Archive for June, 2008

Burning A Downloadable Audio Book To CD

Monday, June 30th, 2008
audio equipment
Jeff Clare asked:


You can only burn (or copy/write) a downloadable audio book to a CD if either it is for your own use, or you have copyright over the contents.

Any audio book purchased for your own entertainment or enjoyment is normally subject to copyright and cannot be copied other than for your own use. Violating this law can get you into serious copyright infringement problems and potentially subject to very substantial fines or even imprisonment.

Downloadable audio books are still under copyright, even after paying to download them.

The only instance where audio books (or other publications) are no longer under copyright is when the authors or translators have died over 70 years ago. There are also certain publications by government that are not under copyright.

The rule of “only for personal use” is however still ultimate when it comes to burning any downloadable audio book to CD or any other such formats.

There are even a small number of audio book publishers that won’t allow their audio books to be copied to CD. Audio book publishers can and sometimes do disable the ability to burn the files to CD.

Be sure that your audio book publishers allow copying for personal use: do check it out before going ahead to buy.

Some audio books last for several hours so if you wish to burning your audio books to CD, you will often need more than one CD per audio book. For example, an audio book of about 10 hours can take as many as 7 CDs.

That being said below are the steps you need to take to burn (or copy) any downloadable audio book into CD:

NOTE: The below instructions are based on Windows Media Player Version 10. If you are using an older version, you can download the latest version from Microsoft’s website. Here’s the exact link -

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/download

First, the computer you want to use to burn the audio book to CD must be equipped with a recordable CD drive and CD-burning software.

It is this CD-burning software that burns the audio book to the CD using the recordable CD drive.

Second, play the audio book on Windows Media Player. Ensure that you choose “Full Mode” when doing this, not “Skin Mode”.

Third, you will notice the “now playing” information displayed on the right-hand side of your Windows Media Player. If it isn’t displayed, you should click the “Restore the Video and Visualization Pane” button to display it.

Fourth, you can now click the “Library” tab. You will notice the “Start Burn” button displayed.

Fifth, at this point, insert the blank CD into the recordable CD drive.

Sixth, click the “Start Burn” button. Your Windows Media Player will begin burning the audio book to the CD you have inserted.

Lastly, if the audio book is larger than the CD (most always are), Windows Media Player will prompt you that it requires a new CD. You can remove the one inside and insert another blank CD.

When the entire burning process is finished, it will display the status as “Complete”.

Take your newly copied and try it in your CD player. Then you can play it in your car CD player when on your way to work or, more likely, when sat in traffic. Or, in your portable CD player where ever you are. You can even download it to your iPod (you can download it to your MP3 player without having to burn it to a CD first). You are then free to enjoy you audio book wherever you choose.



Gloria

Audio Visual: Forever Booming With Innovations

Thursday, June 26th, 2008
audio equipment
Fletcher Mak asked:


UK’s audio visual industry seems pretty lucrative for the high tech gizmo freaks. Big brands are investing more and more in this business with each passing day. In a mature business market as UK, it is really not easy for them to make money by mere investing but staying in the fierce competition demands a lot of innovation and experimentation on their end as well.

Audio visuals in the form of DVD’s, Plasma screen, projection TV’s, CD’s, home theaters, music players etc have already captured a major share of UK market. It is not always about technology, but considering the price range, designs and sizes, manufacturing companies are putting a lot of effort in selecting the right kind of customers in particular target markets. The purpose is also served by the audio visual dealers that give you all the variety and range of features that consumers require and most definitely, these high end gadgets are loved by generation of today.

These audio visual equipments could be anything. From 3G phones, to a TV, from computer to a DVD player or a Play station, these are, and would always be a rage amongst the masses. Brands like Sony, Samsung, LG and other major players are pouring in huge investments and technology to provide the customers with the best and to gain the maximum profit.

So when it comes to select the best audio visual dealer for the ultimate audio visual equipment, you should do your homework in searching the best buy amongst all of others. Online purchasing of audio visuals can also be considered as it is easy, vast and helpful.



Lester

Audio Cables

Monday, June 23rd, 2008
audio equipment
Hyun Kim asked:


Here are types of audio cables for your home theater system. And comments about the pros and cons of each are discusses for our review.

Coax Digital Audio (S/PDIF) - This offers digital connection with copper cables, most generally Coax. Cables are long. And Dolby Digital 5.1, 7.1, DTS etc. is supported. However, the copper cables mess with run into interference. Neither DVD-A or SACD are supported.

Firewire - This offers digital connection with large bandwidth, multichannel audio. Highly compatible and choice for some HTPCs, new receivers, STB’s, DVD’s and with Digital Audio Workstations; and may have some support for DVD-A and SACD. However, lacks locking connector, also disconnects easily; so audio-only interface is main reason for use with a lot of systems at this time, except for use with Set Top Boxes, audio and video with camcorder use, HDTV’s and Digital VCR’s.

