The home theater is one of the most important and enjoyable parts of a house. However, it’s also one of the most expensive projects you’ll ever undertake.
That’s why it’s so important that you choose all of your components wisely, from your television to your speakers to even something as small as a remote control!
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about choosing the right home theater equipment for any budget.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| – Getting the right components is key to creating a high-quality home theater system. |
| – Consider the room size, layout, and acoustics when selecting components for your home theater. |
| – Additional gadgets and home theater ideas can enhance your viewing experience. |
| – Upgrading your home theater system doesn’t always require a large budget. |
| – Various resources and professional help are available to guide you through the process of building a home theater system. |
1. AV Receiver
An AV receiver is a device that processes and outputs audio and video signals. The main function of an AV receiver is to decode audio signals from a streaming source, such as a Blu-ray player or game console, so the sound can be output through your speakers.
AV receivers also have additional circuitry that enables them to handle more advanced functions namely surround sound decoding and processing, as well as Dolby TrueHD/DTS HD Master Audio decoding and processing (this technology was created by Dolby Laboratories for high-definition movie discs).
That being said, not all receivers come with these capabilities built in; some receivers are more basic than others.
The main features you should look for in an AV receiver include:* Number of channels – This refers to how many speaker connections there are per channel.* Dynamic range – A higher dynamic range means that sounds with large differences between loudness will be reproduced faithfully.
Bit depth – A bit depth greater than 16 bits allows for better sound reproduction at low volume levels.* Preamp level outputs – These let you connect components without needing any special cables or adapters.
“Are you looking to set up a home theater system like a professional? Check out The Ultimate Guide to Setting up a Home Theater Like a Pro for a comprehensive guide that covers everything from selecting the right components to optimizing screen placement for the best viewing experience.”
2. Speakers
The speakers are the most important part of a home theater system. It is important to find speakers that fit your budget and meet your needs.
Speaker position can have a significant impact on sound quality, so be sure to place them properly to get the optimal performance from them!
I recommend going with Klipsch Reference series or Polk Signature Series if you want something high-end, but if you’re looking for more value options there are also some great Polk Audio options available at lower price points that still deliver excellent sound quality (such as the T50 floorstanding tower speaker).
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Sonos Beam Soundbar | A compact, versatile soundbar that delivers clear, detailed sound for movies and music, with Alexa voice control, easy setup, and compatibility with other Sonos speakers. |
| Klipsch Reference Premier Surround Sound System | A high-performance surround sound system that offers dynamic, powerful sound, with horn-loaded tweeters, titanium diaphragms, and copper-spun woofers, compatible with a range of receivers and amps. |
| Bose Surround Speakers 700 | A compact, wireless surround sound speaker system that provides immersive, theater-like sound, with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, a sleek, modern design, and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant. |
| KEF Q Series Floorstanding Speakers | A top-of-the-range floorstanding speaker system that offers wide sound dispersion, precise sound imaging, and immersive, detailed sound, with an elegant, minimalist design that matches any home decor. |
| JBL Studio 570 Tower Speakers | A high-quality tower speaker system that delivers powerful, detailed sound for movies and music, with high-definition horn-loaded tweeters, glass-filled waveguides, and strong, modern design. |
In this table, we have listed some popular speaker systems for home theater setups. These speakers offer dynamic, powerful sound, with varying features like wireless connectivity, smart voice control, and sleek designs that enhance your home theater aesthetics.
3. Blu-ray player
Blu-ray players are still the standard for home theaters. Blu-ray players can play 4K Blu-ray discs and stream 4K content as well.
If you have an older TV, a Blu-ray player will help you make sure your viewing experience is optimal. Plus, it’s still one of the best ways to watch movies with friends and family!
You can pick up a great quality player for under $100 (and sometimes much less).
Want to get the most out of your home entertainment system? Our article on 17 Clever Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Home Entertainment System offers simple hacks that can enhance your experience and make you feel like you’re at the cinema.
4. TV
So you’ve got your home theater components ready to go, but what about the screen? TVs come in all shapes and sizes, and each one is designed for a specific purpose.
If you want to project your favorite movies on a large screen for everyone to enjoy, here are some things to consider when choosing your TV:
Screen Size – The size of your TV will depend on how many people will be sitting around it. If you have plenty of space and want everyone in the room able to see perfectly from any angle then opt for something larger than 55 inches.
