Originally produced in 1080p high definition (HD), DVE is widely available on both DVD and Digital-VHS videotape. The D-VHS version comes in either 1080i or 720p high-definition versions, but includes “D-Theater” copy protection, which means that it can only be played on D-Theater VCRs (like the JVC HM-DH40000U reviewed on page 107). At $90 a pop, it’s an expensive tape for such a doomed format (though the tape and VCR cost less than most HD signal generators). JKP has suggested that the program will likely be available on whatever HD formats become available in the future, including Blu-ray Disc, HD-DVD and possibly even in a Windows Media 9 version on DVD-ROM.

After a brief introduction with some excellent footage of a space-shuttle launch set to 5.1 channels of classical music, the program makes a noble attempt to explain the importance of room acoustics, a complex subject that could easily span a 12-volume DVD box set. For most people, though, the real payoff comes from the discussion and tests of basic speaker polarity and output levels in the user’s system. Subwoofer polarity test signals and sweep tones for finding room rattles help to tweak things further. There’s enough here to make big improvements to your system’s audio performance.

The video section is where the program really shines. It explains in simple terms how to use the various video adjustments found on most TVs and projectors; demonstrates their effect on the picture; and explains how they should be adjusted to create an accurate image. Kane even goes over variations users will find between different types of products. It’s a useful tutorial, even if you don’t want to follow the program’s advice. If you do, though, your TV’s picture will improve immensely and you’ll spend less time, if any, fiddling with the TV controls whenever you change channels. The test images that Kane has created for this disc should work on any DVD player and for any type of display. There are a greater number of tests on this disc than on previous programs, and  many of them can tell you how well your TV performs relative to others.

This program isn’t Saving Private Ryan meets a test of the emergency broadcast system. It’s a practical tutorial on adjusting a home theater system with some dry explanations and a couple corny demos. The importance of matching speaker output levels and the interaction between image contrast and brightness is admittedly hard to explain accurately, let alone simply, though, and this program achieves both. Follow along and your system will look and sound significantly better for it. If you haven’t used one of JKP’s previous programs, DVE is likely to be, dollar for dollar, the best investment you’ll make in your audio/video system. 

High points: Useful tests for improving audio/video perfor-
mance. Easy-to-follow tutorial, simple explanations

Low points: Confusing menu structure makes it hard to find
a particular portion of the disc. D-VHS tapes are expensive.

Distributed by: DVD International
877.DVD.4YOU
www.dvdinternational.com
www.videoessentials.com

Price: DVD $24.99; D-VHS (1080i or 720p) $89.99



Photography by John Phillip