HDTV and Home Theater Podcast

On this week's show we take a walk down memory lane and look at how the Set Top Boxes we all take for granted evolved from niche Netflix-focused or iTunes-centric devices to broad ecosystems. We also read your emails and take a look at the week's news.
News:
Hisense TVs Force Owners to Watch Intrusive Ads
TCL now can't call some of its TVs 'QLED'
TCL launches two new 163-inch 4K microLED TVs in China, starting at $36,000
Short-form video dominates Gen Z digital consumption
Other:
9 Brilliant Hi-Fi "Failures" | Awesome Disasters!
Set Top Boxes - From Niche Devices to Major Ecosystems
Here's a chronological timeline of major set-top streaming boxes: Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Google (Chromecast, Android TV/Google TV devices).  These devices evolved from basic media extenders to full smart platforms with app stores, 4K/HDR support, voice remotes, and integration with services like Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and more.
2007–2008: Early Pioneers
2007 (January announcement, March release): Apple TV (1st generation) — Apple's first set-top box, initially focused on syncing content from iTunes (40GB/160GB HDD models), supporting up to 720p. It was more of a media extender than a pure streamer at launch.
2007 The original Vudu Box (BX100) was released in the fall of 2007, serving as an early internet video-on-demand set-top box for purchasing and renting movies. It was known for its 250 GB hard drive and unique scroll-wheel remote. Vudu discontinued this hardware in 2010 to focus on apps for smart TVs and other devices.>
2008 (May): Roku (1st generation, originally "Roku Netflix Player" or DVP N1000) — The first dedicated streaming box, launched in partnership with Netflix for its "Watch Instantly" service. It marked the start of affordable, channel-based streaming.
2010–2012: Maturing Platforms
2010 (September): Apple TV (2nd generation) — Major shift to a smaller, puck-like design running a variant of iOS, focused on streaming from iTunes and rentals (no HDD, app-like interface).
2012 (March): Apple TV (3rd generation) — Updated model with 1080p support; a minor refresh (Rev A) came in 2013.
2013–2014: Dongle Era and Amazon Enters
2013 (July): Google Chromecast (1st generation) — Revolutionary low-cost HDMI dongle ($35) for casting from phones/tablets/browsers; simple, no full interface or remote.
2014 (April): Amazon Fire TV (1st generation) — Amazon's entry as a set-top box with voice remote, Alexa integration potential, and app ecosystem (initially focused on Prime Video).
2015–2016: Upgrades and 4K
2015 (September): Google Chromecast (2nd generation) — Improved design and performance; also launched Chromecast Audio (audio-only variant, later discontinued).
2015 (October): Apple TV (4th generation, later called Apple TV HD) — Big leap to tvOS with App Store, Siri Remote, games, and third-party apps.
2016 (November): Google Chromecast Ultra — First 4K/HDR-capable Chromecast.
2017–2018: 4K Becomes Standard
2017 (September): Apple TV 4K (1st generation) — Added 4K, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos.
2017 (October): Amazon Fire TV (3rd generation set-top box) — 4K model with Alexa Voice Remote.
2018 (June): Amazon Fire TV Cube (1st generation) — Hands-free Alexa speaker-integrated set-top box.
2018 (October): Google Chromecast (3rd generation) — Updated HD model.
2019–2020: Android TV/Google TV Shift
2019–2020: Various Amazon Fire TV Stick iterations (4K models in 2018/2019/2020) dominate budget streaming.
2020 (September): Chromecast with Google TV (4K) — Major change: full Google TV interface (based on Android TV), voice remote, app store; moved away from pure casting dongle.
2021–2022: Refinements
2021 (May): Apple TV 4K (2nd generation) — A15 Bionic chip, improved remote (no clickpad issues), more storage options.
2022 (September): Chromecast with Google TV (HD) — Budget 1080p version of the 2020 model.
2022 (November): Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) — HDMI 2.1, Thread support, faster performance.
2023–2024/2025: Current Era and Google Rebrand
2023–2024: Ongoing Amazon Fire TV updates (e.g., Fire TV Cube 3rd gen in 2022/2023, new Sticks).
2024: Roku Ultra (2024 model) — Latest high-end Roku with improved processing.
2024: Google TV Streamer (4K) — Replaced the Chromecast name; full set-top box form factor with Google TV, Ethernet, more storage, and smart home hub features (ending the classic Chromecast dongle line after 11 years and 100M+ units sold).
This timeline shows the progression from niche (Netflix-focused or iTunes-centric) to broad ecosystems competing on apps, performance, voice control, and integration. Roku emphasized neutral channel access, Apple focused on the premium ecosystem, Amazon on Prime/Alexa, and Google on casting then full smart TV interface. By 2025–2026, most support 4K/HDR, Dolby Atmos, and thousands of apps.

