I don't know about you, but it helps me to see and experience something to really "get it." The question I hear most of the time from my friends and acquaintances is "Is HDTV really worth it?" That's like asking "Is having a microwave oven really worth it?" In 1970, a microwave oven seemed like a frivolous kitchen gadget that exploded chicken in a spectacular manner, but by 1975, nobody could live without one.

I can talk about HDTV until I am blue in the face, but I usually save my breath and invite my friends over to see it instead, promising them a great surround-sound experience to boot. I urge my friends who live too far to come over to visit a local retailer and see the difference for themselves. There's not one person yet who hasn't said, "Wow, I had no idea TV could look that good!"

Within the pages of Electronic House magazine, it is our mission to inspire you and to help get you excited about all the possibilities that every aspect of the electronic house can bring to your lifestyle. Put Post-It notes on the pages in the magazine where you see technologies and electronics that you think you might want in your home but you're just not sure about. Now I am going to suggest that you put down the magazine and get out of the house (just be sure to bring the magazine with you!).

Plan to visit a few retailers or specialty showrooms to actually see and "feel" how each of the products performs and could potentially fit into your life. This is no different than test-driving several cars before you purchase one or visiting various kitchen showrooms to compare cabinets and countertops.

This is on my mind now because I recently visited Lutron's Experience Center in Plantation, Florida. This site was specifically set up for interior designers, builders and systems designers to bring their homeowner clients to see and feel the benefits of lighting control. The facility is set up like a home where you can experience how different levels of lighting control can benefit any lifestyle.

Many system designers have similar setups for you to experience HDTV, surround sound, lighting and home control. At the back of this issue, there is a listing of system designers in your area. Give a few a call, and go kick some tires!

Cindy Davis
Editor-in-Chief

Cindy Davis is the Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of Electronic House magazine. "Cindy's Corner" appears twice monthly on ElectronicHouse.com. Email Cindy at cdavis@ehpub.com.

Top Of Page