Video Accessories

Cables. There are many different types of video cables available. Some have different looks, different sizes, and different uses. Here are some cables available from Audioquest: Audioquest S-Video Cable SG1M (and also the SG2M), S Cable SX1M, S Cable SONE 1M, S Cable SG9M. These cables are expensive, but they’re designed to take the place of two or three other cables. They combine these cables into one and run them all at the same time. They’re more convenient, as well as smaller than, your normal TV hook-up cables.

Surge Protectors. These are small, compact devices with different outlets in one device to protect your electronics from a power surge. These can be very convenient if you often have lots of electronics running at one time. You can plug TVs, computers, chargers, phones, and many other things into these surge protectors at once. Here’s a small list of some of the Panamax surge protectors: Surge Protector PM8EX (eight outlets), Max2 (two outlets, protects against all surges), MIWPOWER (outlets and jacks {such as phone jacks}, protects against all surges), and PM8ECX (for audio and video systems, phone line protection). These usually range anywhere from $30 to $3000, depending on which protector you get. The higher priced surge protectors are usually for large business establishments.

Swivel Stands. These are television stands that allow the TV to move around. These are convenient if you have guests in the house, or if you rearrange your living room, you don’t have to worry about moving the TV altogether, just ‘swivel’! OmniMount makes several different types: TVSVB21P (non-skid surface top, comes in different colors, 21”), TVSVB27P (non-skid surface top, easy glide swivel, 27”). Sanus also has got a few available: TVLCDS (holds 13-30” TVs, 360 degree rotation), TVLCDB (black turntable, black finish, 360 degree rotation, holds 13-30” TVs).

Satellite Accessories. These are used if you use a cable-satellite television. They can enhance the picture without big, bulky dishes. Terk makes these products: BMS58 (for use with 18”X20” satellite dishes, low-noise built-in amplifier, weather resistant, additional off-air antenna), and MSWB616 (enables users to connect multiple receivers to any Direct TV system, allows up to 16 different receivers at a time, weatherproof connectors, 6X16 multiswitch).

Antennas. If you need better reception and a clearer picture, here are some antenna options for you. GE makes these: HT24737 (amplified antenna, HDTV digital ready, low-profile design, automatic antenna release mechanism), TV24744 (digital reception, filters unwanted signal, minimizes ‘screen snow’ or fuzziness, powered amplification). These antennas are normally around $25 to $30.