Things To Consider When Mapping Out Your Home Theater

You’ve made the decision.  You’re going to put a home theater in your home.  Before purchasing that home theater, many decisions need to be made.  We’ll give you a quick rundown of some things to consider when mapping out your home theater.

-Where?- What room of your home do you want your new home theater to be in?  This may seem like a no-brainer, but really there are many considerations to be made.  Room size, view angle, and light are just a couple things to factor in.  If the room is too small and you’re looking for a large set-up, you may need to re-think one or both ideas.  If you’re thinking about sticking your home theater in one of the most well-lit rooms in the house, perhaps think again.  If you are looking for that true home theater feel you may want to opt for sticking it in a darker room, or even a finished basement. 

The finished basement has its advantages and disadvantages.  The basement will probably be your best bet for being the darkest area of the house, giving that true movie theater feel.  It also offers quiet from outside street noises and neighbor sounds as well as allows you to crank up your movie as loud as you want-- the neighbors won’t hear it.  The disadvantage could be running power.  Concrete walls make the task of running power and other wires difficult. 

-Budget and equipment- Next you should consider what kind of equipment you’d want your home theater to include.  Are you looking for a sound similar to that of your local movie theater?  Then you’re going to want the top of the line speakers.  Focusing on what is most important will allow you to see where your budget needs to be.  Are you looking for a smaller system or a larger system?  Keep your budget and room space in mind. 

-Power considerations- Come up with a plan for how you will be powering your home theater.  Powering a home theater is alot different then simply wall mounting a flat screen and calling it a day.  Special power considerations need to be taken into account when planning your home theater.  Power sources, speaker runs, cables, Internet feeds, and satellite need to be located.  Also, remember to make room for future upgrades.   

-Bonus features- Are there bonus features you want your home theater to include?  Perhaps that row of leather recliners?  Take this into sizing consideration for the room you place your home theater in. 

If you need help figuring out your home theater needs, contact us.