HOME THEATER

Home theater systems these days offer an encompassing viewing and listening experience. A home theater system can be as simple as a 27” television and “off-the-rack” theater-in-a-box system, or sophisticated custom-designs with projection units and screen and built-in wall speakers.

A well-balanced home theater consists of the following elements:

• Video display device – can be a large screen traditional CRT-based television, a rear-projection television, or a flat-panel LCD or plasma television. The size of the room where you plan to install a home theater typically decides the size and type of display device. It is best to consult with an installer about your space and theater budget before buying anything.

• Audio reproduction – home theater receiver (AV) or preamp/amp combination. Sound is an essential part of the home theater experience.

• Loudspeakers – in the same way the shape and size of the room dictates the display system, the same factors apply to speakers. Two main tips here: listen to several different types of speakers before you buy them. And consider purchasing the same brand and related models of speakers for your system. This will ensure a better acoustical match.

• Subwoofers – these are the extreme bass speakers of the audio world. The size and shape of your space (also whether or not it is carpeted) and the size and style of the speakers and receiver you choose will dictate what kind of subwoofer is compatible with your system. Listening tests are priceless.

• Source components – at the very least you will need a DVD player to complete your home theater system. Two things a DVD player should have: progressive scan and upscaling capabilities. You may not need a CD player since all DVD players read CDs, but some higher-end systems still offer them because the audio quality is improved. Also, at this stage, you must decide how you want to receive you primary television programming: antenna, cable, or satellite.

• Connection cables and speaker wire – the next step in home theater is to hook all the stuff up. This is what connection cables and speaker wire is for. Unless you are a DIY electronics guru, it’s best to leave this part to the experts.

 

 

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