Advantages of Universal Remotes

You've decided to install a custom home theater system.  You've had a Winnetka Custom Home Theater company come out to your home and install your home theater system to your liking, but now you've just realized that between all the home theater components, you are stuck with five remote controls.  You're thinking that is four remotes too many.  We don't blame you.  Luckily, here at Avidia we know how to solve the "one too many remotes" problem.

Between your television, surround receiver, cable/satellite box, Blu-ray player, etc., you're left with multiple remotes.  It can become frustrating dealing with multiple remotes to achieved your desired outcome.  Having multiple remotes also requires keeping track of each one and losing remotes probably happens often.  Completely understandable.  This is where a custom, computer programmed universal remote control steps in.  A universal remote can manage several components, eliminating the use of multiple remotes.  A high-end universal remote can manager several components and some incorporate a color touch panel screen.  Here are a couple advantages to using a universal remote:

(1) No more multiple remotes: As we said before, a universal remote allows you to get rid of your multiple remotes.  With a universal remote, you have one control that operates multiple systems creating a much more simplified experience.  With one remote you can turn on your television, surround sound system, and DVD player.

(2) No more clutter: Instead of having multiple remotes lying around and taking up space, a universal remote will clear up the clutter on the coffee table.  A universal remote simplifies life, streamlining your custom home theater experience.

(3) Gives you full control: Instead of juggling multiple remotes to adjust various components of your home theater, a universal remote gives you full control of multiple components all using a single remote.

(4) Ease of use: Instead of needing to use and understand multiple remotes for several components, you will only need to understand and work one remote-- your universal remote.  Universal remotes are made user-friendly, simplifying life, and streamlining your custom home theater experience.

(5) Programmable: Universal remotes can be programmed to suit your needs and there are a variety of different types to choose from.  Remotes can be designed and programmed for a specific project since everyone uses their custom home theater system differently.

If you have comments or questions regarding universal remotes or custom home theaters, feel free to contact us.

Home Theater Ideas (Part 2)

How a homeowner sets up their custom home theater room is a huge part of what makes the custom home theater experience.  Previously, we posted some home theater set up ideas we thought homeowners might find inspirational for their own home theater set ups.  Here are some more ideas to get the creative juices flowing when it comes to setting up your custom home theater:

#1- The projector mounted to the ceiling makes for a great custom home theater experience.  The lighting and rows of seats make a custom home theater seem like the real deal.  Rows of seats like the ones in this picture allow you to have multiple guests enjoy your home theater.  

#2- The wrap around couch could definitely maximize seating potential for your custom home theater and could provide a more personal feel than individual seating, depending on your preference.  The lighting in this room is quite unique and really makes the the emphasizes the television screen wall.   

#3- Here is another seating arrangement (horseshoe shaped) that works great for a custom home theater set up.  The wall sconces and ceiling lights provide just the right amount of light.  This room is great for the homeowner looking to keep their home theater room dark.  

#4- This home theater provides tiered seating and the lighting resembles a true movie theater experience.  

#5- This cozy living room doubles as a family's home theater complete with a large, wall-mounted television and projector.  We approve.  

The set up ideas for a custom home theater room are endless.  We love talking about Winnetka Custom Home Theaters.  If you're looking for more custom home theater room set-up ideas, feel free to contact us.   

Protect Your Winnetka Custom Home Theater

Throughout the spring and summer there is always potential for severe weather.  Severe weather (those of us living in the Midwest know) can strike at almost anytime, so being prepared is key.  As a Winnetka Custom Home Theater Company we always advise homeowner’s to protect their custom home theaters from the damage that could be caused by storms, especially power surges caused by lightening strikes or power outages.  A power surge occurs when the flow of electricity stops and starts back up again or when excess electricity flows into the system.  While severe surges aren’t as common as low-level power surges, both can cause significant damages to your custom home theater system components.  Here are some of our tips on how to protect your custom home theater from power surges caused by lightening strikes:

(1) Upgrade old wiring: Old wiring (we're talking about wiring from the 80s or earlier) isn’t equipped to handle today’s custom home theater components like new wiring can, so upgrading your old wiring can help prevent your custom home theater equipment from shorting out due to a power surge.  

(2) Protect your custom home theater equipment with a surge suppressor: Expand the longevity of your custom home theater equipment by using a surge suppressor.  Surge suppressors will protect your custom home theater equipment from external forces before it has a chance to damage any equipment that is connected. Custom home theater equipment is an investment, so don’t let a power surge wipe out all of your equipment.  Using a surge suppressor ensures that your equipment will be safe when lightening strikes.

