In years past, seeing a movie was a rare and special treat; an occasion that required wearing Sunday best and well-shined shoes. Today, we plop on the couch / beanbag / chair / floor / at any time of day or night, pushing a few buttons to access movies and other programs. Surely the glamour and the romance of the old days has been lost, but there is something to be said for convenience – especially the convenience of your own home theater.
Designing and setting up your home theater is a complex process that should be considered carefully. Doing things correctly the first time will save time, money, and frustration.
1. Identify your objectives
Some movie buffs want to create a home theater experience similar to that of a real movie theater; others may prefer a gaming console and smaller area for occasional television viewing. Consider the needs of your family when deciding what is most important about your home theater.
2. Determine your requirements
Take time make a sketch of the area planned for your home theater. Use graph paper to help you sketch somewhat to scale. Show immovable objects that you will need to accommodate. Label the water heater and furnace; these can be factors in the installation of the home theater equipment.
Consider also the constraints of the project. What is the budget? How much storage will I need? What type of equipment do I need to purchase?
3. Discover home theater features you want to replicate
This is the time to do research to determine your favorite features in a home theater. Do any of your friends have home theaters? Discuss what they like best and least about their setup. Surf the internet, browse magazines, and visit showrooms to discover the possibilities.
4. Consult an expert
Home theater installation can be a hairy process (all those wires!) – one best left to the professionals. When looking for a company to install your home theater, ask friends and neighbors for their recommendations. If you do not have any recommends, use the internet to find three different companies to consider. It’s best to get two or three quotes before choosing who to hire. An expert will make sure all of the details are attended to. Seating, audio, visual . . . those many things to remember will be taken from your shoulders.
To sum up, planning and installing a home theater is a complex process that requires forethought and help from a professional home theater installation company.
