We have begun to post short videos on YouTube! We thought that this would be a good way to show some of the rooms that are difficult to capture in a still photograph, especially the bathrooms. We'll be posting more videos over the off season.
Access Sound Racer's YouTube page at http://www.youtube.com/user/SoundRacerOBX
Thanks for visiting.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The 2010 Calendar is Posted. No Increase in Peak Rental Rates.
The 2010 rental rates and calendar are now posted on Sound Racer's Village Realty website . The peak week rates for 2010 of $45oo are unchanged from 2009. Off-peak rates of $1350 and $1550 are also unchanged. We did make some changes to "collar week" rates to be more reflective of rental rates in the Currituck Club. For the 2010 season, Sound Racer will be available from March 28 through mid-October.
Once again, our thanks to all of our guests in 2009. We appreciate your feedback, and we are glad that several of you have already rebooked for 2010. We are planning some additions and upgrades for the new year. Check back for updates.
Once again, our thanks to all of our guests in 2009. We appreciate your feedback, and we are glad that several of you have already rebooked for 2010. We are planning some additions and upgrades for the new year. Check back for updates.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Basic A/V Operations
Here are some basic tips for operating Sound Racer's Audio-Video systems. Detailed directions are also included in the Renter's Guide and there are laminated instructions in the Great Room, Mid-level Den, and Game Room. If you experience a problem please call Village Realty. We have also posted some advanced troubleshooting tips in a separate post.
This post was updated in January 2012 to incoporate the new upgraded components.
Great Room, Den and Rec Room
1. These three systems use a Harmony Universal remote that has been customized for each system. Labels on the back of the remote identify the A/V system each remote "belongs to".
2. The Harmony Remote control is used to choose a function (e.g. "Watch TV") and controls all components including the TV, Receiver, DVD, etc. Note that in the top level Great Room, the Harmony Romete should be pointed at the top of the TV where we've installed an "IR Blaster". In general the Harmony Remote must be used at a distance where it can "see" all components. This is especially important in the lower level Rec Room, where the TV and Receiver are a few feet apart. In this room, the remote works best from a distance of around ten feet.
3. Functions that can be accessed directly from the Harmony Remote include "Watch TV", "Watch Movie", and "Listen to Music" for CDs. The "More Activities" button is used to access "Listen to Digital Music" (the iPod dock on the ground and top levels); "Listen to FM Radio"; and "Play A Game" (using the game inputs in the Den).
4. In case of a problem, the "Help" Button is very, um, helpful. It will walk you through a series of diagnostics to make sure each components is in the correct mode. When using Help, make sure that the Harmony remote is at a distance where it can "see" all components.
5. If the "Help" button doesn't fix the problem, turn off all the components with the Harmony Remote and then start again. Tip: Always use the Harmony Remote to turn components off and on.
Bedroom TV / DVD
1. Each Bedroom has a DirecTV box and a combo TV/DVD on the wall. To watch TV, use the DirecTV remote control. The slider at the top of the remote should be all the way to the left under the "D".
2. To turn on (or off) the TV use the "D&TV" On/Off buttons located on the top right of the DirecTV remote control.
3. Channels can then be switched with the channel button or the keypad on the DirecTV remote.
4. Troubleshooting tip: If you receive "snow" and the TV displays "Cable Analog", use the "TV input" button (top left of the remote) to change the input to "Video". Simply press the input button until "Video" is selected.
5. To watch a DVD, slide the DVD (label facing out) into the slot on the left side of the TV. The Toshiba remote can then be used to access DVD functions such as play, pause, etc. After finishing the movie, we've found that "powering off" (and then "on") both the TV and the DirecTV box is the best way to return to TV viewing.
This post was updated in January 2012 to incoporate the new upgraded components.
Great Room, Den and Rec Room
1. These three systems use a Harmony Universal remote that has been customized for each system. Labels on the back of the remote identify the A/V system each remote "belongs to".
2. The Harmony Remote control is used to choose a function (e.g. "Watch TV") and controls all components including the TV, Receiver, DVD, etc. Note that in the top level Great Room, the Harmony Romete should be pointed at the top of the TV where we've installed an "IR Blaster". In general the Harmony Remote must be used at a distance where it can "see" all components. This is especially important in the lower level Rec Room, where the TV and Receiver are a few feet apart. In this room, the remote works best from a distance of around ten feet.
