WITH technology advancing so rapidly, the joys of buying a new TV, mobile device, computer or any piece of tech equipment for that matter, are often short-lived before the developers churn out an upgraded, better version.

And although it's a little deflating to have your gadgets become outdated before your next birthday, this is a reality of the world we live in.

Nevertheless, it is always interesting to find out what exciting innovations tech companies are cooking up. In this feature, we look at the latest developments in sound and television technologies for your home.

Smart televisions

Smart TVs, sometimes referred to as connected TVs or hybrid TVs, have transformed television from a traditionally one-way medium to an interactive device with features more suited to computers. Soon people will be able to do their social networking while watching their favourite shows and movies on their TV sets.

Smart TVs will influence how we consume media, communicate socially, relax and shop, and may be the end of traditional broadcast television as more content becomes available for streaming or downloading online.

Screens are also getting bigger and sharper by the year. Not too long after the advent of high-definition TV (HDTV), Ultra HDTV has arrived.

This type of TV can boast millions of pixels per frame to display visually stunning images in Ultra HD resolution.

Some of these TVs can also convert and upscale or boost low-quality pictures into stunning Ultra HD images, therefore providing a solution to the pixilation problem that jumbo screens often have.

Other models combine a large screen, powerful sound system and a fast quad-core processor to ensure a premium experience and true multitasking capabilities between content and apps.

Stylish sound

Nowadays, loudspeakers do not need to be an eyesore as they are visually appealing without compromising sound quality. Some people even opt to fit speakers behind ornaments or paintings to avoid seeing them at all. Alternatively, you could use in-wall speakers instead of on-walls or floor-standing speakers. These can be placed behind the screen if you are using an acoustic transparent screen.

Wireless audio is also fast becoming a popular option, particularly in townhouse complexes, where it may not be practical to run cables. Whatever speaker system you choose, it is important to spend time researching the product before buying it.

What's more, the latest products allow home owners to go big with both TV and sound for the ultimate home entertainment experience.

Courtesy of Home Owner

Tips for selecting speakers

Voice-matching:

Choose speakers from the same brand to ensure that their tonal quality matches harmonic characteristics.

Materials:

Speakers should be made from sturdy materials so that they won't rattle or shake when playing.

Power:

The more powerful the speaker's magnets and voice coils are, the greater control it will offer for more detailed sound.

Imaging:

Speakers should give you a sense of space, and not sound like the music is coming from a box.

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