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.

5 Top TV Purchasing Considerations For Expats

When you make your decision to move your life abroad, your best intention is likely to simplify your life by getting rid of things you don’t need. But there’s one item we find most expats refuse to give up. You guessed it right--the TV.

As much as we know you don’t prefer anything “complicated,” we know purchasing a new television today can be a confusing chore. From Smart TVs with wifi, internet and app capabilities, to Plasma, LCD, LED and OLED, HDTV, and curved or flat panel aesthetics, you have so many considerations. And expat living adds even more complexity to your television purchase choices.

So we thought we would simplify your purchasing process by explaining these top five considerations for expats moving outside North America.

1) Your Standard North American TV Will Not Work Overseas.

Some companies will tell you that if your TV has a digital signal, HDMI and 110-220 volt capabilities, your TV should be compatible abroad. But this is simply not true.

Standard TV systems purchased at most “big box” retailers in North America are encoded to comply with the National Television System Committee (NTSC) color and picture quality standards in the U.S. So you can’t just go to your local electronics retailer and purchase a television that will work in your home abroad. (Error: Mode Not Supported)

Alternatively, PAL (Phase Alternation by Line) and SECAM (Sequential Color with Memory) are the common color and quality standards outside North America (and Japan.) To comply with these popular modes overseas you must purchase a Multi-system TV.

2) Multi-system TVs Work Anywhere In The World.

Multisystem televisions are compatible with NTSC, PAL and SECAM standards. As opposed to NTSC 110-120 volts and 60 Hz output, multisystem TVs accommodate 110-240 volts with 50 and 60 Hz output. Aside from the fact that you can use your multisystem TV anywhere in the world, multisystem specialty retailers typically are less expensive, offer a larger brand selection and larger sizes (even 70” and above) of the latest models and technologies.

Multi-system televisions are available in Plasma, LCD, LED and TV/DVD Combos. And they come equipped with all the top modern TV features like 3D, curved screen, wifi built-in, HD, full HD, ultra HD 4k, and built-in tuners. In most cases, the built-in tuner is not necessary outside North America when your multisystem TV is connected to a cable box or satellite receiver.

Both Plasma and LCD and are aging technologies. But, many of our customers still prefer them. We understand you like what you like. Viewing a movie in 3D is all the rage at the box office, but it may not be your thing at home abroad. It’s a cool technology that requires a 3D DVD player and 3D glasses. Some of our expat customers find it  “complicates” their viewing capabilities a little more than necessary.

If you’re questioning whether you need HD, full HD or ultra HD 4k, here’s the deal.

• Good High Definition: 720 resolution
• Very Good High Definition: Full HD - 1920 x 1080 resolution
• Ultra High Definition: HD 4K

3) Multi-System LED Televisions Offer The Most Modern Viewing Technology.

In both standard and multisystem LED Televisions, panel design is a matter of aesthetic choice. Curved televisions can be wall-mounted, just like a flat-panel TV. Curved television panels allow greater flexibility in furniture positioning. You and your guests can view it equally as well from either side, as though you are sitting front and center.

4) Multi-System Smart TVs Are A Smart Choice For Expats.

Multi-system Smart TVs come with all the bells and whistles, including wifi and full web browser capabilities, 3D imagery and 3D glasses, voice recognition and motion control, and web apps. Think computer and TV, all-in-one.

5) Region-Free Smart Blu-ray Players Offer Smart TV Capabilities.

Understand Blu-Ray DVD Regions.

Region-Free Smart Blu-ray DVD Players can lend your standard multisystem TV the same Smart functionality you get by purchasing a Smart TV. However, this requires a custom chipping process that we provide in-house using a custom DVD Region chip design to ensure your Blu-ray DVD player can play any disc, regardless of its country of origin.

The latest Region Free Blu-Ray DVD Players even come equipped with streaming media and PlayStation capabilities.

Whether you’re going abroad to retire in one of International Living’s Top 10 Retirement Havens, to work in one of Mercer’s Top 10 Best Cities for Expats, or anywhere else in the world, you’re wise to make sure you’re equipped with a multi-system, region-free television.

If you have any questions, contact us for a FREE Relocation Consultation.

Many of you might be familiar with this, but then many of you may not. So here's the situation; you're moving overseas for some reason (work, retirement, personal, etc.) and you're trying to get a place setup to live. You might be building a home, buying a home or renting a home and you're going to need to furnish it with electronics and appliances.

 

Unlike in the US, many places that are for rent or for sale do not come with major appliances. Sometimes they come without any appliances at all for that matter. You're likely going to have to purchase your own, and in a foreign environment it can be a real hassle. Below we will cover a few situations that can prove to be a real headache when trying to find appliances and electronics overseas and how you can avoid those headaches altogether.