On this week's show we look into why terrestrial radio stations are disappearing. We also read your emails and take a look at the news.
News:
LG reveals US pricing for 2026 C6 and G6 OLED TVs
19 Years Ago This Month, Apple Released the Apple TV
Other:
Matter Products for Professionals
Why are Radio Stations Disappearing?
A growing number of commercial AM and FM radio stations in the US are shutting down or surrendering their licenses. Over the past decade through late 2025, about 342 AM stations disappeared—a 7% drop—while commercial FM stations fell by 112, or roughly 2%. This decline stems from shrinking ad revenue, fierce competition from streaming services and podcasts, and changing listener habits, especially among younger people who prefer on-demand audio.
Many owners face financial strain, leading to closures of underperforming signals, with one major radio group even declaring bankruptcy recently. AM stations suffer extra challenges like signal interference and new cars skipping AM tuners. While noncommercial FM stations are actually growing, the trend signals trouble for traditional over-the-air commercial radio, potentially reducing local broadcasting in communities.
Reasons for the shift:

Declining Advertising Revenue - Commercial radio (especially in smaller markets) face shrinking spot ad revenue with national and local ad markets declining as well. Cumulus shut down underperforming stations to cut costs and avoid bankruptcy. High operational expenses (utilities, maintenance, talent) make some stations unviable.

Shift Away from AM Radio - The AM band has seen the most closures. In 2024, the U.S. lost 61 AM stations; trends continued into 2025–2026 with further declines down to around 4,300–4,400 licensed AM stations. Reasons include:
Poor sound quality (static, interference from electronics/EVs).
Competition from clearer FM, streaming, podcasts, and satellite radio.
High costs and low listenership/confidence in the band.
Some stations surrender licenses due to expensive repairs or lack of viability.
Electric vehicles removing AM tuners (due to motor interference) has accelerated concerns about access.
FM has been more stable or growing in noncommercial/religious sectors, but commercial FM has also seen some losses.
Competition from Digital Alternatives - Traditional radio listenership has declined due to Podcasts, streaming services (Pandora, Spotify, Apple Music), and on-demand audio drawing audiences away—especially younger listeners. Changes in commuting patterns post-COVID reduced in-car radio listening. With fewer daily commuters there are less people tuning into morning drive time radio shows. The rise of digital platforms has fragmented audiences and ad dollars.

