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How to set up a home theater

How-To-Tips
• Choose the correct size TV for your room.

• Include a programmable remote control for simple system operation.

• Consider lighting when designing home theater.

• Check out exciting new home entertainment furniture.

-Learn about High Definition TV and DVD.
No longer content to sit in front of a 27-inch television connected to a pair of stereo speakers, today’s viewers are bringing the multimedia experience of the movie theater into their homes.

Creating a home theater means more than just plugging in a large screen TV set. Even if you aren’t creating an old-style movie palace in your home, you still need to match the components to your room, taking into consideration television size, speaker placement, room acoustics and system control. Your system needs to be properly connected and programmed for the best performance and ease of use. All the pieces need to fit together in a comfortable viewing environment.

Assessing your needs…
Begin planning your theater by asking some basic questions: What do I want the system do? Do I watch more TV, sports or DVD’s? Should the whole family be able to use the system? Do I have a space that can be dedicated exclusively to the theater, or will I integrate the system into existing space? Will I use the home theater to entertain guests, or just for family movie nights? Do I feel comfortable with the retailer?

Finding a retailer…
The last question is important, since you’ll want to establish a relationship with a store that specializes in the design and installation of home theaters. This is a major investment in your home and lifestyle, so you’ll need a home theater store whose staff will spend time helping you make the right choices. According to industry veteran Ric Clark of Jamiesons’ Audio/Video, a dedicated sales consultant, will not only explain the many formats and standards in audio and video, and help you choose components, but will also visit your home to create a custom home theater design for you.

Choosing your components…
An audio/video & home theater specialist will be able to match a system to your level of comfort with technology, whether you’re a “gadget geek” or just want to fire up a movie by pushing one button on a remote control. You can also make your choices easier by seeing the home theater components in action, in real-life settings. A dedicated home theater specialty retailer will have home theater rooms that display the latest models in settings like your home, complete with lighting and sofas or upholstered theater seats.

Customizing your space…
To achieve the full home theater experience, you’ll need a space that’s been customized to fit your system. Scott Caventer, a systems specialist at Jamiesons’ Audio/Video, suggests your audio/video retailer should have designers to help plan your theater space and project managers and experienced installers to complete the project.

He says, “The importance of expert design and installation should not be underestimated as most projects involve adding electrical power outlets, running cables for speakers and video sources, room soundproofing, positioning speakers for the best sound, connecting components, calibrating the TV picture and surround sound, programming the system remote control and explaining how to use your new home theater.”