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Football season and 4K Ultra HD TV are here!

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Ultra HD is lowering prices

Are you ready for some football and 4K TV?

College Football and NFL seasons are here. So, are you ready? Or, I mean, is your HD TV ready or is it time to get a new one?

Football season seems to be one of those times of year when you start thinking of upgrading your HD TV. Whether it’s a bigger one or jumping to the next level, it all depends. But at some point we all have to consider that jump to 4K. Prices have dropped considerably so is it time?

On an average, prices have been reduced to the range $500 and even cheaper. Then there are those that are much more expensive. So, you have choices. Lots of them.

Before you make the big decision, there are a few things you need to know and Shop RTO is here to help.

To get the full 4K experience, you’re gonna have to get a big one or be ready to move your couch and chair closer to the screen. Ultra HD is a great viewing experience but once you get a certain distance away, the distinction loses its luster.

One of the drawbacks is programming. Many shows and video streaming are not 4K produced or in the 4K format. They’re quickly becoming that way but patience is still a virtue in this arena.

But this article is about football season and this Summer’s World Cup has expedited 4K programming for sports broadcast. And, sports programming is always on the forefront of the latest production formats.

We’re getting at the tipping point for getting that 4K TV into our homes. And, this latest quarter sales of 4K TVs shows just that. Maybe everyone was preparing for the football season. Whatever the reasons, 4K and its format are either here for some or just around the corner for others. Who knows what the prices will be in December or January.

This also may be one of those times where renting to own that 4K TV makes perfect sense. Many RTO stores are carrying them now and with the no obligation payment and can have them pick it back up at no penalty are great features. Maybe, you try that 4K out for football season and if you like it, use the early buy out option to save you money and to make sure you’re satisfied before you make that big decision on what you’ll be watching for next several years.

Just another ShopRTO HD TV tip.

ShopRTO provides consumers home decorating and living tips and promotes rent to own as a shopping option for affordable home furnishings.

Prepare for your Super Bowl TV party now

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Rent to own TV for Superbowl

It’s all about the TV

Super Bowl 51 is February 5th. Just around the corner so start preparing now. First of all, do you have that Super Bowl TV that will live up to the party and game?

If not, you have several options. New TVs were just introduced at the CES show so you could go with the latest and really upgrade to the latest technology. But, since new TVs are hitting the markets that means the TVs that were yesterday’s hot item are now available at reduced prices. And if you really want to go big but just for the game or the playoffs, rent one at your local rent to own store.

Make sure you talk to your rent to own stores now because you’re not the only one who thinks renting a TV for the Super Bowl is a good idea. This is rent to own’s biggest weekend so prepare now if you go that direction. And, remember, you can use rent to own for all of the above options. ‘Try before you buy’ is one of the biggest advantages to renting to own because you’re never obligated to buy it. Just have them pick it up when you’re done at no penalty.

If you like it that TV you’ve been renting during the playoffs and/or for the game then buy it outright with the early purchase option.

When shopping for the HD TV, it’s important to compare rental prices, rent to own payment options and inventory. Many times, different rent to own stores carry different brands, sizes and types. Don’t assume one company has the same inventory as the others. And, don’t assume each company does short term rentals the same.

If you go rent to own, they’ll deliver and set it up for you which is another reason to prepare in advance. You want that HD TV hooked up correctly especially if you have cable boxes, Apple TV, Play Station and/or Blue Ray players needing to be plugged in. If you’re going to have that big screen HD TV for a couple of weeks or a month, you might as well take full advantage.

Remember, Super Bowl TV parties are not meant to be taken lightly so start now because others are as well. Renting the big screen for the big game at RTO stores is becoming more and more popular so be wise to start now.

Just another ShopRTO Lifestyle, Rent to Own and Holiday tip. Yes, we are designating Superbowl Sunday as a holiday. So shoot us, Okay!

ShopRTO provides consumers home living and decorating tips and how rent to own stores can upgrade your party.

CES gives us a look at the future of our home gadgets

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Futuristic TVs

The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) held every year in Las Vegas is great for consumers to check out today’s new home electronics and what to expect tomorrow. So for the next several articles, ShopRTO.com will give you a quick glimpse of those products that you may want to put in your home or just dazzle you for what the future holds.