 

Global Differences in Pricing

One thing that many people may not expect upon first thought is that electronics and appliances are not as inexpensive and readily available as they are in the United States. We have a massive system of trade with the world's major electronics manufacturing countries, and with that, we enjoy some of the world's lowest prices on a wide variety of quality personal and home electronics, as well as small and major appliances.

 

You might be quite surprised to visit an a major appliance store in a foreign country, and upon doing the math, discover that a low-end appliance costs the same as a high-end appliance in the United States, or that the cost is up to 60% more than it cost in the US. That's never a nice surprise. Consider things like a refrigerator, oven/range, microwave, dishwasher, washer/dryer, television, etc. Instantly you feel overwhelmed by a vision of dollar-signs. And that doesn't even include a blender, coffee maker, stereo system, Blu-ray or DVD Player, and other misc. electronics.

 

But it doesn't have to happen that way. Believe it or not, it's much cheaper to purchase everything you need in the US and pay to have it shipped overseas. It's the truth. If you do it right (and with our help, advice, expertise and knowledge) you can save big time.

 

Wait, You Don't Carry That Brand?

So even if you're made of money and decide to purchase your appliances and electronics overseas, you're going to quickly find out that the selection is not as complete or vibrant as it is here in the United States.

 

When we trade to an appliance store in the US, we see dozens and dozens of brands and models of each appliance available to choose from. Various sizes and designs, multiple colors, economical and high quality models and everything in between. You have options - and sometimes so many options it's hard to make a choice. Overseas, you might not have that. Actually, you won't have that. And in most countries it's not as simple as going on a website and ordering your new appliances for delivery in 3 days. It just doesn't work that way, for many reasons, none of which are important to get into right now.

 

Just know that the selection will be small, and you might not be happy with it. You might have to settle for less than you expected, and under certain circumstance, that could mean more hassle in the long run. But it doesn't have to be that way. You can actually purchase your appliances before you leave and have them shipped to your new home country. Best of all, we know EVERYTHING there is to know about voltage in foreign countries, which means we sell 220-240 volt appliances so they're actually compatible overseas.

 

Inaccurate Resources, Foreign Language and the Tourist Aspect

Again, while moving to a foreign land can be one of the most exciting and rewarding things you ever do with your life, there are certain things to understand. For example, you can't always just go online and find out who is a reputable retailer of washing/machines and dryers in Thailand or Japan. You might not know where to look, or in all actuality, the businesses that sell those items will likely not have a website as much business in smaller foreign countries operate by word of mouth. This means that simply locating the place to find what you need can be a huge hassle all by itself.

 

With that said, you still might experience language issues once you do find a retailer. Even if you're fluent in the local language, you might suffer the "tourist tax", which is basically the full price or sometimes even an inflated price. There's not always a chance to make deals, and you won't realize it until it's too late. Many, many, many people have found out at a later date that they've been charged 50 or even 100% more for big dollar items while overseas, sometimes for products of inferior quality! And worst of all, unlike big-box stores in the US, the retune policy is not always for or even existent for that matter

 

So, What Should You Do?

It's a simple answer really. You call 220 Electronics. We have over 35 years worth of experience in international relocation - it is our specialty. We're able to access your situation and individual needs and present options that will make your move go very smooth and far simpler than trying to acquire multiple appliances and electronics in a foreign country.

 

We have knowledge of foreign countries and their elsctrical standards, as well as a vast knowledge of our own huge selection of top brand name appliances. We can save you a ton of money, a ton of hassle and a ton of regrets. We believe you should arrive in your new home relaxed, confident and ready to enjoy life - not stressing about how you're going to cook food or wash your laundry.

 

Give us a call today at 877-578-0587 or visit us online at www.220-Electronics.com and get started. We have a massive history of happy, loyal and satisfied customers and we welcome you to join them! Let's make your international move a breeze.

 

Whether you're temporarily working abroad for an extended period or permanently relocating overseas, there's a lot you need to know before taking the leap.

 

While moving overseas can be highly rewarding, it can also be highly stressful from the perspective of preparation and initial adjustment. There is a lot to take care of before departing and it can often be quite overwhelming. From bank accounts and financial responsibilities to living arrangements and transportation, there's many things that need to be arranged in order for you to transition smoothly into a foreign country.

 

One of the most overlooked factors with international relocation is the difference in electrical voltage. If you're unaware that different countries operate using different voltage standards, you might be in for a rude awakening upon your arrival.

 

In North America, we really never have to consider voltage. You simply buy something and you plug it in. But since the electricity that's delivered in foreign countries often varies in voltage, you'll need to arrive prepared.

 

As international relocation specialists, 220 Electronics specializes in ensuring that you're 100% prepared for your international move. Whether you plan to bring your electronics and appliances overseas or purchase new items when arriving, we can simplify the process and eliminate the unnecessary headaches.

