Welcome to the spring issue of CANADA HiFi As the mercury in our thermometers rises, spring is a great time to do some cleaning and to start a new project, like installing a pair of outdoor speakers or setting up a home automation system. Inside this issue we explore the increasingly trendy area of home automation, a category that's expected to grow significantly this year. Home automation products are a fun way to modernize and optimize your home. Thanks to the fact that they are more affordable, easier to set up and use, they have become a very attractive proposition to more consumers than ever before. Check out Jeremy’s feature on home automation in this issue and I'm sure you'll walk away with some great ideas for your home. His article certainly inspired me to take steps at automating my house! My other spring project is to upgrade the outdoor speakers on my patio - I will report on this in the next issue. The June/July 2014 edition will also contain a full guide to choosing outdoor speakers.
On the video front, our team is frequently asked about the difference between LED and LCD televisions and the different variations of LED TVs. With all the marketing terms and the number of different backlight implementations it's certainly easy to be confused. If you're in the market for a new TV you won't want to miss Malcolm's feature on this topic, which will clarify everything you need to know.
Also this issue, Malcolm gives you fantastic advice on how to purchase secondhand audio equipment. Buying used gear is a great way to build an audio system on a smaller budget or build your first high quality audio system.
Last but not least, inside this issue we have three very exciting new product reviews for you.
Hope your spring is filled with great music and movies!
--- Suave Kajko
Publisher & Editor in Chief