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Multisystem 4k Ultra-HD. What, when, why and how?

multisystem 4k ultra hd tvSo you've been hearing all about it - 4k Ultra-HD, also known as UHD. What is it? Can the resolution really be 4 times better than 1080p HD? What type of technology is involved in a 4k TV? I haven't seen any 4k Blu-ray Discs for sale - why not? Is 4k UHD technology compatible with older movies?

 

What is 4k Ultra-HD?

4k Ultra HD is the newest high-resolution format for TV. Taking a major step up from the traditional 1080p, 4k improves the screen resolution by using more pixels, which means you're getting a picture that has more information or more pieces. This results in smoother transitions of color, more precise details and an overall better picture. A great example would be to think of old video games and how they were very choppy and pixelated compared to video games today which seem quite realistic - this is because the video games of today have a much higher resolution.

 

While 1080p HD may seem as perfect as a picture could possibly get, 4K Ultra-HD takes it a step further by using 3,840 pixels horizontally and 2,160 pixels vertically (3,840 x 2,160). 1080p Full HD only uses 1,920 pixels horizontally and 1,080 vertically (1,920 x 1,080), which means that 4k Ultra-HD is twice the resolution.

 

Is 4k Ultra-HD Readily Available?

As of right now, 4k is widely available. While there is still a ton of room for growth and while the majority of media is not currently broadcast in 4k, we're seeing more and more use of 4k each and every day. Cable providers offer 4k sports & movie channels, most blu-ray titles are now available in 4k resolution and Apple just released their latest iPhone with 4k video camera. While you might not see the nightly news in 4k Ultra-HD, you can most likely find the latest movie titles in 4k. It's also becoming more common with TV and Blu-ray manufacturers. At first, 4k playback was a major feature to have but today it's easy to find this feature on most 4k Ultra-HD TVs and 4k Blu-ray Players. If you're a movie fan, you're definitely going to want to invest in a 4k TV and Blu-ray player, as it's sure to be the new standard for many years to come.

 

Why do I Need a 4k TV?

The simple answer is that you don't - just like you don't need 1080p HD to watch a movie. But if you want the best experience available, 4k is a must have. As movies continue to evolve, we're seeing faster action scenes, more special effects, more intense scenes with vivid colors and complex lighting and improved filming methods that make for an overall better and more realistic cinema experience. If you're watching the newest movies on a HD TV, you're missing out on the full experience. In 4k, you're going to see each and every detail just as the film-makers intended it to be. The rich colors, deep tones, lightning fast action scenes and broad spectrums of light that really make the viewing experience as enjoyable as possible. Simply put, 4k Ultra-HD offers the best viewing experience available.

 

Where Do I get a 4K TV and Blu-ray Player

If you're interested in the finest cinema experience technology has to offer, you're going to love the newest 4k Ultra-HD TVs and Blu-ray Players, including Multi-System models that can be used anywhere in the world. Check out our inventory at 220 Electronics. We carry the latest models from the world's top manufacturers and offer the guaranteed lowest prices in the industry. We will beat any competitor's price by 10%!

 

Traveling with Electronics - Avoiding the Common Problems

traveling with electronicsIf you've moved overseas, are a frequent traveler or live and work abroad, chances are that you've ran into issues with electronics. Mainly, compatibility - as different regions of the world utilize various systems of voltage, electrical outlets, and even video systems.

 

While one might assume that bringing electronics along on their travels is a surefire way to prevent boredom while increasing both productivity and the ability to connect, there are certain roadblocks that stand in the way for even the most seasoned of international travelers. In this entry, we're going to focus on a few of the most common inconveniences that most worldly travelers encounter and provide ways to minimize the hassles.

 

Plugging In

First and foremost, the main thing that all electronics require is power. You can't do anything without a reliable power source, and depending on where you're going, it can prove more painful to simply get plugged in than anything else. Many countries and regions have differing standard voltages than what you're used to at home and while sometimes this can be resolved with a simple plug adapter, there are other times when you'll require both a voltage converter and a plug adapter. Attempting to use electronics that aren't designed for the local voltage can cause damage to your electronics, the hazard of fire and even the risk of electrocution. Visit this Voltage Converter Buying Guide to determine what you need and how to find it.

 

The Simple Things

While some people may prefer to employ a voltage converter for their needs or simply go without specific electronics, others opt to take along products that are designed for worldwide use and work with any voltage from 110v to 240v. Usually, these are common products such as hairdryers, electric toothbrushes or travel irons. Purchasing these products ensures hassle-free use no matter where you are and reduces the bulk of needing a voltage converter. However, beware that a foreign plug adapter may still be necessary!

