Glossary

English

Analog: Sound that has not been turned into numbers. Analog sound varies, while digital sound has specifi c numerical values. These jacks send audio through two channels, the left and right.

Aspect ratio: The ratio of vertical and horizontal sizes of a displayed image. The horizontal vs. vertical ratio of conventional TVs is 4:3, and that of wide-screens is 16:9.

Bit Rate: The amount of data used to hold a given length of music; measured in kilobits per second, or kbps. Or, the speed at which you record. Generally, the higher the bit rate, or the higher the recording speed, the better the sound quality. However, higher bit rates use more space on a disc.

Chapter: Sections of a picture or a music piece on a DVD that are smaller than titles. A title is composed of several chapters. Each chapter is assigned a chapter number enabling you to locate the chapter you want.

Disc menu: A screen display prepared for allowing a selection of images, sounds, subtitles, multi-angles, etc to be recorded on a DVD.

DivX 3.11/4.x/5.x/6.x: The DivX code is a patent-pending,MPEG-4 based video compression technology, developed by DivXNetworks, Inc., that can shrink digital video to sizes small enough to be transported over the internet, while maintaining high visual quality.

Dolby Digital: A surround sound system developed by Dolby Laboratories containing up to six channels of digital audio (front left and right, surround left and right, center and subwoofer).

Dolby Surround Pro Logic II: It is an improved matrix decoding technology that provides better spatiality and directionality on Dolby Surround program material, provides a convincing three dimensional sound fi eld on conventional stereo music recordings and is ideally suited to bring the surround experience to automotive sound. While conventional surround programming is fully compatible with Dolby Surround Pro Logic II decoders, soundtracks will be able to be encoded specifi cally to take full advantage of Pro Logic II playback, including separate left and right surround channels. (Such material is also compatible with conventional Pro Logic decoders.)

DTS: Digital Theater Systems. This is a surround sound system, but it is different from the Dolby Digital. The formats were developed by different companies.

JPEG: A very common digital still picture format. A still picture data compression system proposed by the Joint Photographic Expert Group, which features a small decrease in image quality in spite of its high compression ratio.

MP3: A fi le format with a sound data compression system. “MP3” is the abbreviation of Motion Picture Experts Group 1 (or MPEG-1) Audio Layer3. By using the MP3 format, one CD-R or CD-RW can contain about 10 times more data than a regular CD.

Multichannel: DVDs are formatted to have each sound track constitute one sound fi eld. Multichannel refers to a structure of sound tracks having three or more channels.

HTS3450, HTS3440 specifications

The Philips HTS3450 and HTS3440 are innovative home theater systems designed to deliver a captivating audio-visual experience right in the comfort of your living room. Both systems incorporate advanced technologies and user-friendly features that cater to audiophiles and casual viewers alike.

The Philips HTS3450 is built to enhance movie nights and music sessions with its powerful 5.1 channel surround sound system. This setup includes five speakers strategically placed around the room, accompanied by a robust subwoofer, which generates rich, deep bass while ensuring crystal-clear dialogue and sound effects. The audio quality is further boosted by Dolby Digital processing, providing an immersive soundscape that makes users feel like they're part of the action.

In contrast, the HTS3440, while slightly toned down, still offers an impressive 5.1 channel audio setup, ensuring that users enjoy a well-rounded sound experience. It similarly employs Dolby Digital technology but may differ in speaker design or wattage to suit specific customer needs.

Both systems feature HDMI connectivity, allowing for easy setup and single-cable connections to modern televisions. This ensures high-definition video and audio quality without the clutter of multiple cables. Additionally, the inclusion of USB ports enables users to play music or movies directly from USB drives, increasing the convenience factor.

Another key feature of both models is the built-in MP3 Link and audio input options, making it simple to connect devices like smartphones or tablets. Users can quickly switch between their devices and the home theater system, allowing for seamless entertainment transitions. The user interface is intuitive, designed for ease of navigation between different modes and settings.

Moreover, both models support various disc formats, including DVD, CD, and MP3 CDs. This versatility guarantees that users can enjoy their entire collection of media without compatibility issues.

In terms of aesthetics, the Philips HTS3450 and HTS3440 are designed to blend effortlessly into modern home decor, featuring sleek designs and finishes. These systems not only enhance audio performance but also contribute to the overall ambiance of a room.

In summary, both the Philips HTS3450 and HTS3440 deliver excellent sound quality, user-friendly features, and versatile connectivity options, making them suitable choices for anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment experience. Whether watching movies or listening to music, these systems provide a superb audio experience that satisfies discerning listeners without overwhelming the user.