However if space is limited then stick with something smaller like 43 or 42 inches which offer better picture quality without taking up too much space.
Resolution- A higher resolution means crisper images even at long distances; however these screens can be expensive so keep this in mind when making your choice!
Screen Type – Plasma televisions produce excellent contrast while LED televisions offer brighter colors with less power consumption (which makes them cheaper on electric bills). OLED displays also boast high contrast ratios but they’re currently only available as small screens due to their high cost.
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| LG OLED GX Series TV | A high-end 4K OLED TV that offers exceptional picture quality, deep blacks, uniform brightness, and smooth motion, with a sleek, ultra-thin design that blends seamlessly with any home decor. |
| Samsung QLED Q90T Series TV | A top-of-the-range 4K QLED TV that offers vivid, lifelike colors, deep blacks, and high contrast, with anti-glare technology, wide viewing angles, and a sleek, modern design. |
| Sony XBR A8H Series TV | A premium 4K OLED TV that offers excellent picture quality, immersive sound, and smooth, responsive performance, with a minimalist design that reduces cable clutter and blends with any home decor. |
| Vizio OLED TV | A high-quality 4K OLED TV that provides true-to-life colors, rich contrast, and deep blacks, with local dimming zones, HDMI 2.1 compatibility, and a sleek, modern design. |
| TCL 6-Series QLED TV | A budget-friendly 4K QLED TV that offers impressive picture quality, vivid colors, and deep blacks, with a user-friendly interface, built-in Roku streaming, and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant. |
In this table, we have listed some popular TV models for home theater systems. These TVs offer a range of features such as high-quality picture, smart capabilities, and sleek design.
5. Camera
A camera is also a great way to view your home theater system, or to capture video and still images.
You can use the camera to stream video and audio from one room to another, or from your mobile device to the TV screen. The camera has many other features as well, including night vision mode and motion detection.
Looking for innovative home theater gadgets to enhance your viewing pleasure? Check out The Top 15 Home Theater Gadgets You Never Knew You Needed article for exciting new gadgets that can take your home theater experience to the next level.
6. Projector or TV Screen
If you’re looking for a projector, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is the size of your screen. If you have the space, then a larger screen will allow you to enjoy your home theater experience even more by giving it that theater feel.
The next thing to look at when selecting a projector is resolution: 4K resolution has become standard on new projectors and TVs, but if you want higher-resolution content (such as 4K gaming) then make sure that your display can handle it.
Next up is brightness: this refers to how much light can be produced by the projector or TV screen so that its images are visible in all lighting conditions (dark rooms and bright rooms alike).
Contrast ratio indicates how well blacks appear onscreen when compared with other colours like white; having high contrast ratio will help reduce eye strain during long viewing sessions!
7. Video Game Console
When it comes to choosing a video game console, make sure that they are compatible with each other.
If you have an older TV, then the new console might not work with it. The same goes for a new TV and an older console it’s best if they are both compatible.
If you’re buying a new system, consider what kind of games you like playing and whether or not those games take advantage of 4K resolution or HDR technology.
If so, then make sure your system supports those features so that your gaming experience is as immersive as possible!
Upgrading your home entertainment system doesn’t have to break the bank! Our article on 10 Surprising Ways to Upgrade Your Home Entertainment System on a Budget provides tips for enhancing your home theater experience, without blowing your budget.
8. Streaming Media Player Or DVR
In the old days, you’d need to purchase a digital video recorder (DVR) to record your favorite shows.
These devices are still around and they’re still useful, but they’re also expensive and can be difficult to use. Nowadays, you can get all of the same functionality in an affordable streaming media player.
A streaming media player is a device that’s connected to your television and allows you to watch Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu Plus or any other service that streams directly onto your TV screen. Some examples include Apple TV, Roku and Google Chromecast (to name just a few).
If all you want is access to streaming services without having to pay for cable or satellite again then this is probably what you’ll want—and it won’t cost nearly as much as buying another DVR!
