Having a home theater is often a dream for many, but setting one up can be daunting. The right equipment and setup can make the difference between an average movie night and an unforgettable experience. Here’s what every home theater needs to stand out:
Screen
The centerpiece of every home theater is the screen. When selecting a size, it’s important to consider the distance from which viewers will be watching.
Generally, an HDTV should be at least three times wider than the seating distance away from it. If viewing angles are important, an LCD or plasma display can provide a more uniform picture.
Speakers
Speakers are often overlooked when setting up a home theater system, but they are essential for providing quality sound. A 5.1 surround sound system consists of five speakers—left, center, right and two rear speakers—and one subwoofer for deep bass. It delivers a wide range of sound that envelops viewers and makes them feel as if they’re in the middle of the action.
Receiver
A receiver is necessary to connect all audio/video components together. It acts as a central hub that allows users to control their entire system with one remote control or smartphone app. The receiver also processes any audio signals going through it so that viewers get clear sound quality.
Media Player
A media player is needed to play movies and other content on the screen. Most modern TVs have built-in media players, but for those that don’t, an external option may be necessary. There are many different types of media players available on the market—Blu-ray players, streaming devices or gaming consoles—each with its own set of features.
Lighting Control System
Lighting control systems add ambiance to any home theater experience by allowing users to dim lights or change colors based on their mood or preference. Many lighting systems now come with voice control capabilities so users can adjust their settings using simple voice commands.
In order to stand out from other movie nights and create an unforgettable experience, every home theater needs several key components: A quality screen; speakers; a receiver; a media player; and lighting control system.