 

A little research goes a long way and you might overlook some of the simple things such as being able to charge your phone or curl your hair for that important business meeting that's coming up.

 

Entertainment

Depending on the length and purpose of your stay, you might be tempted to bring some movies along for the trip. Or maybe you intend to plug your laptop in at the hotel and watch movies from your hard drive. That's a great way to stay entertained, especially if the local TV is filled with foreign shows in a language you may not understand. But there is a slight problem with this - first is the fact that movies are region-coded. Bringing along some DVD's from home to play in your hotel room most likely won't happen because the DVD or Blu-ray player won't play your foreign movies. Additionally, connecting your laptop via a cable directly to the TV may not work due to the varying color formats such as PAL, NTSC and Secam. But there's a better option - a portable region-free player which works on any voltage, any color system and plays discs from any region. If you've got one, you can buy local movies on the cheap, take your own with you and then plug the portable player right into the TV for a larger picture with no need for any type of converter. Check out some of the different Portable Region-Free Players here.

 

Getting Situated

Aside from traveling, moving abroad is quite a big step to take and there's an abundance of issues that can arise such as furnishing your new home, finding cell phone service and purchasing a vehicle. One of the biggest headaches is furnishing a home with new appliances as in other countries, most real estate purchases and even many rentals don't include even the basics. From a refrigerator, microwave and stove to washer and dryer, there can be a lot to shop for and as a newcomer, the language barrier can always be a factor in not finding fair prices or knowing where to shop for the best deals. International Relocation services available from 220-Electronics help eliminate this stress completely by evaluating your needs and providing the expertise, along with the products to make your move simple and more economical.

 

Overall, seeing the world is one of the most exciting and rewarding opportunities someone can have, and it's much more enjoyable when the small annoyances can be easily eliminated. For more information on the products and services we've mentioned, visit our website at www.220-Electronics.com 

Blu-ray new Releases for January 2014

blu-ray new releases january 2014To kick off the new year, there are some hot titles coming out this month for January. From musical to documentary, horror to action, we doubt you'll be let down by these new releases. Check out the list below and get your Blu-Ray Player ready for some serious home theater action!

 

Throne of Blood - 1957

The Killing Fields - 1984

The Wicker Man - 1973

Tequilla Sunrise - 1988

The Hurricane - 1999

Gorillas in the Mist - 1988

We Are What We Are - 2013

The Act of Killing - 2012

Closed Circuit - 2013

The Beach Girls - 1982

Many Wars Ago - 1970

Notting Hill - 1999

Monty Python's The Meaning of Life - 1983

Cape Fear - 1962

Duck Dynasty: Season 4 - 2013

Hail Mary - 1985

Fiddler on the Roof - 1971

For Ever Mozart - 1996

The Mummy - 1999

The Underneath - 2013

John Lenon: Imagine - 1971

Thief - 1981

Riddick - 2013

Carrie - 2013

In the Heat of the Night - 1967

Buffalo '66 - 1988

Enough Said - 2013

I Cannibali - 1970

Jaws - 1975

Terraferma - 2011

Robocop - 1987

Cat people - 1982

Machete Kills - 2013

La Vie de Boheme - 1992

Raise the Titanic - 1980

Captain Phillips - 2013

The Doors: R-evolution

The Prey - 2011

Casino Royale - 2006

Freezer - 2013

Chitty Chitty Bang bang - 1968

Titus - 1999

Zulu - 1964

Man in the Dark 3D - 1953

Traveling with Electronics - Voltage Converters for The Philippines

voltage converters for the philippinesIf you're planning to visit the beautiful Philippine islands for a short vacation or an extended stay, your going to have plenty of things to do and new places to see. Embarking on a foreign adventure among a different culture is always enjoyable and exciting, but it's best to make sure that you research your destination and arrive prepared to avoid any unnecessary complications. Before packing your bags and catching your flight to the Philippines, please be sure to consider what you're going to do about using your electronics.

 

Many countries have varying standards when it comes to electricity. Certain regions, and even individual countries utilize a standard voltage at which electricity is delivered at. In North America, the standard voltage is 120 Volts. Devices that are made and sold in North America are designed and manufactured to operate specifically at 120 volts. However, in the Philippines the standard electrical voltage is 220 Volts. This means that the electronics sold there are designed to be used specifically with the 220 volt system. If you were to try and use electronics from North America in the Philippines, the voltage would be too high for the device to handle and will likely result in your electronics being damaged or ruined. The higher voltage also poses a serious risk of electrocution or fire when using electronics that are meant to be used at a lower voltage. On the other hand, electronics from the Philippines cannot be used in North America because the lower voltage means that there isn't enough electricity to properly power the device. While this can also result in damage to the device from improper voltage, the risk of electrocution or fire is significantly lower.