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Roku Ultra Streaming Player | A versatile streaming player that supports 4K, HDR, and Dolby Atmos formats, with a voice remote, customizable channel lineup, and access to thousands of apps and streaming services. |
| TiVo Roamio OTA DVR | A DVR that offers unlimited recording capabilities for over-the-air TV channels, with easy setup options, streaming options through popular apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime, and a voice remote. |
| Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K | A streaming media player that supports 4K, HDR, and Dolby Vision formats, with Alexa voice remote, access to thousands of channels, games, and apps, and easy integration with Amazon Prime services. |
| Apple TV 4K | A streaming media player that supports 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos formats, with Siri voice search and control, access to a wide range of apps and services, and compatibility with other Apple devices. |
| NVIDIA Shield TV | A powerful media player and gaming console that supports 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos formats, with AI upscaling capabilities, voice control, and a built-in Google Assistant and Chromecast. |
In this table, we have listed some popular streaming media players and DVRs for home theater systems. These equipment can provide access to a wide range of entertainment options, from movies and TV shows to games and music, with flexible streaming and recording capabilities, high-quality formats, and voice remote options.
9. Networking Equipment
Networking equipment is the hardware that allows you to connect your home theater components to the internet.
For example, if you want to use a streaming service like Netflix or Hulu and a smart TV, then you need networking equipment.
Also, there are many other benefits of connecting your home theater equipment over a network than just streaming services; it’s also great for sharing files between devices, updating firmware and software on all connected devices simultaneously (no more having to plug in each device individually), and even controlling the entire system from one remote control or app!
Networking equipment comes in one of two forms: wired or wireless. Wired networks require cables running from each device back into an access point (usually somewhere near your router) where they are connected using Ethernet cable. Wireless networks are simply wireless access points placed strategically throughout the room so that no cables are necessary at all!
There are two main types of networking products available these days: routers/firewalls/gateways – which provide internet access; access points – which wirelessly extend those networks outwards; switches – which allow multiple devices within a network segment (i.e., living room) communicate with each other without having their traffic pass through any centralized hubs first before reaching their final destinations.
Ready to transform your living room into a home theater? Our article on 15 Amazing Home Theater Ideas You Need to Try Now is a must-read, providing creative and innovative ideas for setting up a home theater space that is perfect for your viewing pleasure.
10. Cables/Wires
Cables are the lifeblood of your home theater, and they can be a bit confusing. There are many different types of cables out there, and they come in all shapes and sizes.
You’ll need to make sure that you have the right cables for your system before you buy anything else. The good news is that you can buy them online or at your local electronics store.
You’ll want to make sure that you have enough HDMI cables so that everyone in the room can connect their devices to one screen at once (for example, if someone wants to watch Netflix on their own TV without everyone else being able to listen through the speakers).
If this isn’t possible because there aren’t enough ports on your receiver/TV then consider getting an HDMI splitter so everyone can connect their devices directly into one port instead!
11. TV Mounts/Brackets/Stands
You can find a wide variety of mounts and stands for your TV. Some are better than others, so make sure you choose one that meets all of your needs.
Wall-mounts: These are great for people who want their TVs on the wall but aren’t sure where to put it. You can also mount your TV on an articulating arm, which makes adjusting its position much easier.
Ceiling-mounts: Ceiling-mounts are popular in game rooms because they allow you to move around while playing video games without worrying about knocking into the television or damaging the wires behind it. They’re also good if you want to free up floor space by putting your electronics above eye level (e.g., home theater systems).
Table-mounted stands: Stands are probably the most common type of mount available today because they’re easy to use, versatile enough for any environment (e.g., living room versus basement) and relatively affordable compared with other options like wall-mounts or ceiling brackets/clamps which require professional installation costs upwards $100+ per hour depending upon how far away from city center you live,”
said Gerardo Hinojosa Jr., founder/chairman at Tapestry Studios – one such company specializing in custom media solutions like interior design workflows using high end technologies such as virtual reality platforms(VR). “They’re also great if there isn’t enough wall space near where you’d like it placed.”
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Sanus Full Motion TV Wall Mount | A versatile wall mount that extends, swivels, and tilts to provide the best viewing angle, with an easy installation process. |
| Sonos Playbase | A sleek, low-profile soundbase for TVs that doubles as a speaker, with a wide sound field, easy setup process, and compatibility with other Sonos speakers. |
| Vizio SB36512-F6 Soundbar | A high-performance soundbar with a sleek design, Dolby Atmos technology, and wireless subwoofer, providing immersive sound for movies and music. |
| Samsung Frame TV Stand | A minimalist TV stand designed specifically for Samsung Frame TVs, blending seamlessly with any home decor, with customizable bezels for a personalized touch. |
| LG OLED TV Stand | A sturdy, stylish TV stand designed specifically for LG OLED TVs, with a modern aesthetic and cable management system to keep your home theater space neat and clutter-free. |
In this table, we have listed some popular TV mounts, brackets, and stands for home theater systems. These equipment can help you optimize your viewing experience by providing flexible placement options, sound enhancement, and aesthetic appeal.