On this week's show we have a shootout between four set top boxes and we try to determine which one is best for you. We also read your email and take a look at the week's email.
News:
Netflix Walks With A Cool $2.8 Billion Breakup Fee: Who Gets What In New Paramount-WBD Merger Proposal
Viewers Continue To 'Struggle' With Sports Program Discovery
Samsung Wallet's 'Digital Home Key' lets me use my phone to open my doors
Set Top Box Shootout 
On last week's show, in response to a news story,  Ara asked why would someone use a FireTV set top box over ones from Apple, Google, or Roku. So for this week we decided to do a comparison of them all and try to identify who each product would benefit the most. 
For this comparison we looked at the Apple TV 4K (latest 3rd-gen model from 2022, still current), Google TV Streamer (the modern successor to Chromecast with Google TV), Roku (focusing on high-end like Roku Ultra or Streaming Stick 4K), and Amazon Fire TV (focusing on popular models like Fire TV Stick 4K Max or Cube).
All support 4K HDR streaming including Dolby Vision, major apps (Netflix, Disney+, etc.), and voice remotes. In a nutshell, the differences come down to your ecosystem, interface, performance, ads, and price.
Apple TV 4K
Price range: ~$129–$149 (64GB Wi-Fi or 128GB Wi-Fi + Ethernet).
Key specs: A15 Bionic chip (fast/smooth), Wi-Fi 6, optional Ethernet, Dolby Vision/Atmos/HDR10+, Thread smart home hub, USB-C Siri Remote.
Pros:
Premium, ad-free high performance interface with fast app loading.
Excellent integration with Apple ecosystem (iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPlay, Apple TV+, Fitness+, Arcade).
Superior picture/audio quality, privacy focus (less tracking), and acts as a smart home hub.
Great for gaming (Apple Arcade) and high-end home theater setups.
Cons:
Most expensive option.
Less neutral—prioritizes Apple content/services.
Fewer "free/ad-supported" channels compared to rivals.
Best for: Apple users and those wanting a premium, ad free experience.
Google TV Streamer 
Price range: ~$90–$100 (Buy Now).
Key specs: Powerful processor (faster than old Chromecast), 32GB storage, Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet, Dolby Vision/Atmos, Google Home/Matter smart home support, hands-free options in some setups.
Pros:
Intuitive, personalized interface with excellent content discovery/search across services.
Strong Google ecosystem integration (YouTube, Nest, Google Assistant, synced watchlists).
Good performance/speed, supports cloud gaming, and broad app support.
Balanced neutral approach.
Cons:
Some ads and recommendations can feel cluttered.
More expensive than basic sticks but cheaper than Apple.
Interface may prioritize Google content slightly.
Best for: Google/Android users or those wanting smart recommendations and smart home features.
Roku (Ultra or Streaming Stick 4K)
Price range: ~$30–$100 (Buy Now).
Key specs: Fast quad-core processor (in Ultra), Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet (Ultra), Dolby Vision/Atmos/HDR10+, rechargeable Voice Remote Pro (Ultra), broad smart home compatibility.
Pros:
Simple, neutral, user-friendly interface with huge app/channel selection (including tons of free/ad-supported content).
No heavy ecosystem bias—treats all services equally.
Often the most affordable high-quality options; great search/universal watchlist.
Compatible with Alexa, Google, Apple Home; highly popular among cord-cutters.
Cons:
Can feel slower on lower-end models compared to premium rivals.
Some ads on home screen.
Less "smart home hub" depth than Apple/Google.
Best for: Most people—especially beginners or those wanting value and neutrality.
Amazon Fire TV (Fire TV Stick 4K Max or Cube)
Price range: ~$25–$60 Sticks (Buy Now) to ~$100+ Cube (Buy Now).
Key specs: Fast processor/Wi-Fi 6E (Max), Dolby Vision/Atmos, Alexa voice, Ambience mode, Ethernet (Cube).
Pros:
Very affordable, especially on sale.
Quick performance and deep Amazon Prime integration (Prime Video priority).
Excellent Alexa/smart home control (Ring, Echo, etc.).
Good app support and features like live TV guides.
Cons:
Heavy ads and Prime content promotion (can feel pushy/cluttered).
Interface prioritizes Amazon ecosystem over neutrality.
Privacy concerns with more tracking.
Best for: Amazon Prime members or Alexa/Echo households on a budget.
Overall, Roku wins for broad appeal and value, while we give the nod to the Apple TV 4K for premium quality, and the Google TV Streamer excels for smart features. Choose based on your ecosystem (Apple/Google/Amazon) or if you want neutral/no-fuss just go with Roku.

On this week's show Braden is on vacation but don't worry! We still have a show for you. Ara reads your emails and takes a look at the week's news. He also takes a look at an article in CNET that claims: The LG Evo AI G5 OLED is the new standard for TVs.
News:
Amazon is finally rolling out some much-needed upgrades to Fire TV
New TV before 'RAMageddon'? Prices expected to rise
Others:
Take Over Tuesday: Featuring Buzz Schneider of the 1980 Miracle Team
1980miraclemonument.org
Home Theater Geeks: Sacramento Sanctuary 
Sacramento Sanctuary - Home Theater of the Month Interview!
The LG Evo AI G5 OLED the New Standard for TV
OLED TVs have consistently delivered the best picture quality in our head-to-head tests -- with the best shadow detail, contrast, color and black levels. Yet, there is one thing LCD-based TVs have always done better: sheer brightness. That is, until the 2025 LG G5 came along. Finally, OLED can reclaim its place at the top of the TV technology leader board with a model that performs brilliantly in almost every single respect. Maybe the forthcoming LG G6 will be even better? Full article here…
 PROS
Highest brightness of any OLED TV yet 
Stunning image quality 
Best color accuracy of every TV in 2025
 CONS
Brightness boost not visible in all content 
Remote is not as good as previous versions 
Expensive