 

Now that you're aware of the varying voltage, the next step is deciding what to do about it. This depends on a few things, from the length of your stay to the particular electronics you plan to bring along for your travels. If you plan on moving to the Philippines, living abroad or staying for an extended period of time, it's likely that you'll be bringing more things along for your trip than you would if you were taking a short vacation. In this case, you'll most likely be in search of a simple, all-encompassing solution that allows you to use the electronics that you already have. Thankfully, there are devices that do exactly that - allow you to use your electronics in a foreign country without having to worry about the difference in voltage. They're called voltage converters, or voltage transformers.

 

A voltage converter or transformer is a device that transforms (or converts) the electricity from one voltage to another, either up or down. While your electronics are plugged in directly to the converter itself, the converter plugs into a standard wall outlet and then transforms the voltage and delivers the electricity to your devices at the safe and proper voltage that they were designed for. This eliminates the hassle of purchasing new electronics and ensures your devices can be used both safely and effectively.

 

There are different types of converters available, depending on your destination and the functionality required. The simplest, most common type of voltage converter is the Step Down Converter. This type does exactly what it says - it steps the electricity down. A step-down converter is ideal for using 120 volt electronics in a 220 volt country because it converts the 220 volts down to 120 volts. There is also the Step Up/Step Down Converter. This type is capable of transforming voltage down (just like a step down converter) but it can also step the voltage up - from 120 up to 220 volts. A Step Up/Step Down Converter is typically ideal for someone who is living abroad or traveling frequently because it can be used anywhere in the world to properly power devices designed for any voltage.

 

For more information on purchasing a voltage converter, including how to choose a model with the correct wattage for your electronics - check out this helpful voltage converter buying guide. Traveling is supposed to be fun, not a hassle. Being prepared with a voltage converter for the Philippines will give you more time to enjoy your trip without worrying about the little things such as charging your phone or laptop, or drying your hair.

 

Make Life Easier with a Multi-System Home Theater

multisystem home theatersWhen it comes to multi-system and region-free Electronics, nobody knows them better than us. For over 30 years we've been serving the public with international relocation and electronics advice. It's no surprise that we know what our customers want and do our very best to deliver exactly that.

 

When you need a home theater system, there seems to be a world of options. From generic to name brand, economical to high-end and everything in between. For those of you who want quality, performance, ease of use and a one-size-fits-all type of package, look no further than our multi-system home theaters. We've taken the guesswork out of the equation by offering home theater DVD packages to suit your exact needs.

 

If you want a region-free DVD player and a surround sound system that was built to match, check out our Multi-System Home Theaters. Each package features everything you need to turn that lonely TV into your very own in-home theater. This reduces the need to shop around and spend hours trying to find components that are compatible. It also eliminates the need for converters and a trip to the store to purchase extra wiring or cables to accommodate your setup, saving you both time and money.

 

With a multisystem home theater package, you're getting a region-free DVD player and a surround sound system that was designed specifically to operate with that player and its individual features. Moreover, you can use it anywhere in the world thanks to the worldwide voltage capability which means there's never any need for a voltage transformer. It's as simple as 'purchase, plug and play'.

 

At 220 Electronics we have over 50 multi-system theater packages to choose from, starting at only $156.99. Click Here to view all of our home theater systems or call us at 877-578-0587 and we'll be glad to assist you with your purchase.

 

Unleash Your Blu-ray Player with the Sony Entertainment Network

sony entertainment networkIf you own a Sony Blu-ray Player or are in the market for a region-free Blu-ray system, there's no better value right now than Sony. Not only do they deliver top of the line audio/video performance, they've also put together the Sony Entertainment Network - an amazing lineup of free apps and streaming media that are available to enhance your home theater experience.

 

From games and news to humor and cult movie channels, there's a wide variety to choose from and best of all, many apps are free! Packed with both video and music applications, The Sony Entertainment Network allows you to log in with one account to access your favorite apps both at home and on the go. Once you've signed up for a free account, you can also access Sony's Music Unlimited and Video Unlimited services.