12. Furniture, Chairs, and Racks For Mounting Components
Furniture that’s sturdy and stable is a must for the ideal home theater. Chairs should be comfortable, adjustable, and able to hold your body weight comfortably.
Rack mounts are important because they can hold multiple components at once. You want racks that have a low center of gravity for stability in case you need to move them around or place them on top of furniture (or on your lap).
13. Remote Controls And Automation Equipment
Remote controls are a great way to control your home theater system from the comfort of your couch. They’re also handy for controlling other devices in your house, like lights and thermostats.
Automation equipment can be used to control the same devices as remote controls, but with the added advantage of being able to program them ahead of time.
For example, you might set up an automation system so that it turns on the lights in your living room when it gets dark outside.
Automation equipment doesn’t just work with home theaters – it can be used with any type of electronic device or appliance that exists in your home!
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Logitech Harmony Elite Remote | A universal remote that supports over 270,000 devices and provides flexible customization, voice control, and home automation capabilities. |
| Amazon Echo Dot | A voice-controlled smart speaker with Alexa voice service, compatible with a wide range of smart home devices and apps. |
| Philips Hue Smart Lighting System | A customizable, energy-efficient lighting system that can be controlled remotely with a smartphone app or voice commands. |
| Nest Learning Thermostat | A smart thermostat that learns your preferences and adjusts the temperature accordingly, with remote control options and energy-saving features. |
| Samsung SmartThings Hub | A central hub that connects various smart home devices, allowing you to control and automate them with a single app. |
| Apple TV | A streaming media player that supports a wide range of apps and services, with voice control and smart home integration capabilities. |
In this table, we have listed some popular remote controls and automation equipment for home theater systems. This equipment can help you control various aspects of your home theater system remotely, from changing the volume to adjusting the lighting and temperature.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned about all the different components that can go into a home theater, it’s time to start shopping! It might seem like an overwhelming task, but don’t fret there are plenty of options out there.
If you’re looking for something simple and straightforward, we recommend starting with our list of top picks. They’re all high-quality products from highly rated brands, so you’ll be sure to get a great deal on whatever piece(s) fit your needs best!
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources you can check out to learn more about setting up a home theater system:
How to Choose the Best Home Theater System: This article provides expert tips on choosing the right home theater system for your space, budget, and entertainment needs.
Essential Elements of a Home Theater System: This article explains the primary components of a home theater system and offers tips on selecting the right products for your setup.
Home Theater Design & Layout: Best Practices: This video introduces the key design considerations for creating a home theater system that offers the best possible sound and picture quality.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about setting up a home theater system:
What are the essential components of a home theater system?
A home theater system typically consists of a TV or projector, a surround sound speaker system, an AV receiver, and cables or wires to connect the components.
How much should I expect to pay for a home theater system?
The cost of a home theater system varies depending on the components you choose, the quality of the audio and visual equipment, and the installation costs. A basic system can cost a few hundred dollars, while a high-end system can cost several thousand dollars.
How do I select the right size TV for my home theater system?
To choose the right size TV for your home theater system, consider the viewing distance, screen resolution, and room size. A good rule of thumb is to choose a TV that is at least 40 inches for a smaller room and up to 65 inches for a larger room.
Do I need to hire a professional installer for my home theater system?
While it is possible to install a home theater system on your own, it can be a complex process. Hiring a professional installer can ensure that the components are installed correctly, and the system performs optimally.
How can I optimize the sound quality of my home theater system?
To optimize the sound quality of your home theater system, consider the speaker placement, room acoustics, and the type of speakers you select. Experimenting with different settings and configurations can help you fine-tune the sound to your liking.
Hi there! I’m Hellen James and I’m a writer and editor with a passion for home technology. I’ve been working in this field for over 10 years, so I know what it’s like to be a part of the growing field of smart home technology. I’ve written about everything from how to choose the right smart thermostat to what the best smart doorbell is for your needs.