Toslink – This offers digital connection without electrical interference, great for digital audio signals with compatible equipment; Digital Cable / DVD/Satellite Receiver with Toslink connector compat. Dolby Digital 5.1, 7.1, DTS etc. However, cable length is limited, the cables aren’t sturdy and they disconnect too quickly and easily. You will need fiber optic cables or repeaters for lengthy cable reaches. Neither is there is any DVD-A or SACD support, nor locking connector.

HDMI - This offers a digital connection with great quality electrical interface transmitting up to 1080p video plus 8 channels of 192kHz audio. Great with both digital audio and video via one interface. However, they lack locking connectors and easily disconnect.

Stereo - Features analog audio, with dual RCA plug cables usually, and two channels, left and right. If your equipment is not compatible with digital audio, analog stereo is next choice. However, this lacks surround sound, unless simulated.

Denon Link – DL3 of SACD combined with DVD-A. However, only comes with Denon goods.

Mono - you don’t want this, forget about it!

So check out your own equipment and system compatibility. There are many types of audio cables for your home theater system. And you want to select the best for your home theater experience and enjoyment.



Fernando

Buying a Listening Device For Your Audio Book

Wednesday, June 11th, 2008
audio equipment
Kelvin Ho asked:


Listening to audio books has become a regular pastime for ever-increasing numbers of people. Many portable audio device suppliers now provide consumers with technologically adept portable listening devices that more easily accommodate audio book aficionados.

When you get hooked on audio books (and you will), you will want to have a device that provides the very best in portability, style, capacity, memory, battery life and, of course, price.

Portability:

Initially the size of a portable listening device may not have much significance for you, however as with most digital technology, smaller is often better. Plus, you want a unit that is light and easy to carry since you will probably want to have it accessible at all times.

Try to select a device that is small enough to accommodate your preferences while not scrimping on screen quality. Some versions come equipped with clip on straps or that can be carried in a shirt pocket. After all, the whole idea of purchasing a portable device is, well, its portability.

Style:

Portable listening devices equipped with a click wheel are more readily adaptable to audio books than other models. You will want to choose a device that allows easy and rapid scrolling capabilities so navigating backwards and forwards through various parts of the book is performed with ease. Shuffling devices do not have that capability and since linear structure plays such a big role in audio book reading, you will probably be happier with a less random method of selection.

Style is a completely personal, so you should choose a unit that is easy to carry and appeals to you visually.

Memory:

Do not confuse portability with capacity. Always look for a portable device with the largest memory capabilities. You will want to store other digital information such as podcasts, music, photographs and contacts in addition to your favorite audio books, so adequate memory is important. Most new devices come with anywhere between one and four gigabytes of space, which is generally plenty for the average listener.

Battery Life:

It is still surprising to realize that despite the technology advanced strides being made daily, manufacturers of batteries seem to be a step shy of reaching the top rung of the ladder. Your best bet is to obtain a device with the longest possible batter available and make sure it comes bundled with a convenient recharging method.

Price:

Prices vary from one manufacturer and distribution outlet to another. Traditionally, prices drop on particular models when a newer version hits the shelves. Most good portable listening devices retail from $150 USD and up, but just like with any other purchase you should shop around for the best deal.

Your choice of portable listening device will ultimately be dictated by your life style. With some research, you should be able to get a good portable listening device that is not only good for your pocketbook, but fits very neatly into your pocket.



Debra

Any ideas of the camera and audio equipment I need for making trailer films?

Tuesday, June 10th, 2008
audio equipment
charles c asked:


Any ideas for “trailer” for films would be appreaciated.

Tony

Hey audio video equipment gurus I got a question?

Monday, June 9th, 2008
audio equipment
lance v asked:


I’m looking to invest in a reciever, right now I have a 60in LCD 1080i TV, PS3/blu ray, and XBox360 with the HD player. I’m a huge video gammer and some what of a movie guy. But I want a reciever that will give me the best sound for my buck. If you want throw me some recommedations on the rest of the equipment I need to make my home sound the best on the block. Thanks yall.

Rita

Car Audio and Video Systems - Entertainment for Your Journeys

Sunday, June 8th, 2008
audio equipment
Jacob Marshal asked:


A considerable amount of time of our day is spent in travelling from one place to another. Most of us either drive cars or travel in them. The journey can be boring and lack luster if there is no provision for entertainment in the cars, specially when the journey is long and we spend more time in travelling. Listening to entertaining music tracks is the best way to make our journeys exciting and interesting. An efficient car audio system can give us great music while we are in the vehicle.

