You Inquired: Enigmatic lines and clicking solutions, along with tips for outdoor televisions.

      On today’s You Asked: Who needs to worry about TV processing when using an Apple TV? Where's the Hisense Saturn, the Theater Quad competitor we spotted at CES? What's the situation with outdoor TVs? Additionally, the mystery of the Sony TV click has been figured out, while a new LG OLED puzzle surfaces...

      Processing prowess: Does it really matter?

      Jen Karner / Digital Trends

      Ro’eh asks: When choosing a TV, especially between Samsung's excellent options and those from LG and Sony, should processing capabilities be a concern if I'm using an Apple TV 4K that already upscales and processes images? Can I disregard this and focus on other features?

      That’s a great question. The brief answer is: a TV’s processing abilities are always important when making a purchasing decision, even if the only source connected to the screen is an Apple TV.

      An Apple TV does perform some upscaling and minor image enhancements, mainly via noise reduction. However, there’s far more to image processing than what the Apple TV manages to do. The Apple TV sends a video signal along with instructions for your TV to follow; how well the TV interprets and executes those instructions rests entirely on its capabilities. The TV consistently does the heavy lifting to ensure the picture on your screen appears its best. I'm not addressing enhancements like "AI Picture this" or "AI detail that." I'm referring to the basics required to make a nice TV look nice, and an excellent TV look excellent.

      However, if a TV has inadequate upscaling, the Apple TV may perform better in delivering pixel-to-pixel information that can enhance the display slightly. That's the limit of the Apple TV's assistance. This situation is also applicable to the Nvidia Shield.

      Keep in mind: With high-quality TVs, it’s preferable to let the TV manage noise reduction and upscaling.

      Best outdoor TV options

      Samsung

      Alan asks: I’m thinking about adding a television to a covered outdoor area and would appreciate a review of outdoor TV models. I’m definitely looking for good picture quality, as I already have a Sony A95J and A95K inside, but I know the outdoor environment is much harsher. I've just started looking for outdoor-rated TV models and came across brands I’ve never encountered before. Do you have any suggestions?

      First, a true story: Some of my earlier videos aimed at having fun on YouTube featured outdoor TVs from Sunbrite a decade ago. In one video, I threw various items, including raw meat, at the TV to test its durability against the elements. In another, we filmed poolside with my friend’s family. Those times were a lot of fun.

      Regarding "outdoor" TVs: Their design priorities differ significantly from indoor TVs. Firstly, they must be weather-resistant—this means they need to be UV-resistant and water-resistant, if not waterproof—and Sunbrite has demonstrated strong capabilities in these areas.

      Outdoor TVs also have to be robust. Things often fly around outside, and the last thing you need is an object hitting your TV and damaging the screen.

      Moreover, an outdoor TV needs to be bright, as even in indirect sunlight, images can easily appear washed out. Unfortunately, achieving high brightness often compromises aspects like color accuracy and contrast. Color quality should hold up in sunny conditions (and you should simply appreciate being able to see the screen, disregarding contrast).

      That said, other components essential for excellent picture quality should not be overlooked. I prefer solid upscaling and effective noise reduction, and while most outdoor TV brands are at a similar level, in my experience, Samsung stands out. (That being said, I haven't closely evaluated outdoor TVs in about two and a half years, but I plan to update my knowledge at the CEDIA show this year). Meanwhile, I believe Samsung's The Terrace is an exceptional outdoor TV.

      Another point about outdoor TVs: They tend to be extremely expensive. They are specialized devices and significantly less common than indoor TVs, leading to fewer sales. To succeed in the outdoor TV market, manufacturers must charge a premium (which is understandable). Many consumers purchasing outdoor TVs likely have enough disposable income for maintaining a pool, an outdoor kitchen, or an RV, right?

      Be prepared for sticker shock when you start your search (if you haven’t encountered it yet). As for brands, I have personal experience with Sunbrite and Samsung. I haven’t looked into Sylvox or Furrion. I also believe Element produces an outdoor TV with Roku built-in?

      To wrap up: Most outdoor TVs aren't aimed at videophiles. They are typically generic models from overseas factories, branded under a company name. However, I’ve heard that Sylvox is doing commendable work, and I know Sunbrite and Samsung are as well.

      No sound — just “crunch”

      Phil Nickinson / Digital Trends

      Barry writes: I’ve recently encountered a problem with sound through HDMI ARC from an LG TV to a Cambridge