that you have all the information together, let's see if you (Mr. Disc Buyer) and you (Mr. Film Freak) can put the clues together - do you understand why this article is directed at the both of you?

 

The Region-Free Blu-Ray player dramatically benefits you both! Think about it...

 

For the Disc Collector: Nothing could be more exciting than stumbling upon up a whole new world of Blu-Ray Discs to purchase, right? Especially ones that none of your friends have. Although you may not speak German, I highly doubt you'd be able to pass up an alternative language version of your favorite film, right? I mean c'mon... even the text on the cover is in German! But hey, it's not just about language. There's plenty of interesting titles from Europe that you've never heard of, but the good news is that YOU CAN BUY THEM! Better yet, you can even watch them!! Well, as soon as you get yourself a Multi-Region Blu-Ray Player. You might just end up turning into a film afficianado, like Mr. Movie freak here.

 

For The Filmophile: I think you already understand. A Multi-Region Blu-Ray Player will allow you purchase unique, interesting, and very, very rare films from overseas and around the globe. The versions you can't get in the US. The versions where the ending was completely different due to political or religious reasons. The version that isn't the real version, but a Romanian replica version of the same movie with different actors and a different landscape. The possibilities are endless! And think about it, now you can actually own physical copies the best films ever produced, in the flawlessly high quality format of Blu-Ray! This means no need for streaming video via a remote server in Serbia to watch a low quality copy of that banned film you can't find in the US. Go to Google and order it from overseas! Order one from each country if you'd like! Who knows, you might just end up making impulsive disc purchases, like Mr. Disc Buyer there.

 

I'd like to mention to the both of you, that while all the focus here has been directed at Blu-Ray Discs, there is one final little bit of additional information for you. Multi-Region Blu-Ray Players also play DVD's from any region in the world! Yes, it actually doubles as a Multi-Region DVD player.

 

All in all, the world of geographical restrictions, language barriers, and movie-playing power has just been blown wide open for you to explore. I know, it's pretty intense - so take a deep breath, stand up, and go pour yourself a drink. When you sit back down wondering where you'll begin your search for foreign Blu-Ray and DVD's, don't forget that you need to buy a Multi-Region Blu-Ray Player first.

 

P.S. - We also have certain models of Multi-Region Blu-Ray Players that operate on both 110 and 220 volt standard power supply's. So, not only can you watch movies from another country, you can actually watch them in another country.

 

At 220-Electronics, the sales team has over 30 years of experience with overseas and international electronics. They carry high-quality Region-Free Blu-Ray players from all the brand names you love at super-low prices, as well as some excellent players that are less expensive from a few lesser known brands. Regardless, don't go purchasing the Blu-Ray and DVD's until you've bought the player - it'll be more exciting that way. Visit www.220-electronics.com right now.

The DVD Region system is used to control which DVD movies play on which DVD Players. The DVD regions are broken down as follows:

DVD Region Codes	Blu-ray Region Codes
Code  | Where 1  | USA & Canada 2  | Europe & Japan 3  | South East Asia 4  | Latin America & Australia 5  | Russia, Rest of Asia and Africa 6  | China 8  | International Venues, Cruise Ships, Planes, etc.	Where  | Code Americas, East and South East Asia  | A Europe, Africa, Oceania, Middle East, French territories, Greenland  | B Central and South Asia, Mongolia, Russia, and People's Republic of China  | C

 

What does all this 'DVD region coding' mean?

This means that DVD movies from DVD Region 1 (USA & Canada) WILL NOT play on a DVD player regions 2-6. Effectively Region 1 DVD discs play only on Region 1 DVD players, Region 2 DVD discs play only on Region 2 DVD players and so on.

 

Why are there 6 DVD regions?

Movies are released on DVD at different times around the world, typically America and Canada first, Australia and Japan 6 months later, and Europe 12 months after US release. In some instances, DVD movies are available for purchase in America and Canada before they are released in European cinemas.

Due to the high quality of DVD and the movie release system used by Hollywood, 5 regions were established to prevent people from watching Region 1 movies before they were released on Regions 2-6.

DVD Censorship between countries also plays a part, another reason for DVD region coding.

 

What can I do to solve this problem?

220 Electronics specializes in Region Free DVD Players and Region Free Blu-ray Players that play DVD and Blu-ray movies from DVD Regions 1 thru 6 and Blu-Ray Regions 1, 2 and 3. Guaranteed 100%, giving you the freedom to watch any DVD movie, censored or uncensored, without having to wait up to 12 months for the official release in your country.

 

How do you make a DVD player region free / multi-region / Code-Free?

Our custom chipping process ensures your DVD or Blu-ray player plays every region disc available, using our custom DVD Region chip design. Our qualified technical staff modify and test your DVD player 100% with all DVD and/or Blu-ray egions before leaving our warehouse.

 

What if the movie studios put a DVD region protection system into the movie disc?

The DVD region protection system, 'RCE' was introduced 8 years ago, and all our DVD players play RCE discs 100%. So far no other 'new' protection system is possible other than RCE due to the way the DVD region format works. Our players play all protected 'RCE' DVD discs.

 

Enjoy the freedom that 220 Electronics offers, the freedom to watch any DVD movie from anywhere, Code-Free / Region Free!

Our DVD and Blu-ray Players play all movies from all regions, Guaranteed for Life!