 

Not only do we have over 30 years of expertise with international relocation for electronics, we also have a complete line of 220 volt electronics and appliances that are specifically designed for use overseas. Often, we can provide a huge savings over making these purchases overseas by offering 220 volt versions of the top brand name appliances that you're used to. Additionally, we can make sure you're properly prepared to utilize and electronics that you're going to bring with you by providing advice on voltage converters and electrical plug adapters.

 

Know before you go! Don't waste your money and cause yourself frustration by arriving unprepared. Chances are, there's a lot more to consider with electronics and appliances than you're assuming.

 

We're happy to provide you with a no obligation, 100% FREE international relocation consultation that will enable you to understand the differences in voltage, the pros/cons of foreign bought appliances and much, much more. To receive your no hassle, no pressure consultation, simply fill out our FREE RELOCATION CONSULTATION FORM today and one of our specialists will give you a call at your convenience. Learn how to simplify your move today so you can relax and enjoy peace of mind upon your arrival.

 

If you're relocating overseas, whether it be for business or retirement, you can save yourself a great deal of frustration, time and even money by ensuring you have all of the proper appliances before traveling. To better explain this, we're going to take a brief look into a few of the common scenarios that are encountered when moving or relocating overseas or to a foreign country.

 

Adapting to a new country that you're going to call home has its fair share of challenges. There will be plenty of surprises, some pleasant and some not so pleasant, as well as an array of cultural and societal differences that will take some getting used to. For many, this is part of the excitement - new learning experiences keep the mind from growing bored. But with that said, there are going to be some differences that take a bit of getting used to, which can often be simple things that you might take for granted. Shopping is one thing that's sure to frustrate, even for those with the utmost patience. The combination of a new language, varying standards of customer service and a lackluster selection of the brands and products that you're used to are just a few of the things that pose an immediate threat to your ability to simply shop for groceries. While it can be accomplished, you're probably going to need a bit of patience and a strong will to learn.

 

One of the most dreaded shopping experiences overseas could very possibly be purchasing home appliances. Even in your home country, shopping for appliances can be a lot like shopping for a car. There is wiggle room in the pricing of major appliances, yet there are hundreds of makes and models to choose from. Factor in the language barrier, cultural differences (which could affect the ability to barter, especially if you're seen as a "foreigner") and currency differences and you've got enough on your plate to make your head spin. The good news is that there's no reason to fret, because there are specialized businesses who are experts in international relocation. These are people who understand the stresses of moving to a new country (or anywhere overseas) and can minimize the hassle of purchasing appliances and electronics overseas by ensuring you're prepared BEFORE you move.

 

220 Electronics is one of these businesses. For over 30 years, 220 Electronics has specialized in international relocation by offering a complete inventory of 110 volt through 240 volt electronics, home appliances and travel products. From Multi-system TV's and Blu-ray Players that operate at any voltage, to 220 volt major appliances like washers, dryers, refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, small kitchen appliances and more. 220 Electronics stocks the best makes and models from the top brand names you've grown to trust, and everything is offered at industry leading prices. So, what does this all mean?

 

Well, lets assume that your current home is fully furnished, and while you've pondered the idea of simply refurnishing your new home upon your arrival to a new country, there's a lot of things you'd like to keep. So you've contracted an international mover, a bulk shipping company or a cargo company and arranged to have all of your belongings shipped overseas - but you can't take your appliances or most of your electronics with you because your new home country operates at 220 volt electricity which your appliances were not designed for. Should you purchase new appliances and electronics when you arrive? Sure, but you're likely going to run into the problems mentioned above, and ultimately end up paying a higher price. There's a better solution.

 

If you've arranged to have your belongings shipped overseas to your new home, now is the perfect time to purchase all of your major appliances and electronics so they can arrive in time to be shipped over with the rest of your things. 220 Electronics sells everything you'll need to be comfortable in your new home without enduring the hassle of having to shop overseas. We carry many electronics that utilize worldwide voltage, meaning they'll work properly any where in the world from 110 to 240 volt electrical systems, as well as a full line of standard 220, 230, and 240 volt major appliances. Pricing is simple (and low), the inventory is robust and the customer service is second to none in the industry. Our online store allows you to order directly from the comfort of your home and have your order shipped direct to your home where it will be ready for shipping with the rest of your things.

 

While many people are surprised that such a service exists, thinking they wished they would have thought of it sooner, there are thousands upon thousands of satisfied customers whose move was made easy thanes to our expert staff, everyday low prices and timely delivery.

 

For more information on how we can assist you with your international relocation, or to simply browse our inventory to get a better idea of what we offer, visit our website today at www.220-Electronics.com and see what a difference we can make for your move. You'll be glad you did, we guarantee it!