3. Functions that can be accessed directly from the Harmony Remote include "Watch TV", "Watch Movie", and "Listen to Music" for CDs. The "More Activities" button is used to access "Listen to Digital Music" (the iPod dock on the ground and top levels); "Listen to FM Radio"; and "Play A Game" (using the game inputs in the Den).
4. In case of a problem, the "Help" Button is very, um, helpful. It will walk you through a series of diagnostics to make sure each components is in the correct mode. When using Help, make sure that the Harmony remote is at a distance where it can "see" all components.
5. If the "Help" button doesn't fix the problem, turn off all the components with the Harmony Remote and then start again. Tip: Always use the Harmony Remote to turn components off and on.
Bedroom TV / DVD
1. Each Bedroom has a DirecTV box and a combo TV/DVD on the wall. To watch TV, use the DirecTV remote control. The slider at the top of the remote should be all the way to the left under the "D".
2. To turn on (or off) the TV use the "D&TV" On/Off buttons located on the top right of the DirecTV remote control.
3. Channels can then be switched with the channel button or the keypad on the DirecTV remote.
4. Troubleshooting tip: If you receive "snow" and the TV displays "Cable Analog", use the "TV input" button (top left of the remote) to change the input to "Video". Simply press the input button until "Video" is selected.
5. To watch a DVD, slide the DVD (label facing out) into the slot on the left side of the TV. The Toshiba remote can then be used to access DVD functions such as play, pause, etc. After finishing the movie, we've found that "powering off" (and then "on") both the TV and the DirecTV box is the best way to return to TV viewing.
Advanced A/V Troubleshooting TIps
On occasion one of Sound Racer's A/V systems may require more advanced troubleshooting. This may occur after a power outage, or if connections or setting on a major component have been changed. Here are some "real world" procedures based on our experience during Sound Racer's first two years. These are intended as a resource for us (the owners), Village Realty, and tech-oriented guests.We update these regularly based on situations that have arisen. (Last Update: January 2012)
A. Check Basic Settings
If one of the main systems in the Great Room, Den or Rec Room is not behaving as expected, a good first step is to confirm all of the component settings are correct. If the Harmony remote is suspected to be "out of sync", many of these settings can be adjusted manually i.e., without using the Harmony remote control. This information is also helpful if the Harmony remote is temporarily lost. (Hint: check under the cushions.)
Great Room Settings
1. Watch TV: Samsung TV Input* [HDMI1]; DirecTV Box [ON]; Onkyo Receiver [CBL/SAT]; Speakers [A]
2. Watch Movie: Samsung TV Input* [HDMI1]; DirecTV Box [OFF]; Samsung Blu-ray Player [ON] Receiver Source [BD/DVD]; Speakers [A]
3. Digital Music (ipod): Receiver Source [USB]; Speakers [A]
*Note that in the Great Room, the TV Input can be changed via a touch-sensitive "TV Source" button on the lower right front panel.
Den Settings
1. Watch TV: Samsung TV Input [HDMI1]; DirecTV Box [ON]; Denon Receiver Source [TV/CBL (which is DirecTV)]; Speakers [A]
2. Watch Movie: Samsung TV Input [HDMI1]; DirecTV Box [OFF]; Receiver Source [DVD/HDP]; Speakers [A]
B. Problem: No DirecTV service or not all channels received
A power outage or interruption can cause a DirecTV box to need a "reset". Sometimes the box comes back with only a limited selection of channel choices. We've followed these steps to reinstate service:
C. Problem: No sound from remote speakers on the top floor.
If there is no sound coming from the Russurround remote speakers, there are two possible problems. Investigate in this order:
1. Is the power "on" for the remote speakers? Even when "off", each control panel should have a small green LED "lit"; this indicates power is present at the control. If not lit, this indicates the power source has been disconnected from the Russuround hub located behind the Onkyo amplifier on the bottom A/V shelf in the Great Room. The power source is a "brick" -- a transformer similar to those used from computers. One end plugs into the main power strip (the AC end); the DC end plugs into the circular receptacle on the lower left of the Russurround hub. (The hub resembles a two-gang electrical switch with power and audio connections on the front and speaker cables on the back.) Once the power is restored, the Green LEDs on the wall controls will light up.
2. [Check Audio Connection into Russurround Hub.]
D. Problem: No sound or picture when trying to use DirecTV or watch a movie in the Great Room. If all components (TV, Receiver plus DirecTV Box or Blu-Ray player "on", this can be a sign that the HDMI cable has become loose at the back of the receiver. This can happen when the components have been moved -- sometimes the cleaners will do this. Village Realty can be called to check and reconnect the cable.