On this week's show we review the Aqara FP2 Presence Sensor and ask are expensive audio wires bananas? We also read your emails and take a look at the week's news. 
News:
Netflix is about to stop working on some older smart TVs and consoles
Another Cable TV Network Announces It Will Shut Down in April
Broadband Usage Jumps by 9.9% in Q4
Peacock Strikes Gold With Outsized Olympics, Super Bowl Audiences
Other:
Neil Blanchard  "transmission line"Designs
Aqara FP2 Presence Sensor Review
The Aqara Presence Sensor FP2 (Buy Now $83) is a game-changer for smart home enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the ability to divide a room of 40㎡ or ~430 sq ft into multiple (up to 30) distinct zones using advanced mmWave radar technology. This allows for some really cool home automations like triggering kitchen lights when someone enters the boundary. This effectively allows one sensor to act like up to 30 allowing personalized scenes based on exact positions far beyond what standard motion sensors can do.
Features:
𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢-𝐙𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - monitor areas up to 40㎡ (430 sq ft). Create up to 30 zones (e.g., sofa, bed, desk) and assign custom automations to each. 
𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢-𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧 & 𝐅𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 detect up to 5 people at the same time and trigger different scenarios and automation. 
Ultra-high Precision with More Privacy You can define interference areas in the application, exclude objects such as plants, curtains, or pets, and set the filter height to ignore fan movement, ensuring that human presence is accurately detected. With an IPX5 waterproof rating, FP2 is also ideal for humid environments like bathrooms.
Multi-Ecosystem Support The Aqara Presence Sensor is exposed as multiple sensors to HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home and Home Assistant. 
Built-In Light Sensor & Local Automations The Aqara FP2 has a built-in light sensor, which provides greater flexibility and enjoyment when creating lighting automations (Only available in Aqara Home, HomeKit, and IFTTT). 
I set one up in the family room which has line of sight to the kitchen. For the review I set up two zones, one in the family room and one in the kitchen. It's straightforward to do in the Aqara app. Once you set up a zone you name it and it appears as a new sensor in your preferred automation app. If there is motion in the zone you just defined the sensor moves to the triggered state. In my house the lights in the kitchen dim to 40% at 8:45PM. Now when someone goes into the kitchen after 8:45PM the light goes to 100% until they leave. And the response is almost instantaneous. The sensor connects to your home via bluetooth so no wonky wifi issues either.
Highly recommended for anyone wanting precise, creative control! However the price is a little on the steep side. 
Expensive Audio Wires are Bananas!
Quite a few years ago there was a post at Audioholics that was eventually picked up by members of AVS forum that showed in blind testing, audiophiles could not tell the difference in sound quality between expensive speaker wire and coat hangers. This was back in 2008 and most of the links are dead but we will include what we can at the end of this post.  This week we received an email from a listener, Ray, pointing us to an article by Tom's Guide which piggybacks on this concept.  
A moderator (username "Pano") on the diyAudio forum conducted a blind listening experiment to test whether audiophiles could distinguish audio signals passed through unconventional "conductors" versus standard copper wire. The test compared four recordings of the same audio track. While not exactly the same as the original Audioholics experiment. The results are pretty astonishing. This is how the recordings were made:
Direct/original CD file.
Sent through ~180 cm of professional audio copper wire.
Sent through ~20 cm of wet mud connected by 120cm of old microphone cable soldered to US pennies.
Sent through a ~13 cm banana connected by the microphone cable and US Pennies.
Results:
Participants listened to sound clips in a blind ABX-style format and attempted to identify differences or match them to the original.
Listeners (experienced audiophiles and forum members) could not reliably tell the difference between the signals, even when comparing high-end copper wire to absurd alternatives like a banana or wet mud.
The experiment creator noted: "The mud should sound perfectly awful, but it doesn't," highlighting the unexpected lack of audible degradation.
Explanation for results: All tested materials (including wet mud and banana) had sufficiently low resistance for short lengths to pass the audio signal with minimal measurable or audible alteration at typical speaker-level or line-level voltages; resistance differences were too small to impact perceptible sound quality in the setup.
The article frames this as evidence challenging extreme audiophile claims about expensive cables/speaker wires making significant audible differences, as even highly conductive everyday/organic materials performed indistinguishably in blind conditions.
Implications: Reinforces arguments from audio science communities that many perceived cable differences are placebo or expectation bias rather than objectively audible when properly controlled for.
Links to the original Hanger Stories:
Audiophiles Can't Tell The Difference Between Monster Cable and Coat Hangers
Speakers; When is good enough, enough
Audiophiles can't tell the difference between Monster Cable and coat hangers
Audiophile Deathmatch: Monster Cables vs. a Coat Hanger