 

Video Unlimited operates similar to an On-Demand cable service, allowing you to purchase or rent downloadable content from a huge list of movies, tv shows and specialty programs. If you have a Sony Blu-ray Player, the Video Unlimited Service is a streaming product

 

The Music Unlimited provides access to millions of songs in their global catalog and dozens of add-free channels to stream your favorite tunes with no annoying ads. There are two levels of Music Unlimited Service - Basic ($3.99) and Premium ($9.99). Both offer a feature similar to many of the most popular streaming audio platforms that delivers music catered to your specific tastes. Additionally, the service has the ability to scan existing audio files from your devices to determine similar music that suites your tastes. Premium users have the ability to create and manage playlists, plus access even more premium audio channels.

 

If you're curious about flexibility, have no worries - the Music Unlimited Service is available on the SOny Tablet, Android tablets and Android mobile phones, Sony PS3, Bravia Televisions, Sony internet TV, and PCs. No matter where you are or what device your using, you can quickly and easily access, modify and listen to your favorite music with ease.

 

Want to get our feet wet? Then you should visit the website and check out the 30 Day Free Trial, today. Additionally, 220 Electronics huge inventory for plenty of Sony Blu-ray Players and Interactive TVs that will bring the power of The Sony Entertainment Network right to your fingertips.

 

Relocating Internationally? Don't Get the Overseas Blues! Make it Simple; Know Before You Go!

free international relocation consultationWhether 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.

 

High-End Region Free Blu-ray Players - Maximum Quality, Maximum Performance

high quality region free blu-ray playersAs a leader in international electronics, we stock a variety of electronics inventory from some of the top name brands. This includes high-end performance brands such as Oppo, Denon, Harmon-Kardon and Marantz. While these brands' models are much more costly than some of the more common brands, they're worth each and every penny. It's kind of like the old saying - "You get what you pay for".

 

When you're seeking out the ultimate in home theater performance, you can expect to pay for it. While some may assume you're only paying for the brand, well that's just not true. If anything, 'paying for the name' is going to be a more valid statement when speaking of purchasing $100 - $200 Blu-ray units than when purchasing a player that's upwards of $500.

 

If all you're looking for is something to play a Blu-ray disc and you're not worried about additional features and functionality, than your best bet would be to purchase the absolute cheapest player you could get your hands on - there's really no reason to spend an extra $200 to get a player with more options if they'll go unused, right? And the same is said for the high-end players.

 

For the average joe who's looking to watch movies in the stunning quality of Blu-ray, a typical brand name such as LG, Sharp or Sony will do just fine. In fact, many of these brands have some amazing features and deliver excellent picture and sound quality. However, the most serious of movie fans or even connoisseurs might choose to opt for the ultimate in audio/video performance. These people are going to seek out the finest electronics equipment available as they appreciate and see value in the enhanced performance capabilities.

 

What will they get? Well, to summarize they're going to get a player that performs more efficiently, delivers video and audio more clearly, operates faster and cooler, equipped with a more sturdy chassis and made with the best part available.

 

From the frame rate of the picture to the clarity, you're not going to find a cheaper player that produces a better picture. The Oppo brand of Blu-ray players for example, has been designed to put a picture on your television screen that's not only flawless, but exactly as the director intended for it to look. The perfect hue, the exact brightness, etc.. You're getting an image that's literally been tuned to perfection and the same is true when it comes to audio performance. You're going to have more channels, more power, a cleaner and more robust sound than you can imagine and plenty of options to connect it to your home theater system. Send it through an amp or direct to your speakers - either way you're going to end up with a quality that's unmatched.

 

The more expensive yet higher performance brands like Marantz and Harmon-Kardon also feature a better construction. They're made with heavy duty frames and rugged cases, are better balanced for optimal performance and tend to weigh much more than a cheaper player - all things that lend physical evidence of quality. Better parts equal a better product, that's the way it works.

 

At 220-Electronics, our higher-end brands not only deliver professional quality performance, they offer even more than that. All of our players are region-free models which means that they can play any disc from anywhere in the world. They also feature worldwide voltage, allowing them to be used in any country, regardless of the electrical voltage. Additionally, most models feature PAL/NTSC conversion that allows them to be 100% compatible with foreign televisions so there's no need for an external video converter.

 

What these region-free players are providing is like the Holy Grail of home cinema. You're literally achieving the best audio and video quality available from a player, but one that can also play any disc from any region in the world, works anywhere in the world, and can do so on any TV. It's actually pretty remarkable.

 

If you're looking for nothing less than flawless performance and capability from your next Blu-ray/DVD Player, check out our complete inventory. You can filter by price and brand to find the model that's perfect for you. With over 30 years of experience, we're your trusted source. 