This year the buzz will be smart home technology, wireless gadgets, wearable health devices, drones and all sorts of HD TVs – the curved ones, 3D ones and Ultra High Def – which is basically in the 4K technology arena. Different companies from Samsung to LG will promoting each of their versions so the choices out there will boggle your mind.

One of the hottest talked about product was LG’s 98″ 8K television. Yes. A 98″ 8K TV. How’s that for a conversation starter?

So how much does it cost, you ask? Just $133,000. Hopefully that includes delivery and set up. It also may need an 18 wheeler to deliver that mammoth.

We consumers are just now being able to afford 4K TVs while broadcasters are just now making 4K production more common. So, we’re still in the middle of the 4K revolution so the 8K revolution is definitely a peek into the future.

So, yes, it’s basically a publicity stunt to attract stories such as this but, remember, the same thing happened decades ago at a CES show when the show featured the unheard of, breakthrough technology of broadcast and production called HD TV.

So, stay tuned for the future of your home as ShopRTO.com will feature the hottest products being unveiled at this year’s CES show.

Just another Shop RTO home decorating and HD TV tidbit.

ShopRTO provides consumers home living and decorating tips and rent to own as a shopping option for affordable home furniture and more.

 

Rent that big screen TV for the Superbowl party

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HD TV rentals

Watch the Super Bowl in style.

Are you ready for the Superbowl TV watching party? Do you have a big enough TV to accommodate all of those Seahawks and Patriots fans? Did you inflate your kegs and refrigerators to the proper pressure to avoid violating party policies?

If not, call up your local rent to own store and rent that TV today. You get it for a week anyway so rent it today so you’re guaranteed to have it. Your local rent to own stores will deliver and set it up for you and then pick it up next week.

If you like it then keep renting it or just buy it outright. Use the 90-day same as cash and save a bundle. Since you’ve already tried it then you’ll know if you like it. Great aspect of the rent to own transaction is to try before you buy.

If you don’t have enough room in your refrigerator for all of those bottles, cans and party favorites, have them deliver a new fridge as well. Upgrade all in one fell swoop. Then you’ll need a new couch for the guests and a recliner and, heck, an entire new house full of furniture.

OK. Getting a little out of hand here. This is an article reminding Superbowl party hosts they have the option to rent the big screen for the big game from their local rent to own store. Rent to own are rentals first with the ownership option which many people do not realize. So don’t feel obligated when going rent to own. So upgrade your Sunday party in just one phone call and they’ll do the rest.

Just another Shop RTO Home Lifestyle and HD TV tip.

ShopRTO provides consumers home living and decorating tips and rent to own as a shopping option for affordable home furniture and more.

More Americans are streaming TV shows

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HD TV streaming TV Shows

Streaming TV is the future of TV programming

Streaming TV shows are catching on with Americans. It fits better with their schedules and Americans are latching onto the concept. Especially with the Millennial and Selfie generations.

The ability and popularity of streaming movies has been around for nearly a decade. But only in the past five years has streaming TV shows become popular. Families like to watch it at their own time and pace.

Many like to wait for the weekends and binge watch several shows or a whole season in a marathon sitting. How many friends do you know shared with you their weekend was dedicated to a couple of seasons of Modern Family?

What needs to happen now is the streaming channels and TVs need to catch up. It’s now basically standard for any new HD TV to have built in Internet hook ups. Streaming companies such as Netflix and Dish are already able creating 4K content and able to stream 4K.

Roku Senior vice president, Jim Funk, notes how 4K will be the first format that is driven by Internet streaming.

Networks and content providers are scrambling to catch up with the changing viewing habits and pricey packages by going straight to YouTube, Hulu and Amazon. And Sony, HBO, Playstation and others are going to be offering Internet only packages for those newly dubbed “cord cutters” who watch Internet streaming TV only.

So another reason to look for a brand new TV. Like we need another reason, eh? But you have to admit, it’s pretty cool and fun getting that brand new TV and one that has built-in Internet streaming.

Just another Shop RTO HDTV and Computer tip.

ShopRTO provides consumers home living and decorating tips and rent to own as a shopping option for affordable home furniture and more.

January is the month for home electronics

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New HD TVs

January is  home electronics month!

Consumers need to know that January is the month for  home electronics. It’s because that’s when the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas rolls out the latest gadgets for families, businesses and individuals.