A. Check Basic Settings
If one of the main systems in the Great Room, Den or Rec Room is not behaving as expected, a good first step is to confirm all of the component settings are correct. If the Harmony remote is suspected to be "out of sync", many of these settings can be adjusted manually i.e., without using the Harmony remote control. This information is also helpful if the Harmony remote is temporarily lost. (Hint: check under the cushions.)
Great Room Settings
1. Watch TV: Samsung TV Input* [HDMI1]; DirecTV Box [ON]; Onkyo Receiver [CBL/SAT]; Speakers [A]
2. Watch Movie: Samsung TV Input* [HDMI1]; DirecTV Box [OFF]; Samsung Blu-ray Player [ON] Receiver Source [BD/DVD]; Speakers [A]
3. Digital Music (ipod): Receiver Source [USB]; Speakers [A]
*Note that in the Great Room, the TV Input can be changed via a touch-sensitive "TV Source" button on the lower right front panel.
Den Settings
1. Watch TV: Samsung TV Input [HDMI1]; DirecTV Box [ON]; Denon Receiver Source [TV/CBL (which is DirecTV)]; Speakers [A]
2. Watch Movie: Samsung TV Input [HDMI1]; DirecTV Box [OFF]; Receiver Source [DVD/HDP]; Speakers [A]
B. Problem: No DirecTV service or not all channels received
A power outage or interruption can cause a DirecTV box to need a "reset". Sometimes the box comes back with only a limited selection of channel choices. We've followed these steps to reinstate service:
1. Check Settings: In a bedroom, insure that the DirecTV box is on (blue light on front), the TV is on (green light on front) and that the TV input is set to "Video". TV input can be changed using the DirecTV remote.
2. Insure that the Panamax A/V power strip in the second floor den is plugged in and turned on. It is located in the TV stand. It plugs into the wall, and also has an "On / Off" switch on the front left panel. The main DirecTV amplifier is plugged into the power strip, and must have power for the system to operate. Sometimes this alone will correct problems with DirecTV. However, if the strip was plugged in to begin with, or not all channels are appearing after plugging it in, proceed to step 3.
3. Reset the DirecTV boxes, one at a time. First, make sure the A/V system where you will reset the box is set to "Watch TV". Use the Harmony remote in the Great Room, Den, and Rec Room. In the bedrooms, insure the DirecTV box and the TV is on, and that the TV input is set to "Video". The input can be changed using the "Input" button on the left side of the Toshiba TVs.
Next, open the small door on the lower right front of the DirecTV box and press the small red "Reset" button for a few seconds. The DirecTV picture will go black, followed by a welcome screen and a screen with a "progress bar" that says "Acquiring information from satellites..." Once this process completes, the DirecTV service should be restored.
C. Problem: No sound from remote speakers on the top floor.
If there is no sound coming from the Russurround remote speakers, there are two possible problems. Investigate in this order:
1. Is the power "on" for the remote speakers? Even when "off", each control panel should have a small green LED "lit"; this indicates power is present at the control. If not lit, this indicates the power source has been disconnected from the Russuround hub located behind the Onkyo amplifier on the bottom A/V shelf in the Great Room. The power source is a "brick" -- a transformer similar to those used from computers. One end plugs into the main power strip (the AC end); the DC end plugs into the circular receptacle on the lower left of the Russurround hub. (The hub resembles a two-gang electrical switch with power and audio connections on the front and speaker cables on the back.) Once the power is restored, the Green LEDs on the wall controls will light up.
2. [Check Audio Connection into Russurround Hub.]
D. Problem: No sound or picture when trying to use DirecTV or watch a movie in the Great Room. If all components (TV, Receiver plus DirecTV Box or Blu-Ray player "on", this can be a sign that the HDMI cable has become loose at the back of the receiver. This can happen when the components have been moved -- sometimes the cleaners will do this. Village Realty can be called to check and reconnect the cable.
Monday, August 3, 2009
A Beach House That Tweets?
Yes, Sound Racer "caught the bug" and is now on Twitter. You can follow us at http://twitter.com/soundracerobx.
We'll "tweet" short updates on the house and property, as well as the occasional "shout out" to some of our favorites on the OBX. Expect our tweeting to pick up a bit in the off-season, as we prepare for a new year of rentals.
We'll "tweet" short updates on the house and property, as well as the occasional "shout out" to some of our favorites on the OBX. Expect our tweeting to pick up a bit in the off-season, as we prepare for a new year of rentals.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Welcome 2009 Guests.