The car audio and video systems are the efficient music and video players that give great music and video playback. Generally the cars come with the stock car audio systems which are already installed in the automobile by the manufacturer, however most people prefer the custom systems which are configured as per the owner’s choice. The most general car audio systems include an audio player with advanced speakers and with the provision of radio reception. Most of the people listen to music tracks and FM radio while driving.

Earlier tape decks were used in the cars, however now people prefer the advanced CD players that can play MP3, AAC, WMA and other music formats. Users can buy car audio and video systems from various outlets or online shops. More recently the trend of installing video players and screens in the cars has become popular. People prefer to watch movies and music videos while they are travelling long distances. The car video players along with LCD screens are used in the automobile to get the perfect entertainment. These screens can be fitted either above the rear view mirror or any other suitable location in the automobile.

It can either be integrated into the console of the equipment or as a separate unit such that can come out and can be folded up as well. The most important part of the car audio and video systems is the speakers. Powerful speakers with stereo phonic sounds and woofers are a must have for the people who want to enjoy reverberating music while driving. These days’ cheap car audio and video systems are present for sale on various online shopping portals.

These are fitted in the real shelves, doors and along the seats in the cars. They offer great sound quality and efficient volume control with enhanced effects like Bass, treble etc. The latest car audio and video equipments promise great fun and entertainment to the users.



Lucille

Audio Visual for Business

Sunday, June 8th, 2008
audio equipment
Graham Baylis asked:


For most people, Audio Visual (AV) simply means presentation equipment such as projectors and screens but recently things have changed. Now businesses all over the world are making use of flat screen displays, video and audio conferencing and all kinds of digital signage to get their message across to prospective clients. This feature takes a look at how the latest AV equipment is used in business today.

Okay, we all know that winning business is all about making the right impression on a prospect and, as every good sales person agrees, first impressions are the most important. It follows that getting your initial AV presentation right is absolutely essential if you want to stay ahead of your competition.

In the past this has involved a lot of fragile, and often rather heavy, equipment but all that has changed. The latest projectors (which are also known as ‘beamers’ in most European countries) are powerful enough to let you present in almost any lighting conditions and weigh about the same as your laptop computer. They are rugged enough to take the ‘rough and tumble’ of corporate life and good looking enough to fit comfortably into a boardroom environment.

‘State of the art’ projectors can now be linked to your computer via a wireless network so all you need to do is plug them into a power socket - no more trailing wires. Connection is down to a single mouse click and these superb business tools can focus themselves automatically. Best of all, many are now fitted with a clever ‘keystone’ adjustment facility that takes away distortion caused by projecting up onto a screen.

But that isn’t the end of the story. Business uses for AV equipment now include digital signage in public spaces like sports grounds, bus and railway stations. Hotel reception areas and office building atriums often have control systems that deliver up to the minute information on electronic devices such as plasma screens and LCD panels. Somewhat remarkably, it is even possible to project business critical information and images onto a screen of water!

Audio visual equipment is at the heart of video conferencing facilities. With great images and superb audio coupled with the latest advances in data transfer speed it makes sound sense to stay home and communicate via video conference rather than travel to meetings.

Aside from the obvious travel cost savings, video conferencing is extremely good for the planet. With world attention firmly focussed on the reduction of carbon emissions most businesses have embraced carbon footprint reduction with enthusiasm. Video conferencing offers a ‘win win’ situation for all concerned.

One of the most effective business uses of Audio Visual equipment is in telephone call centres where information needs to be given to many operators simultaneously without distracting them from their ongoing call. Screens can feed business critical information from multiple sources to a single output that can be seen by all.

As you can see, audio visual equipment is now part of everyday business life. Experts agree that information is the lifeblood of commerce; now the latest AV developments can help you share that knowledge and so build a more powerful business.



Fernando

Good Audio Equipment?

Tuesday, June 3rd, 2008
audio equipment
matt asked:


Hi,
I’m starting to get into video for hire; i’ve done a couple live videoings with two camera angles. i’ve decided it’s time to up it a little bit in the audio department. so far i’ve only used the onboard mics as that is all i could afford, but they are crapola. my latest project has given me at least some kind of a budget to work with, so i need to know what kind of audio equipment i should probably use.

i was thinking about a good shotgun mic like the videomic, but i’m not sure. for live recordings like in gyms and auditoriums, i was thinking that i would probably need multiple mics, but i don’t know how i’d set that up. i’ve heard about some kind of mixer or minisoundboard thing that goes between the tripod and camera where you plug the mics into, but idk what it is. or would an external recorder be better, and what kind?

any and all help is greatly appreciated.
thanks, matt

Marion