Portable Region-Free DVD and Blu-ray Players: The Inside Scoop

portable region free playersWhile most of you are probably aware that there are portable Blu-ray and DVD players, you might not be familiar with the flexibility and benefits they offer. This is especially true for those of you who travel frequently or are living and/or working abroad.

 

First and foremost, people generally assume that a portable player is only useful for entertainment while flying, riding the train, etc. Due to their convenient size they come in handy in those situations, sure - but that's not the extent of it, especially for region-free portable models. For such a small package, these players deliver a powerful punch that can save time, money and wasted space, no matter how close or far you plan to travel.

 

So what do portable region-free players have to offer that makes them so special? Glad you asked!

 

Region-free players are equipped with HDMI (or RCA if non-hdmi) outputs. This is one of the most important factors, because it gives you the ability to take a Blu-ray player along with you anywhere in the world to watch movies on a regular sized TV screen. All you'll need to do is connect the HDMI cable to a TV and you're good to go.

 

Since the portable player is region-free, there's no worry about needing a voltage converter because the player is equipped with dual voltage compatibility. This makes it compatible for use in any country, regardless of the electrical voltage. Most models also have built in PAL/NTSC converters so there's no need to worry about the player being compatible with a foreign TV either.

 

And it gets even better - these players will play discs from anywhere in the world, regardless of which region the disc is from. If you're living in a foreign country or traveling abroad and trying to travel lightly, this is just another huge convenience. In a lot of foreign countries, movies are dirt cheap because the bootlegging laws are often non-existent or not strictly enforced. You can probably buy any movie you want for just a couple bucks from a street vendor and regardless of the region coding, it will play, guaranteed!

 

The benefits of having a region-free portable player lend huge advantages over a regular portable player, which is obvious. While regular portable players are only seem useful to kill time by watching a movie while you're in the midst of traveling, the region-free models offer new possibilities.

 

Watch any movie, on any TV, from anywhere in the world, guaranteed. And best of all, you can do it with a unit that takes up less space than a small laptop!

 

For over 30 years, we've been the trusted source for international relocation and global electronics. Check out our complete inventory of Portable Region-Free DVD & Blu-ray Players right now. We stock a huge inventory of the most popular brands and best of all, we offer them at the guaranteed lowest prices!

 

Traveling with Electronics: Voltage Converters for Africa

voltage converters for africaAre you planning to travel abroad, relocate or vacation to Africa in the near future? If you're from North America, you should be aware that the electrical system there operates at a different voltage and you'll need to be properly prepared before embarking on your trip.

 

In Africa, the standard electrical voltage is 220 Volts, which applies to the whole continent. However, in North America, the standard voltage is 110 Volts. On both continents, consumer electronics are specifically designed and manufactured to work with the native electrical voltage. This means that North American electronics are designed to operate with a 110 (or 120) Volt electrical system, while electronics in Africa are designed to operate with a 220 (or 240) Volt electrical system.

 

What this means is that North American electronics cannot be used in Africa and African electronics cannot be used in North America. The difference in voltage will either be too low to efficiently power the electronics, or too high for the device to handle. Attempting to plug-in or operate electronics devices in a foreign environment where the voltage differs can result in damage to your electronics, fire, and even electrocution.

 

What you'll need to do in order to properly and safely use your electronics in Africa is purchase a voltage converter. A voltage converter is a device that plugs into the wall and converts the voltage from 220 volts down to 110 volts and has its own electrical outlets built into it, where you can plug-in and use your electronics devices safely, without worry.

 

There are many different types and models of voltage converters, depending on where you're traveling. They also come in different sizes which are rated by the wattage they can handle. The size of the converter you'll need to purchase depends on the wattage that your electronics require to operate. Higher wattage electronics will naturally require a higher wattage voltage converter to be used safely without the risk of damage or injury.

 

For more information on how to choose the proper voltage converters for Africa, please visit our voltage converter buying guide. It contains all the necessary information needed to identify the proper type of converter you'll need, as well as the size. You'll also learn about the different plugs and sockets which vary from country to country and how you can be prepared with foreign plug adapters.

 

At 220 Electronics, we sell a complete line of high quality voltage converters that can be utilized wherever you're traveling. From step-up converter and step-down converters to travel voltage converters, we carry everything you need to efficiently and effectively power your electronics in a foreign country. Check out our inventory today! We've been the trusted source for international electronics for over 30 years. 
 
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