We'd like to extend a special welcome to our guests in 2009, Sound Racer's first year. Please let us know about your stay, including any comments, suggestions or questions. Ways to leave feedback:
- Complete the Village Realty survey.
- Sign the guestbook at Sound Racer's main website
- Comment on this post.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Sound Racer - The "Back Story"
Our family has been vacationing in the Outer Banks for more than ten years. We've rented homes in Ocean Hill, Whalehead and the Currituck Club. As you might have guessed from our choices, we've always enjoyed the quiet of the northern Outer Banks.
A few years ago we "got the bug" and decided to investigate Outer Banks real estate. In the end, we decided to build and chose a soundfront lot. We had always enjoyed the "contrast" offered by the sound: the lovely sunsets, the live oak trees and stunning sound views. The Currituck Club was an easy choice given the fine upkeep and amenities offered.
From the Currituck Club, the beach is a short trolley ride away -- and young children seem to love the trip to the beach almost as much as the beach itself. Golf, tennis and community pools round out the package. With its sidewalks and manicured grounds, the Currituck Club has a "neighborhood feel" that is tough to match. Add to that nearby shopping -- including Corolla's new Harris Teeter -- and the deal was sealed.
In designing 'Sound Racer', our aim was to incorporate as many elements as possible from our favorite rentals. We wanted a house that took advantage of the wonderful views from as many rooms as possible. Inside, we wanted comfortable places for families to gather -- whether for meals, watching a movie, playing a game or just hanging out. At the same time we felt it was important to offer places that allowed solitude and quiet. A well-appointed pool area was a must. As our children grew, we found that afternoons spent poolside became as popular as a trek to the beach.
Here are a few of things we included based on our experience:
We also decided to offer rentals that begin on Sunday. Our experience is that the beach traffic is somewhat better on Sunday, and in our experience it seemed that there were fewer Sunday rentals available among similar homes. For a rental company, we chose Village Realty based on our personal experience with the company. (We rented three years in the Currituck Club prior to building.)
In the end, we wanted to build a home that would be part of great memories for our guests, just as the Outer Banks has given us many memorable summers.
A few years ago we "got the bug" and decided to investigate Outer Banks real estate. In the end, we decided to build and chose a soundfront lot. We had always enjoyed the "contrast" offered by the sound: the lovely sunsets, the live oak trees and stunning sound views. The Currituck Club was an easy choice given the fine upkeep and amenities offered.
From the Currituck Club, the beach is a short trolley ride away -- and young children seem to love the trip to the beach almost as much as the beach itself. Golf, tennis and community pools round out the package. With its sidewalks and manicured grounds, the Currituck Club has a "neighborhood feel" that is tough to match. Add to that nearby shopping -- including Corolla's new Harris Teeter -- and the deal was sealed.
In designing 'Sound Racer', our aim was to incorporate as many elements as possible from our favorite rentals. We wanted a house that took advantage of the wonderful views from as many rooms as possible. Inside, we wanted comfortable places for families to gather -- whether for meals, watching a movie, playing a game or just hanging out. At the same time we felt it was important to offer places that allowed solitude and quiet. A well-appointed pool area was a must. As our children grew, we found that afternoons spent poolside became as popular as a trek to the beach.
Here are a few of things we included based on our experience:
- For the view: a "reverse floor plan" with main living areas on the upper level, including a large deck with a grill, a table for eight, and chairs for watching the sun set with an adult beverage in hand.
- For the pool area: A hot tub, a tiki bar with a grill, and plenty of deck room around the pool for sunning.
- For quiet areas: "private" decks on the front of the house.
- Games: pool, foosball and ping pong.
- Media: Three high-quality A/V systems including outdoor speakers on the top deck and at the pool, as well as a TV and DVD player in every bedroom.
- If "work" intervenes: an office nook with desk and printer. And a pretty good view.
- Comfort and convenience: Purified drinking water to eliminate schleping from the grocery store. An outdoor shower. Easy-to-use grills with direct gas connections. Etc....
We also decided to offer rentals that begin on Sunday. Our experience is that the beach traffic is somewhat better on Sunday, and in our experience it seemed that there were fewer Sunday rentals available among similar homes. For a rental company, we chose Village Realty based on our personal experience with the company. (We rented three years in the Currituck Club prior to building.)
In the end, we wanted to build a home that would be part of great memories for our guests, just as the Outer Banks has given us many memorable summers.
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