The CES show is one of the biggest trade shows of the year if not the biggest. It consumes Las Vegas and shows how popular electronics are in our homes and lives. From HD TVs, Ultra HD TVs, 4K TVs, audio systems, computers and robotics.

What does this mean for you? It means all of the latest technology will now be reduced in price to make room for the newer versions. So if you’re looking for a good HD TV, tablet or audio system deal then start in January. On the flip side, if you’re wanting to be on the cutting edge of the newest products on the market, then January is the time to check them out.

If you’re like most of us and are budget conscience then prices are dropping from the low end such as a 32″ HD streaming TV to $180. Or the high end big screen Ultra HD TV that was $4000 two years ago is now under $1000. These price drops are definitely worth looking at.

Rent to own stores eye CES with 4K focus as well. Each year those TVs that were out of reach for consumers to try before they buy or want to use the debt free payment plan will now be in the price range that will fit your budget so if the rent to own transaction is your choice for this year’s electronics, make sure you check out the stores in your area to see what new offers they have.

Just another Shop RTO HDTV and Computer tip.

ShopRTO provides consumers home living and decorating tips and rent to own as a shopping option for affordable home furniture and more.

How to enhance your home TV audio experience

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HDTV Home Audio tips

Enhance your home tv audio experience.

If you have an HDTV that looks great on screen but has an unpredictable or underwhelming sound experience then there’s several ways to help. The most simple, affordable and compact way is through a tv audio sound bar. It’s basically a sleek, horizontal speaker system that can give you a 2.0 sound or 2.1 sound with a sub woofer.

If you don’t know the numerical designation of a speaker system that tv audio geeks always blurt out then here’s a quick lesson. A basic stereo system of 2 speakers projecting sound from the left and sound to the right is a 2.0 stereo audio system. If you add a sub woofer which is the speaker that can handle the low frequency of bass sounds then you add .1. So if you have a stereo system with a subwoofer then it’s a 2.1 system.

A basic 2.1 sound system whether it’s a sound bar or two speakers with a subwoofer will make all the difference in the world especially if all you have done is listen to your TV speakers. Now going on to the next level of a 4.1 or 6.1 then you’re creating a surround sound experience which can be awesome but depends on the room and wallet.

If you go for a 4.1 then it’s basic logic on how to set it up. The first two are on the left and right of the TV and then you want the subwoofer in the middle preferable below the TV as that is where the bass frequency is in the first place. Then the next two speakers are on each side depending on the size of the room will depend where to put them but you want them half way from you and the TV and pointing at you not at each other. Then the next 6.1 system is that the two additional speakers are just behind you and pointing at you. Then you start creating the surround sound experience.

After that, you really start getting into the fancy-schmancy theater experience that we don’t care to get into because our job is provide you affordable home furnishing solutions.

There’s some other considerations you need to factor in. One of the most is cables. With a basic stereo system or a sound bar, the cables can be managed and hidden easily. If you’re going to four or more speakers then you’ll have to plan your wires very carefully to avoid an ugly wiring in your room. OR, go wireless and bluetooth as that technology is becoming much more reliable and affordable but be very thorough in your research on the best ones to buy.

But, remember, if your room or budget is small then go with a simple stereo sound and if you can throw in a subwoofer, do so. The difference is huge. For a test, throw in a DVD of a science fiction thriller-diller that has a lot of crashes, booms and laser beam sounds and you’ll really be able to tell a difference.

Just another ShopRTO Home Audio tip.

ShopRTO provides consumers home living and decorating tips and rent to own as a shopping option for affordable home furniture and more.

Is Blu Ray the final disc in the format war while we stream ourselves to the future?

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Blu Ray Players being replaced by streaming

The future of Blu Ray?

You finally had your collection of VHS tapes. Then, guess what? DVDs. OK, now you have the best DVD collection even if you had to buy the same damn movies once again. OK, it’s blu ray and then you hear it’s 4K and 3D. Will the madness ever end? Apparently so, some say. But, according to history, most likely not.

The quality of broadcast which is heading to 4K will be handled through streaming and the ability of your TV to handle whatever the latest code is. That’s why many other electronic experts concede that blu ray won’t be the future but will last some more years. Many X-ers and baby boomers like things to hold and streaming video can get clogged, interrupted and frustrating at times. Really frustrating, actually. But millennials are streamers thus the future.

