For those who want to always have the perfect picture and sound setting on television, we present the THX tune-up application, which is already available in the Google Play Store. After launching a few months ago on the iOS platform, THX now launches its application on Android that allows the perfect calibration of televisions or projectors.
THX tune-up is able to establish which device you connect it to - through the HDMI connection - detecting the manufacturer, whether or not it has a THX certificate, whether it is a projector or a television and, in the case of the latter, what type of panel it has - LED, LCD, etc. -.
Among the adjustments to be made in terms of image, THX tune-up is able to indicate the brightness, contrast, ratio, color or tint necessary for proper viewing, depending on the conditions we're in. It will also be possible to use our smartphone cameras to more precisely adjust these parameters, depending on the lighting in the room we're in. It will also allow for sound adjustments, incorporating the classic 'Deep Note' sound that we can activate with the touch of a button.
The app will also include a shortcut to high-quality movie trailers to view them on our televisions or projectors.
How it connects and what you need
To take advantage of the app, the ideal is a HDMI cable connection from your mobile phone or tablet to your TV or AV receiver. On Android, this is usually achieved via direct HDMI, MHL, or SlimPort, depending on the device. On iOS, it's also supported via an HDMI adapter, and for image adjustments, you can use Apple TV with AirPlay; however, for multi-channel audio testing, the cable is always recommended.
Locate the keys on the TV remote control Menu/Settings, and within Picture and Sound, the sliders for each parameter. The app guides you step by step, with tips on room lighting and viewing distance, so you can make safe and reversible adjustments.
Picture adjustments with THX patterns
THX tune-up sample test patterns and selected photographs that make it easy to check the aspect ratio, prevent the image from being cropped, and ensure that circles look like circles (without stretching). With the aspect ratio control gloss you will adjust the details in shadows, and with the contrast intense whites without burning the information.
En color and dye, the app uses your phone's camera with a virtual color filter to verify natural skin tones and avoid greenish or reddish casts. Extra tip: reduce the sharpness that many televisions add, because it introduces halos; and if you don't like the 'soap opera' effect, deactivate the motion interpolation in the processing menu.
If you are looking for complementary alternatives, some movie discs include THX Optimizer with basic patterns; they're useful, but the app adds the advantage of interactive guides and camera use based on the lighting in your room.
Sound tests and 5.1 systems
In addition to the image, THX tune-up allows you to check the speaker assignment (that each channel sounds where it should) and the phase (correct polarity) for stereo or 5.1. To hear the multi-channel tests it is necessary connect your mobile phone via HDMI directly to the AV receiver; wireless methods don't always transmit 5.1 audio. Once tuned, you'll be able to boast the iconic 'THX Deep Note'.
Keep in mind that this is a home calibration tool; does not replace professional calibration with probes, but provides very accurate results with ease of use.
Free for a limited time
The creators of the high-fidelity video and sound standard have wanted to launch their new application with a temporary promotion. In this way, From today until February 3, THX tune-up will be available for free for Android users. From that moment on, the app will cost €1,99. Promotions may vary over time, so it's a good idea to check the app's listing in the store before downloading.
At the moment, THX tune-up is available for the following terminals with Android 4.2.2:
- HTC One
- HTC One Max
- HTC One X
- HTC One X+
- Nexus 4
- Nexus 5
- Nexus 7 (2013)
- Nexus 10
- Samsung Galaxy S4
- Samsung Galaxy Note 3
If your model is not listed, it does not mean that it does not work: the Compatibility has been expanded over time on many devices. Always check the connection requirements and update your system if possible for maximum stability.
Source: Google Play.
With clear guidance, visual patterns, and thoughtful audio tests, THX tune-up offers an accessible way to squeeze the quality out of your TV and speakers hassle-free, whether you're watching movies in a dark room or enjoying series in broad daylight.