(3) Don’t overload circuits: Protect your custom home theater system from internal power surges that can be created from overloaded circuits.  Overloaded circuits are created when two or more large appliances are plugged into and drawing power from the same circuit.  This needs to be avoided.  An electrician can install specific circuits for your devices to protect your home from experiencing power surges. 

Your custom home theater is an investment, so protect it.  For more tips on how to protect your custom home theater from power surges, feel free to comment below or contact us. 

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Achieve a Great Custom Home Theater Sound

One of the most important parts of any new custom home theater is the sound system.  Homeowners looking for a custom home theater want to duplicate the movie theater or concert sound experience, and who wouldn’t?  When it comes to great sound, quality sound equipment goes a long way and so does set up and tuning.  Here are a few of our tips on making the most out of your custom home theater sound experience:

(1)           Embrace technology: There are always new technology upgrades made to custom home theater sound systems and if you’re looking for that perfect sound, you should consider embracing it.  Do your research on what new technology might have to offer you and your custom home theater system.  New technology may be able to offer you exactly what you’re looking for from your custom home theater’s sound system.

(2)           Surround Speakers: Try moving surround speakers to achieve a different sound from your custom home theater.  Instead of placing them way up high in the corners of the room, try placing them on the side walls of the room at ear level.  This simple move can drastically change the sound from your custom home theater.  

(3)           Subwoofers location: Your subwoofer's location can also have a big impact on the sound you receive from your custom home theater system.  While many homeowners stick the subwoofer in the corner of the room, try to move the subwoofer's location to see what kind of sound you can get from a simple relocation.  While aesthetically you may want to stick the subwoofer out of view, it may not be the best for your custom home theater’s sound system quality.  Put the subwoofer where it gives off the best sound. 

(4)           Utilize speaker stands or brackets: Pull those speakers out from the book shelf or cabinets and place them on a stand or mounted bracket instead.  You might be surprised by how much that can change the quality of sound.

(5)           Upgrades: Mixing new and old sound system pieces may not be the greatest way to achieve that booming movie theater quality sound.  Mixing the old and new can give off a disjointed sound, so consider purchasing matching sound equipment to achieve optimal sound. 

A few simple tweaks and changes can greatly affect the quality of your custom home theater’s sound.  If you have questions or comments on custom home theaters, contact us.  

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Home Theater Ideas

      Having a home theater company come to your home to install a custom home theater is undoubtedly very exciting, but it can be a bit trying especially if you aren’t sure what you want your custom home theater to look like. Custom home theaters can range from simplistic to over-the-top. We are a Winnetka-based home theater company that loves to see anything and everything home theater. If you are looking for ideas on what your home theater should look like, look no further. Here are some different home theater set-ups:

#1- This home theater has a tiered seating effect, which is very similar to that of movie theaters.  Why not bring a piece of the movie theater experience into your very own home?

#2- This home theater has different take on seating and features a projector mounted to the ceiling. The arrangement is simple.

#3- A ticket taker standing outside of your home theater?!  Talk about getting the movie theater experience at home!  

#4- Maybe you are finding yourself unsure of where to place your home theater in your home.  The idea of the combined recreation room and home theater is something to consider.  All your entertainment could be housed in one room of your home.  Not a bad idea!

#5- The lighting in this custom home theater really provides ambiance.  The over-sized pillows as chairs make unique seating ideas as well.  

      If you have questions on how to make your custom home theater look like the real deal, contact us here at Avidia.  

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.  

Home Theaters: The Time To Buy

According to various realtors, home theaters are back in demand.  With the cost of outside the home entertainment rising, it appears that homeowners are trying to find more cost-effective ways to enjoy their time.  Homebuyers today are looking for ways they can easily entertain themselves, family and friends right from the comfort of their own home and home theaters seem to be the way to go.

In recent years LCD flat screens and plasma TV’s have dropped in price significantly.  Because home theaters are now more affordable than ever, the time to buy certainly is now. 

Real estate firms have confirmed that today’s buyer is definitely looking for a home theater in their latest home buy.  While some request that large master bedroom, spacious closet, or three baths, it seems some have entertainment priorities in mind, and why not?  Putting a home theater in the home can greatly increase that future resale value.

Visit Winnetka-based custom home theater company Avidia’s website at www.avidiaonline.com and get the information you need on anything and everything home theater.