The real alignment is going to be the streaming capabilities ability to handle the 4K signals which means google fiber and its competitors laying down their cable lines. Streaming formats will need to be universal so all TVs can handle the signal.

And, then there’s the servers. They need to be able to deal with all of those formats and the huge files of broadcast information. TVs need to be 4K ready and productions need to be 4K produced. When all of those are in alignment, that will be the final nail in the blu ray coffin. Until then, keep those blu ray players and discs and enjoy ’em while they last.

And, until then, keep being confused as hell regarding what and when to buy those consumer electronics that will let you watch quality shows. Geesh.

Just another ShopRTO HDTV tip.

ShopRTO provides consumers home living and decorating tips and rent to own as a shopping option for affordable home furniture and more.

Do you like your Cable TV provider? Will it matter? Are their days numbered?

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Cable TV has the lowest customer service rating

Is cable TV getting “netflixed”.

I know this may surprise you but the cable tv industry is one of the least liked industries in America. And, according to recent numbers, their days may also be. But the debate rages on.

With the recent merger of Comcast and Time Warner, some experts say that will give the new mega-corp the ability to dictate the industry thus securing its stranglehold of bad customer experience. Others, though, say that Cable TV is being “Netflixed” as the Internet is coming with superpowers to topple the paper tiger. Look at Google Fiber and Apple TV.

A recent survey show that in the past month, more than 200 billion online videos were viewed including real, full-length TV shows. 83% of viewers, ages 18-29, say they watch “some, most, or all of their shows online.” And it’s not just a millenial phenomenon. More Americans are watching videos online than on their TV. 58% say they no longer need their TV at all.

Add to the fact that within three years, Google Fiber will have Internet speed 100X faster with the ability to broadcast video without interruption. With Internet broadcast, you’ll be able to pay just for the programs that you want and won’t be held hostage to what the cable companies make you purchase.

Plus, the computer gives the viewer a place as a multi-media device for TV/movie watching, checking e-mail, facebook, websites all in one sitting with one device.

So cable companies are scrambling knowing that this outcome could be. Maybe that’s why the merger happened. It’s easier to merge than improve customer service. Here’s some ShopRTO advice if you don’t like your Cable provider. Call your Cable company’s cancellation department with a deal from their competitor and tell them if they do not match the competitor’s price, you’re leaving. Watch how you get that customer service you should have been receiving all along.

Just another ShopRTO lifestyle and HDTV tip.

ShopRTO provides consumers home living and decorating tips and rent to own as a shopping option for affordable home furniture and more.

4K TVs and 60″ LCDs prices have dropped. Which one would you buy?

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60" TVs and 4K TV are affordable

HD TVs prices have dropped.

There’s a technology timeline video posted on the web in 2012 about how some of today’s technology will be obsolete within four years. TVs are a great example. The only thing stopping the next generation from coming quicker is how TV programs are being produced.

So don’t worry if you’re looking at 4K TVs because the programming is just around the corner and the prices are getting lower and lower.

Once thousands of dollars, 4K TVs can be found as low as $700. And those will only get lower as the TV manufacturing business represents the most fierce of competitors. And, as stated before, the onset of 4K TV programming is about to become more and more popular.

So, what to do? Prices are the best ever so if you need a new TV now then plan for the future and buy that 4K TV. If you still have a good HD TV then wait as long as possible. Prices will drop and programming will become the norm.

But, wait. There’s more to the TV choosing equation. What about the 60″ LCDs? They’re dropping in price at the same rate. 60″ LCDs can be found as low as $700 and 55″ as low as $600. Also, some people say that there is little difference between the picture quality of 4K HD broadcast vs HD broadcast.

Or, position yourself to always have the latest HDTV technology and rent one until the next hot item comes and swap ’em out. That’s what rent to own stores do. Consumers are already doing it with computers as their technology changes so rapidly. Or if you’re unsure which TV to buy, go to rent to own and try before you buy. You end up getting what you want and never obligated to any rental terms beyond that one payment.

So, if you’re on the market for a new TV then March is a good month for both 4K TVs and really big TVs. Now it’s a matter of your taste, preference and, in regards to the 60″ TVs, space.

Just another ShopRTO HDTV tip.

ShopRTO provides consumers home living and decorating tips and rent to own as a shopping option for affordable home furniture and more.

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